The Aadhaar Card, launched in 2009, is a unique identification document issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). The Aaadhaar is not only available to the Indian residents, but extended to Non-Resident Indian, Overseas Citizen of India, LTV Holders, and Nepal and Bhutan Nationals. Other than residents of India, other eligible people requires to need 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 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 download 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 enrolled 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, Aadhaar Card PDF can be downloaded using one of the 3 primary numbers. These are the unique number 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 the step 3 (mentioned above), select the radio button in front of 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 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 be then downloaded on 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.

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 document storage platform developed by the Government of India, designed to provide citizens with a convenient and secure way to store, access, and share important personal documents electronically.

Let’s understand the process of downloading an Aadhaar Card through Digilocker app/portal:

1. Initial Setup

The process begins with establishing your digital presence on the platform. You have two primary options for access:

• Mobile Application: Download the official DigiLocker app from:
  • Google Play Store (Android devices)
  • Apple App Store (iOS devices)
• Web Platform: Visit the official website at digilocker.gov.in using any internet browser

2. Account Creation and Authentication

When you first access DigiLocker, you’ll need to create your personal account:

• Click on the “Sign Up” or “Register” button
• You’ll be prompted to enter essential personal information
• The platform primarily uses Aadhaar-based authentication for security
• Have your 12-digit Aadhaar number ready during registration

3. Identity Verification Process

To ensure secure access and document management:

• Navigate to the “Issued Documents” section

• If you haven’t completed verification, a dedicated verification page will appear
• Enter your complete 12-digit Aadhaar number
• Carefully read and accept the declaration by checking the provided checkbox
• Click the “Update” button to proceed

4. Aadhaar Document Retrieval

Retrieving your e-Aadhaar involves several straightforward steps:

• Select “Aadhaar” from the list of available document types
• Input your 12-digit Aadhaar number accurately
• An One-Time Password (OTP) will be sent to your Aadhaar-registered mobile number
• Enter the OTP to complete identity verification
• Once authenticated, your e-Aadhaar will be automatically uploaded to your DigiLocker account

5. Document Management

After successful upload, you can:

• View your e-Aadhaar anytime
• Download a digital copy
• Share the document securely with authorized entities
• Maintain a centralized, government-recognized digital repository of your important identification document

Download Aadhaar Card Using mAadhaar App

mAadhaar is a official app from UIDAI (the organization that issues Aadhaar cards) to help you carry your Aadhaar digitally.

To download your Aadhaar Card through mAadhaar app, follow the below provided steps:

1. Install the App
   
   • Go to your phone’s app store.
   • Search for “mAadhaar”.
   • Download and install the official app.
2. Set Up Your Account
   
   • Open mAadhaar app in your device.
   • Tap on “Register” option.
   • Now, enter your Aadhaar number.
   • Then, type the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar Card.
   • You’ll get an OTP on this number.
   • Enter the OTP in the designated area.
   • Then, create a password for your mAadhaar account.
3. Access Your Digital Aadhaar
   
   • Once registered, log in using your password.
   • Your digital Aadhaar will be available in the app
   • You can view it anytime, even without internet.

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:

1. Get Started with UMANG
   
   • Download UMANG app from your app store.
   • Open the app in your phone.
   • On the mainpage, click on the Register as a new user OR
   • Sign in if you already have an account.
2. Find Aadhaar Services
   
   • Now, go to ‘All Services’ section.
   • Type “Aadhaar” in the search box.
   • Look for “View Aadhaar Card” and select this option.
3. Download Your Aadhaar
   
   • The app will connect you to DigiLocker.
   • Log in 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

Aadhaar Card Usage and Benefits

The Aadhaar card has become an essential form of identification in India, and it is widely used for a variety of purposes:

• Government Welfare Schemes: Aadhaar integration ensures the accurate and direct delivery of government subsidies and benefits to the intended beneficiaries, reducing leakages and improving efficiency.
• Financial Inclusion: Aadhaar-linked bank accounts and financial services enable the unbanked population to access banking, credit, and other financial products.
• Digital Transactions: Aadhaar-based authentication is used for secure and convenient digital transactions, such as mobile payments, online purchases, and e-KYC (Know Your Customer) processes.
• Income Tax Filing: Aadhaar number is mandatory for filing income tax returns and linking it with the PAN (Permanent Account Number) card.
• SIM Card Activation: Aadhaar verification is required for activating new mobile SIM cards, ensuring accurate subscriber identification.
• Education and Healthcare: Aadhaar integration simplifies access to educational services, healthcare facilities, and the delivery of medical benefits.
• Voter ID and Driving License: Aadhaar can be used as a proof of identity for obtaining a voter ID card and driving license.

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.