In India, the Aadhaar card serves as a strong proof of identity. Whether opening a bank account or buying a SIM card, your work cannot be done without it.
The Aadhaar card records all the essential information, including name, date of birth, mobile number, photograph, and biometrics.
While many people know these basics, not everyone is aware that the UIDAI issues four types of Aadhaar cards, each with unique features and benefits. All these cards are fully valid. Let’s take a closer look at each type:
Aadhaar Letter
The Aadhaar letter is a paper-based, laminated letter containing a secure QR code, the date of issue, and the print date. This card is sent to your home through the post without any fee.
If your original Aadhaar card is lost or damaged, you can get a replacement by ordering it online from the official UIDAI website for a fee of Rs 50.
e-Aadhaar
The e-Aadhaar is the electronic version of the Aadhaar card. It is password protected and digitally signed by the UIDAI.
This card also contains a secure QR code for offline verification. You can download it from the official UIDAI website at no charge. The e-Aadhaar is considered as valid as the physical copy of the Aadhaar card.
PVC Aadhaar Card (Aadhaar PVC Card)
The PVC Aadhaar card is a compact, durable card, similar in size to an ATM or debit card. Also known as the plastic Aadhaar card, it includes a digital QR code, photo, and demographic information.
You can obtain this card by visiting uidai.gov.in or Resident.uidai.gov.in using your Aadhaar number, virtual ID, or enrollment ID. A fee of Rs 50 is required for this card.
mAadhaar
mAadhaar is an official mobile application developed by the UIDAI. This app allows Aadhaar holders to carry their Aadhaar records on their mobile devices.
The app includes a secure QR code for offline verification and is available for free download. The mAadhaar app is recognized as a valid ID.
Understanding these four types of Aadhaar cards can help you choose the most convenient format for your needs, ensuring you always have a valid ID at hand.
