Know what is an Aadhaar PVC card along with other serials like how to download, print, and check your card status.
Last updated on: May 25, 2026
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced various forms of Aadhaar over the years, including mAadhaar, the Aadhaar letter, and eAadhaar. One of the latest formats is the Aadhaar PVC card, a durable, wallet-sized card made of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). This version offers added convenience and portability for Aadhaar holders.
The Aadhaar PVC Card is a compact, wallet-friendly version of the Aadhaar card, printed on polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material. This durable card includes advanced security features like a hologram, ghost image, micro text, and guilloché pattern, ensuring authenticity and ease of verification. You can get the Aadhaar PVC card easily by applying through the official UIDAI website.
The Aadhaar PVC Card is more than just a plastic version of your ID. Tt is a high-tech, digitally signed document. Unlike a standard laminated printout, the PVC card functions through a multi-layered verification system:
To apply for an Aadhaar PVC Card, you must meet the following eligibility indications:
You must have an Aadhaar number assigned by UIDAI.
Having a registered mobile number (not mandatory, but allows you to complete the OTP-based verification process).
You should fulfil valid Aadhaar requirements like having proper documentation for name, date of birth, address, etc.
You should be a resident of India.
Applying for the Aadhaar PVC Card through the official website of UIDAI is easy. Follow the below steps to complete your application:
Go to the Aadhaar website by clicking this link. https://uidai.gov.in/my-aadhaar/get-aadhaar.html
Click on the ‘Order Aadhaar PVC’ button.
Enter any one of the following details:
a.Your 12-digit Aadhaar number
b.Your 16-digit virtual ID
c.Your 28-digit Enrolment ID
In case you are using a mobile number that is not registered, you need to tick the relevant box and enter your unregistered number.
a.Internet banking
b.UPI
c.Credit card/Debit card
That completes your application process for Aadhaar PVC card. Your Aadhaar PVC card will be sent to you via speed post after the UIDAI receives your application.
The login process has been optimised for better security and accessibility. There are two distinct ways to log in to order your card, depending on whether you have a registered mobile number.
This is the most secure method and is recommended if you want to preview your data before printing.
If you do not have access to your registered mobile number, you can still log in to the ordering service.
Note: In this mode, you will not be able to preview your Aadhaar details (for privacy reasons). You will proceed directly to the payment screen to finalise the order. Also, you can now skip the OTP entirely by using face authentication to log in. This is a lifesaver if you are in an area with poor cellular reception.
The Aadhaar PVC Card application comes with a nominal fee of ₹75, making it an affordable option for you. This fee includes the cost of printing, packaging, and delivering the card to your registered address via Speed Post.
If you have applied for an Aadhaar PVC card, here is how you can check your card status online:
If you are using an unregistered mobile number, select the relevant option and enter that mobile number.
You will be shown the Service Request Number (SRN) for your request, along with the Aadhaar PVC card status.
The ‘Order Aadhaar PVC Card’ service, introduced by UIDAI, allows Aadhaar holders to have their Aadhaar details printed on a durable PVC card for a minimal fee.
Here is how you can order the Aadhaar PVC card:
Visit the official website of the Unique Identification Authority of India at https://uidai.gov.in/my-aadhaar/get-aadhaar.html
Next, click on the ‘Order Aadhaar PVC card’ button.
Enter your 12-digit long Aadhaar Card number on the following page. You can also choose to enter your 16-digit long Virtual ID or 28 Digit Enrolment ID (ID) as an alternative.
Enter the captcha code and click on the ‘Send OTP/TOTP’ button to proceed.
You will then receive a one-time password on your registered mobile number. Enter the same in the relevant field to proceed.
If you have not registered your mobile number with UIDAI, click on ‘My mobile number is not registered' and then enter the non-registered mobile number. You will then receive an OTP on that number. You must enter that in the relevant field and proceed.
You will be shown your Aadhaar details. Preview them carefully and then proceed.
Next, pay the fee of ₹75 through either UPI, Net Banking, Credit Card or Debit Card.
Once you make the payment successfully, download the payment slip that appears on the page that will follow.
You will receive a Service Request Number (SRN). Save this number to track your card’s status via the portal or the Kisan e-Mitra AI chatbot.
You can also download the Aadhaar PVC card from the print option.
Important Note: The Aadhaar PVC card cannot be downloaded or printed at local shops. Any PVC card not issued directly by UIDAI via this process lacks the official hologram and secure QR code, making it invalid for high-security verification at airports or banks.
After successfully placing an order for the Aadhaar PVC Card, the UIDAI processes and hands over the printed card to the Department of Post (DoP).
The DoP then delivers the card to your registered address using Speed Post services, adhering to their standard delivery norms.
With the increase in third-party printing services, ensuring your card is an officially issued document from UIDAI is essential. Verification has become a seamless digital process through the "Aadhaar QR Scanner" and advanced physical markers. Follow these steps to confirm your card’s authenticity:
The most reliable way to verify your card is by using the secure QR code printed on the back.
Official PVC cards issued in 2026 include several "offline" security features that are nearly impossible for local printers to replicate:
Every official PVC card now prominently displays both the date the Aadhaar was originally issued and the specific date this PVC version was printed. Cross-reference these dates with your "Check Status" history on the official UIDAI portal to ensure they match the records of your last requested reprint.
Run your finger over the Aadhaar logo. On authentic 2026 PVC cards, the logo is slightly embossed (raised), providing a tactile feel that flat-bed local printers cannot achieve.
Note: Never share your Aadhaar number or scan your QR code on possibly malicious third-party ‘verification’ websites. Always use official UIDAI applications to ensure your data remains encrypted and secure.
To monitor the status of the delivery of your Aadhaar PVC Card, follow these steps:
The Aadhaar PVC Card offers advanced features making it a reliable form of identification.
Here are the key features of the polyvinyl card issued by UIDAI:
Embossed Aadhaar Logo
The card comes with an embossed Aadhaar logo, which is difficult to replicate, ensuring authenticity.
Ghost Image
This is a faint version of the cardholder's photograph that becomes visible when the card is held against light, aiding in verification.
Micro Text
The card features micro text that can only be read with a magnifying glass, adding another layer of security against counterfeiting.
Hologram
A hologram is present on the card, providing a visual security element that is challenging to duplicate.
Print Date and Issue Date
The card mentions both the issue date and print date, which helps in verifying the card’s validity.
Secure QR Code
A highly secure QR code is embedded, containing all the information printed on the card. This allows for quick and reliable verification.
Guilloché Pattern
The card includes a complex Guilloché pattern, an intricate design that cannot be easily copied.
Invisible Aadhaar Logo
In addition to the embossed logo, the card features an invisible Aadhaar logo for added security.
The Aadhaar PVC card comes with several benefits. Here are some key benefits of the card:
It is pocket-sized and lightweight, making it easy to carry around, much like a debit or credit card.
It is a safe and secure option. It contains several safety features like a secure QR code, micro text and a hologram.
It can be verified instantly even through offline mode, making it one of the easiest ID verification cards to carry around.
Here are some key reasons for obtaining a PVC Aadhaar card:
The card remains durable for a longer time as it is made of Polyvinyl chloride, which is a synthetic polymer of plastic.
It is light-weight, water-resistant and resembles a debit card which makes it easier to carry in a wallet.
It functions and appears similar to a paper-based card.
You can easily submit it for your identity verification.
The normal Aadhaar card is a laminated paper-based document. This is usually issued when an applicant applies for an Aadhaar card.
However, the PVC card is an updated version of the paper-based card made of PVC which is easier to carry, is durable, and has plenty of security features.
While the application process is generally smooth, users may occasionally encounter technical or procedural hurdles. Understanding these common issues can help you navigate the application more effectively.
Ordering your PVC card is a straightforward process, but to ensure a smooth delivery and avoid wasting the ₹50 fee, keep these points in mind:
Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has now allowed the Aadhaar Card to be reprinted as Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) card which can be carried easily like an ATM or a debit card. This Aadhaar PVC Card is comparatively durable, has good printing quality and lamination, is convenient to carry, and can easily be verified offline through QR Code.
Beyond serving as a reliable ID, your Aadhaar PVC Card can also be instrumental in fulfilling important financial goals. For instance, if you’re considering buying a house, you can use your Aadhaar PVC Card as valid ID and address proof when applying for a home loan on Bajaj Markets. With competitive interest rates and flexible terms, securing a home loan has never been easier.
Reviewer
Any individual with a 12-digit Aadhaar number can apply for the Aadhaar PVC Card. You can apply using the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar. If your mobile number is not registered, you can still apply by providing an unregistered mobile number during the application process.
The application fee is ₹50, which includes GST and delivery charges.
UIDAI processes and hands over the card to the Department of Post (DoP) within five working days from the date of application. The DoP delivers it to your registered address via Speed Post.
You can pay the ₹50 application fee through UPI, internet banking, debit card, or credit card.
Yes, the Aadhaar PVC Card will display the same 12-digit Aadhaar number assigned to you.
The Aadhaar PVC Card includes the following security features:
Secure QR code
Hologram
Micro text
Ghost image
Issue date and print date
Guilloché pattern
Embossed Aadhaar logo
Yes, all forms of Aadhaar—including Aadhaar letters, eAadhaar, mAadhaar, and Aadhaar PVC Cards—contain the same information and are equally valid. You can choose the format that suits your needs.
SRN stands for Service Request Number. It is a 28-digit number generated when you raise a request for ordering an Aadhaar PVC card online.
Yes, you can order a reprint of your Aadhaar PVC Card anytime. Additionally, you can request a reprint if you’ve updated any details.
No, images of the Aadhaar card stored on mobile devices are not valid. However, you can use the mAadhaar app or store your Aadhaar in DigiLocker for digital access.
Yes, the Aadhaar PVC Card is water-resistant due to its high-quality printing and durable PVC material.
Yes, the Aadhaar PVC Card is often referred to as the Aadhaar smart card. It is lightweight, durable, and contains advanced security features. You can apply for the Aadhaar smart card online.
Yes, all formats of Aadhaar, including eAadhaar, mAadhaar, Aadhaar letters, and Aadhaar PVC Cards, are equally valid as proof of identity and address.
Yes, you can order multiple Aadhaar PVC Cards. Each card requires a separate application and payment.
No, UIDAI does not authorise the printing of Aadhaar PVC cards by local shops or at home. Only cards ordered through the official UIDAI website are considered valid. These official cards contain essential security features like holograms and micro-text that cannot be replicated by standard home or commercial printers.
Upgrading to a PVC card offers superior durability and portability compared to the paper version. It is water-resistant, fits easily in a wallet, and features advanced security elements, including a secure QR code, hologram, and ghost image. This makes it harder to forge and easier to verify for various official services.
No, the Aadhaar PVC card itself cannot be "downloaded" as a PDF. You can download an e-Aadhaar in PDF format from the UIDAI portal, but the PVC version is a physical, high-security card that must be ordered online and delivered to your registered address via Speed Post.
To check your status, visit the UIDAI website and select the relevant option. Enter the 28-digit Service Request Number (SRN) generated during your application, along with your Aadhaar number and captcha. The portal will display the current stage of your card’s printing or dispatch.
No, biometric verification is not required to apply for a PVC card. You only need your Aadhaar number (or Virtual ID/EID) and an OTP sent to your mobile number. Even if your mobile is not registered, you can use a non-registered number to receive the OTP for the application.
No, you cannot change your address during the ordering process. The PVC card is strictly delivered to the address already present in the UIDAI database. If your address has changed, you must first update it through the official Aadhaar update process before placing an order for the PVC card.
Yes, the Aadhaar PVC card is a legally valid form of identification across India. It carries the same authority as the Aadhaar letter or e-Aadhaar. Its offline verification capability, via the secure QR code, makes it widely accepted by banks, airports, and other government and private institutions.