Changing the owner of your Ring video doorbell is simple when you follow the right steps. This guide walks you through the entire process, from removing the old owner to setting up the new one, ensuring a smooth transition. Whether you’re selling your home or gifting the device, we’ve got you covered.
Key Takeaways
- Only the current owner can initiate a transfer: The existing account holder must remove the device from their Ring app before a new owner can claim it.
- Factory reset is required for full ownership change: A hard reset ensures all previous settings, videos, and user data are erased from the device.
- New owner needs a Ring account: The person taking ownership must have a verified Ring account and the Ring app installed on their smartphone.
- Wi-Fi and power are essential during setup: The new owner must have access to the home’s Wi-Fi network and ensure the doorbell has stable power (battery or wired).
- Transfer may take 5–10 minutes: The process involves app steps, device reset, and reconfiguration, so allow enough time to complete it without interruption.
- Shared users don’t count as owners: Only the primary account holder is considered the owner; shared users cannot transfer ownership.
- Keep your receipt for support: Ring may request proof of purchase if issues arise during the transfer process.
How to Change Owner of Ring Video Doorbell
So, you’ve got a Ring video doorbell, and now you need to pass it on—maybe you’re moving, selling your house, or giving it to a family member. Whatever the reason, changing the owner of your Ring doorbell isn’t as simple as handing over the device. Unlike a regular doorbell, Ring devices are tied to an account, and that account holds all your settings, videos, and access controls.
But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through the entire process of transferring ownership of your Ring video doorbell, step by step. Whether you’re the current owner looking to hand it off or the new owner ready to set it up, we’ve got clear, easy-to-follow instructions. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to remove the old owner, reset the device, and get it up and running under a new account—no tech degree required.
We’ll cover everything from preparing for the transfer to troubleshooting common issues, so you can avoid frustration and get your doorbell working smoothly in no time. Let’s get started!
Why You Might Need to Change the Owner
Visual guide about How to Change Owner of Ring Video Doorbell
Image source: i0.wp.com
Before diving into the steps, it’s helpful to understand why someone would need to change the owner of a Ring doorbell. There are several common scenarios:
- Selling or moving out of a home: If you’re leaving a property, you’ll want to remove your Ring device from your account so the new resident can set it up under their own account.
- Gifting the doorbell: Maybe you bought a Ring doorbell as a housewarming gift. To make it truly theirs, you’ll need to transfer ownership.
- Replacing an old device: If you’re upgrading to a newer model, you might pass your old Ring doorbell to a friend or family member.
- Returning or exchanging: In rare cases, you might need to reset the device before returning it to the retailer or manufacturer.
In all these cases, simply unplugging the doorbell or removing it from the wall isn’t enough. The device is still linked to your Ring account, and without a proper transfer, the new user won’t be able to activate it. That’s why following the correct procedure is so important.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Before you begin the ownership transfer, make sure you have the following:
- The current owner’s Ring account login: Only the person listed as the owner can remove the device from their account.
- Access to the Ring app: Download the free Ring app on iOS or Android if you haven’t already.
- The Ring doorbell itself: You’ll need physical access to the device to perform a factory reset.
- A stable Wi-Fi connection: The new owner will need Wi-Fi to set up the doorbell.
- A charged battery or wired power source: Ensure the doorbell has enough power during the reset and setup process.
- The new owner’s Ring account details: The person taking ownership must have a Ring account set up and ready.
Having these items ready will help the process go smoothly and prevent delays.
Step 1: Remove the Device from the Current Owner’s Account
The first and most important step is for the current owner to remove the Ring doorbell from their account. This can only be done through the Ring app.
Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone. Make sure you’re logged into the account that currently owns the doorbell.
Navigate to Device Settings
Tap on the three horizontal lines (menu icon) in the top-left corner. From the menu, select “Devices.” Find your Ring doorbell in the list and tap on it.
Access Device Health
Once you’re on the doorbell’s main screen, scroll down and tap on “Device Health.” This section shows the status of your device, including battery level, Wi-Fi signal, and firmware.
Remove the Device
Scroll down further and look for the “Remove Device” option. Tap on it. You’ll see a warning message explaining that removing the device will disconnect it from your account and erase all settings. Confirm by tapping “Remove” again.
Important: Once you remove the device, it will no longer appear in your account, and you won’t be able to access any live views or recordings. Make sure you’ve saved any important videos before proceeding.
Wait for Confirmation
The app will process the removal, which usually takes a few seconds. Once complete, you’ll see a confirmation message. At this point, the doorbell is no longer linked to your account.
Step 2: Perform a Factory Reset on the Ring Doorbell
Now that the device is removed from the old account, it’s time to reset it to factory settings. This step is crucial because it clears all previous data and prepares the doorbell for a new owner.
Locate the Reset Button
The reset button is typically found on the back or side of the doorbell, depending on the model. For most Ring doorbells (like the Ring Video Doorbell, Doorbell 2, 3, 3 Plus, or Pro), it’s a small button near the bottom edge.
Press and Hold the Reset Button
Use a paperclip, SIM tool, or similar small object to press and hold the reset button. Hold it for about 15–20 seconds. You’ll know it’s working when the LED light on the front of the doorbell starts flashing.
Wait for the Reset to Complete
Continue holding the button until the light stops flashing and turns solid or turns off completely. This indicates the reset is finished. Release the button.
Confirm the Reset
If the doorbell has a chime or voice prompt, it may say “Welcome to Ring” or “Factory reset complete.” This confirms the device is ready for a new setup.
Tip: If the reset doesn’t seem to work, try holding the button longer—up to 30 seconds. Some models require a longer press.
Step 3: Set Up the Doorbell Under the New Owner’s Account
With the device reset, the new owner can now set it up as if it were brand new. Here’s how:
Download the Ring App (If Not Already Installed)
The new owner should download the Ring app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) if they haven’t already.
Create or Log Into a Ring Account
Open the app and either log in with an existing Ring account or create a new one. Make sure to verify the email address during setup.
Start the Setup Process
Tap the “+” icon in the top-right corner of the app and select “Set up a device.” Choose “Doorbells” from the list.
Scan the QR Code
The app will prompt you to scan the QR code on the back of the doorbell. Use your phone’s camera to scan it. If the QR code is damaged or unreadable, you can manually enter the device serial number.
Follow the On-Screen Instructions
The app will guide you through the setup process, including:
- Connecting to Wi-Fi
- Setting up motion zones
- Configuring notifications
- Testing the doorbell and chime
Mount the Doorbell (If Not Already Installed)
If the doorbell was removed from the wall, now is the time to reinstall it. Use the mounting bracket and screws provided. Make sure it’s securely attached and angled correctly for the best view.
Complete the Setup
Once all steps are finished, the app will confirm that the doorbell is successfully connected. You can now test the live view, motion detection, and two-way audio.
Step 4: Test the New Setup
After setup, it’s important to test the doorbell to ensure everything is working properly.
Check Live View
Open the Ring app and tap on the doorbell to view the live feed. Make sure the video is clear and the audio is working.
Test Motion Detection
Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion alerts. Check that you receive a notification on your phone.
Test the Doorbell Button
Press the doorbell button to see if it triggers a notification and activates the chime (if connected).
Verify Two-Way Audio
When someone presses the button, use the app to speak through the doorbell’s speaker. Make sure the microphone picks up your voice clearly.
If any of these features aren’t working, refer to the troubleshooting section below.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful steps, you might run into problems. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
Device Won’t Reset
If the doorbell doesn’t respond to the reset button:
- Make sure the battery is charged or the device is receiving power.
- Try holding the reset button longer—up to 30 seconds.
- Remove the battery (if applicable), wait 10 seconds, reinsert it, and try again.
Can’t Connect to Wi-Fi
If the new owner can’t connect the doorbell to Wi-Fi:
- Ensure the Wi-Fi network is 2.4 GHz (most Ring doorbells don’t support 5 GHz).
- Move closer to the router during setup.
- Restart the router and try again.
- Double-check the Wi-Fi password.
App Says “Device Already Registered”
If the app claims the device is already linked to an account:
- Confirm the previous owner removed it from their account.
- Ensure a factory reset was performed.
- Wait 10–15 minutes and try again—sometimes the system needs time to update.
No Video or Poor Quality
If the video feed is blank or blurry:
- Check the Wi-Fi signal strength in the app’s Device Health section.
- Reposition the doorbell for a better signal.
- Update the Ring app and device firmware.
Doorbell Not Chiming
If the indoor chime doesn’t ring:
- Make sure the chime is plugged in and powered.
- Check that it’s paired correctly in the app.
- Test with a different outlet.
Tips for a Smooth Ownership Transfer
To make the process even easier, keep these tips in mind:
- Communicate clearly: Make sure both the current and new owner understand their roles in the transfer.
- Do it together: If possible, have both parties present during the reset and setup to avoid confusion.
- Save important recordings: The current owner should download any saved videos before removing the device.
- Keep the receipt: In case of technical issues, Ring support may ask for proof of purchase.
- Update your address: The new owner should update their Ring account with the correct address for accurate alerts.
Final Thoughts
Changing the owner of a Ring video doorbell might seem complicated at first, but it’s actually a straightforward process when you follow the right steps. The key is to remember that only the current owner can remove the device from their account, and a factory reset is essential to wipe all previous data.
By carefully removing the device, performing a reset, and guiding the new owner through setup, you can ensure a seamless transition. Whether you’re moving, gifting, or upgrading, this process helps protect your privacy and gives the new owner full control over their security system.
With the Ring app’s user-friendly interface and the clear steps outlined in this guide, anyone can successfully transfer ownership—no technical expertise required. Just take your time, double-check each step, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Ring support if you run into trouble.
Now that you know how to change owner of Ring video doorbell, you can pass on your device with confidence, knowing it’s ready for its next chapter.