Many users struggle to download their Aadhaar because the process usually requires an OTP sent to their registered mobile number. OTP helps keep your personal details secure, but problems like lost phones, no network, OTP not received, or an unregistered mobile number often stop people from completing the download. To fix this, UIDAI has added several alternative methods that allow you to download or access your Aadhaar even without OTP. These updated options (2025) are especially useful for people who urgently need their Aadhaar but cannot receive an OTP.
Yes. UIDAI now permits Aadhaar access through certain methods where OTP is not required, depending on the service you use. OTP was introduced to secure identity and prevent unauthorized downloads. With new authentication technologies in 2025, UIDAI offers alternative ways to download or access Aadhaar for users who cannot receive OTP.
Aadhaar (Enrolment and Update) First Amendment Regulations, 2025 (PDF)
UIDAI’s Current Policy (2025 Update)
UIDAI continues to prefer OTP-based verification for online Aadhaar downloads to ensure safety. But if you don’t have access to your registered mobile number, UIDAI now offers offline and non-OTP online options such as:
Face authentication
DigiLocker access
Aadhaar Seva Kendra printout services
These options let you get your Aadhaar without needing OTP on your phone.
When OTP Is Mandatory
You must use OTP in the following situations:
When downloading Aadhaar directly from the UIDAI website
When generating an eAadhaar PDF with password protection
When updating demographics online (address, name, etc.)
When verifying Aadhaar online through KYC
When retrieving Aadhaar number using UIDAI’s “Get Aadhaar” service
In these cases UIDAI requires OTP to confirm that you are the rightful owner.
When OTP Is NOT Required
You can download or access Aadhaar without OTP in the following cases:
1. Face Authentication Download
UIDAI allows Aadhaar download using FaceRD (face recognition), where mobile OTP is not required.
2. DigiLocker Access
If your DigiLocker is already linked with Aadhaar, you can download your Aadhaar anytime from the app without entering an OTP.
3. Aadhaar Seva Kendra (Offline Download)
You can visit any Aadhaar centre to get:
Aadhaar printout
Aadhaar PVC card
Aadhaar reprint
These services do not require OTP if you verify your identity using biometrics.
4. Using Enrolment ID (EID) at Centres
If you have your enrolment slip, Aadhaar Seva Kendra operators can reprint Aadhaar without OTP.
Documents & Details You Must Have for downloading Aadhaar Card
For Face Authentication
Aadhaar number
Smartphone with a front camera
FaceRD-supported app
For DigiLocker
DigiLocker account already linked to Aadhaar
Login ID and password (or biometric login)
For Aadhaar Seva Kendra
Aadhaar number or Enrolment ID (EID)
Any valid ID proof (if requested)
Biometrics (fingerprint/iris) for verification
For Enrolment Slip
Enrolment ID (EID) printed on the Aadhaar slip
Methods to Download Aadhaar Without OTP
Method 1: Download Aadhaar Using Face Authentication (No OTP Needed)
What is UIDAI Face Auth?
UIDAI’s Face Authentication lets users verify identity via facial recognition instead of OTP. It uses the Aadhaar-linked photo in UIDAI’s database and matches your live face using the FaceRD app.
Requirements
Smartphone with a working front camera
Aadhaar number or Enrolment ID
FaceRD-supported app
Stable internet connection
Step-by-Step Process
Open the UIDAI Aadhaar download page or the Aadhaar app.
Choose Face Authentication instead of OTP.
Enter your Aadhaar number.
Scan your face using the FaceRD app as prompted.
Follow on-screen lighting and positioning instructions.
Once verified, download the eAadhaar PDF.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
No mobile number or OTP required
Fast verification
Fully online
Cons:
Requires a smartphone with a decent camera
May be less accurate in poor lighting
Compatibility of the FaceRD app may vary by device
Method 2: Download Using Enrolment ID (EID) — OTP Not Needed (Offline)
What is Enrolment ID?
The Enrolment ID (EID) is a 28-digit code on your enrolment/update slip: a 14-digit enrolment number plus a 14-digit timestamp. It helps retrieve Aadhaar when OTP is unavailable.
How to Find EID on the Aadhaar Slip
The EID appears at the top of your enrolment/update slip, for example: 1234/56789/12345 DD/MM/YYYY HH:MM:SS.
The operator verifies your identity using biometrics (fingerprint/iris).
Aadhaar is printed and handed over to you.
When This Method Works
If your mobile number is not registered
If your phone is lost or SIM inactive
If OTP is not being received
Method 3: Download Aadhaar via DigiLocker (No OTP Required if Aadhaar Already Linked)
How DigiLocker Stores Aadhaar
DigiLocker holds a digitally signed copy of your Aadhaar once linked. After linking, you can access the document without OTP verification.
Steps to Access Aadhaar in DigiLocker
Open the DigiLocker app or website.
Log in using username/password or biometric login.
Go to Issued Documents and select UIDAI Aadhaar.
Download or share the Aadhaar PDF instantly.
Benefits of Using DigiLocker
No OTP required after first-time linking
Aadhaar is available on your device anytime
Accepted nationwide as valid Aadhaar proof
Secure, government-backed platform
Method 4: Visit Aadhaar Seva Kendra (Offline — No OTP Required)
If you lack phone/SIM/internet access, visiting an Aadhaar Seva Kendra is the most direct OTP-free option.
What Documents to Carry
Aadhaar number or Enrolment ID
Valid ID proof (if requested)
Any previous Aadhaar copy (if available)
How Operators Verify Your Identity
Fingerprint scan
Iris scan
Photograph verification
Process to Get Aadhaar Printout or Reprint
Visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
Provide your Aadhaar number or EID.
Operator verifies identity using biometrics.
They print an A4 Aadhaar copy or assist in ordering a PVC card.
You receive the printout immediately.
Download Aadhaar with a New Mobile Number (Even If Old Number Is Lost)
How to Update Mobile Number in Aadhaar
Mobile number updates require biometric verification and therefore cannot be completed online. Visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or authorized update centre to request the change.
Fill out the Aadhaar Update/Correction form and enter the new mobile number.
Provide your Aadhaar number to the operator.
Verify identity with fingerprint or iris scan.
Pay the standard update fee (typically ₹50).
Receive an Update Request Number (URN) to track status.
Can You Download Aadhaar Before the Update Is Completed?
No. You cannot download Aadhaar using the new mobile number until UIDAI approves the update. OTPs continue to go to the old registered number until the change is processed.
Meanwhile, you can still access Aadhaar via non-OTP methods such as Face Authentication, DigiLocker (if already linked), or by visiting an Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
Time Required for Mobile Number Update
3–5 working days at Aadhaar Seva Kendras (fastest)
Up to 7–10 days at general update centres
Track status using the URN (Update Request Number) or SRN (Service Request Number). After verification, OTPs will start arriving on the new number.
How to Reprint Aadhaar Without OTP (Latest 2025 Process)
If you need a physical copy but can’t receive OTP, UIDAI’s Order Aadhaar PVC Card service is a secure alternative. This allows reprinted PVC cards to be ordered even if the registered mobile number is not active.
UIDAI “Order Aadhaar PVC” Feature
The PVC Aadhaar card is durable, wallet-friendly, and printed with security features (QR code, hologram, microtext). It is delivered to your home by speed post. You can order it even if your mobile number is not registered, using alternate authentication or biometric verification at centres.
Steps to Order Aadhaar PVC Without Mobile OTP
Go to uidai.gov.in → My Aadhaar → Order Aadhaar PVC Card.
Enter Aadhaar number, Enrolment ID (EID), or Virtual ID (VID).
Select “My mobile number is not registered” for OTP-free verification.
Enter an alternative mobile number (new, temporary, or family/friend’s number) to receive OTP for the transaction.
Authenticate with the OTP sent to the entered number, preview details, and proceed to payment.
Complete payment via UPI, debit/credit card, or net banking.
Delivery Timeline & Charges
Charges: ₹50 (inclusive of GST & Speed Post delivery).
Delivery Timeline:
3–5 working days for card generation
7–10 days for India Post delivery
Track your order using the SRN (Service Request Number) and India Post tracking number.
Troubleshooting: Why You Are Not Getting Aadhaar OTP
If OTPs are not arriving, the cause may be network/SIM issues or UIDAI/provider server problems. The fixes below help resolve common problems or point you to OTP-free alternatives.
Common Issues and Fixes
1. Network Problems
Poor coverage is a frequent cause.
Fixes:
Move to a better network zone
Toggle Airplane mode ON → OFF
Restart your phone
Try the SIM in another device
2. DND (Do Not Disturb) Settings
DND can block transactional SMS like OTPs.
Fixes:
Disable DND in mobile settings
Send SMS START 0 to your operator’s number
Add UIDAI’s SMS number to allowed senders
3. SIM Inactive or Blocked
SIMs can become inactive if unused for long periods.
Fixes:
Check if other SMS are received
Recharge to restore validity
Contact customer care to reactivate SMS services
4. Server Issues (UIDAI or Provider)
Sometimes the problem is external.
Fixes:
Wait 15–30 minutes and retry
Check OTP delivery for other services
Try during non-peak hours
What to Do if OTP Still Doesn’t Come?
Use non-OTP methods:
Face Authentication download
Download from DigiLocker
Visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra for a printout
Order Aadhaar PVC using a non-registered mobile number
You can also update your mobile number at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra for future OTP delivery.
Safety Tips While Downloading Aadhaar Without OTP
Avoid Third-Party Apps
Never download Aadhaar from unknown websites or mobile apps not approved by UIDAI. Such sources may steal personal data or contain malware.
Only Use UIDAI Official Portals
Perform Aadhaar actions only through official channels:
Never share your Aadhaar number, QR code, eAadhaar PDF, screenshots, or images of your card. Sharing such details risks fraud, identity theft, and unauthorized KYC activities.
FAQs – Aadhaar Card Download Without OTP (2025 Updated)
1. Can I download Aadhaar without OTP?
Ans: Yes. UIDAI allows downloads via Face Authentication, DigiLocker, and Aadhaar Seva Kendras without requiring OTP on the registered mobile number.
2. How can I download Aadhaar if my mobile number is not registered?
Ans: Use Face Authentication, visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra, or order Aadhaar PVC using a non-registered mobile number.
3. Can Aadhaar be downloaded using face recognition?
Ans: No. UIDAI does not allow Aadhaar downloads using PAN, voter ID, or similar documents.
5. What should I do if I lost my phone?
Ans: You can download Aadhaar via DigiLocker, visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra for a printout, use Face Authentication, or order a PVC Aadhaar using any mobile number.
6. Is DigiLocker Aadhaar valid everywhere?
Ans: Yes. DigiLocker Aadhaar is a government-issued digital document and is accepted wherever Aadhaar is required.
7. Can I update my mobile number online?
Ans: No. Mobile number updates require biometric verification and must be done at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
8. What if I don’t receive OTP even after multiple attempts?
Ans: Use non-OTP methods like Face Authentication or DigiLocker, or update your mobile number at a UIDAI centre.
