Online check-in opens 60 days before your arrival date. Completing it in advance saves significant time at the resort front desk and lets Disney notify you by text when your room is ready.
What Is Online Check-In?
Online check-in is Disney's system for pre-registering your arrival details before you reach the resort. Through the My Disney Experience app or website, you can confirm your party information, set arrival time windows, link a credit card for incidental charges, select specific room preferences (such as floor level or proximity to pools), and enroll in text message room-ready notifications.
For DVC rental guests, online check-in works exactly the same as it does for standard Disney resort guests. Your name will appear on the reservation, and you can complete the process as soon as the 60-day window opens.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Download My Disney Experience — Install the free app on iOS or Android, or visit DisneyWorld.com and sign in to your Disney account. Create a free account if you don't have one.
- Link Your Reservation — Go to "My Plans" and select "Link a Reservation." Enter your Disney confirmation number (provided by your DVC member through DVC Rental Club) to attach the reservation to your account.
- Open Online Check-In — Starting 60 days before your arrival, a "Check In Online" prompt will appear in your plans. Tap or click it to begin.
- Confirm Party Details — Verify the names of all guests in your party. Add any guests not already on the reservation by entering their names.
- Set Your Arrival Window — Choose a preferred arrival time window (e.g., 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM). This helps Disney staff prepare your room. Standard check-in time is 4:00 PM but rooms often become available earlier.
- Add Room Preferences — Select preferences such as floor level, proximity to pools or transportation, and building preferences. Disney will honor these based on availability.
- Link a Credit Card — Add a payment method for any resort charges (dining, merchandise, etc.) you wish to charge to your room.
- Enable Text Notifications — Opt in to receive a text message when your specific room is ready. This lets you enjoy the parks or resort amenities without waiting in a check-in line.
- Complete Check-In — Review and submit. You'll receive a confirmation email. On arrival day, head directly to the resort and proceed to your room once you receive the text notification.
What to Bring at Check-In
- Government-issued photo ID for primary guest
- Your DVC rental agreement copy
- Disney confirmation number
- Phone with My Disney Experience app
- Credit or debit card for incidentals
- Park tickets or MagicBand (if ordered)
Tips for a Smooth Check-In
- Set a calendar reminder for your 60-day online check-in window so you don't miss it.
- Complete check-in the morning it opens — room preference selections are first-come, first-served.
- If your room isn't ready at arrival, drop off luggage at bell services and enjoy the resort until you receive your text notification.
- Rooms at DVC resorts often become available between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, ahead of the 4:00 PM official check-in.
- Use MagicBands if ordering in advance — they serve as your room key, park ticket, and payment method in one wearable device.
- If you have any issues linking the confirmation number, contact DVC Rental Club and we'll coordinate with the member to resolve it quickly.
- Guests with accessibility needs can note requirements during online check-in or call Disney's accessibility line in advance.
Questions About Your Reservation?
Our team is here to help you from booking through check-in day.
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