No Aadhaar Number? No Problem! Here’s How To Retrieve & Download It

If you have misplaced your Aadhaar number or Enrolment ID, there is no need to worry. A convenient facility allows Indian residents to download their e-Aadhaar card using only their full name and date of birth. This feature ensures uninterrupted access to identity services, especially when essential information is temporarily unavailable. Experts advise keeping Aadhaar details updated for hassle-free use across government and financial services.

What Is Aadhaar and Why It Matters

The Aadhaar number is a unique 12-digit identification number issued by the government of India. It serves as proof of both identity and address and is widely used in banking, telecom, taxation, and welfare schemes. Aadhaar is managed by the central authority responsible for identity services in the country. It is essential to keep this identification updated and accessible.

How to Retrieve Aadhaar Using Name and Date of Birth

Even without your Aadhaar or Enrolment ID, you can still retrieve the details using the official online portal. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Visit the official Aadhaar website.
   
2. Navigate to the section that allows retrieval of lost or forgotten UID or EID.
   
3. Choose whether you want to retrieve your Aadhaar number or the enrolment ID.
   
4. Enter your full name, registered mobile number or email address, and date of birth.
   
5. Complete the captcha verification and click on the option to receive a One-Time Password (OTP).
   
6. Enter the OTP received on your registered contact.
   
7. Once verified, your Aadhaar number or Enrolment ID will be sent to your registered email or mobile.
   

Steps to Download Your e-Aadhaar After Retrieval

Once you have retrieved your Aadhaar or Enrolment ID, follow these instructions to download your e-Aadhaar:

1. Go to the Aadhaar online portal.
   
2. Click on the option to download Aadhaar.
   
3. Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number, 28-digit Enrolment ID, or 16-digit Virtual ID.
   
4. Fill in the captcha for verification.
   
5. Choose to receive an OTP and enter it when prompted.
   
6. After successful OTP verification, your e-Aadhaar will be downloaded as a PDF file.
   

The PDF file is password-protected. The password is a combination of the first four capital letters of your name and your birth year. For example, if your name is RAVI and you were born in 1990, your password would be RAVI1990.

Free Aadhaar Updates Extended

The government has extended the deadline for free online updates of Aadhaar demographic information. Residents can update details such as name, address, date of birth, and gender on the official portal without incurring any charges until 14 June 2025. After this deadline, updates will be chargeable and may require a visit to a physical Aadhaar enrolment centre.

Experts recommend taking advantage of the free update window to ensure all information is current and accurate. This is particularly important for individuals who enrolled several years ago and whose details may have changed.

Benefits of Keeping Aadhaar Updated

Maintaining an up-to-date Aadhaar record offers several benefits:

• Seamless access to banking and financial services
  
• Ease of KYC verification for mobile connections
  
• Swift processing for income tax filings and refunds
  
• Eligibility for government subsidies and welfare schemes
  

Accurate information on Aadhaar reduces the likelihood of rejection in services that require identity verification.

What to Keep in Mind

• Ensure your mobile number is registered with Aadhaar for OTP verification.
  
• Keep your email updated for smoother communication and retrieval.
  
• Make use of online facilities to avoid long queues at physical centres.
  

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. For detailed instructions, policy changes, or specific assistance, users should refer to the official Aadhaar website or contact authorised support services.