How to Download Aadhar Card Online – Step by Step Guide
Aadhar Card is the most important identity document in India. It is required for opening a bank account, getting a SIM card, applying for government schemes, and much more. If you have lost your physical card or need a digital copy, you can easily download it online anytime.
In this guide, we will walk you through the complete process of downloading your Aadhar Card online — step by step.
What You Need Before You Start
- Your 12-digit Aadhar Number or Enrollment ID
- Mobile number registered with your Aadhar
- A stable internet connection
- A PDF reader to open the downloaded file
Steps to Download Aadhar Card Online
Open the Official UIDAI Website
Open your browser and go to uidai.gov.in — this is the only official website for Aadhar services. Never use any third-party website.
Click on "Download Aadhar"
On the homepage, go to the My Aadhar section and click on Download Aadhar.
Enter Your Aadhar Number
Type your 12-digit Aadhar number in the box. You can also use your Enrollment ID or Virtual ID.
Fill in the Captcha
Enter the captcha code shown on the screen. This is a simple security check.
Click "Send OTP"
Click the Send OTP button. A One Time Password will be sent to your registered mobile number instantly.
Enter the OTP
Check your mobile for the OTP and enter it on the website. The OTP is valid for 10 minutes only.
Download the Aadhar PDF
After successful OTP verification, your Aadhar Card will be downloaded as a password-protected PDF file on your device.
Open the PDF with Password
The PDF password is your first 4 digits of PIN code + birth year. Example: PIN 1100 + Year 1995 = Password 11001995.
PDF Password Format
| Your PIN Code (First 4 Digits) | Birth Year | Password |
|---|---|---|
| 1100 | 1995 | 11001995 |
| 4000 | 1988 | 40001988 |
| 5600 | 2001 | 56002001 |
Types of Aadhar Card You Can Download
| Type | Description | Valid? |
|---|---|---|
| e-Aadhar | PDF downloaded from UIDAI website | ✅ Yes |
| Masked Aadhar | PDF with first 8 digits hidden | ✅ Yes |
| m-Aadhar | Digital Aadhar on mAadhar app | ✅ Yes |
| Aadhar PVC Card | Plastic card ordered from UIDAI for ₹50 | ✅ Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
📋 Quick Summary
- Visit uidai.gov.in to download your Aadhar Card for free
- Enter your 12-digit Aadhar number and complete the captcha
- Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number
- Download the PDF and open it using your PIN code + birth year as password
- e-Aadhar is fully valid and accepted everywhere in India