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Scanning into the Universal Orlando Theme Parks just got a whole lot faster thanks to Photo Validation, which now includes ticketless (re)entry!
Universal Orlando Resort is rolling out a new way to streamline your visit with the introduction of Photo Validation, currently in technical rehearsal at select attractions in Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Designed to make entering the parks and accessing Universal Express Pass benefits even easier, this innovative system lets you scan, smile, and go—eliminating the need to scan your physical pass at certain rides and, for a limited time, to re-enter the parks after your first entry.
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What Is Photo Validation?
Photo Validation is an optional feature that creates a photo template linked to your ticket, allowing the system to verify your identity quickly. Upon arrival at the park entrance, guests can enroll in just three steps: scan your ticket, smile for the system to create your Photo Template, and head straight to the fun. The best part? If you have a Universal Express Pass, Photo Validation lets you enjoy Effortless Entry at select attractions, bypassing regular lines without needing to scan your physical pass AND if you have multi-day or Park to Park tickets, you may be able to re-enter a park without having to scan your ticket again!
Who Can Use It?
This new system is available to all guests, including those staying at Universal Orlando Resort hotels with Universal Express Unlimited Passes and Premier Annual Passholders using their after-4:00 PM Universal Express Pass benefits. Simply link your ticket or hotel room key to your Universal Account for seamless entry at eligible attractions.
What If I Don’t Want to Use Photo Validation?
Participation in Photo Validation is entirely optional. Guests who prefer not to enroll can continue to use their physical Universal Express Pass and ticket as usual. Opting out is easy—just let a Team Member know at the park entrance or Guest Services, or in Universal Express lines at participating attractions. Those who opt out may need to present a valid photo ID along with their pass for verification.
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Where Is It Being Tested?
During the technical rehearsal period, Photo Validation is available at select attractions and entrances at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. However, it is not currently being tested at Volcano Bay.
What’s Next?
As Universal refines this system, Photo Validation has the potential to simplify park navigation and reduce wait times even further. Whether you’re a day guest or a Premier Annual Passholder, this new technology is designed to maximize convenience and minimize hassle.
Stay tuned for updates on Photo Validation as Universal continues testing and expanding this exciting new feature! Have you tried Photo Validation yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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