Misplacing your Aadhaar card or forgetting your Aadhaar number might be worrying—especially when it is needed for important services like bank KYC, income tax return, or seeking government schemes. But the silver lining is that UIDAI has made it simple to retrieve your Aadhaar number or Enrolment ID (EID) in seconds through your registered mobile number or email. Below is the procedure with answers to frequently asked questions about Aadhaar recovery.
How to recover your Aadhaar number or EID online
If you've lost your Aadhaar card or forgotten your number, you can visit the official UIDAI website (uidai.gov.in) and select the "Retrieve Lost or Forgotten EID/UID" service. You will be asked to enter your full name, registered mobile number or email id, and security captcha. If you verify the OTP given to your mobile or email, you will receive your Aadhaar number (UID) or enrolment ID (EID) by SMS or email, depending upon your option.
What if your number is not registered?
If your mobile number is not linked with your Aadhaar, you will not be able to avail of the facility for online retrieval. If that is the case, you'll need to visit the Aadhaar Seva Kendra (ASK) or enrollment center designated by the government closest to you for modifying or updating your mobile number. Present a valid proof of identity for authentication. Once your number is enrolled, you'll be able to retrieve your Aadhaar details digitally.
Is it possible to download Aadhaar again?
Yes, once you have retrieved your Aadhaar number or EID, you can download an electronic copy of your Aadhaar—referred to as an e-Aadhaar—using the UIDAI portal and the "Download Aadhaar" option. By using the retrieved number and authenticating the OTP sent on your registered mobile, you can download your Aadhaar card PDF version. It is password-protected and as valid as a printed copy.
Is it safe to recover Aadhaar online?
Yes, UIDAI’s online platform uses OTP-based authentication to ensure that only the rightful owner can access Aadhaar details. Your information is not shared or displayed publicly. However, always access Aadhaar services through the official UIDAI website and avoid entering your details on unverified third-party platforms.
Quick and secure Aadhaar recovery
Forgetting your Aadhaar number does not mean that you have lost the eligibility to access essential services. UIDAI's online recovery process enables you to recover your Aadhaar or enrolment ID within a matter of minutes using your registered mobile number or email address. In case your contact details are obsolete, visit an Aadhaar centre and update them. Once recovered, you can even download an e-Aadhaar and continue to use it for verification wherever required.
FAQs
Q1. What is the difference between UID and EID?
Your Aadhaar number of 12 digits is UID and your 28-digit enrolment number provided at the time of your Aadhaar registration is EID. Either one can be downloaded from the UIDAI portal.
Q2. Is e-Aadhaar valid as a proof of ID?
e-Aadhaar is legally accepted and valid as proof of address and identity throughout India.
Q3. Can I download Aadhaar without a mobile number or email?
No. You must have a registered mobile number or email address to get Aadhaar online. Alternatively, you can visit an Aadhaar centre to update your contact information.
Q4. Is Aadhaar retrieval or reprinting free of cost?
Getting Aadhaar is free online. If you require the printed version by post, you can get a reprint for a nominal fee of ₹50 on the UIDAI website.
Q5. What can I do if I suspect Aadhaar fraud after I lose it?
You can also temporarily lock your Aadhaar biometrics online through UIDAI to prevent unauthorized use. You might also file a complaint or approach UIDAI's helpline.
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