The Aadhaar Card, launched in 2009, is a unique identification document issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). The Aadhaar is not only available to Indian residents but also extends to non-resident Indians, overseas citizens of India, LTV holders, and Nepal and Bhutan nationals. Other than residents of India, other eligible people are required to meet certain eligibility criteria to have an Aadhaar Card.

The purpose of Aadhaar is to provide a single, verifiable identity to every resident of India, eliminating the need for multiple identity documents.

What is Aadhaar?

Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued after biometric and demographic data are collected and verified by the individuals who applied for it.

The biometric data includes fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs, while the demographic data includes name, date of birth, gender, and address.

What is e-Aadhaar?

e-Aadhaar is a secure digital version of the physical Aadhaar card, which is electronically signed and certified by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). This password-protected electronic document carries the same validity as the physical Aadhaar card and can be downloaded from UIDAI’s official website.

The digital signature from UIDAI ensures its authenticity, making it a reliable and officially accepted form of identification for various services and transactions where Aadhaar verification is required.

UIDAI Portal Login to Download e-Aadhaar Card

To download your e-Aadhaar online, it is required to login to the UIDAI portal (myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in). To login to the official Aadhaar portal, follow the steps provided below:

• First, go to the official UIDAI website uidai.gov.in or myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in.
• On the mainpage, click on the “Login” button.

• Now, enter your 12-digit Aadhaar Number.
• Then, enter the Captcha Code.
• Finally, hit the “Login with OTP” button.

• An OTP will be sent to your Aadhaar-registered mobile number.
• Enter the OTP in the designated area and click on the “Submit” button.
• After that, you can access all the UIDAI-provided services. Here, you can locate the Download Aadhaar option and proceed (further details provided below).

Download the Aadhaar Card Online

In today’s time, the Aadhaar Card is beneficiary for several reasons. It serves as a primary identity and address proof that is helpful in getting advantage of several government schemes, opening bank accounts, etc.

The e-Aadhaar Card PDF can be downloaded through several official methods:

• Method 1: Through UIDAI official website uidai.gov.in / myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in
• Method 2: Through mAadhaar App
• Method 3: Through UMANG App/Portal
• Method 4: Thorugh Digilocker

To download your UIDAI-issued Aadhaar Card PDF online, follow the article below.

Details Required to Download Aadhaar Card

To download the Aadhaar Card PDF online, an individual requires a few pieces of information like an Aadhaar Number (In case of an existing Aadhaar Card, already issued by UIDAI), VID, and EID (in case of enrolling for a new Aadhaar that has not arrived to you yet).

Through the official portal of UIDAI which is uidai.gov.in / myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in, the Aadhaar Card PDF can be downloaded using one of the 3 primary numbers. These are the unique numbers associated with your Aadhaar card. These are

1. Your Aadhaar Number, or
2. Virtual ID (VID) Number, or
3. Enrollment ID (EID) Number.

The Aadhaar Number is a 12-digit number mentioned on your Aadhaar Card. If you don’t know your Aadhaar Number, you can also download your Aadhaar Card through 16-digit Virtual ID (VID) Number that can be generated easily online or 14-digits Aadhaar Card Enrollment ID (EID) number.

Remember, an Aadhaar can be downloaded using an Aadhaar Enrollment ID (EID) if you have applied for the Aadhaar Card and received an EID from the person enrolled.

Another Prerequisite for Aadhaar Card Download is the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar: This is important because a One-Time Password (OTP) will be sent to this number for verification purposes.

Download Aadhaar Card Through Official UIDAI Portal

Now we have all the information about the details required to download the Aadhaar Card, proceed further to download the Aadhaar Card.

Let’s start with downloading Aadhaar Card from UIDAI’s official portal myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in. To do so, follow the steps provided below:

Step 1: First, visit the official UIDAI website https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in.

Step 2: On the main page, look for and click on the ‘Download Aadhaar‘ option.

Step 3: Here, you will have three options to choose from – 

• Option 1: Through Aadhaar Number
• Option 2: Through Enrollment ID Number, or 
• Option 3: Through Virtual ID Number. 

Select the appropriate option based on the information you have available with you.

Option 1: Download Your Aadhaar Card Using Aadhaar Number

After reaching step 3 (mentioned above), select the radio button in front of the Aadhaar number option, then follow the steps provided below:

• After selecting the Aadhaar Number option, enter your 12-digit Aadhaar Number in the Enter Aadhaar number field.
• Then, enter the captcha code and click on the Send OTP option.

• An OTP will be sent to your Aadhaar  registered mobile number.
• Enter the OTP on the designated area and then click on ‘Download Aadhaar‘ button.
• The PDF format of your Aadhaar card will then be downloaded to your device. 

Option 2: Download Your Aadhaar Card Using Enrollment ID Number

After reaching step 3 (mentioned above), click on the radio button in front of Enrollment ID option and then proceed further with the process provided below:

• On the Download Aadhaar page, after selecting the Enrolment ID Number radio button, enter your 14-digit Enrollment ID (EID) Number.
• Then, select the Enrollment ID (EID) Date and Enrollment ID (EID) Time, mentioned on your enrolment slip.
• Enter the captcha code displayed on the screen, and click on the ‘Send OTP‘ button.

• An OTP will be sent to your Aadhaar-registered mobile number.
• Enter the OTP, and finally click on the ‘Download Aadhaar’ button.

What is Aadhaar Enrollment ID?

Aadhaar Enrollment ID (EID) is a unique 28-digit number issued to individuals during the Aadhaar enrollment process. The EID is divided into two parts: the first 14 digits represent the enrollment number (identifying the enrollment center and session), and the next 14 digits denote the time and date of the enrollment.

It is printed on the acknowledgment slip provided to the applicant at the time of Aadhaar registration.

The person can use their Enrollment ID (EID) number to download their e-Aadhaar Card online. The e-Aadhaar has the same validity as the physical copy of Aadhaar.

Option 3: Download Your Aadhaar Card Using Virtual ID Number

After reaching step 3 (mentioned above), select the radio button in front of the Virtual ID Number, then follow the steps provided below:

• After selecting the Virtual ID Number radio button, enter your 16-digit Virtual ID (VID) Number.
• Then, just enter the captcha code displayed on the screen and click on the ‘Send OTP‘ button.

• An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number.
• Enter the OTP on the designated field and click on ‘Download Aadhaar‘
• The PDF format of your Aadhaar card will then be downloaded to your device.

Note: In case you do not have access to your VID, you can retrieve or generate it online. The process to generate VID is provided below.

How to Generate or Retrieve UIDAI Virtual ID (VID) Online?

To generate or retrieve a Virtual ID online to download your e-Aadhaar Card through the official portal of UIDAI, follow the steps provided below:

• Visit the UIDAI Website https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/
• On the mainpage, click on the “VID Generator” option.
• Now, you will be presented with two options.

1. Option 1: Generate VID
2. Option 2: Retrieve VID

• To generate a new Virtual ID (VID) or retrieve the old one, click on the radio button in front of the appropriate option.

• Now, enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number.
• Enter the captcha code displayed on the screen.
• Then, click on the ‘Send OTP‘ button.

• An OTP will be sent to your Aadhaar-registered mobile number.
• Enter the received OTP in the designated area.
• Then, click on the “Generate/Retrieve” button.

• Your newly generated Virtual ID or already existing VID will be sent directly to your registered mobile number.

• You can now use this VID instead of your Aadhaar number to download your Aadhaar Card.

How to Open the Downloaded Aadhaar Card PDF?

The downloaded Aadhaar Card will be in PDF format and will be password-protected.

To open the PDF, you need to enter the password. The password is the first four letters of your name in capital letters followed by your birth year.

Once you’ve opened the PDF, you can print the Aadhaar card or use the digital copy whenever required. The downloaded Aadhaar PDF is just as valid as the physical card.

Supporting software Required to open e-Aadhaar?

To view your e-Aadhaar online, you need to install Adobe Reader on your device.

If the software is not already installed on your device, download Adobe Reader by visiting: https://get.adobe.com/reader/

Download Aadhaar Card Using DigiLocker

DigiLocker is an official digital platform launched by the Government of India under the Digital India initiative. It allows Indian citizens to store, access, and share important documents like Aadhaar, PAN card, driving license, and more in a safe, secure, and paperless manner.

One of its most useful features is the ability to download your Aadhaar card directly from UIDAI, ensuring authenticity and convenience. Here’s a complete step-by-step guide to help you do that:

Step 1: Initial Setup – Choose How You Want to Access DigiLocker

You can use either the mobile app or the web version of DigiLocker. Follow one of the options below based on your preference:

Option A: Using the Mobile App

• Open the Google Play Store (for Android) or Apple App Store (for iPhone).
• Search for “DigiLocker”.
• Tap Install to download the official app developed by MeitY (Ministry of Electronics & IT).
• Once installed, open the app.

Option B: Using the Web Portal

• Open any internet browser (like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari).
• Visit the official DigiLocker website: https://www.digilocker.gov.in.

Step 2: Create Your DigiLocker Account or Log In

If you’re a new user:

• Click or tap on the “Sign Up” option.
• You’ll be asked to enter the following information:

  • Full Name (as per Aadhaar)

  • Date of Birth

  • Gender

  • Mobile Number

  • Email ID (optional but recommended)

• Create a strong password for your account.
• Click or tap Submit.
• You will be asked to enter your 12-digit Aadhaar Number.
• Proceed by clicking Submit or Continue.

If you already have an account:

• Simply click “Sign In” and enter your registered mobile number or username and password.

Step 3: Aadhaar Verification (One-Time Linking)

To access your Aadhaar card through DigiLocker, you must verify your identity by linking your Aadhaar number.

Here’s how to do it:

• After logging in, go to the “Issued Documents” section on the home screen or dashboard.

• If your Aadhaar is not yet linked, the platform will prompt you for verification.
• Enter your complete 12-digit Aadhaar number.
• Carefully read the declaration regarding consent for sharing Aadhaar details.
• Tick the checkbox to accept the declaration.
• Click or tap on the “Update” or “Proceed” button.

• You will receive an OTP (One-Time Password) on your Aadhaar-registered mobile number.
• Enter the OTP to complete verification.

Once verified, your Aadhaar will be automatically fetched from the UIDAI database and linked to your DigiLocker account.

Step 4: Retrieve Your Aadhaar Document

Once verification is complete:

• Go to the “Issued Documents” section.
• Search for or directly select “Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI)” from the list of document issuers.
• Select “Aadhaar” from the document options.
• Your e-Aadhaar will now be visible and available for viewing.

Step 5: Use Your Aadhaar Card Through DigiLocker

Now that your Aadhaar is stored in DigiLocker, you can:

View Your Aadhaar

• Tap or click on the Aadhaar document to view it anytime from anywhere.

Download Aadhaar

• Click or tap the Download icon to save a PDF copy of your Aadhaar to your device.

Share Securely

• Use the “Share” option to send your Aadhaar digitally to government agencies, educational institutions, or other authorized parties.
• Shared documents contain a QR code and digital signature, ensuring authenticity and validation.

Manage Safely

• The Aadhaar document will remain permanently saved in your DigiLocker unless you delete it.
• You can access it 24/7 without needing to re-enter your Aadhaar number.

Key Benefits of Using DigiLocker for Aadhaar

• No need to carry physical copies
• Highly secure, authenticated directly from UIDAI
• Available anytime, anywhere
• Accepted by most government and private institutions
• Supports paperless governance

Important Notes:

• Your mobile number must be linked with your Aadhaar to receive the OTP for verification.
• DigiLocker pulls documents only from official issuing authorities, making it a legally valid and trustworthy source.
• The digital copy of Aadhaar in DigiLocker is valid as per the Information Technology Act, 2000.

Download Aadhaar Card Using mAadhaar App

The mAadhaar App is the official mobile application developed by UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India). It allows Indian residents to carry their Aadhaar digitally, along with many other Aadhaar services like downloading e-Aadhaar, updating profile, and more.

If you’re looking to download your Aadhaar card via the mAadhaar app, just follow these clear steps:

Step 1: Install the Official mAadhaar App

To begin, install the app on your smartphone:

For Android Users:

• Open Google Play Store.
• Search for “mAadhaar“.
• Look for the app developed by UIDAI.
• Tap Install.

For iPhone Users:

• Open the Apple App Store.
• Search for “mAadhaar“.
• Make sure it’s published by UIDAI.
• Tap Download and install it.

Step 2: Set Up Your mAadhaar Account

After installing the app:

• Open the mAadhaar app on your device.
• Tap the “Login” or “Register” button to begin the setup.
• Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number carefully.
• Type the mobile number that is linked with your Aadhaar (mandatory for OTP verification).
• Tap Next or Get OTP.
• You’ll receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on your Aadhaar-registered mobile number.
• Enter the OTP in the field provided.
• Now, create a password for your mAadhaar app. This password will be required every time you open the app.
• Setup is complete! You’ll now be able to access your Aadhaar-linked profile from within the app.

Step 3: Download Your e-Aadhaar Card

Once your account is set up and Aadhaar is linked, follow these steps to download your Aadhaar:

• Open the app and log in using your mAadhaar password.
• On the home screen, navigate to the “Download Aadhaar” option.
• Tap on it to proceed.
• Enter the necessary details:

  • Aadhaar Number or VID (Virtual ID)

  • Select appropriate option (Regular Aadhaar or Masked Aadhaar)

• Confirm your mobile number (OTP will be sent again for security).
• Enter the OTP received on your registered number.
• Once verified, your e-Aadhaar PDF will be downloaded and saved on your device.

Step 4: Access and Open the Downloaded Aadhaar PDF

Now that your Aadhaar has been downloaded:

• Go to your phone’s File Manager or Downloads folder.
• Look for the PDF file titled something like “Aadhaar_eKYC…” or similar.
• Tap to open the PDF.

The PDF is password-protected, as a security measure by UIDAI.

How to Open Aadhaar PDF? (Password Format)

To open the downloaded Aadhaar PDF, you’ll need a password, which is a combination of your name and birth year:

Password Format:

• First 4 letters of your name in CAPITAL LETTERS (as printed on Aadhaar)
• Followed by your 4-digit year of birth

➤ Example:

If your name is Priti Mehra and your birth year is 1996, then:

• Your password will be: PRIT1996

Note: If your name is shorter than 4 letters, use the full name. Example: Name = Raj, DOB = 1990 → Password = RAJ1990.

Download Aadhaar Card Using UMANG App/Portal

UMANG is a single app that gives you access to hundreds of government services, including Aadhaar.

To download UIDAI issued Aadhaar Card online using UMANG app, follow the steps provided here:

• Get Started with UMANG
  
  • Download the UMANG app from your app store or open the UMANG website web.umang.gov.in in your Chrome.
  • Click on the “Login/Register” option. available at the top right corner of the main page.
  • Here, if you have an existing account, enter your Mobile Number, and MPIN and click on Login.
  • If you don’t have an existing account, click on New on UMANG? Register Here button.

• • Here, to register, enter your Mobile Number and your State and hit the Register button.
  • Set your PIN and complete the registration process. 
  • Use the details to Login to the portal.
• Find Aadhaar Services
  
  • Once logged in, go to the ‘Services‘ section, available on the main page menu.
  • Type “Aadhaar” in the search box.
  • Look for “View Aadhaar Card” and select this option.

• Download Your Aadhaar
  
  • The app will connect you to DigiLocker.
  • Login to your DigiLocker account.
  • If you don’t have one, create it following the steps above.
  • Once connected, you can view and download your Aadhaar.

Important Tips for All Methods:

1. Always keep your Aadhaar number handy
2. Make sure you’re using the registered mobile number
3. Download Aadhaar only from these official apps
4. Keep your passwords secure
5. Don’t share OTPs with anyone
6. Save your downloaded Aadhaar in a secure location

Remember:

• All these methods are free
• Use only official apps and websites
• Keep your Aadhaar details private
• Update your mobile number in Aadhaar if needed

What is Masked Aadhaar Card and How to Download It Online?

Before we get into the process of downloading the masked Aadhaar Card, lets understand what is masked Aadhaar Card. 

What is Masked Aadhaar Card?

A masked Aadhaar card is a more privacy-conscious version of the regular Aadhaar card where only the last 4 digits of the 12-digit Aadhaar number are visible while the first 8 digits are hidden (displayed as XXXX XXXX).

This version was introduced by UIDAI to address privacy concerns and reduce the risk of Aadhaar number misuse.

The masked Aadhaar carries the same legal validity as a regular Aadhaar card for all verification purposes and can be downloaded easily from the UIDAI website.

Organizations and service providers are mandated to accept the masked Aadhaar as a valid proof of identity, providing citizens with greater control over their personal information without compromising on functionality.

How to Download Masked Aadhaar Card Online?

To download masked Aadhaar Card online, follow the below provided steps:

1. Website Navigation

• Visit the official UIDAI portal.
• Find the ‘Download Aadhaar’ option under ‘My Aadhaar’ menu.

2. Identity Verification

• Here, choose ‘Aadhaar Number’ as your verification method.
• Type in your complete 12-digit Aadhaar number.
• Fill in the security captcha shown on screen.

3. Security Steps

• Click ‘Request OTP’
• Look for the checkbox labeled ‘Do You Want a Masked Aadhaar‘
• Make sure to select this option (it highlights when activated)

• Wait for the OTP on your registered mobile number

4. Final Download Steps

• Enter the received OTP
• Select ‘Verify and Download’
• Wait for the download to begin
• Save the PDF file in a secure location

5. Opening Your Masked Aadhaar

To open your masked Aadhaar Card, you have to provide a password, the sequence of password is:

• First 4 letters of your name (UPPERCASE)
• Your birth year (YYYY format) Example:
• Name: Priya Sharma
• Birth Year: 1995
• Password would be: PRIY1995

How to Download e-Aadhaar Card Offline?

If you prefer getting your Aadhaar card in person, you can visit your nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra (ASK). First, locate your nearest center through the UIDAI website or by calling their toll-free number 1947. It’s recommended to book an appointment online beforehand to avoid long waiting times, though walk-ins are also accepted.

When visiting the Aadhaar Seva Kendra, you’ll need to carry a valid identity proof like your driving license, voter ID, or passport. You’ll be asked to fill out a request form for Aadhaar reprint. The operator will verify your biometrics (fingerprints or iris scan) to confirm your identity. You’ll need to pay a fee of Rs. 30 for the reprint service. After verification and payment, your Aadhaar card will be printed and provided to you immediately.

How to File an Aadhaar-Related Complaint Online?

If you have any issue related to your Aadhaar Card, including download, follow the steps to file a complaint online:

• Visit the UIDAI Portal
  
  • Go to myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in
  • Click on “Grievance and Feedback” option
  • Alternative direct link: myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/grievance-feedback
• Enter Personal Information
  
  • Fill in your full name
  • Provide your mobile number
  • Enter your email address
  • Select your state of residence from dropdown menu
  • Choose between “Self” or “Others” for complaint filing

• Specify Complaint Details
  
  • Select the appropriate complaint type
  • Choose specific complaint category
  • Upload supporting documents (PDF format)
  • Complete the captcha verification
  • Click “Next” to proceed
• Verify Your Identity
  
  • Enter your mobile number for OTP verification
  • Click “Send OTP“
  • Input the One-Time Password received
  • Submit the verification

• Complete the Submission
  
  • Provide any additional information if requested
  • Submit your complaint
  • Save your Service Request Number (SRN)
  • Download a copy of your complaint
• Important Follow-up Steps
  
  • Keep the SRN safe for future reference
  • Use the SRN to track your complaint status
  • Maintain the downloaded complaint copy in your records
  • Keep checking your registered email for updates

Aadhaar (UIDAI) Customer Care 

UIDAI provides not online pan-India helpline number, but also regional support centres as well. Check all the contact details here.

Aadhaar National Helpline Number

• Toll-Free Helpline: 1947
• Email Support: help@uidai.gov.in

Aadhaar Regional Offices Contact Details

Aadhaar State Offices Contact Details

Understanding e-Aadhaar and Physical Aadhaar Card

Let’s understand about e-Aadhaar Card and Physical Aadhaar Card in Detail:

e-Aadhaar

e-Aadhaar is a password-protected electronic version of the Aadhaar card, digitally signed by UIDAI, which can be downloaded from the official UIDAI website. It contains all the details present on a physical Aadhaar card, including the unique Aadhaar number, name, address, date of birth, gender, and biometric details (fingerprint and iris scan).

Physical Aadhaar Card

The physical Aadhaar card is a printed version of the Aadhaar details provided by UIDAI. It is available in various formats, including the Aadhaar letter, Aadhaar PVC card, and the laminated Aadhaar card. It serves as a convenient and widely accepted proof of identity and address.

Importance of Aadhaar Card (Both e-Aadhaar and Physical Aadhaar)

Aadhaar Card is important for several reasons, a few prominent importance are provided below:

1. Unique Identity for Every Citizen

Aadhaar provides a unique identity to every Indian resident. Unlike other identity documents, Aadhaar is based on biometric and demographic data, ensuring that every individual has a distinct identification.

2. Proof of Identity and Address

Both e-Aadhaar and physical Aadhaar serve as essential proof of identity and address for various purposes, such as opening bank accounts, obtaining mobile SIM cards, and availing government benefits.

3. Mandatory for Government Services

Aadhaar has become mandatory for availing numerous government services, including:

• Subsidies under Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
• Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
• Public Distribution System (PDS)
• LPG Gas Subsidy
• MGNREGA payments
• Pension schemes

4. Financial Inclusion

Aadhaar enables financial inclusion by facilitating easy access to banking services. The Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS) allows individuals to carry out transactions using their Aadhaar number and biometric authentication.

5. Digital India Initiative

The Government of India promotes digital transactions, and Aadhaar plays a crucial role in supporting the Digital India mission. Aadhaar-linked digital identity verification helps in reducing fraud and streamlining digital services.

Benefits of e-Aadhaar

e-Aadhaar provides several advantages over the traditional physical Aadhaar card. Here are some key benefits:

1. Instant Accessibility

e-Aadhaar can be downloaded anytime from the UIDAI website. This ensures that users do not have to worry about losing their physical Aadhaar card.

2. Equal Validity as Physical Aadhaar

As per UIDAI guidelines, e-Aadhaar is considered equally valid as the physical Aadhaar card for identity verification purposes.

3. Environmentally Friendly

Since e-Aadhaar is a digital document, it reduces the need for paper printing, contributing to environmental conservation.

4. Secure and Tamper-Proof

e-Aadhaar is digitally signed by UIDAI, making it tamper-proof and more secure than photocopies of the physical Aadhaar card.

5. Easy Sharing for KYC Verification

Many institutions accept e-Aadhaar for Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, reducing the need for carrying physical copies.

6. Password-Protected for Security

e-Aadhaar is protected with a password, ensuring that unauthorized access is prevented, adding an extra layer of security.

Benefits of Physical Aadhaar Card

1. Widely Accepted

The physical Aadhaar card is widely accepted across India for verification purposes, making it a convenient identity document.

2. Durable Aadhaar PVC Card

UIDAI now offers a PVC Aadhaar card that is durable, easy to carry, and has enhanced security features such as a QR code and hologram.

3. No Internet Requirement

Unlike e-Aadhaar, a physical Aadhaar card does not require internet access for verification, making it useful in remote areas.

4. Essential for Offline Verification

Many government and private institutions still require a physical Aadhaar card for verification purposes.

Differences Between e-Aadhaar and Physical Aadhaar

The widespread adoption of Aadhaar has significantly improved transparency, accountability, and access to various services and entitlements for the people of India. As the Aadhaar system continues to evolve, it is expected to play an increasingly vital role in the country’s social and economic development.

FAQs

• What is Aadhaar and why is it important?
  Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by UIDAI to Indian residents based on their biometric and demographic data. It is used as a universal proof of identity and address.

• How can I download my Aadhaar card online?
  You can download your Aadhaar card from the UIDAI official website (https://uidai.gov.in) by entering your Aadhaar number, VID, or EID along with an OTP verification.

• What are the ways to download Aadhaar?
  Aadhaar can be downloaded using:

  • Aadhaar number (UID)

  • Enrollment ID (EID)

  • Virtual ID (VID)

  • DigiLocker account

  • mAadhaar app

• Is the downloaded Aadhaar (e-Aadhaar) valid like the physical Aadhaar?
  Yes, the e-Aadhaar is equally valid as a physical Aadhaar card. It is digitally signed by UIDAI and can be used for all official purposes.

• What is the password to open the downloaded Aadhaar PDF file?
  The Aadhaar PDF file is password-protected. The password is the first 4 letters of your name in CAPITAL letters followed by your year of birth (e.g., RAVI1990).

• Can I download Aadhaar without a registered mobile number?
  No, you must have a registered mobile number to receive OTP for downloading Aadhaar online.

• What should I do if my mobile number is not linked with Aadhaar?
  You need to visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar Enrollment Centre to update or register your mobile number.

• How many times can I download my Aadhaar?
  You can download your Aadhaar as many times as you want, but each download will generate a new digital signature.

• Is it safe to keep the e-Aadhaar on my mobile phone or email?
  Yes, e-Aadhaar is secure as it’s password protected and digitally signed, but ensure it is stored securely and shared only when required.

• Can I download Aadhaar without an Aadhaar number?
  Yes, you can download Aadhaar using the Enrollment ID (EID) or Virtual ID (VID) if you do not have your Aadhaar number.

• What is VID (Virtual ID), and how is it used in Aadhaar download?
  VID is a temporary, revocable 16-digit number linked to your Aadhaar number. It can be used instead of Aadhaar number to download e-Aadhaar.

• How can I retrieve my lost Aadhaar or Enrollment ID (EID)?
  You can retrieve it from UIDAI’s website using your registered mobile/email by selecting “Retrieve Lost or Forgotten EID/UID”.

• Can I download Aadhaar on my iPhone or Android phone?
  Yes, you can use the mAadhaar mobile app available on Android and iOS to download and carry your Aadhaar digitally.

• Is e-Aadhaar acceptable as proof for government services?
  Yes, as per UIDAI and government norms, e-Aadhaar is legally acceptable as proof of identity for all services.

• What is masked Aadhaar and how can I download it?
  Masked Aadhaar hides the first 8 digits of your Aadhaar number for privacy. You can choose the masked option while downloading from the UIDAI portal.