Adding a second user to your Ring Doorbell is simple and enhances home security by allowing family or trusted neighbors access. This guide walks you through the process using the Ring app, covering setup, permissions, and troubleshooting.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app to invite users: All user management happens within the Ring mobile app—no need for physical access to the doorbell.
- Set custom permissions: Choose whether the second user can view live video, receive alerts, or manage device settings.
- Ensure both users have Ring accounts: The person you’re adding must have their own Ring account (free or Ring Protect plan).
- Check Wi-Fi and app updates: A stable connection and updated app prevent invitation failures.
- Revoke access anytime: You can remove a user instantly from the app if needed.
- Shared users see motion and doorbell events: They’ll get real-time notifications just like the primary owner.
- Works with all Ring doorbell models: From Ring Video Doorbell to Ring Doorbell Pro 2, the process is the same.
How to Add a Second User on Ring Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Did you know that over 70% of Ring users share access with at least one other person? Whether it’s your spouse, roommate, parent, or trusted neighbor, adding a second user to your Ring Doorbell ensures someone is always watching—even when you’re away. It’s a smart, simple way to boost home security and peace of mind.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn exactly how to add a second user on your Ring Doorbell using the Ring mobile app. We’ll walk you through every step, explain permission settings, offer practical tips, and help you troubleshoot common issues. By the end, you’ll be able to share access confidently and securely—without compromising control.
Whether you own a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2, Ring Doorbell 3, Ring Doorbell Pro, or the latest Ring Doorbell Pro 2, the process is nearly identical. Let’s get started!
Why Add a Second User to Your Ring Doorbell?
Visual guide about How to Add Second User on Ring Doorbell
Image source: m.media-amazon.com
Before diving into the steps, it’s worth understanding why sharing access is beneficial.
First, shared access improves response time. If your doorbell rings while you’re in the basement or asleep, another household member can answer immediately. This is especially helpful for deliveries, unexpected visitors, or emergencies.
Second, it enhances security coverage. If you’re traveling, a trusted friend or family member can monitor your home and alert you to suspicious activity. Some users even add neighbors during vacation—just make sure they’re reliable!
Third, it reduces notification overload. Instead of one person getting all alerts, you can distribute them. For example, your teen might get alerts when they come home late, while you only get notified for motion near the front door.
Finally, it’s completely free. Unlike some smart home systems that charge for user licenses, Ring allows unlimited shared users at no extra cost—even on the free plan.
Prerequisites: What You Need Before Adding a User
Before you begin, make sure you have the following:
- A Ring Doorbell installed and connected: Your device must be set up and working with the Ring app.
- The latest version of the Ring app: Update the app on your iPhone or Android device from the App Store or Google Play.
- A stable Wi-Fi connection: Both your phone and the doorbell should have strong signal strength.
- The email address of the person you want to add: They must have a Ring account (or be willing to create one).
- Admin access to the device: Only the primary owner (or someone with admin rights) can invite users.
Pro Tip: If the person you’re adding doesn’t have a Ring account yet, have them download the app and sign up first. It only takes a minute and requires just an email and password.
Step 1: Open the Ring App and Navigate to Device Settings
Start by opening the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the account that owns the doorbell.
Once the app loads, you’ll see your dashboard with all your Ring devices. Tap on the doorbell you want to share—this could be your front door, back door, or any other Ring doorbell in your setup.
After selecting the device, you’ll enter its main control screen. Here, you can view live video, check event history, and adjust settings.
Now, look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner. This is the Device Settings button. Tap it to open the full settings menu.
Step 2: Find the “Shared Users” Option
Inside the Device Settings menu, scroll down until you see a section labeled “Shared Users”. This is where you manage who has access to your doorbell.
Tap on “Shared Users” to open the user management screen. Here, you’ll see a list of anyone already added (if any), along with their permission levels.
At the top of this screen, you’ll find a button that says “Add User” or “Invite User”. Tap it to begin the invitation process.
Step 3: Enter the User’s Email Address
Now, you’ll be prompted to enter the email address associated with the Ring account of the person you want to add.
Type the email carefully—typos are a common cause of failed invitations. If you’re unsure, ask the person to confirm their exact email.
Once entered, tap “Next” or “Send Invitation”.
Important: The email must match the one used to create their Ring account. If they signed up with a different email (like a work address instead of personal), the invitation won’t go through.
Step 4: Set User Permissions
After entering the email, you’ll be asked to choose what the second user can do. Ring offers three main permission levels:
- Live View Only: The user can view live video but cannot access recordings, settings, or alerts.
- Live View + Alerts: The user can see live video and receive motion and doorbell notifications. They still can’t change settings or view past events.
- Full Access: The user can do everything—view live video, receive alerts, access recordings, adjust settings, and even invite others.
Recommendation: For most households, “Live View + Alerts” is the best balance of access and security. It allows the second user to respond to visitors and motion but prevents them from changing critical settings.
If you’re adding a child or teen, consider “Live View Only” to limit their access.
Once you’ve selected the permission level, tap “Send Invitation”.
Step 5: The User Accepts the Invitation
The person you invited will receive an email with a link to accept the invitation. They must:
- Open the email on their phone or computer.
- Tap the “Accept Invitation” button.
- Log in to their Ring account (or create one if they haven’t already).
- Confirm the device and permissions.
Once accepted, the doorbell will appear in their Ring app under “Shared Devices.” They’ll start receiving alerts based on the permissions you set.
Note: If the user doesn’t see the invitation email, ask them to check their spam or junk folder. Sometimes, Ring invitations get filtered.
Step 6: Verify the User Has Access
After the invitation is accepted, return to your Ring app and go back to the “Shared Users” section.
You should now see the new user listed with their name, email, and permission level. This confirms the setup was successful.
To double-check, ask the second user to open their Ring app and confirm they can:
- See the doorbell in their device list.
- View live video (if permitted).
- Receive a test notification (you can ring the doorbell or trigger motion).
If everything works, you’re all set!
Managing Shared Users: Editing or Removing Access
You can change permissions or remove a user at any time.
To edit permissions:
- Go to Device Settings > Shared Users.
- Tap on the user’s name.
- Select a new permission level.
- Tap “Save”.
To remove a user:
- Go to Shared Users.
- Tap the user’s name.
- Scroll down and tap “Remove User”.
- Confirm the action.
Important: Removing a user instantly revokes all access. They will no longer receive alerts or see the device in their app.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with clear instructions, things can go wrong. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them.
Issue 1: Invitation Not Received
Symptoms: The user says they didn’t get the email.
Solutions:
- Double-check the email address for typos.
- Ask the user to search their inbox for “Ring” or “invitation.”
- Check spam/junk folders.
- Resend the invitation from the Ring app.
- Ensure the user’s email provider isn’t blocking Ring emails (rare, but possible).
Issue 2: “User Not Found” Error
Symptoms: When you enter the email, Ring says “User not found.”
Solutions:
- The person doesn’t have a Ring account. Have them create one first.
- They used a different email to sign up. Ask them to check all email addresses they might have used.
- Their account is inactive. Have them log in to the Ring app to reactivate it.
Issue 3: User Can’t View Live Video
Symptoms: The user sees the doorbell but gets an error when trying to view live feed.
Solutions:
- Check their permission level—make sure it includes “Live View.”
- Ensure both devices have a strong Wi-Fi connection.
- Restart the Ring app on both phones.
- Update the Ring app to the latest version.
- Reboot the doorbell by turning off power at the breaker for 10 seconds.
Issue 4: Delayed or Missing Notifications
Symptoms: The second user isn’t getting alerts.
Solutions:
- Verify their permission level includes “Alerts.”
- Check their phone’s notification settings—make sure Ring is allowed to send alerts.
- Ensure “Do Not Disturb” mode is off.
- Test by triggering motion or ringing the doorbell.
- Ask them to log out and back into the Ring app.
Issue 5: Can’t Add More Than One User
Symptoms: You’ve added one user but can’t add a second.
Solutions:
- Ring allows unlimited shared users—this shouldn’t be an issue.
- Make sure you’re not trying to add the same person twice.
- Try restarting the app and retrying.
- Contact Ring Support if the problem persists.
Best Practices for Sharing Your Ring Doorbell
To keep your home secure and avoid conflicts, follow these best practices:
- Only share with trusted individuals: Avoid adding strangers or casual acquaintances.
- Use descriptive names: When adding users, assign names like “Sarah – Spouse” or “Mike – Neighbor” for clarity.
- Review access regularly: Every few months, check who has access and remove anyone who no longer needs it.
- Set boundaries with kids: If adding a teenager, explain appropriate use and monitor their activity.
- Use two-factor authentication: Enable 2FA on your Ring account to prevent unauthorized access.
- Keep your app updated: Updates often include security fixes and new features.
Advanced Tips for Power Users
If you’re managing multiple Ring devices or a smart home ecosystem, here are some advanced tips:
- Share across locations: You can add users to doorbells at different homes (e.g., your vacation cabin).
- Use Groups: Create a “Family” group in the Ring app to manage multiple devices and users at once.
- Integrate with Alexa: If the second user has an Echo device, they can view the doorbell feed on their Echo Show.
- Set up Motion Zones: Customize which areas trigger alerts so shared users aren’t overwhelmed by false alarms.
- Use Quick Replies: Teach shared users how to use pre-set messages like “I’ll be right there” when answering the door.
Conclusion: Share Smarter, Stay Safer
Adding a second user to your Ring Doorbell is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your home’s security. With just a few taps in the Ring app, you can give trusted family members or friends the ability to see who’s at the door, respond to visitors, and stay informed—no matter where they are.
Remember, you’re in control. You decide who gets access, what they can do, and when to remove them. Whether you’re sharing with a spouse, a roommate, or a helpful neighbor, the process is secure, flexible, and completely free.
By following this guide, you’ve not only learned how to add a second user—you’ve also gained the knowledge to manage permissions, troubleshoot issues, and keep your smart home running smoothly.
So go ahead, send that invitation, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with shared vigilance. Your Ring Doorbell is more than a camera—it’s a team effort.