
Adhar card is one of the most important identity documents in India. It is issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) and contains your biometric and demographic details. Many people search for ways to download adhar card online because it is quick, free, and accessible anytime. If you lose your card or need a digital copy, you don’t have to visit an office. Instead, you can download it directly from the official UIDAI website.
In this article, we will explain the complete process of downloading adhar card online, different methods available, required details, and things you must keep in mind. We will also cover the benefits of using an online Aadhaar copy, and answer the most common FAQs to make the process simple for you.
Why You Need to Download Adhar Card Online
Many situations require you to have your Aadhaar details ready. For example, you may need it for bank verification, SIM registration, government schemes, or official documentation. Carrying a physical card is sometimes not convenient, and in case of loss, it takes time to get a reprint.
By using the download adhar card online facility, you can get an electronic copy of Aadhaar, also called e-Aadhaar. This digital version is equally valid as the physical card. It is password protected, secure, and can be saved on your phone or computer.
What is e-Aadhaar
e-Aadhaar is the electronic version of the Aadhaar card that can be downloaded from UIDAI’s official portal. It contains the same details as the physical card such as:
- Aadhaar number (UID)
- Name of the cardholder
- Date of birth
- Address
- Photograph
- QR code for verification
The Government of India considers e-Aadhaar equally valid as the physical Aadhaar card. It can be used for KYC processes, government benefits, and official identification.
Requirements to Download Adhar Card Online
Before starting the download process, make sure you have the following details ready:
- Aadhaar number (12 digits) OR Enrollment ID (28-digit EID from enrollment slip)
- Registered mobile number (to receive OTP)
- Internet access on mobile or computer
Without a registered mobile number, you cannot download Aadhaar online because OTP authentication is mandatory.
Step-by-Step Guide to Download Adhar Card Online
Here is the complete step-by-step process you can follow:
- Visit UIDAI Website
- Go to https://uidai.gov.in
- Click on the “Download Aadhaar” option under “My Aadhaar.”
- Go to https://uidai.gov.in
- Choose Login Option
- You can download using Aadhaar number, Enrollment ID, or Virtual ID.
- You can download using Aadhaar number, Enrollment ID, or Virtual ID.
- Enter Details
- Enter Aadhaar/VID/EID along with the captcha code.
- Enter Aadhaar/VID/EID along with the captcha code.
- Request OTP
- Click on “Send OTP.”
- An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number.
- Click on “Send OTP.”
- Enter OTP
- Type the OTP in the box and verify.
- Type the OTP in the box and verify.
- Download Aadhaar
- Once verified, click “Download.”
- The Aadhaar card (PDF format) will be saved on your device.
- Once verified, click “Download.”
How to Open e-Aadhaar PDF
The downloaded Aadhaar is a password-protected PDF. To open it, you must enter a password. The password is a combination of the first four letters of your name (in CAPITAL letters) + year of birth.
Example:
- Name: Rahul Sharma
- Year of birth: 1992
- Password: RAHU1992
Benefits of Downloading Aadhaar Online
- Instant Access – No waiting for physical delivery.
- Always Available – Keep a copy on your phone or email.
- Free of Cost – No payment required for downloading.
- Valid Identity Proof – e-Aadhaar is legally accepted.
- Secure – Comes with a password-protected PDF and QR code.
Different Ways to Download Aadhaar Online
UIDAI provides multiple ways to download your Aadhaar:
- Using Aadhaar Number (UID)
- Using Enrollment ID (EID)
- Using Virtual ID (VID)
- Through mAadhaar App
- Via DigiLocker
This flexibility ensures that you can access Aadhaar even if you don’t remember your Aadhaar number but have enrollment details.
Common Problems While Downloading Aadhaar
- Wrong OTP Issue – Sometimes OTP takes time. Make sure your mobile number is active and linked.
- Website Not Loading – Due to heavy traffic, the UIDAI site may be slow. Try again later.
- Password Error – Remember that the password format is NAME + YEAR OF BIRTH.
- Invalid Details – Check that you are entering the correct Aadhaar, VID, or EID.
Security Features of e-Aadhaar
- Password-protected PDF ensures unauthorized access is restricted.
- QR code verification prevents tampering.
- Digital signature of UIDAI confirms authenticity.
These features make the digital Aadhaar safe for online and offline use.
Tips for Using e-Aadhaar Safely
- Do not share your Aadhaar number openly on public platforms.
- Always download from the official UIDAI portal.
- Avoid third-party apps or websites claiming Aadhaar download.
- Save the PDF in a secure folder or cloud service.
Conclusion
Downloading Aadhaar online is a simple and safe process that saves time and effort. Whether you lost your card, need a copy urgently, or prefer a digital version, the UIDAI portal makes it easy to download adhar card online. With multiple methods like Aadhaar number, enrollment ID, or DigiLocker, you always have access to your identity document.
e-Aadhaar is not only convenient but also a legally valid identity proof accepted across India. By following the steps shared above, you can get your Aadhaar within minutes and use it anytime you need.
FAQs
Q1. Can I download Aadhaar without a mobile number?
No, you must have a registered mobile number to receive OTP. Without it, you cannot download Aadhaar online.
Q2. Is e-Aadhaar valid as physical Aadhaar?
Yes, e-Aadhaar is equally valid as per the Government of India and can be used for all official purposes.
Q3. What if I forget my Aadhaar number?
You can download Aadhaar using Enrollment ID (EID) or Virtual ID (VID).
Q4. What is the password for opening Aadhaar PDF?
It is a combination of the first four letters of your name (capital letters) and your year of birth. Example: RAVI1995.
Q5. Can I download Aadhaar multiple times?
Yes, there is no limit. You can download Aadhaar anytime from UIDAI’s portal.