Aadhaar has become one of the most essential identity documents in India. From opening a bank account and getting a mobile SIM to availing government schemes and healthcare services, Aadhaar is widely accepted across both public and private sectors. In today’s digital era, having access to your e-Aadhaar on your phone or computer is extremely useful.
But what happens if you forget your Aadhaar number (UID) or lose your Enrolment ID (EID)? Many people assume that downloading e-Aadhaar is impossible without these details. The good news is that UIDAI provides a simple and official way to retrieve your Aadhaar details and download e-Aadhaar, even if you don’t remember your UID or EID.
Here is a complete, step-by-step guide explained in simple terms.
Can You Download e-Aadhaar Without UID or EID?
Technically, you cannot directly download e-Aadhaar without an Aadhaar number or Enrolment ID. However, UIDAI allows users to retrieve their forgotten Aadhaar number or Enrolment ID using basic details. Once retrieved, you can easily download your e-Aadhaar.
This process is secure, OTP-based, and officially supported by UIDAI.
Things You Need Before You Start
Before proceeding, make sure you have the following details ready:
- Full name as mentioned on your Aadhaar card
- Registered mobile number linked with Aadhaar (mandatory for OTP)
- Access to a smartphone or computer with internet
Without a registered mobile number, Aadhaar retrieval and download is not possible online.
Step-by-Step Guide to Retrieve Aadhaar Number or Enrolment ID
If you’ve forgotten both your Aadhaar number and Enrolment ID, follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official UIDAI Website
Open the official UIDAI website on your phone or computer.
Step 2: Go to “Get Aadhaar” Section
Scroll down the homepage and click on the “Get Aadhaar” option.
Step 3: Select “Retrieve EID/UID”
Under Aadhaar services, click on “Retrieve EID/UID”.
Step 4: Choose What You Want to Retrieve
You will be asked to select whether you want to retrieve:
- Aadhaar Number (UID), or
- Enrolment ID (EID)
Select the appropriate option.
Step 5: Enter Required Details
Fill in:
- Your full name (as per Aadhaar)
- Registered mobile number
- Captcha code
Step 6: Verify OTP
Click on Send OTP, enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number, and submit.
Once verified, your Aadhaar number or Enrolment ID will be sent to your registered mobile number via SMS.
How to Download e-Aadhaar After Retrieving UID or EID
After retrieving your Aadhaar number or Enrolment ID, downloading e-Aadhaar is quick and easy.
Step 1: Visit UIDAI Homepage Again
Go back to the UIDAI website.
Step 2: Click on “Download Aadhaar”
Under Aadhaar services, click on “Download Aadhaar”.
Step 3: Enter Aadhaar Number or Enrolment ID
Choose:
- Aadhaar Number (UID), or
- Enrolment ID (EID)
Enter the details you just retrieved.
Step 4: Generate OTP
Fill in the captcha and click on Send OTP.
Step 5: Download e-Aadhaar
Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number and submit.
Your e-Aadhaar PDF file will be downloaded to your device.
Password to Open e-Aadhaar PDF
The downloaded e-Aadhaar file is password protected for security reasons.
Aadhaar PDF Password Format:
- First 4 letters of your name (in CAPITAL letters)
- Year of birth (YYYY format)
Example:
If your name is Akshay and your birth year is 1981,
Password: AKSH1981
Important Points to Remember
- e-Aadhaar is equally valid as a physical Aadhaar card
- Always download Aadhaar only from the official UIDAI website
- Keep your registered mobile number active for Aadhaar-related services
- Do not share OTP or Aadhaar details with unknown sources
Final Takeaway
Forgetting your Aadhaar number or Enrolment ID does not mean you are locked out of your Aadhaar services. UIDAI’s official retrieval system ensures that you can securely recover your Aadhaar details and download e-Aadhaar within minutes, provided your mobile number is linked.
This facility makes Aadhaar access more convenient and user-friendly, ensuring that citizens can always retrieve their identity document when needed.
