Just recently purchased our first AP, although our trip is not until January 2024. I've read conflicting info online regarding activating the AP. I've read that I have to first go to guest relations at one of the parks (not at our resort) to have it activated before going to our first theme park. But I've also read that I don't need to go to GR to activate... all we have to do is tap our magic bands at the park entrance and that will activate the AP. Can anyone confirm what the current rule is. I'd prefer not to have to go to Guest Relations if it isn't necessary, but I also don't want go directly to the park entrance and get denied entry.
Second AP question... when I purchased my AP online I added the photopass option. So does that get me all our photopass pictures INCLUDING the ride photos?
Third AP question... when going to the different park entrances is there a special line/turn style for AP's to go in for any reason? Or do we just get in any line like all the other guests? For some reason I feel like I've seen a sign at Magic Kingdom that said AP entrance. Am I wrong?
Forth AP question... there will be 6 people in our traveling party with 5 out of the 6 having their own AP's. When we're at a table service restaurant can all 6 of us be put on one check and get the 10% discount? I read somewhere that an AP holder can only add 3 other people to their check for the 10% discount. But if we all have AP's can't we just put everyone on one check? Seems more of a pain for the Cast Member to split up the checks if it doesn't need to be.
Thanks! Any other tips for getting the most out of your AP would be appreciated!