How to Download Aadhaar in 2 Minutes (2026 Guide)

Losing your Aadhaar card feels scary, but it's actually a 2-minute fix. You don't need to visit any office, and you don't need to pay a single rupee. Here's exactly how.

What you need before you start

• Your 12-digit Aadhaar number OR the 14-digit enrolment ID from your acknowledgement slip
• The mobile number that is linked to your Aadhaar
• Any device with an internet connection

The 4 steps

1. Open the official website

Go to myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in. Make sure the URL is exactly this — fake copies exist to steal your OTP.

2. Click 'Download Aadhaar'

On the home page you'll see a big blue box that says Download Aadhaar. Click it.

3. Enter your Aadhaar number and OTP

Type your 12-digit Aadhaar number and the captcha shown on the screen. Then click Send OTP. A 6-digit code will arrive on your registered mobile within 30 seconds. Enter it.

4. Download and open the PDF

A PDF called something like *EAADHAAR_XXXXX.pdf* downloads to your phone or laptop. To open it, you need a password.

The password format (this is where most people get stuck)

The password is: First 4 letters of your name in CAPITAL LETTERS + Year of birth

Example: if your name is *Rahul Sharma* and you were born in *1995*, the password is RAHU1995.

If your name is shorter than 4 letters (e.g., *Ram*), use all letters plus zeros or year: RAM1995.

Common problems and fixes

"OTP not received" — Your mobile is not linked to Aadhaar. You must visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra with your original Aadhaar to update the mobile.

"Password not working" — Double-check the capital letters. Try both formats: with and without a space. If your name starts with a number or symbol on the card, use only letters.

"PDF looks blank" — Update your PDF reader. Adobe Reader or Google Drive PDF preview will both work.

What to do with the e-Aadhaar

The e-Aadhaar PDF is legally identical to the plastic card. You can:

• Print it and use it anywhere the physical card is accepted
• Save it in Digilocker for permanent free storage
• Show the PDF from your phone at banks, airports, and hotels

Never share the full PDF or password with any stranger who asks. Legitimate agencies will scan the QR code on the front — they never need your download password.

That's it. Your Aadhaar is now on your phone, forever, free.