Documents required for a PAN card

A PAN is needed for bank accounts above basic limits, income tax returns, investments and big purchases. If you have an Aadhaar card linked to your mobile, you can get one free in minutes. Otherwise, here is what to keep ready.

Checklist · Last checked 2 November 2026

The short answer

Fastest way: if your Aadhaar is linked to your mobile number, apply for an instant e-PAN on incometax.gov.in. You only need your Aadhaar number and the OTP. It is free and the e-PAN arrives as a PDF.

Regular way: apply through Protean (NSDL) or UTIITSL using Form 49A with proof of identity, address and date of birth, plus two photos if you apply on paper.

Checklist for a new PAN (Form 49A)

Proof of identity (any one)

Proof of address (any one)

Proof of date of birth (any one)

Also keep ready

Instant e-PAN, step by step

  1. Open incometax.gov.in and choose Instant e-PAN.
  2. Enter your Aadhaar number and confirm the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile.
  3. Check the details pulled from Aadhaar and submit.
  4. Download the e-PAN PDF once it is allotted. It is as valid as the plastic card.

This works only for people who do not already have a PAN and whose Aadhaar has their full date of birth.

PAN for a minor

  • Child's proof of identity and address, such as Aadhaar
  • Child's date of birth proof, such as a birth certificate
  • Parent or guardian's identity and address proof
  • Parent signs the form on the child's behalf

When the child turns 18 they should apply to update the photo and signature on the same PAN.

Common mistakes

  • Applying for a second PAN. Holding two PANs is not allowed and can lead to a penalty. If you lost your card, get a reprint instead.
  • Name written differently from your Aadhaar. Use the same spelling.
  • Photo or signature crossing the box on the paper form.

PAN 2.0

The Income Tax Department is moving PAN services to one platform under PAN 2.0, with QR codes on new cards. Old PAN cards stay valid. You do not need to apply again.

Where to get a paper you are missing

  • Birth certificate: from your municipal body or the Registrar of Births and Deaths.
  • 10th certificate: a duplicate can be requested from your school board.
  • Updated Aadhaar: correct your name, date of birth or address on myAadhaar or at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra before applying, so your PAN matches.

After you get your PAN

  • Link your PAN with Aadhaar on the income tax portal. A PAN that is not linked can become inoperative.
  • Give your PAN to your bank, employer and investment accounts so tax is not deducted at a higher rate.
  • Never apply for a second PAN, even if you lose the card.

Questions people ask

Is the e-PAN valid without the plastic card?

Yes. The e-PAN PDF is a valid PAN card. You can order a physical card separately if you want one.

How long does a new PAN take?

Instant e-PAN usually takes minutes. A regular application usually takes a couple of weeks for the card to arrive by post.

Can I apply if my Aadhaar is not linked to my mobile?

Not for instant e-PAN. Apply through Protean or UTIITSL with the documents in the checklist, or link your mobile to Aadhaar first.

I lost my PAN card. Do I need a new one?

No. Your PAN number never changes. See what to do if you lose your PAN card.

Final rules and fees: incometax.gov.in, Protean (NSDL), UTIITSL. Rules change; this page is general information, not legal advice. Kaagaz is not a government service.