How to Apply for Aadhaar Card in India – Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Aadhaar is one of the most important identity documents in India issued by UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India). It is used for banking, SIM activation, government schemes, subsidies, school admission, passport verification and more. If you are applying for a new Aadhaar card, this detailed guide will help you complete the process smoothly.

1. Eligibility for Aadhaar Card

Any Indian resident, including newborn babies, can apply for an Aadhaar card. There is no age limit. Even NRIs living in India for 182+ days can apply.

2. Required Documents for Aadhaar Card

You need basic identity & address proof documents. Here is the list:

✔ Identity Proof (Any one)

• PAN Card
• Voter ID
• Driving License
• Passport
• Government photo ID cards

✔ Address Proof (Any one)

• Electricity bill
• Water bill
• Bank passbook
• Ration card
• Rental agreement
• Passport

✔ Date of Birth Proof

• Birth certificate
• SSLC certificate
• Passport

For infants, parents’ documents are enough.

3. How to Book Aadhaar Appointment Online

You can book an online appointment before visiting Aadhaar enrollment centre.

Steps:

1. Visit the official website: https://appointments.uidai.gov.in
2. Select **“Book Appointment”**
3. Choose your city or enrollment centre
4. Enter your mobile number → OTP verification
5. Select date & time
6. Confirm appointment

Booking an appointment saves waiting time at the centre.

4. Aadhaar Enrollment Centre Process

Visit your Aadhaar enrollment centre with original documents.

At the centre, the following steps happen:

✔ Step 1: Document Verification

The operator will verify your ID & address proof.

✔ Step 2: Biometric Data Collection

• Fingerprint scan
• Iris scan
• Photograph

✔ Step 3: Data Confirmation

You will be shown your details on the screen. Check carefully before confirming.

✔ Step 4: Acknowledgement Slip

You will receive a slip with **14-digit Enrollment ID (EID)**. Use this to track your Aadhaar status.

Cost: Aadhaar enrollment is completely **free**.

5. Aadhaar for Children (Baal Aadhaar)

Baal Aadhaar is issued for children below 5 years.

• No biometrics required
• Child’s photo is taken
• Parent’s Aadhaar must be linked

After the child turns 5 and again at 15, biometrics must be updated.

6. How to Check Aadhaar Status

After enrollment, you can check the status online.

Steps:

1. Visit https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in
2. Click **“Check Aadhaar Status”**
3. Enter your 14-digit EID
4. Submit

You will see whether Aadhaar is generated or still under process.

7. How to Download Aadhaar (eAadhaar)

Once approved, download your digital Aadhaar card (PDF).

Steps:

1. Go to https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in
2. Select **“Download Aadhaar”**
3. Enter your Aadhaar number or Enrollment ID
4. Verify with OTP
5. Download the PDF

The password to open the file is:
First 4 letters of your name (CAPS) + Year of Birth

8. Important Tips

• Always carry original documents
• Double-check details before submitting
• Do not share Aadhaar OTP with anyone
• Aadhaar enrollment is free — avoid agents
• Children’s Aadhaar must be updated after age 5 & 15

Conclusion

Applying for an Aadhaar card in India is simple and completely free. By booking an appointment online and carrying the correct documents, you can finish the entire process within 15–20 minutes. Once generated, Aadhaar becomes a vital identity proof for government services, banking, education, and everyday transactions.

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