What is e-Aadhaar?

e-Aadhaar is the digitally signed PDF version of your Aadhaar issued by UIDAI. It carries your demographic details and a secure QR code. Because it is digitally signed, e-Aadhaar is legally valid and equivalent to the physical Aadhaar letter. You can download it anytime after enrolment or update is processed and verified.

Key Benefits of e-Aadhaar

• Instant availability: Download the latest, updated Aadhaar PDF on demand.
• Legally valid: The UIDAI digital signature makes it acceptable at most institutions.
• Secure QR code: Quick authenticity check by agencies using QR scanners.
• Portable & sharable: Store on your mobile or print when required.
• Environment-friendly: Less paper use compared to physical reprints.

Requirements

• Registered mobile number to receive OTP (or use TOTP in the mAadhaar app).
• Aadhaar number (UID) or Enrolment ID (EID) or Virtual ID (VID).
• Stable internet connection and a PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader).

If your mobile number is not registered or changed, visit an Aadhaar enrolment/update centre to update it.

How to Download e-Aadhaar (Step-by-Step)

1. Open the official e-Aadhaar download page or myAadhaar portal.
2. Select Aadhaar Number, Enrolment ID, or VID option.
3. Enter the chosen ID, captcha, and click Send OTP.
4. Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile (or use TOTP from the mAadhaar app).
5. Click Download to save the PDF to your device.

How to Open the e-Aadhaar PDF Password

The e-Aadhaar PDF is password-protected. The password format is:

• First four letters of your name in CAPITAL letters (as on Aadhaar) + Year of birth (YYYY).

Example: Name: Ravi Kumar, Year of birth: 1994 → Password: RAVI1994.

Verify the Digital Signature in e-Aadhaar

1. Open the e-Aadhaar PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader.
2. Open the Signature Panel (usually shows “Signed by UIDAI”).
3. Click the signature → Signature Properties → Show Signer’s Certificate.
4. Ensure the certificate is valid and is issued by a trusted CA. Click Validate if prompted.

If the signature shows as “unknown,” update Acrobat’s trusted certificates or reinstall Acrobat Reader.

Print Options & PVC Card

You can print e-Aadhaar on A4 paper in colour or grayscale. For a more durable card, order the official Aadhaar PVC from UIDAI:

• Order Aadhaar PVC Card (delivery to your address).
• Carry the printed e-Aadhaar whenever digital copies are not accepted.

Illustration: Sample e-Aadhaar layout (for demo purposes only)

Update Details & Address

Keep your Aadhaar details accurate to avoid KYC and service disruptions.

• Address Update (Online): Use SSUP with valid document proof.
• Demographic Updates: Visit an enrolment centre for name, DOB, or mobile updates. Book a slot: Book Appointment.
• Document Update Service: Upload updated POI/POA if requested: Document Update.

Generate & Use Virtual ID (VID)

VID is a 16-digit, temporary ID that can be used instead of your Aadhaar for authentication to improve privacy.

1. Go to Generate VID.
2. Enter Aadhaar/OTP and generate or retrieve your VID.
3. Use VID wherever accepted to avoid sharing your main Aadhaar number.

Security & Privacy Tips

• Use VID in place of Aadhaar whenever possible.
• Lock Aadhaar biometrics when not in use: Lock/Unlock.
• Do not share OTP or full Aadhaar publicly. Verify sites carefully before entering details.
• Keep the e-Aadhaar PDF on your device with limited access (avoid public computers).

Common Errors & Fixes