Over the past weeks, you may have noticed Disneyland testing a new security screening process that separates “wheels” and “no wheels” lanes to handle strollers and wheeled devices more efficiently. By consolidating wheeled items into a dedicated lane, Cast Members can perform targeted checks while speeding entry for guests carrying only bags. You should expect smoother queues during busy periods, though it’s unclear whether the change will be permanent or expanded to parking entrances.
Overview of Current Security Procedures
You queue in the appropriate line, present bags for visual inspection, and walk through detectors while Cast Members watch for prohibited items. Guests with strollers or wheeled devices are asked to remove items for compartment checks and sometimes step aside for a brief manual inspection, which requires specific instructions and slows that lane down.
Challenges Faced by Guests
You often face uneven wait times because manual stroller checks require opening compartments and repositioning wheels, creating bottlenecks at peak hours like holidays. The greatest friction is when wheeled devices and bag-only guests mix. Consolidation into a single “wheels” lane during testing aims to limit those slower inspections to one area.
It is not clear whether the same approach is used at other gate locations or if the change is temporary for the typical heavy holiday crowds.
New Screening Methodology
You’ll notice checkpoint flow split into two distinct paths: one for wheeled items and one for bag-only guests. Trials focus on consolidating strollers, wagons, mobility scooters and similar devices into a single lane so Cast Members can perform targeted inspections without slowing the main queue. Early manual observation at one entrance showed bag-only lanes moving roughly 20-30% faster when wheeled devices were removed from the primary flow.
Designation of “Wheels” and “No Wheels” Lanes
You’ll be directed by signage and staff to the appropriate lane based on whether your entry includes a stroller, wagon, or mobility scooter. Cast Members in the wheels lane will check compartments, loosen straps and inspect underneath platforms, while those in the no-wheels lane will only have standard bag screening.
Final Thoughts
Disneyland’s new security pilot is designed to make entry faster and more efficient for everyone. By separating wheeled devices into dedicated lanes, guests carrying only bags can move through more quickly, while strollers and mobility devices receive focused attention. With clearer instructions and fewer manual checks, this system promises shorter wait times, even during busy holidays, helping guests enjoy a smoother, more predictable start to their magical day. Let’s hope this testing continues to prove successful so this new procedure can be rolled out permanently and resort wide.
