This guide walks you through adding shared users to your Ring Doorbell so family or trusted neighbors can receive alerts and view live video. You’ll learn the process via the Ring app, manage permissions, and solve common issues—all in simple, clear steps.
Key Takeaways
- Shared users enhance security: Let family, roommates, or trusted neighbors monitor your Ring Doorbell without sharing your main account login.
- Easy setup via the Ring app: Adding a shared user takes just a few taps—no technical skills required.
- Customizable permissions: Choose whether shared users can view live video, receive motion alerts, or access recordings.
- Works across devices: Shared users can use the Ring app on iOS, Android, or web browsers.
- Instant notifications: Once added, shared users get real-time alerts when motion is detected or someone rings the bell.
- Manage access anytime: You can remove or edit shared user permissions directly from your Ring dashboard.
- Troubleshooting tips included: Fix common issues like invitation failures or app glitches with simple solutions.
How to Add Shared Users for Ring Doorbell: A Complete Guide
So, you’ve installed your Ring Doorbell and love how it keeps your home secure. But what if you want your spouse, roommate, or a trusted neighbor to also get alerts when someone’s at the door? That’s where shared users come in.
Adding shared users to your Ring Doorbell is a smart, secure way to extend access without giving out your main account credentials. Whether you’re managing a busy household or just want peace of mind when you’re away, sharing access ensures someone’s always watching.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to add shared users for your Ring Doorbell—step by step. We’ll cover everything from opening the Ring app to managing permissions and fixing common problems. By the end, you’ll be able to share access safely and confidently.
Why Add Shared Users to Your Ring Doorbell?
Visual guide about How to Add Shared Users for Ring Doorbell
Image source: doorbellnest.com
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about why this feature is so valuable.
First, it improves home security. If you’re at work and your partner is home, they’ll get instant alerts when the doorbell rings or motion is detected. No more missed deliveries or unexpected visitors slipping by unnoticed.
Second, it’s convenient. Roommates can check who’s at the door without bothering you. Parents can monitor their kids coming home from school. Even trusted neighbors can help keep an eye on your property while you’re on vacation.
Third, it’s secure. You’re not sharing your password—just granting limited access through Ring’s built-in sharing system. You control what they can see and do, and you can revoke access anytime.
Finally, it’s free. Ring doesn’t charge extra for adding shared users, so you can invite as many people as you trust.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Before adding a shared user, make sure you have the following:
- A Ring Doorbell installed and connected: Your device should be online and working properly.
- The Ring app installed on your phone: Available for iOS and Android. Make sure it’s updated to the latest version.
- Your Ring account logged in: You must be the primary account holder to add shared users.
- The email address of the person you want to invite: They’ll need a valid email to accept the invitation.
- Stable internet connection: Both your phone and the Ring device should be connected to Wi-Fi.
Once you’ve confirmed these, you’re ready to begin.
Step-by-Step: How to Add a Shared User
Adding a shared user is simple and takes less than five minutes. Follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone. If you haven’t used it in a while, make sure you’re logged into your primary account.
You should see your Ring devices on the home screen. If your doorbell isn’t showing up, check your Wi-Fi connection or restart the app.
Step 2: Go to the Device Dashboard
Tap on your Ring Doorbell from the list of devices. This will open the live view screen.
Now, look for the three dots (⋮) or the gear icon in the top-right corner. Tap it to open the device settings menu.
Step 3: Select “Shared Users”
In the settings menu, scroll down until you see the option labeled “Shared Users”. Tap on it.
This will take you to a screen showing any existing shared users (if you’ve added any before) and an option to add a new one.
Step 4: Tap “Add Shared User”
Tap the “Add Shared User” button. A new screen will appear asking for the person’s email address.
Enter the email address of the person you want to invite. Make sure it’s correct—this is where they’ll receive the invitation.
Step 5: Choose Permissions
Ring allows you to customize what the shared user can do. You’ll see options like:
- View Live Video: Let them see the camera feed in real time.
- Receive Motion Alerts: Notify them when motion is detected.
- Receive Ring Alerts: Notify them when someone presses the doorbell.
- View Recordings: Allow access to past video clips (requires Ring Protect plan).
- Answer the Doorbell: Let them speak through the doorbell’s two-way audio.
Select the permissions you want to grant. For most people, enabling live video, motion alerts, and ring alerts is a good start.
Tip: If you’re adding a child or someone less tech-savvy, you might want to limit access to just alerts and live view—no recordings or answering.
Step 6: Send the Invitation
Once you’ve entered the email and selected permissions, tap “Send Invitation”.
The person will receive an email from Ring with a link to accept the invitation. They’ll need to click it and either log in to their existing Ring account or create a new one.
Step 7: Confirm the User Has Accepted
After they accept, they’ll appear in your Shared Users list with a status of “Active.”
You’ll also get a notification in the Ring app confirming the invitation was accepted.
Now, they can open the Ring app, log in, and see your doorbell under their devices. They’ll receive alerts based on the permissions you set.
Managing Shared Users After Setup
Adding a shared user is just the beginning. You’ll likely want to manage their access over time.
Editing Permissions
To change what a shared user can do:
- Go to the Shared Users section in your Ring app.
- Tap on the user’s name.
- Adjust the permissions as needed.
- Tap “Save” to apply changes.
For example, if you initially allowed them to view recordings but later decide against it, you can disable that option.
Removing a Shared User
If someone no longer needs access—maybe a roommate moved out or a neighbor moved away—you can remove them easily.
- Go to Shared Users.
- Tap the user’s name.
- Select “Remove User.”
- Confirm the action.
Once removed, they’ll lose all access immediately. They won’t receive alerts or be able to view the camera.
Viewing Activity Logs
Ring keeps a log of when shared users view live video or access recordings (if enabled). To check this:
- Go to your Ring dashboard.
- Tap “Activity” or “History.”
- Filter by user to see who did what and when.
This is helpful for monitoring usage and ensuring no one is misusing access.
Tips for Sharing Access Safely
While Ring’s sharing feature is secure, it’s important to use it wisely.
Only Share with Trusted People
Avoid adding strangers, delivery drivers, or casual acquaintances. Stick to family, roommates, or close neighbors you trust.
Use Strong Passwords
Encourage shared users to use strong, unique passwords for their Ring accounts. This prevents unauthorized access if their email is compromised.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Both you and your shared users should enable two-factor authentication (2FA) in the Ring app. This adds an extra layer of security.
To enable 2FA:
- Go to the Ring app menu (three lines).
- Tap “Account Settings.”
- Select “Two-Factor Authentication.”
- Follow the prompts to set it up.
Review Permissions Regularly
Life changes. People move out, relationships shift. Check your shared users list every few months and remove anyone who no longer needs access.
Educate Shared Users
Make sure they know how to use the app, understand privacy settings, and know not to share their login with others.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, adding a shared user doesn’t go smoothly. Here are solutions to the most common problems.
Invitation Not Received
If the person didn’t get the email:
- Check the spam or junk folder.
- Make sure you entered the correct email address.
- Ask them to search their inbox for “Ring” or “[email protected].”
- Resend the invitation from the Shared Users screen.
If they still don’t see it, try adding them again with a different email (like a personal one instead of work).
Invitation Link Expired
Ring invitations expire after 7 days. If the link doesn’t work:
- Go back to Shared Users.
- Tap “Resend Invitation.”
- The person will get a new email with a fresh link.
User Can’t See the Doorbell
If the shared user accepted the invite but doesn’t see the device:
- Ask them to log out and back into the Ring app.
- Make sure they’re using the same email you invited.
- Check that your doorbell is online (green status light in the app).
- Restart the Ring app on their phone.
Permissions Not Working
If alerts aren’t coming through or live view is blocked:
- Double-check the permissions you set.
- Go to Shared Users > tap the user > verify settings.
- Ensure the Ring Protect plan is active if they need recordings.
- Ask the user to check their phone’s notification settings for the Ring app.
App Crashes or Freezes
If the Ring app is unstable:
- Update the app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Restart your phone.
- Clear the app cache (Android) or reinstall the app.
- Check Ring’s status page for outages.
Device Offline
If your doorbell shows as offline, shared users won’t get alerts.
- Check your Wi-Fi connection.
- Make sure the doorbell has power (battery or wired).
- Restart the device by removing and reinserting the battery or turning off the power for 10 seconds.
Advanced Tips for Power Users
If you’re managing multiple Ring devices or a smart home, here are some pro tips.
Use Shared Users for Multiple Devices
You can share access to all your Ring devices—doorbells, cameras, alarms—with the same person. Just repeat the process for each device or use the “Share All Devices” option if available.
Create a Family Group
If you have several family members, consider creating a consistent permission set. For example, give everyone live view and alerts, but only parents access recordings.
Combine with Alexa or Google Home
Shared users can also use voice assistants. If they have an Echo Show or Nest Hub, they can say, “Alexa, show the front door,” to view the camera.
Use Ring Chime for Audible Alerts
If shared users are often at home, pair a Ring Chime to play a sound when the doorbell rings—even if their phone is on silent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I add more than one shared user?
Yes! You can add multiple shared users to your Ring Doorbell. There’s no official limit, but Ring recommends keeping it reasonable for security and performance.
Do shared users need a Ring Protect plan?
Only if they want to view recordings. Live video and alerts work without a subscription, but past footage requires an active Ring Protect plan on the primary account.
Can shared users delete recordings?
No. Shared users can view recordings (if permitted), but only the primary account holder can delete them.
Will shared users see my other Ring devices?
Only if you share those devices with them. You can choose to share all devices or just specific ones.
Can I share my doorbell with someone in another country?
Yes, as long as they have a valid email and can download the Ring app. However, check local laws about video surveillance and privacy.
What if the shared user loses their phone?
They should log out of the Ring app remotely via their account settings. You can also remove them as a shared user to revoke access immediately.
Conclusion
Adding shared users to your Ring Doorbell is a simple yet powerful way to boost your home’s security and convenience. Whether it’s your partner, a roommate, or a trusted neighbor, sharing access means someone’s always watching—even when you’re not.
The process is quick, secure, and fully customizable. With just a few taps in the Ring app, you can grant live video access, motion alerts, and more—without ever sharing your password.
Remember to manage permissions wisely, keep your app updated, and remove access when it’s no longer needed. And if you run into issues, the troubleshooting tips in this guide will help you get back on track.
Now that you know how to add shared users for Ring Doorbell, you can enjoy greater peace of mind and a smarter, safer home.