Which DiDi app to install
On the App Store / Google Play outside mainland China, look for DiDi Rider or DiDi International (English UI). Inside mainland app stores the Chinese “滴滴出行” app is harder for foreigners. Install before you fly, on Wi-Fi at home.
- Create an account with your foreign mobile number and the SMS code.
- Add a payment method: international card if offered, or connect Alipay / WeChat Pay after those wallets are set up.
- Grant location permission. In China you also want Amap or Apple Maps — Google Maps directions are unreliable here.
Booking a ride
- Pin your pickup carefully. Hotels and malls often have a specific DiDi bay; the pin in the lobby may be wrong by 50–100 m.
- Choose Express / similar economy option unless you need a larger car for luggage.
- You will see the plate number and a short code — match both before you get in. Mainland plates are Chinese characters + letters/numbers.
- Share the trip link with a friend if you are alone at night.
Airports
For Beijing Capital (PEK) and Daxing (PKX), follow the app’s airport pickup instructions to the official ride-hailing area. The same pattern applies at Shanghai PVG/SHA. If your flight is late and you want a fixed price with an English-speaking driver waiting at arrivals, a pre-booked transfer (Welcome Pickups / Kiwitaxi) is less stressful than figuring out pins with jet lag — see that airport guide.
Payments that fail
If the ride cannot start because payment failed, add Alipay/WeChat, try another card, or cancel and take a metered taxi. Do not hand your phone to strangers who “help”.
Sources: DiDi public help / international rider materials as commonly cited by travellers in 2025–2026; airport pickup norms at PEK/PKX/PVG. App UIs change — if signup blocks you, use metro, official taxi ranks, or a pre-booked transfer. Last reviewed 9 Oct 2026.
Also: China eSIM vs roaming · Maps that work in China · Beijing airport to the city.
Set up Alipay / WeChat Pay first →
FAQ
Do I need a Chinese phone number for DiDi?
Usually no. DiDi’s international / English Rider app accepts many foreign numbers for SMS signup. If your home number never gets the code, try Wi-Fi calling, a travel eSIM that receives SMS, or ask your hotel desk to call a taxi instead.
Can I pay DiDi with a foreign Visa or Mastercard?
Often yes inside the English app (card on file). Linking Alipay or WeChat Pay (tourist mode) is more reliable in mainland China once those wallets work. Keep a little cash for street taxis as backup.
Does DiDi work at Beijing and Shanghai airports?
Yes — follow in-app pickup pins for PEK, PKX, PVG and SHA. Capitals and Daxing have designated ride-hailing zones; ignore touts inside arrivals.
DiDi vs taxi vs metro?
Metro is usually fastest inside Beijing and Shanghai at rush hour. DiDi wins with luggage, late nights, or groups. Street taxis are fine if the driver uses the meter — decline flat “tourist prices”.
