The Aadhaar card is a crucial document in India, serving as proof of identity and address. It is issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to all residents. While the physical card is important, losing it can be a significant inconvenience. Fortunately, obtaining a duplicate Aadhaar card online is a straightforward process. This guide will walk you through the steps, requirements, and important considerations for getting a duplicate Aadhaar card.
Why You Might Need a Duplicate Aadhaar Card
There are several reasons why you might need a duplicate Aadhaar card:
- Lost or Stolen Card: The most common reason is misplacing your physical Aadhaar card or having it stolen.
- Damaged Card: If your card is damaged, torn, or illegible, you may need a replacement.
- Outdated Information: While not strictly a duplicate, if your details have changed and you need an updated card, the process is similar.
- Convenience: You might want an extra copy for safekeeping or for different uses.
Eligibility for a Duplicate Aadhaar Card
To apply for a duplicate Aadhaar card online, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be an Indian resident.
- You must have a valid Aadhaar number (12-digit) or the Aadhaar Enrolment ID (EID) if you have recently enrolled.
- You must have a registered mobile number linked to your Aadhaar. This is crucial for receiving OTPs for verification.
Documents Required
The online process for obtaining a duplicate Aadhaar card is designed to be paperless. The primary requirement is your Aadhaar number or EID. However, you will need access to your registered mobile number for verification purposes. If you do not have your Aadhaar number, you can retrieve it using your registered mobile number or email address through the UIDAI website.
Steps to Get a Duplicate Aadhaar Card Online
The process is managed by the UIDAI and can be completed through their official portal. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
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Visit the UIDAI Website
Go to the official website of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI): https://uidai.gov.in/ or the myAadhaar portal: https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/.
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Navigate to the Aadhaar Services Section
On the myAadhaar portal, look for the section related to Aadhaar Services. You will find an option like 'Download Aadhaar' or 'Order Awaas'.
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Choose the 'Order Awaas' Option
Select the 'Order Awaas' (also known as Reprint Aadhaar) option. This service allows you to order a reprint of your Aadhaar card, which will be delivered to your registered address.
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Enter Your Aadhaar Details
You will be prompted to enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number or your 28-digit Aadhaar Enrolment ID (EID). If you have lost your Aadhaar number, you can retrieve it using the 'Retrieve Lost or Forgotten EID/Aadhaar Number' service available on the UIDAI website.
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Enter Security Code (CAPTCHA)
Enter the security code displayed on the screen to verify that you are not a robot.
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Enter Registered Mobile Number and OTP
If your mobile number is registered with Aadhaar, select the option 'Send OTP'. You will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on your registered mobile number. Enter this OTP in the designated field.
Note: If your mobile number is not registered, you cannot use this online service for ordering a reprint. You will need to visit an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre to update your mobile number first.
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Review and Confirm Details
Carefully review all the details displayed. Ensure that your name, address, and other information are correct.
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Make the Payment
The service for ordering a reprint of the Aadhaar card (Awaas) comes with a nominal fee. You will be directed to the payment gateway to pay the required amount, which is typically around ₹50 (including GST and postal charges). You can pay using credit card, debit card, net banking, or UPI.
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Download Service Request Number (SRN)
After successful payment, you will receive a Service Request Number (SRN) or Acknowledgement Number. Save this number carefully, as it can be used to track the status of your Aadhaar card reprint request.
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Track Your Application Status
You can track the status of your Aadhaar card reprint request on the UIDAI website using your SRN.
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Receive Your Duplicate Aadhaar Card
The reprinted Aadhaar card will be sent to your registered address via Speed Post within approximately 15 days of your order. The card is printed on a PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) material, making it durable and water-resistant.
Charges and Fees
The fee for ordering a duplicate or reprinted Aadhaar card via the 'Order Awaas' service is currently ₹50. This fee includes the cost of printing, GST, and postal charges for delivery through Speed Post. The payment is made online after submitting your request.
Benefits of the PVC Aadhaar Card
The reprinted Aadhaar card is now issued on a durable PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) material. This offers several advantages:
- Durability: PVC cards are more robust than paper printouts and are resistant to wear and tear.
- Water Resistance: They are less susceptible to damage from moisture.
- Security Features: The PVC card includes a hologram and a ghost image for enhanced security.
- Compact Size: It fits easily into your wallet, similar to a credit or debit card.
Important Considerations and Risks
While the process is generally smooth, keep the following points in mind:
- Registered Mobile Number is Key: Without a registered mobile number, you cannot complete the online reprint process. You must visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra for updates.
- Accuracy of Address: Ensure your address registered with UIDAI is current and accurate to receive the card without issues.
- Official Website Only: Always use the official UIDAI or myAadhaar portal for any Aadhaar-related services to avoid fraudulent websites.
- No Physical Visit Required (for reprint): The 'Order Awaas' service eliminates the need to visit an Aadhaar enrolment centre for a reprint, saving time and effort.
- Delivery Time: While typically 15 days, delivery times can vary based on postal services and your location.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I get a duplicate Aadhaar card if my mobile number is not registered?
A1: No, for ordering a reprint online, a registered mobile number is mandatory to receive the OTP for verification. If your number is not registered, you need to visit an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre to update your mobile number first.
Q2: How long does it take to receive the duplicate Aadhaar card?
A2: The reprinted Aadhaar card is usually delivered within 15 days of placing the order, subject to postal service efficiency.
Q3: What is the fee for ordering a duplicate Aadhaar card?
A3: The fee for the 'Order Awaas' service is ₹50, which includes printing, GST, and Speed Post charges.
Q4: Can I download my Aadhaar card instead of ordering a reprint?
A4: Yes, you can download the e-Aadhaar (a digital copy) instantly from the UIDAI website after verifying your details with an OTP. This e-Aadhaar is legally valid and can be used for most purposes. However, the 'Order Awaas' service provides a physical, durable PVC card.
Q5: What if the address on my Aadhaar card is incorrect?
A5: If your address is incorrect, you must update it first through the UIDAI portal (if you have a registered mobile number) or by visiting an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre before ordering a reprint. The reprint will be sent to the address currently registered in the Aadhaar database.
Losing your Aadhaar card can be stressful, but the online reprint service makes it easy to get a replacement. By following these steps and keeping your registered mobile number and address updated, you can ensure you always have a valid copy of this essential identification document.