An individual’s Aadhaar serves as proof of identity in India. Residents of India who apply for an Aadhaar are given a one-of-a-kind Aadhaar number. An individual’s or a person’s Aadhaar number is a 12-digit random number that is assigned to them. The government agency responsible for issuing Aadhaar is the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). After passing the verification process and gathering the basic required demographic and biometric data of a particular individual, an Aadhaar will be issued.
An individual’s Aadhaar number cannot be allocated to another person, as it is unique for each individual. This is mainly due to the fact that Aadhaar numbers are tied to individual biometrics; there can only be one of them, as this would differ from person to person. For the convenience of residents, the UIDAI has introduced various forms of Aadhaar over time, including Aadhaar Letter, m-Aadhaar, and e-Aadhaar.
The Aadhaar PVC Card is the latest type of Aadhaar introduced by the UIDAI. Individuals can obtain a printout of their Aadhaar details on polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cards by submitting an application or making a request through the official portal or website of the UIDAI. An individual can have any of the types of Aadhaar provided by the agency, which suits their needs. All Aadhaar forms are accepted as proof of identity, with no preference given to one form over another.
Features of Security Provided by Aadhaar PVC Card
The following are the security features that are provided by the Aadhaar PVC card to the individual holding the same:
- Secure QR Code
- Ghost image
- Micro text
- Embossed Aadhaar Logo
- Hologram
- Issue Date and Print Date
- Guilloche Pattern
Advantages of Having a PVC Aadhaar Card
The new Aadhaar PVC card comes with a particular advantage, which is discussed herewith.
- Unlike the long Aadhaar letter form, it is the size of an ATM card or debit card, making it easy to carry in a wallet or purse that you keep in your pocket or hand.
- It also comes in a pocket-sized version.
- It is secure, safe, easily portable, and long-lasting.
- Verification can be performed offline in real-time.
- It also contains various security measures, including a digitally signed secure QR code with an image.
How to Apply for a PVC Aadhaar Card
To apply for the PVC Aadhaar, you should follow the below given steps:
Step 1: Under the tab, namely, ‘My Aadhaar’, go to the Official Aadhaar Website and click on ‘Order Aadhaar PVC.’
Step 2: Enter your ‘Aadhaar Number’ or ‘EID’ number‘Virtual ID’ number. And then enter the ‘Security Code’ and click on the ‘Send OTP’ or ‘Send TOTP’ button. Click on ‘Send TOTP’ to receive a Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) on your registered mobile number with the portal. Enter the OTP that was received on your registered mobile number. Then choose the ‘Terms and Conditions’ box and click on the ‘Submit’ button.
Note: To receive an OTP, you must use your registered mobile number or an alternate mobile number to order your Aadhaar PVC card. If you don’t have a registered mobile number, check the box that says “My Mobile number is not registered,” then input your phone number and click the “Send OTP” or “Send TOTP” button to complete the verification and register the number.
Step 3: On your screen, a preview of your Aadhaar details will now be displayed. After you’ve completed the double-checking or verification of the displayed information, click on the ‘Make Payments’ option.
It should be noted that, in case if your mobile number is not registered, then the preview of your Aadhaar Card shall not be available.
Step 4: In the next step, you must choose from the various payment options provided. You can then make the payment using a credit or debit card. For this, go to ‘Cards (Credit/Debit)’. To make payment using your Net Banking, go to ‘Net Banking.’ And for making a payment via the UPI system, click on ‘UPI.’ The cost of obtaining an Aadhaar PVC Card is only INR 50.
Step 5: On the completion of the payment for the PVC Aadhaar, a payment receipt will be generated for you. By clicking the ‘Download Payment Receipt’ option on the screen, you can save or print a PDF version of the receipt.
After receiving the request/order, the UIDAI will send or pass the Aadhaar PVC card to the Department of Post for dispatch, and it will be sent to the individual via speed post within a maximum of five working days.
How Can You Check the Status of Your Application?
You may check the status of your Aadhaar PVC card order after placing it by following the steps below –
Step 1: Visit the official Aadhaar website and navigate to the ‘My Aadhaar’ tab. Click on the ‘Check Aadhaar PVC Card Status’ option displayed on the screen.
Step 2: Enter your ‘Aadhaar Number’ and ‘Security Code’ in the provided boxes. Select ‘Send OTP’ or ‘Send TOTP’ from the drop-down menu given on the screen. To receive a Time-Based-One-Time-Password (TOTP) on your phone, click the ‘Send TOTP’ button. Enter the OTP that was sent to your mobile or the cell phone number. Click the ‘Submit’ button after selecting the ‘Terms and Conditions’ box.
Note: If you don’t have a registered mobile number, then select ‘My Mobile number is not registered,’ then input your phone or mobile number and click the ‘Send OTP’ or ‘Send TOTP’ button.
Step 3: Your request’s ‘SRN Number’ and ‘Status’ are displayed. The acknowledgement slip can be downloaded by clicking the ‘Download Acknowledgement Slip’ button in a PDF format and printed or saved.
The Aadhaar PVC Card is one of the latest services and products that have been made available to citizens and individuals, allowing them to easily carry their identity without compromising the security and safety of the same. Applying for it and getting it delivered to your doorstep is not a complex process, which makes it a relevant and innovative one.
Frequently Asked Questions?
Are Aadhaar’s available in different forms?
The UIDAI issues four different types of Aadhaar cards. Aadhaar letter, e-Aadhaar, m-Aadhaar, and Aadhaar PVC card are the four types of Aadhaar that are made available. The Aadhaar letter is a paper document that is either covered or laminated and protected, and is issued to residents upon new enrolment or as a result of a required biometric update.
e-Aadhaar is the electronic version of Aadhaar that residents can download and keep with them. The digital version of Aadhaar, m-Aadhaar, can be put on mobile phones. Aadhaar PVC card is a card that fits easily into your pocket, or is a pocket-sized Aadhaar card that is strong and easy to carry. All four types and forms of Aadhaar issued by the agency are accepted as proof of identification, with no preference given to one over the other.
How many days will it take to receive the PVC Aadhaar?
The UIDAI would send the physical Aadhaar PVC card to the Department of Posts (DoP) of the country within a maximum of five business days after receiving the request, upon completion of the application procedure on the Official Aadhaar Website. It will not include the date on which you make the application or request for the Aadhaar PVC card. It will then be delivered to the individual using the Department of Posts’ Speed Post service. DoP Status Follow Services can be used to track the delivery status of the Aadhaar PVC card or even the current location update of the same.
What charges are payable for obtaining a PVC Aadhaar?
The cost of receiving an Aadhaar PVC card is INR 50, which includes GST and speed post expenses. To apply for an Aadhaar PVC card, you must make the payment online.
Can I request a PVC Aadhaar card if I don’t have a registered mobile number?
Yes, you can apply. ‘My Mobile number is not registered’ is an option available when applying for an Aadhaar PVC card on the official UIDAI portal. Check this box and enter your non-registered or other cellphone number before clicking ‘Send OTP.’ The OTP will be sent to your non-registered or any other phone number that you entered. Continue the application procedure by entering the OTP and completing the verification.
What is meant by the SRN number?
SRN is a 28-digit Service Request Number (SRN) that is produced and issued once you complete the Aadhaar PVC card request process. The SRN would be given on the payment receipt, which is issued to you. It is generated every time you submit a request for Aadhaar PVC generation, regardless of whether the payment is successful or not. It would also be available and useful when you check the status of your request or application.
Can the basic details be changed before I submit the request for a PVC Aadhaar?
Yes. A preview of your Aadhaar PVC card will be displayed along with your details when you submit a request for the issuance of your Aadhaar PVC card. If your mobile number is registered, the preview will appear. If any of the details have changed, you can click the ‘Cancel’ option and return. By accessing the Permanent Enrolment Centre or the SSUP site, you can update the information on your Aadhaar letter or card. After the necessary changes are made, you can apply for an Aadhaar PVC card.
