How to Use DiDi in China as a Foreigner (2026 Guide)
Learning how to use DiDi in China as a foreigner is mostly a matter of preparing the account and choosing the correct pickup point. The service is available through the DiDi-Greater China app and, for many users, through ride-hailing functions inside Alipay or WeChat.
The interface and ride categories can change by city, but the booking sequence is consistent: register, add a payment method, confirm the pickup point, enter the destination, choose a service and verify the arriving car.
Why it matters
DiDi removes much of the language barrier from getting around Chinese cities, but pickup zones, destination names and payment setup can still cause delays. Preparing those details before the first ride makes the service far more predictable, especially at airports and railway stations.
Quick answer
Foreign visitors can use DiDi with a foreign mobile number and, where supported, an international card. Set up the app before your first ride, save destinations in Chinese, and always match the license plate before entering the car.
Contents
- Can foreigners use DiDi?
- Booking methods
- Before your first ride
- How to book
- Transport hubs
- Common problems
- FAQ
Can foreigners use DiDi in China?
Yes. China’s official guide for foreign visitors states that travelers can use Alipay, WeChat or the DiDi-Greater China app to book online ride-hailing services. It also states that the DiDi-Greater China app supports registration with foreign mobile numbers and international credit cards.
You do not necessarily need a mainland Chinese phone number. However, the number used for registration must be able to receive verification messages. Keep mobile data working during the trip because drivers often communicate through in-app messages or calls.
Choose one of three booking methods
1. DiDi-Greater China app
The standalone app provides the fullest DiDi experience and is the best choice for repeated rides. Download it from your device’s official app store, select English where available and register with a phone number that can receive a code.
2. Alipay
Open Alipay, select Transport and look for Taxi or ride-hailing. The exact menu wording may vary. This route can be convenient if Alipay and an international card are already configured.
3. WeChat
In WeChat, open Me, choose Services, then look for Mobility or Ride Hailing. Availability and layout depend on the account and current app version.
If one route does not appear or cannot accept a payment method, try another official entry rather than installing an unofficial app.
Before your first ride
- Finish phone-number verification.
- Allow location access while using the app.
- Add a supported payment method.
- Save the hotel name and address in Chinese.
- Make sure the phone has mobile data and enough battery.
- Keep a second payment or transport option available.
DiDi’s available payment choices can include international cards, Alipay and WeChat Pay, depending on the app, account and city. If a foreign card fails, contact the issuing bank and use the payment service’s official support rather than repeatedly adding the card.
For detailed setup, see our guide to paying in China as a foreign visitor.
7ers Tip: For your first trip, choose a hotel entrance or ordinary street. Simple pickup points reduce the chance of waiting on the wrong level or at the wrong gate.
Step 1: Set the pickup point carefully
Do not confirm the ride based only on the blue location dot. GPS can place you on the wrong side of a road, inside a building or at a vehicle entrance that is not accessible to the driver.
At airports, railway stations, malls and large attractions, ride-hailing vehicles often use designated pickup zones. Follow signs for online ride-hailing, then choose the exact terminal, floor, gate or zone shown in the app. If the pickup list contains several similar options, compare them with nearby signs before booking.
For a first ride, a hotel entrance or ordinary street pickup is easier than a complex transport hub.
Step 2: Enter the destination
Search for the hotel, attraction or address. When several results have similar English names, compare the district, map location and Chinese address. A hotel confirmation containing the property’s Chinese name is more reliable than translating the English name yourself.
Use the destination entrance that suits your visit. Large railway stations and airports may have separate departure terminals, while hospitals, campuses and parks may have multiple gates.
Step 3: Choose a ride category
The options shown vary by city and demand. China’s official visitor guide lists categories such as Express, Taxi, Premier and Luxe in the DiDi-Greater China app. You may also see pooled, discounted or other service types.
Compare the estimated pickup time, fare range, passenger capacity and vehicle description. The lowest displayed price may involve a longer wait or additional conditions. Choose a larger vehicle if passengers and luggage will not fit safely in a standard car.
Step 4: Review the estimate and request the ride
Check the pickup, destination and payment method before confirming. The estimate is not always the final fare. Tolls, parking, waiting time, route changes and local pricing rules can affect the amount.
During busy periods, the app may ask whether you want to accept a higher price or a different service. Read the screen before confirming rather than tapping through quickly.
Step 5: Meet the correct vehicle
When a driver accepts, the app displays identifying information such as the license plate, vehicle model or color and driver details. Match the license plate before opening the door. Do not enter another car merely because someone calls out a hotel name.
At a busy pickup point:
- stand exactly at the selected marker;
- watch the vehicle’s movement on the map;
- use the app’s messaging or translation functions;
- send a short landmark or gate number if needed;
- avoid walking into moving traffic to reach the car.
If your registered foreign number cannot receive ordinary calls in China, keep in-app messaging available. Our internet and SIM guide for China explains roaming, eSIM and local-number options.
During the ride
Wear the seat belt and follow the route in the app. Keep your passport, phone and bags together rather than placing valuables loosely on a seat. If the driver asks to change the destination or route, confirm the change in the app where possible.
For personal safety, use the app’s available trip-sharing or safety features and contact local emergency services when a genuine emergency occurs. In China, the police emergency number is 110 and medical emergency number is 120.
After arrival
Check that the trip is marked complete before leaving. Review the final amount, including any toll or parking item. Retrieve all luggage and close the door safely away from traffic.
If the charge looks wrong, take screenshots of the trip page and use in-app support. Do not immediately make a card chargeback without first checking whether the amount is a temporary authorization, unpaid prior trip or legitimate additional fee. An outstanding payment may prevent a new booking.
Airport and railway-station rides
Allow extra time to reach the designated pickup area. At some terminals, the driver cannot stop at the ordinary arrivals curb. The app may guide you to a parking level or numbered zone.
For a ride to a railway station, verify the complete station name. “Shanghai,” “Shanghai Hongqiao” and “Shanghai South” are different stations. Keep enough time for identity checks and security screening. See our China high-speed rail guide.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
The verification code does not arrive
Check the country code, roaming/SMS service and signal. Wait before requesting repeated codes. If the problem continues, try an official Alipay or WeChat ride-hailing entry.
The driver cannot find you
Compare the selected marker with signs around you. Send the gate, building or pickup-zone number through in-app messaging. Cancel and rebook only after checking any cancellation fee.
The international card is declined
Confirm online and overseas transactions are allowed, then contact the issuer. Switch to another supported card or a configured Alipay/WeChat payment method.
You left something in the car
Open the completed trip and use the lost-item or support function immediately. Provide the ride time and item description without publishing the driver’s personal information.
Recommended apps and products
- DiDi-Greater China: the most complete option for frequent rides.
- Alipay or WeChat: useful alternative entry points when already configured for payments.
- A translation app: helpful for short messages when a driver cannot find the pickup point.
- A compact power bank: keeps maps, messaging and payment available during long travel days.
Install apps only from official app stores and confirm current payment support inside the app before relying on it.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Chinese phone number?
No. Foreign mobile numbers are supported, but the number must receive verification messages.
Can I pay with an international card?
Often yes, although support can differ by account, issuer and booking method. Keep a backup payment or transport option.
How do I find my driver at a station?
Use the exact terminal, floor, gate or numbered zone shown in the app instead of relying only on the GPS dot.
What should I check before entering?
Match the license plate and vehicle details shown in the app.
Official sources
- Chinese government: Guide to Working and Living in China
- Shanghai government: DiDi English interface and supported payments
- DiDi Global official website
Reviewed and updated: 1 August 2026. App menus, ride categories and payment support can change; follow the current in-app information. See the 7ers Editorial Policy.
