Aadhaar Card Types: Know the Different Types and Find Out Which is Best for You
Aadhaar Card Overview: The Aadhaar card has become an essential document for every Indian today. Whether you're performing banking tasks or availing government services, an Aadhaar card is often required. It contains vital information such as your name, date of birth, mobile number, photograph, and biometric data. Linking your Aadhaar to your bank account, PAN card, and mobile number is crucial. But did you know that the UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) issues four types of Aadhaar cards?
According to UIDAI, all four types of Aadhaar cards are valid. Let’s explore these types:
1. Aadhaar Letter
The Aadhaar letter is a paper-based laminated document that includes the date of issue and a secure QR code. For new enrollments or necessary biometric and demographic updates (excluding mobile and email), individuals receive the Aadhaar letter via regular mail. If your Aadhaar letter is lost or damaged, you can order a replacement online for ₹50 through the UIDAI website. The letter will be delivered to your registered address via India Post’s fast post service.
2. e-Aadhaar
e-Aadhaar is the electronic version of the Aadhaar card, which can be verified digitally. It includes a secure QR code for offline verification and is password-protected. You can easily download e-Aadhaar or masked e-Aadhaar (which displays only the last four digits of your Aadhaar number) from the UIDAI official website using your registered mobile number. e-Aadhaar is automatically generated with every new enrollment or update and can be downloaded for free.
3. mAadhaar
mAadhaar is an official mobile application developed by UIDAI that can be installed on mobile devices. It provides Aadhaar holders with an interface to manage their Aadhaar records registered with UIDAI. This record includes your Aadhaar number, demographic information, and a photograph. It features a tamper-proof QR code for offline verification. Like e-Aadhaar, it can also be downloaded for free and is recognized as a valid form of ID.
4. Aadhaar PVC Card
The Aadhaar PVC card is the latest version of the Aadhaar card. This PVC-based card features digital signatures, a tamper-proof QR code, a photograph, demographic details, and various security measures. You can apply for the Aadhaar PVC card online by paying a fee of ₹50 through the UIDAI website (uidai.gov.in) or myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/genricPVC, using your Aadhaar number, virtual ID, or enrollment ID. The PVC card will be delivered to your registered address via India Post’s speed post service.
These are the four types of Aadhaar cards issued by UIDAI. Depending on your needs, you can choose the one that best suits you! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!