AA Family at Disney's California Adventure; eating; coaster; Farris Wheel
  • On Oct 29, 2025
    Rebecca from CA Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    I have a magic key pass. Renewed in January 2025. I haven’t used it yet. If I make a reservation and go before it expires, does it expire a year from that date or does it expire January 2026, a year from when I purchased it?

    Hi Rebecca! Welcome to planDisney! I’m so glad you stopped by with this question. As a fellow Magic Key holder, I know how helpful it is to understand exactly how your pass dates work so you can make the most of your Disneyland Resort visits.

    A new Magic Key becomes “activated” the first time you use it to enter Disneyland or Disney California Adventure, or when it is scanned for a fully paid entry into a pay-on-entry parking location at the Resort. That first scan starts your year of benefits, not the date you originally purchased the pass. However, since it sounds like your pass is a renewal of a previously activated Magic Key, your expiration date will follow the original activation timeline. Renewing a Magic Key does not reset the expiration date; it simply continues your pass for the next year from the original date you first activated it.

    To confirm the exact expiration date, you can check right on the Disneyland website. Visit the site and hover over the “Magic Key” tab at the top. Then “Renew Magic Key Passes.” Once there, you’ll see your Magic Key listed with your pass details, including the expiration date.

    One more thing to keep in mind: A Magic Key that is purchased but never activated will expire one year from the date of purchase. Once expired, it can no longer be activated or used to make park reservations. However, the amount paid for that unactivated pass may be applied toward a new Magic Key of equal or greater value (subject to availability) at the time of purchase.

    Rebecca, I recommend confirming your expiration date online first, and if anything still seems unclear, the Magic Key Holder support line is always a great resource. And if you ever need help planning your next visit or are looking for ideas to make your Magic Key year extra special, please come visit us again at planDisney. We’re always here to help you enjoy every moment of your time in the parks.

    Have a magical day filled with happy memories ahead,

    David
thumbnail image for David

Meet the Panelist: David, California

Hey there! My name is David but my friends (like you!) call me "Q." My wife, our twin daughters, and I have been Disney fans our entire lives. In fact, most our major life milestones have been celebrated at Disneyland and California Adventure, from our honeymoon to celebrating our daughters' entrance into elementary school. As an amateur photographer, attention to detail is key and I bring that same spirit to helping you plan the most magical trip. Whatever your question is, I have a Q-Tip for you! Learn More About David

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