UIDAI Aadhaar services guide
Duplicate Aadhaar Card Download Online: Get e-Aadhaar from UIDAI
Lost or misplaced your Aadhaar letter or card? You generally do not need a new Aadhaar number. Download a fresh electronic copy (e-Aadhaar) free of charge from UIDAI, retrieve your Aadhaar number or enrolment ID if forgotten, or order an official PVC card.
How to download a duplicate Aadhaar card online
UIDAI calls the downloadable, digitally signed electronic version of Aadhaar e-Aadhaar. The download service is free and normally requires an OTP sent to the mobile number registered with Aadhaar.
- Open the official Download Aadhaar service.
- Select the available identifier: Aadhaar number, enrolment ID (EID), Virtual ID (VID), or another option currently supported by the portal.
- Enter the requested identifier and security captcha.
- Request an OTP and check the mobile number linked with your Aadhaar.
- Enter the OTP and complete verification. Select Masked Aadhaar if you prefer the first eight digits to be hidden.
- Download the password-protected PDF and save it securely. You may print it for your records.
The precise fields and screen labels may change when UIDAI updates its portal. Follow the instructions displayed on the official service.
What is the password for the e-Aadhaar PDF?
The password generally consists of the first four characters of your name in CAPITAL letters followed by your year of birth (YYYY), as recorded with Aadhaar. For example, if the recorded name is SURESH and birth year is 1990, the password is SURE1990. For shorter names or punctuation, follow UIDAI's examples on the official portal.
The e-Aadhaar PDF carries UIDAI's digital signature and a secure QR code. You can use it electronically or print it. If necessary, validate the digital signature using a compatible PDF viewer.
How to retrieve a lost Aadhaar number or enrolment ID
If you no longer remember the 12-digit Aadhaar number or your enrolment ID, use myAadhaar - Retrieve Lost UID/EID. Follow the identity-verification steps offered by UIDAI. You may also call the official UIDAI helpline 1947 for assistance.
For more guidance on retrieving enrolment details, see how to recover a lost Aadhaar enrolment ID, and to track a pending application see how to check Aadhaar status.
What if the registered mobile number is unavailable?
Online e-Aadhaar download generally needs OTP access to the mobile number registered with Aadhaar. If the number is not registered or no longer accessible, visit an authorised Aadhaar enrolment/update centre to enquire about mobile number update or the assisted Aadhaar print service, which may involve biometric authentication and the applicable service charge.
See our related guide on updating the Aadhaar mobile number. A mobile number update is not necessarily completed entirely online; use UIDAI's current instructions for the required process.
How to order a replacement Aadhaar PVC card
Residents who want a durable physical card can use myAadhaar - Order Aadhaar PVC Card. This is a paid service, unlike downloading e-Aadhaar. Check the current fee and delivery terms on UIDAI's order screen before payment. The card is normally sent to the address recorded in Aadhaar.
Legal validity of downloaded Aadhaar: important provisions
Aadhaar Act, 2016 - Section 3
Section 3 deals with enrolment and the entitlement of eligible residents to obtain an Aadhaar number after providing the required demographic and biometric information, subject to the Act and applicable rules.
Aadhaar Act, 2016 - Section 4
Section 4(1) provides that an Aadhaar number issued to an individual shall not be reassigned to another individual. Under the amended Section 4(3), an Aadhaar number holder may voluntarily use Aadhaar in physical or electronic form for identity verification in accordance with the law, including authentication or offline verification. Section 4 also addresses safeguards and circumstances in which authentication may be required by law.
Equal validity of e-Aadhaar and other forms
UIDAI confirms that e-Aadhaar is as valid as the physical Aadhaar letter. Printed e-Aadhaar, the Aadhaar letter and the official Aadhaar PVC card are recognised forms of Aadhaar, subject to applicable identity verification requirements. See the UIDAI circular on e-Aadhaar validity and the Aadhaar Act, 2016 (official text).
Frequently asked questions
Is a duplicate Aadhaar download free?
Yes. UIDAI provides the e-Aadhaar PDF download service free of charge. An official PVC card and assisted printing at a centre may carry charges.
Can I print e-Aadhaar at home?
Yes. A printed copy of the downloaded e-Aadhaar is usable, subject to verification and any specific requirements of the organisation requesting identity proof.
Does losing the card mean I need to enrol again?
No. Your Aadhaar number remains the same. Download e-Aadhaar or request a PVC card rather than applying for a second Aadhaar number.
What is Masked Aadhaar?
Masked Aadhaar is an e-Aadhaar option in which the first eight digits of the Aadhaar number are obscured, leaving the final four digits visible.
How do I apply for Aadhaar for the first time?
First-time enrolment is different from downloading a duplicate. See how to apply for an Aadhaar card.