How to Use Didi in China as a Foreigner

Setting up before you fly

• Check that the DiDi app or mini-program you are using serves your destination in China; features in other countries may differ.
• Register, sign in and inspect the payment methods actually available to your account. Complete any requested verification before departure.
• If using a mini-program inside a wallet, open that service and check its requirements as well as the wallet itself.
• Save the hotel’s Chinese address and identify the official taxi queue as a separate backup.

Booking your first ride

• Type your destination in English or paste the Chinese address. Chinese address works better — drivers see it in Chinese anyway.
• Compare the categories and live estimates offered in your booking screen. Check vehicle capacity for your party and luggage.
• Confirm the pickup point. At airports, this is usually a specific pillar number or zone in the parking structure. The app will tell you.
• Read the current wait estimate. Do not plan a tight connection around a fixed wait time.

The pickup point problem

• Airport pickup points are the #1 frustration. They're usually in a parking garage, not at the curb. Follow signs for 网约车 (wǎngyuēchē = ride-hailing).
• The app shows a zone letter/number (like "P1-B2" or "Zone D"). Go there and wait. The driver's plate number shows in the app.
• If the zone is unclear, show the pickup instructions to airport staff. Do not infer a pickup location from where other travelers are standing.
• At a station, use the pickup point specified in the app and match it to the signed level or exit.

When the driver calls you

• Drivers often call to confirm your exact location. They'll speak Chinese. Don't panic.
• Option 1: Use the in-app messaging to send your location pin or a text message (it has translation features).
• If a call does not resolve the location, send the exact terminal, level and zone through the booking’s messaging or support options.
• Stay at the agreed pickup point and confirm the plate and vehicle details before getting in. Do not assume GPS alone identifies the correct level.
• Pro tip: Wave when you see a car with the matching plate number. Makes it easier for both of you.

Payment and tipping

• Check the payment method, final charge and trip status in the app. A linked card can still be declined.
• If payment fails, use in-app support. Do not assume a separate cash payment automatically settles an in-app order.
• Compare the current fare and any extra charges before booking. Airport routes and peak demand can change the cost.

When Didi doesn't work

• No internet = no Didi. Have a backup plan (taxi queue, metro, hotel shuttle).
• Allow extra time during rush hour, rain and holidays; use the estimate for your actual request.
• If you switch to the taxi queue, check the existing booking’s cancellation and charge status first.
• For a late arrival, compare the taxi queue and a pre-arranged hotel pickup with the ride-hailing option actually available.

Next step

Didi is great once it's working, but don't make it your only transport plan. Build your checklist to make sure you have backup options for getting to your hotel.