Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to Indian residents. It functions like a digital ID that can be used for various purposes. Each Aadhaar number is unique to a single individual. Aadhaar uses biometric data (fingerprints, iris scans) and demographic information (name, address) for verification.
Considering its importance, losing or forgetting an Aadhaar number can be stressful for individuals. However, remember it is a manageable situation. By taking the steps mentioned below, you can minimise any inconvenience and potential risks.
If you have lost or forgotten your Aadhaar number, you can retrieve it easily through the official website of UIDAI.
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Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- The lost/forgotten Aadhaar number can be retrieved online by visiting the following link https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/retrieve-eid-uid
- Select your requirement – Aadhaar/EID you want to retrieve
- Enter full name as in Aadhaar, mobile number/email linked with Aadhaar and Captcha
- Enter OTP.
- After mobile OTP-based authentication, the Aadhaar number/EID as per request will be sent through SMS to the linked mobile number.
- This service is free of cost.
In case your mobile number is not linked to Aadhaar, here’s how you can find a lost/forgotten Aadhaar number;
UIDAI provides multiple options to trace or retrieve your lost/forgotten Aadhaar number, even if your mobile/email ID is not linked with Aadhaar.
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Option 1: Aadhaar number can be retrieved with the help of an operator at Aadhaar enrolment centre using the “Print Aadhaar” service.
- Aadhaar number holders to visit an Aadhaar enrolment centre in person.
- Provide the following mandatory information: Name, gender, district, or PIN code as per the Aadhaar generated enrolment.
- In case the requirement could not be traced due to the presence of multiple records, additional available demographic details such as year of birth, C/O, State etc. may also be provided for narrowing the search.
- Provide Biometric authentication using a single fingerprint or single iris (RD device).
- If a match is found, the operator will provide a printout of the e-Aadhaar letter.
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Option 2: Retrieving Lost/forgotten Aadhaar number by calling UIDAI Helpline number 1947
Stage 1
- Call 1947 (Toll-free)
- Provide Demographic details required by the executive, as per your request
- If a match is found EID will be provided on-call by the executive.
- This service is free of cost.
Stage 2 (IVRS)
- Call 1947 again. After selecting Language option – Key-in option 1 (request status) followed by option 2 (request of Aadhaar enrolment status)
- Provide the available EID number of the Aadhaar-generated enrolment to IVRS
- Provide Date of Birth and PIN code as per the Aadhaar-generated enrolment to IVRS
- If a match is found, IVRS shall communicate the Aadhaar number.
- This service is free of cost.
