Deposit-free riding usually needs a local credit score.
“The app wants a deposit but will not take my card.”
What to do now
Try these in order. Stop as soon as one works.
-
Choose the per-ride option
Several brands offer single rides without a deposit, charged to your wallet balance or card.
About 3 min -
Try a different brand
Onboarding rules differ significantly between operators.
About 5 min -
Walk or use the metro for short hops
For under two kilometres, the metro or a walk is often faster than unlocking a bike.
About 1 min
Why this happens
Ranked by how often it is the cause.
Deposit-free riding is tied to a domestic credit score you do not have.
Look for a per-ride or single-use option in the app.
Likelihood: high
The deposit payment method is domestic-only.
Try a different bike brand.
Likelihood: medium
The bike requires a domestic phone number for unlocking.
Some brands accept international numbers.
Likelihood: low
If that does not work
Get out of the queue first. Solve the payment later.
- Use hotel rental bikes
Many hotels and hostels lend bikes to guests.
- Rent from a bike shop
Daily rentals require a deposit but accept international cards.
- Take a taxi or city bus for longer trips
Both take cash, need no deposit, and cover the same short distances.
Setup guide: UnionPay Cards for Visitors: When They Help in China At this place: Paying at Attractions and Scenic Sites in China
Related problems
Independent guide. Not affiliated with any bike-share operator. Rules checked 2026-10-26 (version 2026-10). Found a different error message? Send it to us.