Welcome to the Sunshine State, Althea! I've been a Florida Resident for several years, and I love it. Not only am I closer to my favorite place on the planet, Walt Disney World Resort, but I also enjoy the
benefits of being a Florida Resident. You're going to love it!
When you visit in October, you'll be living in Florida, so you will be able to purchase any available Florida Resident theme park tickets once you arrive at Walt Disney World. If you have a Florida driver's license by then, that's all you'd need to show. If you haven't had a chance to get your new license before your visit, there are some
alternate pieces of information you can provide.
If you're like me and want to plan your trip in advance, you can do so online through the
My Disney Experience planning tool. If there are any Florida Resident discounts available for tickets or resorts when you book, you can take advantage of those even if your address is still in another state. Once you arrive in October, you will need to show
Florida proof of residency documents to activate your tickets and check into your resort.
I spoke to a Cast Member who added that if you book your
vacation as a package, then you would only need to show your proof of residency upon resort check-in. If you book your room and theme park tickets separately, then you'll show proof at check-in and at Guest Services before entering your first theme park.
Finally, I wanted to let know that once you have your Florida driver's license, you can verify Florida residency online which is a nice time saver. You'll see a "Your Florida Residence Information" window pop up during the ticket purchasing process.
I've found that Florida Resident discounts are typically announced about three to four months in advance, so keep an eye on the
Disney Parks Blog or the
Walt Disney World Resort website for updates.
Best of luck with your move, Althea, and welcome to the magic! Stop back by planDisney anytime.
Magic awaits,
Elaine