Adding another phone to your Ring Doorbell lets family members or trusted neighbors receive alerts and view live video. This guide walks you through the entire process, from inviting users to troubleshooting common issues—ensuring everyone stays connected and secure.
Key Takeaways
- Multiple users can access your Ring Doorbell: You can invite family members, roommates, or caregivers to receive motion alerts and answer the door remotely.
- Invitations are sent via email or phone number: The new user must have a Ring account to accept the invite and gain access.
- User permissions can be customized: Choose whether the new user can view live video, receive alerts, or manage device settings.
- Both iOS and Android devices are supported: The Ring app works seamlessly across smartphones and tablets.
- No extra hardware is needed: Adding a phone only requires the Ring app and an active internet connection.
- Troubleshooting is simple: Common issues like failed invites or login problems can usually be fixed with a few quick steps.
- Security remains intact: Only invited users can access your doorbell, and you can revoke access anytime.
How to Add Another Phone to a Ring Doorbell
So, you’ve got your Ring Doorbell up and running—great job! But what if your spouse, roommate, or elderly parent also wants to see who’s at the door when you’re not home? Or maybe you’re a caregiver who needs to monitor a client’s front entrance? Whatever the reason, adding another phone to your Ring Doorbell is not only possible—it’s surprisingly easy.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from sending an invitation to managing user permissions. We’ll also cover common pitfalls, troubleshooting tips, and best practices to keep your home security system running smoothly. Whether you’re using a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2, Ring Doorbell Pro, or any other model, the steps are nearly identical.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to share access to your Ring Doorbell with others—safely, securely, and without any technical headaches.
Why Add Another Phone to Your Ring Doorbell?
Visual guide about How to Add Another Phone to a Ring Doorbell
Image source: storables.com
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Why would you want to add another phone to your Ring Doorbell?
First and foremost, shared access improves home security. If you’re at work and your teenager is home alone, they can see who’s at the door and decide whether to answer. If you’re on vacation, a trusted neighbor can keep an eye on your property and alert you to suspicious activity.
Second, it adds convenience. No more missed packages because no one was home to sign for them. With multiple users receiving motion alerts and doorbell rings, someone is almost always available to respond.
Third, it supports caregiving and shared living. If you’re helping an elderly parent stay safe at home, giving them (or their caregiver) access to the Ring Doorbell means they can see visitors without opening the door. Roommates can coordinate deliveries or avoid awkward encounters with solicitors.
Finally, it’s free and doesn’t require extra hardware. Unlike some security systems that charge per user, Ring allows you to add multiple users at no extra cost. All you need is the Ring app and an internet connection.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Before you begin the process of adding another phone to your Ring Doorbell, make sure you have the following:
- A Ring Doorbell installed and connected to Wi-Fi: Your device should be working properly and linked to your Ring account.
- The Ring app installed on your phone: Available for free on the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
- An active Ring account: You must be the primary account holder (admin) to invite others.
- The email address or phone number of the person you want to invite: They’ll need this to create or log into their Ring account.
- A stable internet connection: Both your phone and the invited user’s phone should have good Wi-Fi or cellular data.
Once you’ve confirmed these basics, you’re ready to start.
Step 1: Open the Ring App and Log In
The first step is simple: open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
If you’re not already logged in, tap “Sign In” and enter your email address and password. If you’ve forgotten your password, use the “Forgot Password?” link to reset it.
Once you’re logged in, you’ll see the home screen, which displays your Ring devices—like your doorbell, security cameras, or alarm system.
Make sure your Ring Doorbell is listed and shows as “Online.” If it’s offline, troubleshoot the connection first (we’ll cover that later).
Step 2: Access Device Settings
Now that you’re in the app, it’s time to navigate to the settings for your doorbell.
Here’s how:
Tap on Your Doorbell
On the home screen, tap the icon for your Ring Doorbell. This will open the live view or recent activity feed.
Open the Gear Icon
In the top-right corner of the screen, you’ll see a small gear or settings icon (⚙️). Tap it to open the device settings menu.
Select “Shared Users”
Scroll down until you find the “Shared Users” option. This is where you manage who has access to your doorbell.
Tap on “Shared Users” to proceed.
Step 3: Invite a New User
Now you’re in the Shared Users section. This is where the magic happens.
Tap “Add User”
You’ll see a button labeled “Add User” or “Invite User.” Tap it to start the invitation process.
Enter the User’s Information
You’ll be prompted to enter either:
- The person’s email address, or
- Their phone number (if they’ve linked it to their Ring account)
Type in the correct information. Double-check for typos—this is a common cause of failed invitations.
Choose Permissions (Optional)
Ring allows you to customize what the new user can do. You can choose from three permission levels:
- Viewer: Can view live video and recorded clips, but cannot change settings or delete videos.
- User: Can view video, receive alerts, and answer the doorbell, but cannot manage device settings.
- Admin: Has full control, including the ability to add/remove users, change settings, and delete videos. (Use with caution!)
For most people, “User” is the best choice—it gives full access without handing over control.
Select the appropriate permission level, then tap “Send Invitation.”
Step 4: The Invited User Accepts the Invitation
Once you send the invitation, the other person will receive a notification.
Here’s what happens on their end:
They Receive an Email or Text
If you used their email, they’ll get an email from Ring with a link to accept the invitation. If you used their phone number, they’ll get a text message with a link.
They Must Have a Ring Account
The invited user needs to have a Ring account to accept the invite. If they don’t have one, the link will prompt them to create a free account.
They Log In and Accept
After logging in (or signing up), they’ll see the invitation and can tap “Accept” to gain access to your doorbell.
Once accepted, their phone will receive motion alerts and doorbell rings just like yours.
Step 5: Confirm Access and Test the Setup
After the invitation is accepted, it’s a good idea to test the setup.
Check the Shared Users List
Go back to the “Shared Users” section in your Ring app. You should now see the new user listed with their name and permission level.
Test a Live View
Ask the new user to open the Ring app and tap on your doorbell. They should be able to see the live feed.
Trigger a Motion Alert
Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger a motion alert. Both phones should receive a notification.
Ring the Doorbell
Press the doorbell button. Both devices should ring and allow the user to answer.
If everything works, congratulations—you’ve successfully added another phone to your Ring Doorbell!
Managing Shared Users
Adding a user is just the beginning. You’ll also want to know how to manage them over time.
Edit Permissions
If you need to change a user’s permissions (e.g., from “User” to “Viewer”), go back to “Shared Users,” tap on the user’s name, and select a new permission level.
Remove a User
If someone no longer needs access—like a former roommate or temporary caregiver—you can remove them.
To do this:
- Go to “Shared Users”
- Tap the user’s name
- Select “Remove User”
- Confirm the action
Once removed, they will no longer receive alerts or be able to view the doorbell.
View Activity Log
Ring keeps a log of who accessed the doorbell and when. You can view this in the “Device History” section to monitor usage.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best setup, things don’t always go smoothly. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
Invitation Not Received
If the invited user doesn’t get the email or text:
- Check the spelling of the email or phone number.
- Ask them to check their spam or junk folder.
- Resend the invitation from the “Shared Users” menu.
- Ensure their phone number is verified in their Ring account.
User Can’t Log In
If the invited user can’t log in:
- Make sure they’re using the correct email and password.
- Have them reset their password via the Ring app.
- Confirm they’ve verified their email address during signup.
No Live Video or Alerts
If the new user can’t see the live feed or receive alerts:
- Check that the doorbell is online in your app.
- Ensure the user has the latest version of the Ring app.
- Restart the app and try again.
- Verify that motion and alert settings are enabled for shared users.
Permission Issues
If a user can’t perform an action (like answering the door):
- Double-check their permission level in “Shared Users.”
- Upgrade their permission if needed (e.g., from “Viewer” to “User”).
- Log out and back in to refresh permissions.
App Crashes or Freezes
If the Ring app is unstable:
- Close and reopen the app.
- Restart your phone.
- Update the app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Reinstall the app if problems persist.
Best Practices for Sharing Your Ring Doorbell
To keep your home security system safe and effective, follow these best practices:
Only Invite Trusted Individuals
Since shared users can see who comes to your door, only invite people you trust—family, close friends, or reliable caregivers.
Use “User” Permissions by Default
Avoid giving “Admin” access unless absolutely necessary. Most people only need to view and answer the doorbell, not change settings.
Regularly Review Shared Users
Every few months, check your “Shared Users” list and remove anyone who no longer needs access.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Protect your Ring account (and your shared users) by enabling two-factor authentication in the app settings.
Keep the App Updated
Regular updates improve security and add new features. Enable automatic updates if possible.
Educate Shared Users
Make sure everyone knows how to use the app, answer the doorbell, and report suspicious activity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We’ve covered a lot, but you might still have questions. Here are some quick answers.
Can I add more than one phone to my Ring Doorbell?
Yes! You can add multiple phones—there’s no official limit. Just repeat the invitation process for each person.
Do shared users need to pay for Ring Protect?
No. If you have a Ring Protect subscription, shared users can view recorded videos without paying extra. However, they won’t be able to download or share clips unless you grant them permission.
Can I add a phone without giving access to other Ring devices?
Yes. When you invite a user, you can choose which devices they can access. Simply select only your doorbell during the invitation process.
What if the invited user doesn’t have a smartphone?
They’ll need a smartphone or tablet to use the Ring app. However, they can still receive email alerts if motion or a ring is detected.
Can I add a phone from a different country?
Yes, as long as the user has a valid email or phone number and can download the Ring app. Note that some features may vary by region.
Will adding another phone slow down my doorbell?
No. Adding users doesn’t affect the performance of your doorbell. It only shares access to the existing feed.
Conclusion
Adding another phone to your Ring Doorbell is a smart, simple way to enhance your home’s security and convenience. Whether you’re sharing access with family, roommates, or caregivers, the process is straightforward and takes just a few minutes.
By following the steps in this guide—sending an invitation, setting permissions, and testing the connection—you can ensure that everyone who needs access gets it, while keeping your system secure and under your control.
Remember to manage your shared users regularly, troubleshoot issues promptly, and follow best practices to get the most out of your Ring Doorbell.
Now that you know how to add another phone to a Ring Doorbell, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is protected—no matter who’s holding the phone.