UIDAI | Aadhaar Card, Login, Update & Download Online
If you want to manage your Aadhaar online, UIDAI is the main government authority you need to know. It provides Aadhaar enrolment, updates, downloads, authentication, security features, status tracking, and several digital services through its official website, MyAadhaar portal, Aadhaar centres, and mobile application.
The Unique Identification Authority of India manages the Aadhaar system under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Instead of visiting an office for every small task, residents can now complete many Aadhaar-related activities online or through the official Aadhaar App.
This guide explains the most useful UIDAI services, how to access them, which tasks require an Aadhaar centre, how to protect your Aadhaar information, and where to get official help.
What Is UIDAI?
UIDAI stands for Unique Identification Authority of India. The Government of India established the authority under the Aadhaar Act, 2016. UIDI manages important parts of the Aadhaar ecosystem, including enrolment, authentication, Aadhaar updates, and resident-facing services.
Aadhaar provides residents with a unique 12-digit identification number. UID AI maintains the systems that support the Aadhaar lifecycle and provides services that allow Aadhaar holders to manage their information. The easiest way to understand the difference is:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| UIDAI | Government authority responsible for the Aadhaar system |
| Aadhaar | 12-digit identification number |
| MyAadhaar | Online portal for Aadhaar services |
| Aadhaar App | Mobile application for Aadhaar services |
This distinction matters because many people search for UIDAI when they actually need a particular Aadhaar service.
What Is the UIDAI Official Website?
The official UIDAI website is the main source for Aadhaar information, announcements, online services, FAQs, enrolment guidance, security information, and support.
When looking for an Aadhaar service, always check that you are using the official government website. Avoid websites that ask you to enter your Aadhaar number, OTP, bank information, or other sensitive information without a clear reason.
The official UIDAI ecosystem includes the main UIDAI website and the MyAadhaar portal. You can use these services to download Aadhaar, check requests, update eligible information, locate centres, order an Aadhaar PVC card, and access other features.
UIDAI MyAadhaar Portal
MyAadhaar is UIDAI’s online service platform for residents. It brings many Aadhaar-related services together in one place.
Depending on the service, you may need your Aadhaar number, registered mobile number, OTP, enrolment information, or other details.
How to log in to MyAadhaar
Follow these general steps:
- Open the official MyAadhaar portal.
- Select the login option.
- Enter your Aadhaar number.
- Complete the security verification.
- Request an OTP.
- Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number.
- Access the available Aadhaar services.
Some services can also be accessed without following the same login process. For example, users can access certain centre-locator and appointment-related services directly.
UIDAI Aadhaar Services
The UIDAI ecosystem covers a wide range of services. The most useful ones include:
- Aadhaar download
- Aadhaar enrolment
- Aadhaar update
- Address update
- Mobile-number update
- Biometric update
- Document update
- Aadhaar status checking
- Aadhaar authentication history
- Virtual ID
- Masked Aadhaar
- Aadhaar PVC card
- Biometric lock and unlock
- Aadhaar verification
- Aadhaar centre locator
- Appointment booking
- e-KYC
- Aadhaar App services
- Grievance and support services
The correct service depends on what you need to accomplish.
How to Download Aadhaar From UIDAI
One of the most common reasons people visit UIDAI is to get an electronic copy of their Aadhaar.
You can generally use your Aadhaar number, enrolment information, or Virtual ID where the service permits it.
Steps to download e-Aadhaar
- Open the official UIDAI or MyAadhaar website.
- Choose the e-Aadhaar download service.
- Enter the required identification details.
- Complete the security verification.
- Request the OTP.
- Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- Download the PDF.
- Open the file using the required password.
Your downloaded electronic Aadhaar is digitally signed and can serve as an electronic version of your Aadhaar document.
What is the e-Aadhaar password?
The downloaded PDF may require a password. Follow the password format provided by UIDAI rather than entering random combinations.
Keep the PDF secure because it contains personal identity information.
What is Masked Aadhaar?
Masked Aadhaar hides part of your Aadhaar number while displaying the remaining digits. It can help reduce unnecessary exposure of your full Aadhaar number when a full number is not required.
How to Update Aadhaar Online
Aadhaar information can change over time. You may need to update your address, mobile number, email address, demographic information, documents, or biometric details.
However, not every update follows the same process.
Some services are available digitally, while others require a visit to an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar enrolment and update centre.
How to update Aadhaar
- Open the official UIDAI service.
- Select the relevant update option.
- Enter the requested details.
- Upload or provide supporting information when required.
- Complete OTP or identity verification.
- Pay the applicable fee, if any.
- Submit the request.
- Save the acknowledgement or request number.
- Track the request until UIDAI completes processing.
Always check the current UIDAI instructions before submitting an update because service availability and procedures can change.
Can You Update Aadhaar Through the Aadhaar App?
Yes. The current Aadhaar App provides several digital services.
According to UIDAI’s current FAQ, residents can use the app for mobile-number and address updates. The app also supports features such as biometric lock and unlock, e-Aadhaar download, authentication history, request tracking, and consent-based sharing of Aadhaar credentials.
Name, gender, email, and date-of-birth updates are not currently available through the app according to UIDAI’s current FAQ. Biometric information such as photographs, fingerprints, and iris details requires an Aadhaar centre.
The Aadhaar App is UIDAI’s current mobile application for managing and sharing Aadhaar information.
UIDAI Aadhaar App
The app focuses on giving Aadhaar holders more control over how they access and share their identity information.
How to register on the Aadhaar App
The general registration process includes:
- Download the official Aadhaar App.
- Select your preferred language.
- Enter your Aadhaar number.
- Accept the terms and privacy policy.
- Select the relevant SIM card.
- Complete face authentication.
- Finish registration.
- Set a six-digit PIN.
UIDAI currently supports the app on Android 9.0 and above and iOS 16.0 and above.
What can you do with the Aadhaar App?
Current services include:
- Mobile-number update
- Address update
- Biometric lock/unlock
- Authentication history
- e-Aadhaar download
- Aadhaar request tracking
- Contact Card sharing
- Selective sharing of Aadhaar Verifiable Credentials
The app is available in English and 12 Indian languages, giving residents broader access to digital Aadhaar services.
Update your mobile number through the Aadhaar App
Yes. The current app provides a mobile-number update process. The exact verification process depends on whether the number used during app registration matches the mobile number already registered with Aadhaar. UIDAI requires OTP verification and face authentication in the applicable process.
Aadhaar PVC Card
An Aadhaar PVC card is a durable, wallet-sized version of Aadhaar. You can request it through the official UIDAI service when the facility is available to you.
How to order an Aadhaar PVC card
- Open the official UIDAI/MyAadhaar portal.
- Select the PVC card service.
- Enter the required Aadhaar information.
- Complete OTP verification.
- Confirm the displayed information.
- Make the applicable payment.
- Submit the request.
- Save the service request number for tracking.
UIDAI currently lists the PVC-card service at ₹75, but always verify the current charge before payment.
How to Check Aadhaar Update Status
After submitting an Aadhaar request, you should keep the acknowledgement or service request number.
Steps to check your status
- Open the official UIDAI status service.
- Select the relevant request-tracking option.
- Enter the required reference information.
- Complete verification.
- Submit the request.
- Review the latest status.
If your request remains pending, give UIDAI the required processing time. If it gets rejected, read the reason carefully and follow the official correction process.
How to Find an Aadhaar Seva Kendra
Some Aadhaar services require physical verification, biometric capture, or other in-person work. You can use the official centre locator to find an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar enrolment and update centre.
What can you do at an Aadhaar centre?
Depending on the centre and service, you may be able to:
- Enrol for Aadhaar
- Update demographic details
- Update biometrics
- Submit supporting documents
- Complete mandatory biometric updates
- Resolve certain update-related issues
- Complete services that are not available online
Take the required original documents with you when UIDAI asks for document verification.
UIDAI Aadhaar Security Features
Aadhaar contains sensitive personal information, so security should remain a priority. UIDAI provides several tools to help residents control or verify Aadhaar use.
Lock and unlock biometrics
Biometric locking lets Aadhaar holders restrict the use of biometric authentication. You can unlock the feature when you need biometric authentication.
Authentication history
You can check authentication activity associated with your Aadhaar to understand when authentication took place.
Virtual ID
A Virtual ID is a temporary, revocable number associated with Aadhaar. It provides an alternative to sharing your Aadhaar number in supported situations.
QR code verification
Aadhaar documents contain secure QR-based information that can support identity verification through UIDAI-approved tools.
Protect your OTP
Never share an Aadhaar OTP with an unknown caller, website, agent, or message sender.
UIDAI staff or a legitimate service should not require you to disclose an OTP to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
UIDAI Aadhaar Fees and Charges
Aadhaar fees depend on the service and the way you request it. Some services remain free, while others have prescribed charges.
For example, UIDAI currently lists:
| Service | Current information |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar enrolment | Free |
| e-Aadhaar download | Free |
| Separate demographic update at a centre | ₹75 |
| PVC Aadhaar card | ₹75 |
| Some biometric updates | Fee depends on age and applicable rules |
| Online document update | Currently free through the specified MyAadhaar route until June 14, 2027 |
UIDAI also currently lists a free email-address update facility through the Aadhaar App until December 31, 2026.
Because UIDAI can revise charges and temporary fee waivers, check the official fee page immediately before making a payment.
UIDAI Aadhaar Enrolment
If you do not have an Aadhaar number, you can begin the enrolment process through an authorised Aadhaar enrolment centre.
The process normally involves providing the required demographic information, submitting supporting documents, and completing biometric capture where applicable.
Documents for Aadhaar enrolment
UIDAI maintains an official list of accepted documents for Aadhaar enrolment and updates.
Do not rely on an old blog list because document requirements can change. Check the current UIDAI document list before visiting the centre.
Aadhaar for children
UIDAI also provides enrolment and mandatory biometric-update services for children.
Parents or guardians should check the current requirements for the child’s age group before visiting an Aadhaar centre.
UIDAI Security
Aadhaar-related scams often target people who are trying to update or download their documents.
Follow these simple rules:
- Use the official UIDAI website.
- Download the official Aadhaar App from the recognised app store.
- Never share OTPs with strangers.
- Do not post your Aadhaar publicly.
- Avoid unknown links claiming to offer Aadhaar updates.
- Check the website domain before entering personal information.
- Do not install unofficial Aadhaar applications.
- Keep downloaded Aadhaar files protected.
If someone asks you to send your Aadhaar number and OTP through WhatsApp without a clear official reason, stop and verify the request first.
Common UIDAI Problems and Solutions
UIDAI OTP is not arriving
Check that your registered mobile number has network access. Wait briefly and request another OTP if the service permits it.
Aadhaar update is pending
Keep your acknowledgement or request number and check the status through the official tracking service.
Aadhaar update was rejected
Review the rejection reason. If the submitted information or supporting document does not meet UIDAI requirements, correct the issue and submit the appropriate request again.
Aadhaar authentication failed
Authentication can fail for different reasons, including incorrect information, biometric mismatch, connectivity problems, or service-side issues. Check the official guidance rather than repeatedly trying random methods.
I cannot download Aadhaar
Check your Aadhaar details, registered mobile number, OTP delivery, internet connection, and PDF password requirements.
My mobile number is not linked to Aadhaar
If your current situation does not support online or app-based updating, visit an Aadhaar centre and follow UIDAI’s current mobile-number update procedure.
UIDAI Helpline Number
The official UIDAI helpline number is 1947. You can contact UIDAI support for Aadhaar-related assistance, including questions about enrolment, updates, authentication, and grievances.
Before calling, keep your request or enrolment reference available if you have one. Avoid sharing unnecessary sensitive information with anyone who claims to provide unofficial Aadhaar support.
UIDAI vs MyAadhaar vs Aadhaar App
These names can confuse new users.
| Platform | Main purpose |
|---|---|
| UIDAI website | Official information and Aadhaar ecosystem |
| MyAadhaar | Web-based Aadhaar services |
| Aadhaar App | Mobile-based Aadhaar management and sharing |
| Aadhaar Seva Kendra | In-person Aadhaar services |
The best option depends on your task. For example, you may use the website to understand a service, MyAadhaar for an online request, the Aadhaar App for supported mobile services, or an Aadhaar centre when physical verification is required.
What Makes UIDAI Important for Aadhaar Holders?
UIDAI brings many Aadhaar-related functions into one government-managed ecosystem.
Instead of treating Aadhaar as only a physical identity card, residents can now manage several aspects digitally. They can download electronic Aadhaar, update supported information, monitor requests, use security controls, check authentication activity, and share certain identity information through newer digital mechanisms.
The growth of the Aadhaar App also shows how UIDAI is expanding mobile-first services. In August 2026, the Government reported that the app had crossed 5 crore downloads and had facilitated millions of mobile-number, address, and email updates. This makes the app an important part of the current Aadhaar service landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UIDAI?
UIDAI is the Unique Identification Authority of India, the statutory authority responsible for administering the Aadhaar system.
What is the official UIDAI website?
The official UIDAI website is the Government of India’s Aadhaar authority website. Always verify that you are using the genuine UIDAI domain before entering personal information.
Is UIDAI the same as Aadhaar?
No. UIDAI is the authority that manages the Aadhaar system, while Aadhaar is the 12-digit identification number issued to an individual.
What is MyAadhaar?
MyAadhaar is UIDAI’s online platform that provides multiple Aadhaar-related services to residents.
How can I download Aadhaar?
You can download e-Aadhaar through the official UIDAI/MyAadhaar service using the identification and OTP verification method supported by UIDAI.
Can I update Aadhaar online?
Some Aadhaar updates are available online or through the Aadhaar App, while other changes require a visit to an Aadhaar centre.
Can I update my mobile number through the Aadhaar App?
Yes. UIDAI’s current Aadhaar App supports mobile-number updates subject to its verification requirements.
Can I update my name through the Aadhaar App?
No. UIDAI’s current FAQ says name updates are not currently available through the Aadhaar App. Such updates require the applicable Aadhaar centre process.
Can I update my biometric information online?
No. Biometric details such as fingerprints, iris information, and photographs require an Aadhaar centre.
What is a Virtual ID?
A Virtual ID is a temporary, revocable number associated with an Aadhaar number that can be used in supported authentication and verification situations.
What is Masked Aadhaar?
Masked Aadhaar hides part of the Aadhaar number and displays only the permitted digits, reducing unnecessary exposure of the complete number.
How can I lock Aadhaar biometrics?
You can use UIDAI’s supported biometric-lock facility through available official online or app-based services.
What is the UIDAI helpline number?
UIDAI’s official toll-free helpline number is 1947.
How can I find an Aadhaar centre?
Use UIDAI’s official Aadhaar centre locator to find an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or enrolment/update centre.
Is e-Aadhaar valid?
Yes. UIDAI recognises e-Aadhaar as a digitally signed electronic version of Aadhaar.
What should I do if my Aadhaar update gets rejected?
Check the reason for rejection, review the required documents or information, and follow UIDAI’s current process for submitting a corrected request.
Final Words
UIDAI is more than a website for downloading Aadhaar. It is the central authority behind a large digital identity ecosystem that includes enrolment, updates, authentication, security, online services, Aadhaar centres, and mobile-based tools.
For everyday users, the most important platforms are UIDAI, MyAadhaar, the Aadhaar App, and authorised Aadhaar centres. Use the online option when your service supports it, and visit an Aadhaar centre when UIDAI requires physical verification or biometric work.
Most importantly, use official UIDAI channels for Aadhaar services. Fees, update options, app features, and service rules can change, so verify the latest information before submitting a request or making a payment.
Keeping your Aadhaar information accurate and your authentication details secure can make future Aadhaar-related services much easier to manage.