How to Take Taxis & Use Didi in China
Book rides in English via Didi mini-program or show driver-ready bilingual address cards without language barriers.
Checklist Before You Proceed
- ✓ Use Didi within Alipay or standalone Didi app
- ✓ Always save Chinese text addresses for drivers
- ✓ Confirm pickup point (look for pillar numbers at airport/station)
- ✓ Never accept unregistered airport solicitor rides
Step-by-Step Execution Plan
Step 01
Open Didi Mini-App
Search "DiDi" inside Alipay or download the standalone DiDi English app.
Step 02
Paste Chinese Address
Copy exact Chinese destination address from your hotel voucher or travel card.
Step 03
Match License Plate
Check car color and plate number (e.g., 沪A·12345) before entering.
Step 04
Show Address Card
If taking a regular street taxi, show our full-screen Chinese address card to driver.
Common First-Time Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Showing drivers English hotel names like "Marriott Pudong" (drivers only know Chinese).
- ⚠️ Getting into unlicensed "black cabs" outside airport arrivals.
- ⚠️ Not waiting at the designated ride-share pick-up zone.
Transportation Specific FAQ
Do taxi drivers speak English in China?
Most street taxi drivers speak Chinese only. Show our bilingual address cards or type destination address into Didi app.
Must street taxis use meters by law?
Yes. Official street taxis in China are legally required to use taximeters by municipal transport rules.