There are three words that can instantly send a chill down a Disney fan’s spine: virtual queue returns.

For some, it brings back memories of frantic early mornings, glitchy app refreshes, and the heartbreak of missing out in mere seconds. For others, it’s a necessary evil to access Disney’s most in-demand experiences. Either way, the moment you hear it’s back in play, you know things are about to get competitive.

Aerial view of EPCOT theme park in Walt Disney World.
Credit: Greg Goebel, Flickr

And if you’re an Annual Passholder, it might be time to dust off that alarm clock… because something big is brewing.

The company has officially announced preview dates for the reimagined attraction, and they’re only available for a very limited time. But here’s the catch: you’ll need to set your alarm early if you want in, and you’ll have to find a way to join the “dreaded” virtual queue.

The preview window runs from July 13 through July 19, 2025—but don’t count on July 17. There’s no preview happening that day for reasons Disney hasn’t explained. So we’re looking at six days of opportunity for Annual Passholders to check out the new Test Track before the general public gets their chance on July 22.

But don’t get too cozy. Just having a park ticket won’t cut it.

Creations line at EPCOT.
Credit: ITM

The 7 a.m. Scramble for a Virtual Queue

To even try to ride the attraction early, you’ll need to join a virtual queue—and that system goes live at 7 a.m. sharp. And no, this isn’t one of those “I’ll check at 7:15 and maybe get lucky” situations. These preview boarding groups are expected to go lightning-fast, especially after what we saw during the Tiana’s Bayou Adventure previews last year, where some drops filled in seconds.

To be eligible for the 7 a.m. drop, you have to have a park reservation for EPCOT that day. Don’t have one? You’re out of luck until the second drop at 1 p.m.. Even then, it’s first-come, first-served, and joining the virtual queue doesn’t guarantee a ride. That part can’t be emphasized enough—just because you try doesn’t mean you’ll get in.

What Do You Actually Need?

Let’s break it down:

  • Valid Annual Pass

  • Park reservation for EPCOT (for the 7 a.m. drop)

  • My Disney Experience app ready to go?

  • Fast fingers at 7 a.m.?

Two sleek, blue Chevrolet cars on Test Track at EPCOT.
Credit: Disney

Oh, and if you’re banking on hopping into EPCOT from another park that morning? Nope. You’ll need to enter your reserved park first before heading over to EPCOT—or just wait until after 2 p.m. when park hopping restrictions ease up.

Why All the Fuss?

Because the new version of Test Track is shaping up to be a major refresh. While Disney hasn’t overhauled the entire track layout, it’s brought in new visuals, effects, and a futuristic storytelling approach that has fans buzzing. And while some are still debating whether the name Test Track still fits the updated concept, curiosity alone is driving interest through the roof.

Annual Passholder previews have become something of a badge of honor for those lucky enough to snag a boarding group. And with this being the only window before the grand opening, there’s a real sense of urgency building.

Don’t Sleep On It—Literally

If you’re planning to try your luck, set that alarm, prep your app, and maybe even make a backup plan for another day during the preview window. With boarding groups limited and the preview period so short, missing one morning could mean missing your only shot.

Because at Disney, even the “sneak peeks” require a little strategy—and possibly a strong cup of coffee.

So here’s your friendly warning: If you want a shot at riding Test Track before everyone else, you’ll need to be up and ready at 7 a.m. sharp. Don’t hit snooze.

The post Disney Brings Back Dreaded Virtual Queue for Annual Passholders appeared first on Inside the Magic.

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