Aadhaar is one of the most important identity documents in India, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). Many services today—such as bank KYC, PAN linking, and government subsidies—require Aadhaar verification. If you lose your Aadhaar card or need a digital copy, you can easily download it online in just a few steps.
Overview Table
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Who can download Aadhaar? | Any Aadhaar holder with registered mobile number |
| Official website | UIDAI (uidai.gov.in) |
| Modes available | Aadhaar number, Enrolment ID, Virtual ID |
| File format | PDF (password protected) |
| Password to open | First 4 letters of your name (in CAPITALS) + Year of Birth |
Why Download Aadhaar Online
- Get a duplicate Aadhaar in case of loss or damage
- Keep a soft copy for quick use in digital KYC
- Useful for linking PAN, bank accounts, or mobile numbers
- Recognized as valid proof of identity and address across India
Step-by-Step Guide to Download Aadhaar Online
1. Using Aadhaar Number (UID)
- Visit the official UIDAI website (uidai.gov.in)
- Go to “Download Aadhaar” under “My Aadhaar” section
- Select Aadhaar Number (UID) option
- Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number, captcha, and click on “Send OTP”
- Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number
- Click on “Download Aadhaar” to get the PDF file
2. Using Enrolment ID (EID)
- On the same page, choose Enrolment ID (EID) option
- Enter your 14-digit Enrolment ID and 14-digit date-time stamp (from enrolment slip)
- Enter captcha and request OTP
- Enter OTP and click “Download Aadhaar”
3. Using Virtual ID (VID)
- Select the VID option instead of UID/EID
- Enter your 16-digit Virtual ID and captcha
- Authenticate via OTP sent to your registered mobile number
- Download Aadhaar PDF instantly
4. Through mAadhaar App
- Download and install the official mAadhaar app from Play Store or App Store
- Login using your Aadhaar or VID
- Authenticate using OTP
- Download and store your Aadhaar digitally in the app
How to Open the Aadhaar PDF
The Aadhaar file is password protected. To open it:
- Enter the first 4 letters of your name in CAPITAL letters (as per Aadhaar) + Year of Birth
- Example: If your name is Ravi Kumar and year of birth is 1992, then password = RAVI1992
Important Points to Remember
- Your mobile number must be linked with Aadhaar to receive OTP.
- Aadhaar downloaded online is equally valid as the physical card.
- If mobile number is not linked, visit Aadhaar Seva Kendra to update it.
- Use only UIDAI official website to download Aadhaar.
Final Takeaway
Downloading Aadhaar online is quick, free, and secure. Whether you use your Aadhaar number, Enrolment ID, or Virtual ID, you can always access a valid soft copy for government and financial services.
FAQs
Q1. Is e-Aadhaar downloaded online valid?
Yes, e-Aadhaar is equally valid as a physical Aadhaar card.
Q2. Can I download Aadhaar without mobile OTP?
No, a registered mobile number is mandatory to receive OTP.
Q3. What if my mobile number is not linked with Aadhaar?
You must visit Aadhaar Seva Kendra to update your mobile number before downloading.