Changing the account on your Ring Doorbell is simple with the right steps. This guide walks you through transferring ownership, switching users, and troubleshooting common issues—ensuring seamless access and security.
Key Takeaways
- Ownership transfer requires the current owner’s approval: Only the primary account holder can initiate a transfer to a new user via the Ring app.
- Use the “Transfer Device” feature for clean handovers: This removes your account from the device and grants full control to the new owner.
- Shared users can be added without changing ownership: You can grant access to family or roommates while retaining primary control.
- Factory reset may be needed for stubborn devices: If the app won’t recognize the device, a hard reset clears old account data.
- Always check Wi-Fi and app updates first: Many connection issues stem from outdated software or weak signals.
- Two-factor authentication adds security during transfers: Ensure both parties have it enabled to prevent unauthorized access.
- Contact Ring Support if standard steps fail: Persistent errors may require direct assistance from Ring’s customer service team.
How to Change Account on Ring Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve got a Ring Doorbell—maybe it’s a gift, you’re moving into a new place, or you’re handing it off to a family member. Whatever the reason, you need to change the account on your Ring Doorbell. Don’t worry—it’s not as complicated as it sounds. With the right steps, you can transfer ownership, add shared users, or reset the device entirely in just a few minutes.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every scenario: transferring full ownership, sharing access with others, troubleshooting common problems, and even performing a factory reset if things go sideways. Whether you’re tech-savvy or just getting started with smart home devices, this guide is written in plain English with clear instructions and real-world tips.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to change the account on your Ring Doorbell—safely, securely, and without losing your mind.
Why You Might Need to Change the Ring Account
Visual guide about How to Change Account on Ring Doorbell
Image source: i.ytimg.com
Before diving into the steps, let’s talk about why you might want to change the account. Understanding your goal helps you pick the right method.
- Selling or gifting your Ring Doorbell: If you’re no longer using the device, you’ll want to transfer full ownership so the new user can manage it independently.
- Moving to a new home: You might want to keep using your Ring Doorbell but link it to a new account under your name at the new address.
- Sharing access with family or roommates: You don’t always need to transfer ownership—sometimes, just adding a shared user is enough.
- Resetting after a security concern: If you suspect unauthorized access, changing the account and resetting the device can restore control.
- Switching from a personal to a business account: Some users manage multiple properties and need to reassign devices under different accounts.
Knowing your situation helps you choose between transferring ownership, adding a shared user, or doing a full reset.
Method 1: Transfer Ownership to a New Account
If you’re handing over your Ring Doorbell to someone else—like a new homeowner or a family member—you’ll want to transfer ownership. This removes your account from the device and gives the new user full control.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Make sure you’re logged into the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. You must be the primary account holder to initiate a transfer. Shared users cannot transfer devices.
Step 2: Go to Device Settings
Tap the three-line menu icon (☰) in the top-left corner. Then, select Devices from the menu. Find your Ring Doorbell in the list and tap on it.
Step 3: Access Device Health
Once you’re on the device screen, scroll down and tap Device Health. This section shows connection status, battery level, and other diagnostics.
Step 4: Select “Transfer Device”
Scroll down further and look for the Transfer Device option. Tap it. You’ll see a warning message explaining that this action will remove the device from your account and grant full access to the new owner.
Step 5: Enter the New Owner’s Email
Type in the email address associated with the new owner’s Ring account. Make sure it’s correct—this is where the invitation will be sent.
Step 6: Confirm the Transfer
Tap Transfer to send the invitation. The new owner will receive an email with a link to accept the device. Once they accept, the Ring Doorbell will be removed from your account and added to theirs.
Step 7: Verify the Transfer
After the new owner accepts, check your device list in the Ring app. The doorbell should no longer appear. If it does, wait a few minutes—sometimes it takes time to sync.
Pro Tip: Always double-check the email address. If the new owner doesn’t have a Ring account, they’ll need to create one before accepting the transfer.
Method 2: Add a Shared User (Without Transferring Ownership)
Not every situation requires a full ownership transfer. If you just want to let someone else view live video, receive alerts, or answer the doorbell, you can add them as a shared user. This is perfect for spouses, roommates, or babysitters.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Log in as the primary account holder.
Step 2: Go to Device Settings
Tap the menu (☰), select Devices, and choose your Ring Doorbell.
Step 3: Tap “Shared Users”
Scroll down and tap Shared Users. You’ll see a list of people who already have access (if any).
Step 4: Add a New Shared User
Tap the + Add Shared User button. Enter the person’s email address and select their access level:
- Live View Only: Can view live video but can’t answer or change settings.
- Standard: Can view live video, answer the doorbell, and view recordings.
- Admin: Can do everything except transfer ownership or remove the primary account.
Step 5: Send the Invitation
Tap Send Invitation. The person will get an email to accept access. Once they do, they’ll see your Ring Doorbell in their app.
Pro Tip: Shared users can’t change Wi-Fi settings or delete the device. Only the primary owner has those privileges.
Method 3: Remove a Shared User
If someone no longer needs access—like a former roommate or employee—you can remove them easily.
Step 1: Go to Shared Users
Follow the same steps as above to reach the Shared Users section.
Step 2: Tap the User’s Name
Find the person you want to remove and tap on their name.
Step 3: Select “Remove Access”
Tap Remove Access and confirm. They’ll lose all access immediately.
Note: Removing a shared user doesn’t affect recordings or device settings—only their ability to interact with the doorbell.
Method 4: Factory Reset Your Ring Doorbell
Sometimes, the app won’t let you transfer or remove a device. Maybe the previous owner didn’t properly remove it, or the device is stuck in a loop. In these cases, a factory reset is your best bet.
A factory reset wipes all account data from the device and returns it to its original state—like it’s brand new.
Step 1: Locate the Reset Button
The reset button is usually on the back or side of the Ring Doorbell, depending on the model:
- Ring Video Doorbell (1st & 2nd Gen): Small pinhole on the back.
- Ring Video Doorbell Pro: Button on the right side.
- Ring Video Doorbell Elite: Button on the back.
- Ring Video Doorbell Wired: Button on the back.
Step 2: Press and Hold the Reset Button
Use a paperclip or SIM tool to press and hold the reset button for 15–20 seconds. You’ll see the light on the front blink white, then turn solid white.
Step 3: Wait for the Device to Reboot
Release the button and wait. The light will turn off and back on. This means the reset is complete.
Step 4: Reconnect to Wi-Fi
Now, the device is like new. Open the Ring app, tap Set Up a Device, and follow the on-screen instructions to connect it to your Wi-Fi and add it to your account.
Important: A factory reset does not automatically remove the device from the previous owner’s account. If they still have it listed, they may still receive alerts. Always transfer ownership first if possible.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with clear steps, things can go wrong. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them.
Issue 1: “Transfer Device” Option Is Grayed Out
If you can’t tap the transfer button, it’s usually because:
- You’re not the primary account holder.
- The device is offline or has a weak signal.
- The app needs an update.
Solution: Make sure you’re the owner, check your Wi-Fi connection, and update the Ring app from your phone’s app store.
Issue 2: New Owner Can’t Accept the Transfer
If the new owner doesn’t receive the email or can’t accept the invitation:
- Check the spam/junk folder.
- Ensure they have a Ring account with the correct email.
- Ask them to log out and back into the app.
Solution: Resend the invitation from the Device Health screen. If it still fails, contact Ring Support.
Issue 3: Device Still Appears in Your Account After Transfer
Sometimes, the device doesn’t disappear right away. This is usually a sync delay.
Solution: Wait 5–10 minutes and refresh the app. If it’s still there, try logging out and back in. If that doesn’t work, do a factory reset.
Issue 4: Can’t Connect After Factory Reset
If the device won’t connect to Wi-Fi after a reset:
- Make sure you’re within range of your router.
- Use the 2.4 GHz band (most Ring devices don’t support 5 GHz).
- Restart your router.
Solution: Move closer to the router during setup. Use the Ring app’s Wi-Fi signal strength tool to find the best spot.
Issue 5: Shared User Can’t View Live Video
If a shared user can see the device but not the live feed:
- Check their access level—Live View Only won’t allow answering.
- Ensure motion and live view are enabled in settings.
- Verify their app is updated.
Solution: Go to Device Settings > Shared Users and upgrade their access level if needed.
Best Practices for Changing Ring Accounts
To avoid headaches, follow these tips:
- Always transfer ownership before selling: Don’t just unplug it—properly remove it from your account.
- Use strong, unique passwords: Protect your Ring account with a password manager.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Adds an extra layer of security during transfers.
- Keep the app updated: New versions fix bugs and improve performance.
- Label your devices: If you have multiple Ring products, name them clearly (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard”).
- Document the transfer: Keep a record of when and to whom you transferred the device—useful for warranty or support.
When to Contact Ring Support
Most issues can be solved with the steps above. But if you’re still stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ring Support.
Contact them if:
- The device won’t reset or connect.
- You suspect unauthorized access.
- The transfer fails repeatedly.
- You need help recovering a lost account.
You can contact Ring Support via:
- The Help section in the Ring app.
- Phone: 1-800-637-4844 (U.S.).
- Live chat on ring.com.
Have your device model, serial number, and account email ready to speed up the process.
Conclusion
Changing the account on your Ring Doorbell doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re transferring ownership, adding a shared user, or performing a factory reset, the process is straightforward when you follow the right steps.
Remember: always transfer ownership properly to protect your privacy and ensure the new user gets full access. Use shared users for temporary or limited access, and don’t hesitate to reset the device if things go wrong.
With this guide, you’re equipped to handle any account change scenario—quickly, securely, and with confidence. Your Ring Doorbell will keep protecting your home, no matter who’s managing it.