This guide walks you through how to change user on Ring Doorbell—whether you’re adding a new family member, removing an old roommate, or switching primary accounts. You’ll learn how to manage permissions, troubleshoot common issues, and keep your smart doorbell secure.
Key Takeaways
- Only the Owner can add or remove users: The primary account holder (Owner) has full control over user access and must initiate any changes.
- Use the Ring app for all user management: All user changes—adding, removing, or editing permissions—are done through the Ring mobile app, not the device itself.
- Users can have different permission levels: You can assign roles like Owner, Admin, or Guest, each with varying access to live view, recordings, and settings.
- Email invitations are required for new users: New users must accept an invitation sent to their email to gain access to your Ring devices.
- Two-factor authentication enhances security: Always enable 2FA on your Ring account to protect against unauthorized access when changing users.
- Remove users promptly when needed: If someone moves out or loses access, remove them immediately to maintain home security.
- Troubleshoot sync issues with app updates: If changes don’t appear, ensure your Ring app and device firmware are up to date.
How to Change User on Ring Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve got a Ring Doorbell—great choice! It’s one of the most popular smart doorbells on the market, offering real-time alerts, HD video, two-way talk, and cloud recording. But what happens when you need to change user on Ring Doorbell? Maybe you’re moving in with a partner, your teen wants access, or a roommate is moving out. Whatever the reason, managing users is essential for both convenience and security.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about changing users on your Ring Doorbell. We’ll cover how to add new users, remove old ones, adjust permissions, and troubleshoot common issues. Whether you’re the primary account holder or a guest user, this guide will help you navigate the Ring app with confidence.
By the end, you’ll be able to manage your Ring Doorbell users like a pro—keeping your home secure while giving the right people the access they need.
Understanding Ring User Roles and Permissions
Visual guide about How to Change User on Ring Doorbell
Image source: static.ring.com
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand how user roles work in the Ring ecosystem. Ring uses a tiered permission system to control who can do what with your devices. There are three main user roles:
- Owner: The person who originally set up the Ring account and device. Only the Owner can add or remove users, change device settings, delete recordings, and manage subscriptions.
- Admin: Has most of the same permissions as the Owner, including viewing live video, accessing recordings, and adjusting motion settings. However, Admins cannot add or remove other users or change subscription plans.
- Guest: Has limited access. Guests can view live video and receive motion alerts, but they cannot access past recordings, change settings, or view event history.
Knowing these roles helps you decide what level of access to give each person. For example, you might make your spouse an Admin so they can help manage the doorbell, while giving a babysitter Guest access for temporary use.
How to Add a New User to Your Ring Doorbell
Adding a new user is simple—but only the Owner can do it. Here’s how to invite someone to access your Ring Doorbell.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged in as the Owner account. If you’re not the Owner, you won’t see the option to add users.
Step 2: Go to Device Settings
Tap the three-line menu icon (☰) in the top-left corner. Then, select Devices from the menu. Choose your Ring Doorbell from the list of devices.
Step 3: Select “Users”
Scroll down and tap on Users. This will show you a list of people who currently have access to the doorbell.
Step 4: Tap “Add User”
Tap the + Add User button. You’ll be prompted to enter the email address of the person you want to invite.
Step 5: Choose Permission Level
Select the appropriate role: Admin or Guest. We recommend Admin for trusted family members and Guest for temporary or limited access.
Step 6: Send the Invitation
Tap Send Invitation. The person will receive an email with a link to accept the invitation. They’ll need to create a Ring account (if they don’t have one) and log in to activate access.
Step 7: Confirm Access
Once they accept, they’ll appear in your Users list. You can verify their access by checking the app or asking them to test the live view.
Pro Tip: If the person doesn’t receive the email, ask them to check their spam folder. You can also resend the invitation from the Users screen.
How to Remove a User from Your Ring Doorbell
Removing a user is just as important as adding one—especially if someone no longer lives with you or shouldn’t have access. Here’s how to do it safely.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Log in as the Owner and go to the Devices menu. Select your Ring Doorbell.
Step 2: Go to Users
Tap on Users to see the list of current users.
Step 3: Select the User to Remove
Tap on the name of the person you want to remove. This will open their profile.
Step 4: Tap “Remove User”
Scroll down and tap Remove User. Confirm the action when prompted.
Step 5: Verify Removal
The user will no longer appear in the list, and they’ll lose access immediately. They won’t be able to view live video, receive alerts, or access recordings.
Important: Removing a user does not delete their Ring account—it only revokes access to your device. If they try to log in, they’ll see a message saying they no longer have permission.
How to Change a User’s Permission Level
Sometimes you might want to upgrade a Guest to Admin or downgrade an Admin to Guest. Here’s how to adjust permissions.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Go to Devices > Your Doorbell > Users.
Step 2: Select the User
Tap on the user whose permissions you want to change.
Step 3: Edit Role
Tap on the current role (e.g., “Guest”) and select a new one from the dropdown menu.
Step 4: Save Changes
Tap Save. The change takes effect immediately.
Example: Your college-aged child comes home for summer break. You originally gave them Guest access, but now you want them to help monitor the house. Simply change their role to Admin so they can view recordings and adjust motion zones.
How to Switch the Primary Owner Account
What if you need to transfer full ownership of the Ring Doorbell to someone else? Maybe you’re selling your home or giving the device to a family member. Unfortunately, Ring doesn’t allow direct ownership transfers within the app. But you can work around this.
Option 1: Remove and Re-Add the Device
The new owner must remove the doorbell from your account and set it up under their own Ring account.
- The current Owner removes the device from the app (Devices > Doorbell > Remove Device).
- The new owner installs the Ring app, creates an account, and sets up the doorbell as a new device.
- They’ll need to reconnect it to Wi-Fi and reconfigure settings.
Option 2: Share Admin Access Temporarily
If a full transfer isn’t necessary, make the new person an Admin. They’ll have nearly full control without needing ownership.
Note: Only the original Owner can remove the device. If you’re selling your home, include this step in the handover process.
Managing Multiple Users and Devices
If you have more than one Ring device (like a doorbell and a security camera), user permissions apply across all devices linked to the same location. When you add a user to one device, they’ll automatically have access to others at that location—unless you restrict them.
How to Limit Access to Specific Devices
Currently, Ring doesn’t allow device-specific user permissions. If you add someone as an Admin or Guest, they’ll see all devices at that location.
Workaround: Create a separate Ring location for devices you want to keep private. For example, set up your backyard camera under a “Guest House” location and only invite trusted users to that location.
Troubleshooting Common User Management Issues
Even with clear steps, things can go wrong. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
Problem: Invitation Email Not Received
- Solution: Ask the user to check their spam or junk folder. Resend the invitation from the Users screen. Ensure the email address was entered correctly.
Problem: User Can’t Access Live View
- Solution: Confirm they’ve accepted the invitation and logged into the Ring app. Check their permission level—Guests can’t view recordings, only live video. Also, ensure your Wi-Fi is working and the doorbell is online.
Problem: Changes Not Showing Up
- Solution: Close and reopen the Ring app. Force-stop the app and restart your phone. Make sure the app is updated to the latest version.
Problem: Can’t Remove a User
- Solution: Only the Owner can remove users. If you’re not the Owner, ask them to do it. If you are the Owner but the option is grayed out, log out and back in, or reinstall the app.
Problem: Device Offline After User Change
- Solution: User changes don’t affect device connectivity. If the doorbell goes offline, check your Wi-Fi signal, power source, and router. Reboot the doorbell by removing and reinserting the battery (if applicable).
Best Practices for Managing Ring Doorbell Users
To keep your home secure and your Ring system running smoothly, follow these best practices:
- Regularly review user access: Every few months, check who has access and remove anyone who no longer needs it.
- Use strong, unique passwords: Encourage all users to create strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Limit Admin access: Only give Admin rights to people you fully trust. Most family members can function well as Guests.
- Educate users on privacy: Remind users not to share login details or screenshots of recordings.
- Keep the app updated: Regular updates fix bugs and improve security. Enable automatic updates if possible.
Security Tips When Changing Users
Changing users isn’t just about convenience—it’s a security matter. Here’s how to protect your home and data.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Go to the Ring app > Menu > Account Settings > Two-Factor Authentication. Turn it on. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code from your phone when logging in.
Monitor Login Activity
Ring doesn’t provide detailed login logs, but you can check for suspicious activity. If you notice unfamiliar devices accessing your account, change your password immediately and remove unknown users.
Use a Guest Network for Ring Devices
If your router supports it, connect your Ring Doorbell to a separate guest Wi-Fi network. This limits access to your main network and reduces risk if the device is compromised.
Revoke Access Immediately When Needed
If someone moves out, loses their phone, or you suspect unauthorized access, remove them from the Users list right away. Don’t wait.
Conclusion
Changing users on your Ring Doorbell is a straightforward process—but it’s one that requires careful thought and regular maintenance. Whether you’re adding a new family member, removing a former roommate, or adjusting permissions, the Ring app gives you the tools to manage access securely and efficiently.
Remember, only the Owner can add or remove users, so always ensure the right person has control. Use Admin and Guest roles wisely, keep your app updated, and never skip enabling two-factor authentication.
By following this guide, you’ll keep your smart doorbell working smoothly while protecting your home and privacy. Now go ahead—manage those users with confidence!