Lost Your Aadhaar Card? Don’t Panic!
Losing your Aadhaar card can be stressful, but retrieving it is simple thanks to UIDAI’s online and offline solutions. Whether you need an e-copy or a physical reprint, here’s how to recover your Aadhaar card quickly.
Why Retrieving Your Aadhaar Card Matters
Your Aadhaar is essential for:
– Government subsidies (e.g., LPG, rations)
– Bank account and PAN linking
– Tax filings and SIM verification
Since your data is secure in UIDAI’s database, you can retrieve it anytime.
Method 1: Download e-Aadhaar Instantly
Time: 5 minutes | Cost: Free | Validity: Equal to physical card
- Go to UIDAI’s official website:
- Visit https://eaadhaar.uidai.gov.in.
- Select “Download Aadhaar”:
- Choose Aadhaar number, VID, or Enrollment ID.
- Enter OTP:
- Use your registered mobile to receive the OTP.
- Download & Unlock:
- Password format: First 4 letters of your name (CAPS) + birth year (e.g., “NEHA1985”).
Pro Tip: Save a password-protected PDF on your phone for emergencies.
Method 2: Order a PVC Aadhaar Card (Durable Reprint)
Time: 5-7 days | Cost: ₹50 | Delivery: To registered address
- Log in to UIDAI:
- Click “Order Aadhaar Reprint” under My Aadhaar.
- Verify with OTP:
- Enter the OTP sent to your linked mobile.
- Pay & Confirm:
- Use UPI, card, or net banking.
Note: PVC cards are waterproof and tamper-proof.
Method 3: Retrieve Forgotten Aadhaar Number
- Visit UIDAI’s Retrieve UID/EID page.
- Submit details:
- Full name, registered mobile/email, and captcha.
- Get Aadhaar via SMS/email.
Method 4: Offline Recovery at Enrolment Centre
- Find a centre:
- Locate via UIDAI’s portal.
- Bring documents:
- Proof of identity (PAN, Passport) and address.
- Request assistance:
- The executive will help retrieve your details.
Essential Tips
✔ Update mobile number at an enrolment centre if not linked.
✔ Use Masked Aadhaar (last 4 digits visible) for safer sharing.
✔ Verify Aadhaar authenticity here.
Final Thoughts
Your Aadhaar is irreplaceable, but losing the card isn’t permanent. With UIDAI’s digital tools, recovery is effortless. Keep backups and stay secure!
Still stuck? Ask us in the comments!
