DigitalOcean is a cloud platform popular with developers: virtual servers (Droplets), managed databases, Kubernetes and App Platform. This article explains what the referral link actually gives you.
What the link gives — stated plainly
DigitalOcean's documentation says every new account gets a $5 signup credit when it creates its first team — no promo code needed. The credit lasts 90 days and covers every product except SaaS Add-Ons.
The referral link adds nothing to that credit. DigitalOcean's own referral programme page says the reward goes to the referrer: they receive $25 after you spend your first $25.
What happened to the $200 offer?
This article used to say "$200 in free credit for new accounts". That is no longer true:
- DigitalOcean's landing page for that promotion (try.digitalocean.com/freetrialoffer) now redirects to the homepage
- The pricing FAQ now discusses a $5 credit, not $200
- The current terms are in DigitalOcean's documentation: $5 for 90 days for a new account (page last verified 15 July 2026)
What DigitalOcean offers
- Droplets — virtual servers (VPS)
- Managed Kubernetes and App Platform
- Managed databases: PostgreSQL, MySQL, Redis
- Billed for the resources you use
- Activating an account requires a card or PayPal on file
Common questions
Is being asked for a card risky?
The card verifies the account. Real charges begin once you consume resources — you can watch spending in the control panel.
So is this link any use to me?
Not beyond what you get anyway: the $5 credit comes without the link. The link only records who referred you, and we do not hide that.
More promo codes
See every active DigitalOcean offer on the DigitalOcean promo codes page. For other brands, browse all promo codes.
Read how we verify each offer here.
