Aadhaar FAQs (2025) – Complete UIDAI Questions & Answers
This page provides clear and accurate answers to the most common Aadhaar-related questions: enrolment, updates, documents, PVC card, address change, OTP issues, biometrics, authentication, and UIDAI support channels.
1) General Aadhaar FAQs
What is Aadhaar?
Aadhaar is a 12-digit identity number issued by UIDAI for residents of India, based on biometric and demographic data.
Is Aadhaar mandatory?
As per law, Aadhaar enrolment is voluntary. However, certain services may request Aadhaar-based verification.
Who can apply?
Any resident of India, including children and infants.
What documents are required?
Valid Proof of Identity (POI), Proof of Address (POA), and Proof of Date of Birth (DOB). UIDAI lists accepted documents on its portal.
Is Aadhaar valid outside India?
Aadhaar is an Indian resident identity document and is valid for authentication within India.
2) Enrolment & Appointment FAQs
How can I enrol?
Book an appointment at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or visit a UIDAI-authorized centre with required documents.
Is biometrics required?
Yes, fingerprints, iris scan, and photograph are required for enrolment.
How long does enrolment take?
Generally 5–10 minutes at the centre.
How long to receive Aadhaar?
Usually 2–3 weeks. Status can be checked online using EID.
Can NRIs apply?
NRIs with a valid Indian passport may enrol.
3) Aadhaar Update & Correction FAQs
Which details can be updated?
Name, address, DOB, gender, mobile, email, and photographs.
How to update address?
Online using Aadhaar + OTP or offline at a centre with valid address proof.
What is URN?
Update Request Number generated after submitting update request.
How long do updates take?
Typically 7–90 days depending on process and verification.
Can I update biometrics?
Yes, biometrics can be updated at any Seva Kendra.
4) Mobile Number & Email FAQs
Is mobile number mandatory?
Yes, to receive OTP for online services and downloads.
How to update mobile number?
Visit an Aadhaar centre for biometric verification.
Can I add email?
Yes, email can be added or updated online or at centre.
What if I changed my phone?
Mobile number must be updated if the old SIM is inactive.
5) Download, Print & e-Aadhaar FAQs
How to download Aadhaar?
Go to the official UIDAI portal → enter Aadhaar/VID/EID → verify OTP → download PDF.
Is e-Aadhaar valid?
Yes, e-Aadhaar PDF is equally valid as physical card.
Why is PDF password protected?
For your security. Password is first four letters of your name + YYYY of birth.
Can I print in black & white?
Yes, valid if details are clear and readable.
6) PVC & Physical Aadhaar Card FAQs
What is PVC Aadhaar?
A durable polyvinyl card printed officially by UIDAI.
Cost of PVC card?
₹50 including delivery charges.
How to check PVC status?
Use SRN on UIDAI PVC tracking page.
Can I laminate Aadhaar?
Yes, but avoid smart-chip unauthorized prints.
7) Security, Biometrics & Privacy FAQs
Is Aadhaar secure?
UIDAI uses advanced encryption and secure authentication protocols.
What is VID?
A Virtual ID used instead of full Aadhaar to protect privacy.
Can I lock biometrics?
Yes, via UIDAI portal. Unlock only when needed.
Is sharing Aadhaar safe?
Share only when required and check official URLs.
8) Aadhaar Authentication FAQs
What is Aadhaar authentication?
Process of verifying identity using Aadhaar credentials via UIDAI.
Methods available?
Biometric, OTP, demographic verification.
Authentication failed — why?
Incorrect details, network issues, or locked biometrics.
9) Support & Helpline FAQs
UIDAI helpline number?
Dial 1947 for Aadhaar assistance.
Official website?
https://uidai.gov.in
How to file a complaint?
Use UIDAI grievance portal with SRN/EID/Aadhaar reference.
Can I walk into a centre?
Yes. Appointment recommended for faster service.