UIDAI - Get Aadhaar | Download Aadhaar | Update | uidai.gov.in

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) was established in 2009 by the Government of India under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

It is the central authority responsible for implementing the Aadhaar project, which aims to provide a unique 12-digit identity number to every resident of India.

Aadhaar Services Offered by UIDAI

The UIDAI offers a range of services that make it easy to enrol, update, retrieve, and manage Aadhaar. Below is a complete, step-by-step guide to these services.

Download Aadhaar (e-Aadhaar)

Download a secure digital copy of your Aadhaar for use in various services.

• Open the Aadhaar Download Page:
  Visit https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/, and click on the Download Aadhaar option.

• Enter Your Details:
  • Provide your Aadhaar Number, Enrolment ID (EID), or Virtual ID (VID).
  • Complete the captcha displayed on the screen.

• Authenticate Using OTP:
  • An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number.
  • Enter the OTP and proceed.
• Download the PDF:
  • Once verified, download the e-Aadhaar PDF file.
  • The PDF is password-protected. Use the first four letters of your name (in CAPITALS) and your birth year as the password.

Check Enrolment or Update Status

Track the status of your Aadhaar enrolment or update request.

• Visit https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/, and click on the Check Enrolment & Update Status option.

• Enter URN or EID:
  • Provide your Update Request Number (URN) or Enrolment ID (EID).
  • Authenticate via OTP.

The portal will display the status of your request.

Document Update

If your Aadhaar details (e.g., name, address, date of birth, or gender) have changed or need correction, you can update them online.

• Visit the UIDAI Portal: Open https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/, and click on the Document Update option.

• Log In:
  • Enter your Aadhaar Number.
  • Authenticate using the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.

• Select "Update Aadhaar":
  • Choose the information you want to update (e.g., address, name, date of birth, gender).
  • Ensure you have valid supporting documents ready (e.g., Proof of Identity (PoI), Proof of Address (PoA)).
• Upload Documents:
  • Attach the scanned copies of the required documents.
  • Ensure the documents are clear and valid as per UIDAI guidelines.
• Review and Submit:
  • Verify all the entered details carefully.
  • Submit your request and note down the Update Request Number (URN) for tracking.
• Track Status: Use your URN on the same portal to track the progress of your update request.

Retrieve EID or Aadhaar Number

• Visit https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/, and click on the Retrieve EID / Aadhaar number option.

• Enter Your Information:
  • Fill in your full name and registered mobile number or email ID.
  • Select whether you want to retrieve your Aadhaar Number or Enrolment ID.

• Verify Details:
  • Complete the captcha and request an OTP.
  • Enter the OTP received on your mobile/email.
• Retrieve Your Number:
  • Your Aadhaar Number or EID will be sent to your mobile/email.

Verify Email/Mobile Number

Ensure that your registered email and mobile number are linked to Aadhaar for hassle-free services.

• Visit https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/, and click on the Verify Email / Mobile option.

• Enter Aadhaar Details:
  • Provide your Aadhaar Number and registered mobile/email.
  • Enter the captcha code.

• Authenticate:
  • An OTP will be sent to your mobile/email.
  • Enter the OTP to complete the verification.
• Confirmation: If the details are correct, a confirmation message will be displayed.

Generate Virtual ID (VID)

A Virtual ID (VID) is a temporary, revocable 16-digit number that you can use in place of your Aadhaar Number for enhanced privacy.

• Visit https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/, and click on the VID Generator option.

• Enter your Aadhaar Number and authenticate using OTP.
• Choose "Generate New VID" or "Retrieve Existing VID."

Your VID will be displayed on the screen and sent to your registered mobile number.

Order Aadhaar PVC Card

The Aadhaar PVC card is a durable, wallet-sized version of Aadhaar.

• Visit https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/, and click on the Order Aadhaar PVC Card option.

• Enter Your Aadhaar Number:
  • Complete the captcha for verification.

• Pay Online:
  • Proceed to pay the nominal fee (₹50 approx).
  • Confirm your request.

Your card will be delivered to your registered address.

Locate Enrolment Center

Find Aadhaar Seva Kendras near you for enrolment or updates.

• Visit https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/, and click on the Locate Enrolment Center option.

• Search:
  • Enter your PIN code, city, or state.
  • View the list of nearby centers with addresses and contact details.

Aadhaar Enrolment Process

The Aadhaar enrolment process is designed to be simple and convenient, ensuring that all Indian residents can obtain their unique 12-digit Aadhaar number.

Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to the Aadhaar enrolment process:

Step 1: Locate an Enrolment Center

• Visit the official UIDAI website at myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in to find an authorized Aadhaar enrolment center near you.
• You can search by state, postal code, or specific location to identify the nearest facility.

Step 2: Book an Appointment (Optional)

• For faster service, book an appointment online through the UIDAI portal.
• While walk-ins are generally allowed, scheduling an appointment minimizes waiting time.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Bring original documents (no photocopies are required) for verification. Key documents include:

• Proof of Identity (POI): Passport, PAN card, Voter ID, Driving License, etc.
• Proof of Address (POA): Utility bills, bank statement, property document, etc.
• Proof of Date of Birth (DOB): Birth certificate, SSLC certificate, or passport.
• Proof of Relationship (POR): For children below 5 years enroling through their parents.

Step 4: Visit the Enrolment Center

• On the scheduled day or at your convenience, visit the Aadhaar enrolment center.
• Fill out the Aadhaar enrolment form if it’s not already pre-filled.
• Ensure that all the details entered are correct, including name, address, date of birth, and mobile number.

Step 5: Biometric Data Collection

• The enrolment officer will capture your biometric details, including:
  • Photograph
  • Fingerprints (all 10 fingers)
  • Iris scan (both eyes)

These details are mandatory and ensure the uniqueness of your Aadhaar.

Step 6: Document Verification

• Submit your original documents for verification. They will be scanned and returned to you immediately.
• Ensure the information entered matches the details on your documents.

Step 7: Acknowledgment Receipt

• After completing the process, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt containing a 14-digit enrolment ID (EID).
• Keep this receipt safe as it can be used to check the status of your Aadhaar.

Step 8: Wait for Aadhaar Generation

• Aadhaar generation typically takes 15–90 days. However, in some cases, it may be processed sooner.
• You can check the status of your Aadhaar using your EID on the UIDAI website or via the My Aadhaar portal.

Step 9: Download or Receive Aadhaar

• Once generated, you can download an e-Aadhaar from the UIDAI portal using your Aadhaar number or EID.
• Alternatively, a physical Aadhaar card will be sent to your registered address by post.

Important Points to Remember

• Enrolment for Aadhaar is free of cost.
• For children below 5 years, only a photograph and proof of relationship are required. Their biometric details will be updated after the age of 5 and again at 15 years.
• Mobile number and email registration are recommended to access Aadhaar-related online services.
• Any discrepancies in data can be corrected during enrolment or later through the Aadhaar update process.

UIDAI - Unique Identification Authority of India

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is the backbone of India’s digital identity infrastructure, managing the Aadhaar system, the world’s largest biometric-based identity program.

History of UIDAI and Aadhaar

The concept of Aadhaar was introduced to provide a robust identity management system that reduces fraud and ensures efficient delivery of services. Here is a brief timeline of its development:

• 2009: UIDAI was established, with Nandan Nilekani appointed as its first chairman.
• 2010: The first Aadhaar number was issued in Tembhli village, Maharashtra, marking the official launch of the Aadhaar program.
• 2016: The Aadhaar Act was passed, providing statutory backing to the UIDAI and defining its powers and responsibilities.
• 2017: The Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of Aadhaar but limited its mandatory use to government welfare schemes and subsidies.

UIDAI and Aadhaar (Key Developments)

UIDAI has introduced several advancements to enhance Aadhaar’s scope, usability, and security.

• Expansion of Health Coverage
  • The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved health coverage for senior citizens aged 70 and above under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).
  • This decision benefits 6 crore senior citizens by providing ₹5 lakh annual health insurance on a family basis. Aadhaar-linked cards are being issued to ensure seamless coverage.
• Free Document Update Service
  • To encourage accurate Aadhaar data, UIDAI made the document update service free until 14th June 2025.
  • Residents can update their Proof of Identity (PoI) and Proof of Address (PoA) online without any charges.
• Technology Modernization
  • UIDAI introduced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) tools to detect fraudulent Aadhaar activities.
  • The backend infrastructure is now designed to handle over 50 billion transactions annually, including Aadhaar verifications, updates, and authentication.

Functions of UIDAI

UIDAI is tasked with a range of responsibilities to ensure Aadhaar's seamless implementation and adoption:

• Aadhaar Enrolment and Issuance:
  UIDAI manages the enrolment process by capturing biometric (fingerprints and iris scans) and demographic data. Each Aadhaar number is unique and linked to the individual's data.
• Authentication Services:
  It facilitates Aadhaar-based authentication through biometric or One-Time Password (OTP) methods, enabling secure identity verification.
• Data Security:
  UIDAI ensures the confidentiality and integrity of Aadhaar data by employing advanced encryption and secure storage technologies.
• Policy Development:
  The authority frames policies and procedures for Aadhaar usage across various sectors, including banking, healthcare, and education.
• Grievance Redressal:
  UIDAI provides mechanisms for addressing grievances related to Aadhaar services, ensuring user satisfaction.

How Aadhaar Works?

Aadhaar works as a unique identity system that links an individual's biometric and demographic information to a 12-digit number. Here’s how it functions:

• Biometric and Demographic Data Collection:
  At the time of enrolment, UIDAI collects fingerprints, iris scans, and demographic details such as name, address, date of birth, and gender.
• Unique Identification:
  The collected data is processed to generate a unique Aadhaar number, which is assigned to the individual.
• Authentication:
  Aadhaar enables authentication by verifying an individual's identity using biometric or OTP-based methods. This ensures secure and tamper-proof verification for various services.
• Integration with Services:
  Aadhaar is linked to services like bank accounts, mobile numbers, and government welfare schemes, facilitating direct benefit transfers and reducing fraud.

Benefits of Aadhaar

Aadhaar has emerged as a cornerstone of India's identity and digital infrastructure for the following reasons:

• Universal Identity Proof: Aadhaar is accepted across India as proof of identity and address.
• Efficient Governance: Aadhaar-linked schemes reduce leakage and ensure subsidies reach the rightful beneficiaries.
• Secure and Tamper-Proof: Biometric authentication ensures fraud prevention and accurate identity verification.
• Digital Inclusion: Aadhaar is a key enabler of India's digital transformation, from banking to healthcare.

Helpline

The UIDAI Helpline at 1947 offers 24x7 support for Aadhaar-related queries, including enrolment, updates, status tracking, and grievance redressal.