Children 5 and under get in for free at SeaWorld Orlando & Busch Gardens in 2012… maybe.

SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay have announced that children age 5 and younger can get into their parks for free during 2012. All parents have to do is sign up online for the PreSchool Pass.

Generally children 3 and older have to pay to get into Central Florida’s theme parks.

But, there are a few things you need to know before you head over to register. The offer is only open to children who are Florida residents. For proof, the parks are asking for “a copy of a certified birth certificate or a travel Passport.” And, “school IDs or children security IDs will NOT be accepted.”

This is the first time that I’ve seen the parks require a copy of the child’s birth certificate or passport to prove residency. Usually the requirement is for the parents or anyone 18 or older, as it is assumed that younger children live with the parents.

It also looks like the parks will be checking the proof of residence and age at the turnstiles. Anyone who has visited the parks when they are busy knows that checking proof of residency when there is a mob of people trying to get in does not usually work.

Here are all the FAQs that SeaWorld and Busch Gardens published:

1. What is the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass?
SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa are delighted to offer the Free 2012 SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass. This FREE Pass grants kids ages 5 and younger complimentary admission to BOTH SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa through Dec. 31, 2012.

2. Who is eligible?
The SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass is available for kids who are Florida residents and are 5 years old and younger.

3. My child is 5 this year, turning 6. Am I still eligible?
As long as your child is 5 years of age on or before the date you register for the Pass, your child is eligible.

4. Do I have to be a Florida resident?
Yes. We want to offer our neighbors who are 5 and younger unlimited access in 2012 to all that our parks have to offer. This gives Florida residents the chance to experience such wonderful attractions as Shamu’s Happy Harbor at SeaWorld and Sesame Street Safari of Fun at Busch Gardens, as much as they like in 2012.

5. How long is the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass valid for?
The pass is valid through Dec. 31, 2012.

6. Is it available at other SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment parks?
No. The pass is only valid at SeaWorld ORLANDO and Busch Gardens TAMPA.

7. How do I register?
Visit SeaWorld.com or BuschGardens.com and click on the box for the 2012 Free SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass. Fill out the form and submit it online. Print the e-ticket and bring it to the front gate at either SeaWorld or Busch Gardens, along with a valid form of identification that proves the child’s date of birth.

8. Where do I receive the Preschool Pass?
This offer is not available at the front gate. You must register your child online before you get to the park. You can redeem your e-ticket at any ticket window at either SeaWorld Orlando or Busch Gardens Tampa.

9. What kind of identification do I need to provide?
Valid identification includes a copy of a certified birth certificate or a travel Passport. Please note that school IDs or children security IDs will NOT be accepted.

Do you meet the requirements. Then go ahead and sign up!