Adding an extra user to your Ring Doorbell lets family or trusted neighbors receive alerts and view live footage. This guide walks you through the simple process using the Ring app, including troubleshooting tips for common issues.
Key Takeaways
- Only the primary account holder can invite additional users – you must be the owner of the Ring device to send invitations.
- Each invited user needs their own Ring account – they’ll receive an email or in-app invitation to accept access.
- Shared users can view live video, receive motion alerts, and talk through the doorbell – but cannot change device settings or remove the device.
- You can revoke access anytime – simply remove a user from the Shared Users list in the Ring app.
- Up to 20 people can be added as shared users – perfect for large households or rental properties.
- Ensure your app is updated – outdated versions may prevent user invitations from working properly.
- Use two-factor authentication for security – protect your account and shared access with extra login protection.
How to Add Additional User to Ring Doorbell
So, you’ve installed your Ring Doorbell, set it up, and now you want to share access with your spouse, roommate, or maybe even a trusted neighbor who watches your home while you’re away. Great idea! Sharing access means more eyes on your front door, faster response to deliveries, and better overall security.
But how exactly do you add someone else to your Ring Doorbell? It’s easier than you think — and you don’t need to give out your login details. Ring’s “Shared Users” feature lets you safely grant access without compromising your account security.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through every step of adding an additional user to your Ring Doorbell. Whether you’re using a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell Pro, Ring Doorbell Elite, or Ring Doorbell Wired, the process is nearly identical. We’ll cover everything from opening the app to troubleshooting common issues, so you can share access confidently and correctly.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to invite users, manage permissions, remove access when needed, and keep your Ring system secure. Let’s get started!
Why Share Access to Your Ring Doorbell?
Visual guide about How to Add Additional User to Ring Doorbell
Image source: profilegrid.co
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about why adding a shared user makes sense.
First, convenience. If you’re at work and your partner is home, they can answer the doorbell, talk to the delivery person, or check who’s at the door without needing your phone. No more missed packages or confused visitors.
Second, security. If you’re on vacation, a trusted neighbor or family member can monitor your home and alert you if something seems off. They’ll get real-time alerts and can even speak through the doorbell to deter suspicious activity.
Third, peace of mind. Knowing that someone else has access means you’re never truly “off the grid.” Whether it’s a late-night visitor or an unexpected motion alert, shared access ensures someone is always watching.
And finally, control. You’re in charge. You decide who gets access, what they can do, and when to revoke it. It’s a flexible, secure way to extend your Ring system’s usefulness.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Before you begin adding a user, make sure you have the following:
- A Ring account – You must be the primary account holder (the person who set up the device).
- The Ring app installed – Available on iOS (iPhone/iPad) and Android devices. Make sure it’s updated to the latest version.
- Your Ring Doorbell installed and connected – The device should be online and functioning properly.
- The email address of the person you want to invite – They’ll need this to accept the invitation.
- A stable internet connection – Both your phone and the Ring device should be connected to Wi-Fi.
If you’re missing any of these, pause here and get them sorted. Trying to add a user without a working device or outdated app can lead to frustration.
Step-by-Step: How to Add an Additional User to Ring Doorbell
Now, let’s walk through the process. It only takes a few minutes, and once you’ve done it once, you’ll be able to repeat it easily.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Start by opening the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the account that owns the Ring Doorbell. If you have multiple Ring devices, ensure you’re in the correct location (e.g., “Home” or “Front Door”).
If you’re not logged in, tap “Sign In” and enter your email and password. If you’ve forgotten your password, use the “Forgot Password?” link to reset it.
Step 2: Go to the Device Dashboard
Once you’re in the app, you’ll see the main dashboard showing your Ring devices. Tap on the Ring Doorbell you want to share access to. This will open the live view or the device’s control screen.
Step 3: Access Device Settings
Look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner of the screen. This is the Settings menu. Tap it to open the device settings.
Step 4: Find “Shared Users”
Scroll down until you see the “Shared Users” option. It’s usually located under the “Device Settings” or “People” section, depending on your app version.
Tap on “Shared Users.” This will show you a list of anyone already granted access to this device.
Step 5: Invite a New User
At the top of the Shared Users screen, you’ll see a button that says “Invite Someone” or “Add Shared User.” Tap it.
You’ll be prompted to enter the email address of the person you want to invite. Make sure it’s the same email they use for their Ring account (if they have one). If they don’t have a Ring account yet, they’ll be guided to create one when they accept the invitation.
Step 6: Send the Invitation
After entering the email, tap “Send Invitation.” The person will receive an email with a link to accept access. They’ll also get a notification in the Ring app if they’re already using it.
The invitation is valid for 7 days. If they don’t accept within that time, you’ll need to send a new one.
Step 7: The User Accepts the Invitation
Once the invited person clicks the link in the email, they’ll be taken to the Ring website or app. They’ll need to log in (or create an account) and confirm they want to accept access.
After accepting, they’ll appear in your Shared Users list, and they’ll be able to view live video, receive motion and doorbell alerts, and use two-way talk — just like you.
What Can Shared Users Do?
It’s important to understand the level of access you’re granting. Shared users have significant control, but not full ownership.
Here’s what they can do:
- View live video feed – They can open the Ring app and see what’s happening at your door in real time.
- Receive motion and doorbell alerts – They’ll get push notifications when someone rings the bell or motion is detected.
- Use two-way audio – They can speak through the doorbell to visitors, delivery people, or anyone at the door.
- View event history – They can scroll through past recordings (if you have Ring Protect) to see who came by.
- Answer the doorbell remotely – They can respond to the doorbell even if they’re not at your home.
However, shared users cannot:
- Change device settings (like motion zones or sensitivity)
- Remove the device from your account
- Delete recordings
- Invite other users
- Access billing or subscription details
This keeps your device secure while still giving others useful access.
Managing Shared Users
Once you’ve added someone, you might want to check who has access or remove someone later. Here’s how to manage your shared users.
View Current Shared Users
Go back to the Ring app, open your doorbell, tap the settings (⚙️), and select “Shared Users.” You’ll see a list of everyone with access, along with their email and the date they were added.
Remove a Shared User
If you no longer want someone to have access, tap on their name in the Shared Users list. You’ll see an option to “Remove Access” or “Revoke Invitation.” Tap it, confirm, and they’ll be removed immediately.
Once removed, they’ll no longer receive alerts or be able to view the camera. If they try to access the device, they’ll get an error message.
Resend an Invitation
If someone didn’t receive the email or lost the link, you can resend the invitation. Go to Shared Users, find their email (it may show as “Pending”), and tap “Resend Invitation.”
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with clear instructions, things don’t always go smoothly. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
Issue 1: Invitation Not Received
Sometimes the invitation email goes to spam or gets lost. Ask the person to check their spam/junk folder. If it’s not there, resend the invitation from the Shared Users screen.
Also, make sure you entered the correct email address. A typo can send the invite to the wrong person — or nowhere at all.
Issue 2: User Can’t Accept the Invitation
If the link doesn’t work, it may have expired (they last 7 days). Resend the invitation.
If the user is trying to accept on a device without the Ring app, they should open the link on a phone or tablet and download the app if needed.
Issue 3: Shared User Can’t See the Device
If someone accepted the invitation but still can’t see the doorbell in their app, try these steps:
- Ask them to log out and log back into the Ring app.
- Make sure they’re looking in the correct location (e.g., “Home” vs. “Vacation Home”).
- Check that the device is online – if it’s offline, shared users won’t see it.
- Update the Ring app to the latest version.
Issue 4: App Crashes or Freezes
If the app freezes when you try to invite someone, close it completely and reopen it. If that doesn’t work, restart your phone.
Also, check for app updates in the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). Outdated apps often have bugs that prevent features from working.
Issue 5: Too Many Shared Users
Ring allows up to 20 shared users per device. If you’ve hit the limit, you’ll need to remove someone before adding a new person.
Go to Shared Users, remove an inactive or unnecessary user, then invite the new one.
Tips for Secure Sharing
Sharing access is convenient, but it’s important to do it safely. Here are some best practices:
- Only invite people you trust – Shared users can see who comes to your door and speak on your behalf.
- Use strong passwords – Make sure your Ring account has a unique, strong password.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) – This adds an extra layer of security. Go to Account Settings > Two-Factor Authentication to turn it on.
- Regularly review shared users – Check the list every few months and remove anyone who no longer needs access.
- Don’t share your login – Always use the Shared Users feature instead of giving out your email and password.
Adding Users on Different Devices
The process is the same whether you’re using an iPhone, Android, or tablet. However, the app layout might look slightly different.
On iPhone (iOS)
The Ring app on iPhone has a clean, intuitive design. The settings gear is easy to find, and the Shared Users option is clearly labeled. Make sure you’re using iOS 13 or later for full compatibility.
On Android
Android users might see minor differences in button placement, but the steps are identical. Keep your Android OS updated to avoid glitches.
On Tablet
The Ring app works on tablets too. Just make sure it’s the mobile app (not a web browser), as some features don’t work on desktop.
What If You’re Not the Primary Account Holder?
If you’re not the person who set up the Ring Doorbell, you can’t add shared users. Only the primary account holder (the owner) can send invitations.
If you’re a shared user and want to add someone else, ask the owner to do it for you. Alternatively, if you’re moving into a new place and the previous owner still owns the device, ask them to transfer ownership to you.
To transfer ownership, the current owner must remove the device from their account and help you set it up under your account. This is more complex and requires both parties to be present.
Using Shared Users in Rental Properties
If you’re a landlord or property manager, shared access is a great way to let tenants monitor their doorbell without giving them full control.
Just remember:
- Tenants should only have access to their own unit’s doorbell.
- Remove access when a tenant moves out.
- Use clear communication – let tenants know what they can and can’t do.
This keeps your property secure while giving tenants peace of mind.
Conclusion
Adding an additional user to your Ring Doorbell is a simple, secure way to extend the benefits of your smart doorbell to family, roommates, or trusted neighbors. With just a few taps in the Ring app, you can invite someone to view live video, receive alerts, and speak through the doorbell — all without sharing your login.
Remember, only the primary account holder can send invitations, and each user needs their own Ring account. You can add up to 20 people, and you can remove access anytime.
By following this guide, you’ve learned how to invite users, manage permissions, troubleshoot issues, and keep your system secure. Whether you’re sharing with your partner or a house sitter, you now have the tools to do it safely and effectively.
So go ahead — invite that extra set of eyes. Your front door will thank you.