What Is e-Aadhaar?

e-Aadhaar is a password-protected, digitally signed PDF version of your Aadhaar card issued by UIDAI. It is legally equivalent to the physical Aadhaar card and is accepted as a valid proof of identity and address across India. You can download it anytime, anywhere, making it extremely convenient if you have misplaced your physical card or need a digital copy for online submissions.

What You Need Before You Start

  • Your 12-digit Aadhaar number, Enrollment ID (EID), or Virtual ID (VID)
  • Access to your Aadhaar-registered mobile number (to receive the OTP)
  • A device with internet access and a PDF reader

Step-by-Step: How to Download e-Aadhaar

  1. Go to the Official UIDAI Portal:

    Open your browser and visit myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in. Look for the "Download Aadhaar" option on the homepage or under the Services menu.

  2. Choose Your Identifier:

    Select whether you want to use your Aadhaar Number, Enrollment ID (EID), or Virtual ID (VID) to proceed.

  3. Enter Your Details and CAPTCHA:

    Enter the selected identifier (Aadhaar number, EID, or VID) along with your full name, PIN code, and the CAPTCHA displayed on screen.

  4. Request and Enter OTP:

    Click Send OTP. A One-Time Password will be sent to your Aadhaar-registered mobile number. Enter this OTP in the provided field within the time limit.

  5. Download the PDF:

    Click Verify and Download. Your e-Aadhaar will be downloaded as a password-protected PDF file to your device.

What Is the Password for the e-Aadhaar PDF?

The e-Aadhaar PDF is protected by a password to secure your information. The default password format is:

First 4 letters of your name (in CAPITALS) + Year of Birth (YYYY)

For example, if your name is Ramesh Kumar and your year of birth is 1990, the password would be: RAME1990

Note: The name used is as it appears on your Aadhaar card.

What If Your Mobile Number Is Not Registered?

If your mobile number is not registered with Aadhaar, you cannot download e-Aadhaar online directly. You have these alternatives:

  • Visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or enrollment centre to get a reprint or register your mobile number first.
  • Order a PVC Aadhaar Card from the UIDAI portal by authenticating via a non-OTP method at a centre.
  • Use the mAadhaar app on a phone where your registered number is active.

Downloading via the mAadhaar App

The mAadhaar app (available on Android and iOS) allows you to store and access your Aadhaar digitally on your smartphone:

  1. Download the official mAadhaar app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
  2. Register using your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
  3. Add your Aadhaar profile — your details and QR code are stored securely on the app.
  4. You can also share or download the e-Aadhaar directly from within the app.

Is e-Aadhaar Accepted Everywhere?

Yes. As per UIDAI and Government of India guidelines, e-Aadhaar is fully valid as an identity and address proof document. It carries a digital signature from UIDAI, making it tamper-proof. It is accepted at:

  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Airports and railway stations
  • Government offices and service centres
  • SIM card activations
  • Hotel and rental check-ins

Always carry a printed or digital copy of your e-Aadhaar as a reliable backup to your physical card.