Do Didi drivers accept cash payment

Question

This is our first trip to China, and wonder if all the Didi driver will accept cash payment. I had setup a Alipay app, but unsure if it will work as I read that it work for some but not for all. On the Didi app, some drivers mention they accept cash. Does this mean that those other drivers who do not spell out that they accept cash, then they only accept mobile app payment.

On the Didi app, some drivers requires advance payment. I suppose this mean I pay after boarding the car and not after arriving at the destination.

Appreciate your advise.

Answer

Didi is the dominant ride-hailing app in China, and its payment system is mostly digital. Cash payments are generally rare, but there are some nuances you should be aware of.

1. Cash Payment Acceptance

Most Didi drivers only accept payment through the app via Alipay, WeChat Pay, or linked bank cards. This is the default method and is strongly encouraged by Didi.
If a driver explicitly mentions “cash accepted” in the app, then they will allow you to pay with cash. Otherwise, it is safe to assume that cash is not accepted.
In practice, cash-only drivers are uncommon, especially in larger cities like Jiangmen, Guangzhou, or Shenzhen.

2. Prepayment / Advance Payment

When the Didi app says “advance payment required,” it usually means that the fare is charged through the app at the start or immediately after the ride, rather than paying cash at the end.
You do not pay the driver directly in cash in these cases. Instead, the app deducts the payment from your linked Alipay, WeChat Pay, or credit card.
Some rides (like premium or longer-distance rides) may require full prepayment before the driver picks you up, ensuring the trip is confirmed.

3. Practical Tips for Foreign Travelers

Setting up Alipay or WeChat Pay is highly recommended. Even if you can pay cash occasionally, many drivers will refuse cash payments if app payment is available.
Always check the payment method in the app before confirming the ride. Look for “cash accepted” if you prefer to pay cash.
If you plan to use cash, it may be easier to use taxis (flag-down) instead of Didi rides, as traditional taxis still accept cash, though app-based taxis dominate in most cities.

In summary, unless a Didi driver specifically states that they accept cash, you should assume payment must be made through the app. Advance payment in the app is common and usually means paying digitally before or immediately after the ride, not with cash.

Do Didi drivers accept cash payment

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