Aadhaar has become a very important identity proof for Indian residents because of the voluntary registrations and the mandatory linking with PAN for the past couple of years. It is a 12-digit unique number allotted to only residents by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). As per rules set by UIDAI, it is imperative to keep your Aadhaar details including your name, address, biometric information and so on, updated at all times.
Previously, the process of name change in Aadhaar card was both online and offline through registered enrollment centres. However, now, only the address change in Aadhaar card is online and the rest all updates in Aadhaar card is offline. This means that you can change your name in the Aadhaar card only by visiting an official Aadhaar enrolment centre after downloading the Aadhaar enrolment form. Read on to know more about the process.
The form to update your name is available on the UIDAI website. You must download the form, fill out the required details and submit it to the Aadhaar Seva Kenrda. Alternatively, you can also visit the Aadhaar Seva Kendra and obtain the form, fill it out and submit it at the centre.
Currently, you cannot update the name online. Here is the step-by-step process to change your name on Aadhaar card:
You will receive an acknowledgement slip containing an updated URN (Update Request Number). By using this URN, you can check your UIDAI Aadhaar update status.
Although over 15 documents are accepted, some of the popular proofs of identity (POI) are:
Since it is a common practice in India to change surnames after marriage, UIDAI has made it possible to update your last name online by downloading the Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Form, filling it up and submitting it to the Aadhaar Seva Kendra along with the fees and documents.
You cannot change your name without valid identity proof. Keep at least one original proof of identity document with you while visiting the Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar Enrolment Centre, such as a PAN card, driving license, Voter ID, ration card, etc.
Once you have submitted your Aadhaar update application, you will receive a URN. You can track the status of your request by following the below steps:
Step 1: Visit the UIDAI website.
Step 2: Click on ‘Check Aadhaar Update Status’ option under ‘My Aadhaar’.
Step 3: Select ‘URN’. Enter the URN and the captcha code and click ‘Submit’.
Step 4: The status of the Aadhaar update application will be displayed on the screen.
Once your Aadhaar card is ready with the updated name, you can download the updated version of your card from UIDAI website. However, it is important to note that to access the Aadhaar online, it is essential to have your mobile number registered with your Aadhaar. Here is the step-by-step guide to downloading Aadhaar after changing your name:
Step 1: Visit the UIDAI website and move to ‘My Aadhaar’.
Step 2: Click on ‘Download Aadhaar' option under the ‘Get Aadhaar’ tab.
Step 3: Click on the ‘Download Aadhaar’ tab.
Step 4: Select Aadhaar Number, enter the Aadhaar number, captcha code and click on ‘Send OTP’.
Step 5: Enter the OTP that you received on your mobile number, select if you want a masked Aadhaar and click the ‘Verify & Download’ button to download a PDF of your e-Aadhaar card.
An Aadhaar card is one of the most important proofs of government identity, containing all your demographic and biometric information. However, there may be situations where you change your name due to marriage or some other reason. In such a situation, applying for a name change on your Aadhaar card is essential, although the Unique Identification number in your Aadhaar card remains the same.
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