China Arrive

Use DiDi in China as a foreigner

Draft: not yet verified in the live app. Fees, limits, and menus change—confirm on the in-app payment screen and in the provider’s official Help.Verification status: DRAFT — verify in the live app before publish

DiDi is the mainstream ride-hailing app visitors use in mainland Chinese cities. Official inbound travel materials state that international phone numbers are supported, passport real-name verification is available, and international cards can be linked for payment (Travel China — transportation apps).

Install the mainland DiDi app from an official store listing that matches those materials—avoid unrelated regional apps with similar icons.

DiDi app home screen for entering a destination (placeholder; real photo pending)

Before your first ride

  1. Working mobile data or Wi‑Fi
  2. International number for registration (SMS may be required)
  3. Passport for real-name verification
  4. A payment method that already works: foreign card inside DiDi, or Alipay / WeChat Pay

Step-by-step

1. Register

Open DiDi, choose your country code, and verify SMS.

2. Complete passport real-name

Follow real-name / identity prompts. Upload a clear passport bio page when asked. Wait until status shows approved before peak-hour trips.

DiDi passport real-name verification screen (placeholder; real photo pending)

3. Add payment

Link an international card if offered, and/or authorize Alipay or WeChat Pay. Test with a short daytime trip when possible.

4. Request a car

Enter your destination in English or Chinese. Confirm pickup pin on the map. Choose Express or another service class you understand. Wait for a driver match.

5. During the trip

Share your live trip status with a friend if the app offers trip sharing. Keep phone charged.

6. Pay and rate

Confirm the fare in China Standard Time order history. If capture fails, see DiDi payment declined.

DiDi payment method selection (placeholder; real photo pending)

Practical tips

  • Airport rides: follow designated pickup zones on airport signs
  • Name your pin carefully—wrong courtyard entrances are common
  • Keep a metro or shared bike backup for short hops when surge pricing spikes

FAQ

Do drivers speak English?
Often not. Destination text in Chinese characters helps. Show the hotel’s Chinese address screenshot.

Is cash accepted in-app?
DiDi is built around in-app payment. Do not assume roadside cash settles the app trip.