A Guide to Using Didi in China 2025

In the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, type “Didi” and select the app titled “Didi China.” Be careful not to confuse it with Didi Rider, which operates outside mainland China. 

When first opening the app, allow location access and select English as the display language. Tap “Account” in the bottom right corner to begin the login process. 

By default, you will be prompted to log in with your phone number. International phone numbers can be used, provided they can receive an SMS verification code. 

If you already have a WeChat or Alipay account, you can also sign in via these two apps. However, there is an easier way to access Didi directly within both platforms, as we will explain below.

Under “Account”, tap “Wallet,” and then “Payment Methods.” 

Here you will see a list of payment options, including Alipay, WeChat Pay, credit/debit card, Apple Pay, and others. 

• By default, the app will automatically detect your location for pickup. You can move the pinpoint on the screen to adjust it if needed.

• Type an accurate address for the destination. Most locations are recognized in both Chinese and English.  

• Choose your ride type.  Prices are shown before confirming the booking, and options range from budget (Express) to premium (Premier).  

• Tap ‘Confirm’ to request a driver.  

• When the vehicle arrives, check that the license plate number matches the one shown in the app. 

• The driver may also ask for the last four digits of the phone number used to book the ride, usually in Chinese. It helps to have this written down in a notes app to show the driver. 

Open Alipay, and the Didi mini program may appear on your home screen.  

If not, type “Didi” in the search bar and select the mini program that appears. 

The first time you open it, you may be prompted to allow location access. Choose “Allow” so the app can automatically detect your current location. 

From here on, the process in Alipay is almost identical to using the Didi app — the only difference is that payment is handled directly through Alipay, as the ride will automatically charge to the Alipay account.  

You don’t need to! The ride will automatically charge to your Alipay account. For how to set up your Alipay account, check out our latest guide.

• Economy: the most affordable rides 

• Standard: everyday rides 

• Premium: high-end cars, top drivers 

• Priority: shorter waiting time 

• Comfort: cleaner and newer vehicles 

• 6-Seater (or “Large Car”/van version): a vehicle that seats up to six passengers — ideal for groups or lots of luggage 

• Taxi (cash accepted) 

Yes. When typing your destination, you can tap the + icon next to the address field to add multiple stops to a trip. This is often more cost-effective than booking several different trips.

The app includes a built-in translation tool that allows messages between passengers and drivers to be automatically translated, making communication straightforward even without speaking Chinese. 

Didi provides 24/7 in-app English customer service, accessible under Account → Help. There is also a dedicated safety hotline that can be contacted in case of an emergency.