Changing the owner of a Ring Doorbell is essential when selling your home, gifting the device, or transferring it to a new user. This guide walks you through every step—from preparing the device to confirming the transfer—ensuring a smooth, secure process without losing functionality.
Key Takeaways
- Ownership transfer requires both parties to have Ring accounts: The current owner must initiate the transfer, and the new owner must accept it through their Ring app.
- Factory reset is necessary before transfer: This clears all personal data and ensures the device is ready for a new user.
- Only the owner can transfer ownership: Shared users or guests cannot initiate a transfer—only the primary account holder can do so.
- Transferring removes all linked devices and settings: Cameras, chimes, and motion zones will be reset and must be reconfigured by the new owner.
- Use the Ring app for the transfer process: The web portal does not support ownership transfers—always use the mobile app.
- Keep your device powered during the process: A stable power source prevents interruptions that could disrupt the transfer.
- Contact Ring Support if issues arise: If the transfer fails, reach out to Ring’s customer service for assistance.
How to Change Owners of Ring Doorbell
So, you’ve decided to pass on your Ring Doorbell—maybe you’re selling your house, upgrading to a newer model, or gifting it to a family member. Whatever the reason, transferring ownership of your Ring Doorbell is a smart and necessary step. But how exactly do you do it?
Don’t worry—this guide will walk you through the entire process, step by step. Whether you’re the current owner handing over the device or the new owner receiving it, we’ve got you covered. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to change owners of Ring Doorbell safely, securely, and without losing any important functionality.
We’ll cover everything from preparing your device and using the Ring app to troubleshooting common issues. Plus, we’ll share practical tips to make the transition as smooth as possible. Let’s get started!
Why Transfer Ownership Matters
Visual guide about How to Change Owners of Ring Doorbell
Image source: emptylighthome.com
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand why transferring ownership is so crucial. Simply unplugging your Ring Doorbell and handing it over isn’t enough. If you don’t officially transfer ownership, the new user won’t be able to access live video, receive motion alerts, or manage settings. Worse, your personal data—like recorded videos and motion history—could still be tied to the device.
Transferring ownership ensures:
– The new owner gets full control of the device.
– Your personal information is completely removed.
– The device is properly registered under the new account.
– Both parties stay compliant with Ring’s terms of service.
Think of it like selling a car—you wouldn’t just hand over the keys without transferring the title, right? The same logic applies here.
Who Can Transfer Ownership?
Only the primary owner of the Ring Doorbell can initiate a transfer. This is the person whose email address is linked to the Ring account and who originally set up the device.
Shared users—people you’ve invited to view your Ring devices—cannot transfer ownership, even if they have full access. Only the main account holder has this privilege.
If you’re not the owner but need to transfer the device, you’ll need to contact the current owner and ask them to initiate the process.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Before you begin the transfer, make sure you have the following:
- A smartphone or tablet with the Ring app installed: The transfer must be done through the mobile app—Ring’s website doesn’t support ownership changes.
- The current owner’s Ring login credentials: You’ll need access to the account that currently owns the device.
- The new owner’s email address: This must be linked to an active Ring account.
- A stable Wi-Fi connection: Both the device and the app need internet access during the transfer.
- Power to the Ring Doorbell: Whether it’s battery-powered or hardwired, make sure the device has enough charge or is connected to power.
Having these ready will prevent delays and ensure a smooth process.
Step 1: Prepare the Ring Doorbell for Transfer
The first step is to prepare your Ring Doorbell for the new owner. This involves removing it from your account and resetting it to factory settings.
Remove the Device from Your Account
1. Open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Tap the three-line menu icon (☰) in the top-left corner.
3. Select Devices from the menu.
4. Find your Ring Doorbell in the list and tap on it.
5. Scroll down and tap Device Settings.
6. Tap General Settings.
7. Scroll to the bottom and select Remove Device.
8. Confirm the removal when prompted.
Once removed, the device will no longer appear in your account.
Factory Reset the Ring Doorbell
A factory reset ensures all your personal data is erased and the device is ready for a new owner. Here’s how to do it:
1. Locate the setup button on your Ring Doorbell. On most models, it’s on the back or side of the device.
2. Press and hold the setup button for 15–20 seconds until the light on the front starts flashing.
3. Release the button. The device will restart and enter setup mode.
You’ll know the reset is complete when the light stops flashing and the device emits a series of tones.
Tip: If you’re unsure where the setup button is, check the user manual for your specific Ring model (e.g., Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2, Ring Doorbell Pro).
Step 2: Initiate the Ownership Transfer
Now that the device is reset, it’s time to officially transfer ownership. This step must be completed by the current owner using the Ring app.
Open the Ring App and Navigate to Settings
1. Open the Ring app on your device.
2. Tap the menu icon (☰) and select Account.
3. Scroll down and tap Ownership Transfer.
If you don’t see this option, make sure you’re logged in as the primary owner and that your app is up to date.
Enter the New Owner’s Information
1. Tap Transfer Ownership.
2. Enter the new owner’s email address. This must be the email associated with their Ring account.
3. Select the device you want to transfer (in this case, your Ring Doorbell).
4. Tap Send Transfer Request.
The new owner will receive an email notification with a link to accept the transfer.
Confirm the Transfer
Once the new owner accepts the request, the transfer will begin automatically. You’ll receive a confirmation email, and the device will disappear from your account.
Important: The new owner must accept the transfer within 7 days, or the request will expire. If this happens, you’ll need to send a new request.
Step 3: The New Owner Sets Up the Device
After accepting the transfer, the new owner must set up the Ring Doorbell as if it were brand new. Here’s what they need to do:
Download and Open the Ring App
If they don’t already have the Ring app, they should download it from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
Log In or Create a Ring Account
They’ll need to log in with their existing Ring account or create a new one using the email address you provided.
Add the Device to Their Account
1. Tap the menu icon (☰) and select Set Up a Device.
2. Choose Doorbells from the list.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan the QR code on the back of the Ring Doorbell.
4. Connect the device to Wi-Fi and complete the setup.
During setup, they’ll be prompted to name the device, set motion zones, and configure notifications.
Test the Device
Once setup is complete, the new owner should test the doorbell by pressing the button and checking the live view in the app. They should also verify that motion alerts are working.
What Happens After the Transfer?
After the ownership transfer is complete:
– The device is fully under the new owner’s control.
– All previous settings, recordings, and user data are erased.
– The new owner can invite shared users, adjust settings, and subscribe to Ring Protect if desired.
– The original owner no longer has access to the device or its data.
It’s a clean break—perfect for privacy and security.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful preparation, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
“I Don’t See the Ownership Transfer Option”
If the Ownership Transfer option is missing from your account settings:
– Make sure you’re logged in as the primary owner.
– Update the Ring app to the latest version.
– Restart your phone and try again.
– If the issue persists, contact Ring Support.
“The New Owner Didn’t Receive the Transfer Email”
Check the following:
– The email address was entered correctly.
– The new owner checked their spam or junk folder.
– The Ring account is active and verified.
– If needed, resend the transfer request from the app.
“The Device Won’t Connect After Transfer”
This could be due to a weak Wi-Fi signal or incorrect setup. Try:
– Moving the doorbell closer to the router during setup.
– Ensuring the Wi-Fi password is correct.
– Performing another factory reset and starting over.
“I Forgot to Remove the Device Before Transfer”
If you transferred ownership without removing the device first, don’t panic. The new owner can still set it up, but you should still remove it from your account to avoid confusion. Go to Devices > Device Settings > Remove Device.
Tips for a Smooth Transfer
To make the process as easy as possible, keep these tips in mind:
- Communicate with the new owner: Let them know when to expect the transfer email and what steps they need to take.
- Do the transfer during the day: This ensures both parties are available to troubleshoot if needed.
- Keep the device powered: A dead battery can interrupt the reset or setup process.
- Double-check the email address: A typo can delay the transfer by days.
- Take photos of the device and packaging: This can help with warranty claims or returns if needed.
When to Contact Ring Support
If you’ve followed all the steps and still can’t transfer ownership, it’s time to reach out to Ring Support. They can help with:
– Account verification issues.
– Transfer request errors.
– Device connectivity problems.
– Questions about Ring Protect plans.
You can contact them via the Ring app, their website, or phone. Be ready to provide your account email, device model, and a description of the issue.
Final Thoughts
Changing the owner of a Ring Doorbell might seem complicated at first, but it’s actually a straightforward process when you know the steps. By preparing the device, using the Ring app correctly, and communicating with the new owner, you can ensure a seamless transfer.
Remember: only the primary owner can initiate the transfer, and a factory reset is essential for privacy. Once the new owner accepts the request and sets up the device, they’ll have full control—and you’ll have peace of mind knowing your data is secure.
Whether you’re selling your home, upgrading your tech, or helping a loved one stay safe, transferring ownership of your Ring Doorbell is a responsible and necessary step. Follow this guide, and you’ll have it done in no time.