Lost your Aadhaar card? Here is what to do

Your Aadhaar number never changes, and a downloaded e-Aadhaar is as valid as the printed letter. Here is how to get your number back, get a new copy and keep it from being misused.

Guide · Last checked 2 November 2026

Step 1: Get your Aadhaar number back

  1. Go to myAadhaar on the UIDAI website and choose Retrieve EID/UID.
  2. Enter your name as on Aadhaar and your registered mobile number or email.
  3. Enter the OTP. Your Aadhaar number (UID) or enrolment ID (EID) is sent to your phone.

Retrieving the number online is free.

Step 2: Download e-Aadhaar

On myAadhaar, choose Download Aadhaar, enter your Aadhaar number and the OTP, and save the PDF. The file is password-protected: the password is the first four letters of your name in capitals followed by your year of birth, for example RAVI1988. You can also choose a masked Aadhaar, which hides the first eight digits and is safer to share.

Step 3: Order a PVC Aadhaar card

If you want a wallet-size card, order an Aadhaar PVC card on myAadhaar for a small fee. It is printed by UIDAI and sent to your Aadhaar address by Speed Post. Avoid shops that print unofficial plastic copies.

Step 4: Lock your biometrics

To stop anyone from using your fingerprints or iris for authentication, lock your biometrics on myAadhaar or in the official Aadhaar app. You can unlock them for a short time whenever you need to authenticate. You can also check your authentication history to see where your Aadhaar was used.

If your mobile number is not linked

  • Visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or enrolment centre with any proof of identity.
  • They can find your Aadhaar using your biometrics and give you a print for a small fee.
  • While you are there, link your mobile number so you can use online services next time.

Should I file a police complaint?

It is not needed to get a new copy. If your card was stolen or you suspect misuse, file a complaint with the police and keep a copy, lock your biometrics, and call UIDAI's helpline 1947.

So it does not happen again

  • Keep the e-Aadhaar and a masked Aadhaar saved on your phone.
  • Share the masked Aadhaar when the full number is not needed.
  • Write the purpose and date across any photocopy you hand over.
  • Keep your mobile number linked and your details up to date. UIDAI asks people to update documents if their Aadhaar is more than 10 years old.
  • Keep biometrics locked unless you are about to use them.

Questions people ask

Is e-Aadhaar valid like the original?

Yes. UIDAI says a downloaded e-Aadhaar is as valid as the printed Aadhaar letter.

Do I need to enrol again?

No. Never enrol again. Your Aadhaar number is permanent; you only need a new copy.

What is the e-Aadhaar password?

The first four letters of your name in capital letters, followed by your year of birth, for example RAVI1988.

How long does the PVC card take?

It is usually dispatched within a few working days and delivered by Speed Post.

Final steps and fees: uidai.gov.in or call 1947. Rules change; this page is general information, not legal advice. Kaagaz is not a government service.