How to Retrieve Lost Aadhaar UID & EID Number

Since Aadhaar usage has become widespread, you may have to carry it every day for one purpose or the other. With this comes the part of losing or misplacing the Aadhaar card. Worry not! The government has foreseen such a situation and has made the necessary provisions for you to get a duplicate copy of your card online or offline based on your convenience.

Steps to download duplicate e-Aadhaar card online

Step 1: Visit the official UIDAI website at https://eaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/.

Step 2: You can download an online copy of your Aadhaar card by providing your Aadhaar number (UID) or Enrolment ID (EID).

Step 3: Click on the ‘Send OTP’ button.

Step 4: Once you receive the OTP on your registered mobile, enter it in the space provided.

Step 5: Click on the ‘Verify and Download’ button at the bottom of the page.

Step 6: The Aadhaar card will be downloaded in PDF format that is password-protected.

Step 7: The password will be the first four letters of your name in uppercase and the year of your birth together. For example, if your name is Anish Kumar Y and the year of birth is 1991, the password to open the PDF is ‘ANIS1991’.

Step 8: Print this file to use it as your Aadhaar card.

Steps to download e-Aadhaar card online

If you do not have uninterrupted access to the internet, you can access your Aadhaar card offline. The procedure for offline access is given below:

Step 1: Call UIDAI’s toll-free number 1947 to speak to the customer service department.

Step 2: Inform the customer service representative about the lost/misplaced card and provide the Aadhaar Number or Enrolment ID.

Step 3: Once the necessary verification is completed, a duplicate Aadhaar card will be sent to your address via post.

If you cannot connect with the representatives via phone call, you can visit the provincial Aadhaar office to get your copy.

Make sure you update your mobile number and email address with UIDAI as and when there is a change. This is important because if you lose your Aadhaar card, the OTP will be sent to either your registered mobile number or email address. If the details held with the department is outdated, it will be difficult to retrieve your card.