In Simple Words: You can download a digital copy of your Aadhaar card (called e-Aadhaar) from the UIDAI website for free in just 2 minutes — as long as your mobile number is linked. The downloaded PDF is just as valid as your physical card for all government applications including Aaple Sarkar.
What is e-Aadhaar?
e-Aadhaar is the official digital version of your Aadhaar card — a password-protected PDF downloaded from UIDAI’s website. It is legally valid everywhere the physical card is accepted, including:
- All Aaple Sarkar applications
- Bank KYC
- Income Certificate, Caste Certificate applications
- Scholarship forms
What You Need
- Your Aadhaar number (12 digits) OR Enrolment ID (from your Aadhaar receipt)
- Your registered mobile number (to receive OTP)
If your mobile is not linked to Aadhaar, see: How to link mobile number to Aadhaar
Steps to Download e-Aadhaar
- Go to myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in
- Click “Download Aadhaar”
- Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number
- Enter the captcha code shown on screen
- Click “Send OTP” — an OTP arrives on your registered mobile
- Enter the OTP and click “Verify & Download”
- A password-protected PDF downloads to your device
The PDF password is: your PIN code (first 4 digits) + year of birth (4 digits)
Example: PIN 411001, born 1995 → password is 41100 11995
Types of Aadhaar You Can Download
| Type | What It Shows | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Regular e-Aadhaar | Full Aadhaar number visible | General use, government applications |
| Masked Aadhaar | Only last 4 digits shown | Sharing with private companies/hotels |
For government applications in Maharashtra, always use the regular e-Aadhaar (full number visible).
Don’t Know Your Aadhaar Number?
If you don’t have your Aadhaar number:
- Go to myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in
- Click “Retrieve Lost or Forgotten UID/EID”
- Enter your registered mobile number and full name
- OTP is sent — your Aadhaar number is retrieved
Mobile Number Not Linked? Use Aadhaar PVC Card Order Instead
If your mobile is not registered, you cannot download online. Options:
- Visit Aadhaar Seva Kendra to link your mobile first — then download online
- Order a physical Aadhaar PVC Card (laminated card) by post for ₹50 at myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in → Order Aadhaar PVC Card (this requires mobile or alternate authentication)
Is e-Aadhaar Valid Without Lamination?
Yes. A printed e-Aadhaar PDF is fully valid for all purposes — you do not need to laminate it or get a physical card. Government offices, banks, and Aaple Sarkar all accept it.
e-Aadhaar is issued by UIDAI, Government of India and is free to download. This guide is for informational purposes only.