How to Download Aadhaar Card Using the Aadhaar App if Your Mobile Number Is Not Linked
The normal e-Aadhaar download needs an OTP on the mobile number registered with Aadhaar. If your number is not linked, is switched off, or you have lost it, you are not stuck. UIDAI's new Aadhaar app (which replaced the old mAadhaar app) supports Face Authentication, so you can verify yourself with a selfie instead of an OTP. This guide explains that method, plus the other official options if it does not work for you.
Why Is a Linked Mobile Number Needed?
UIDAI sends an OTP to your registered mobile to confirm that you are the real Aadhaar holder. That is why the website, the Aadhaar app and DigiLocker normally ask for it. Do not use any third-party site that claims to give you Aadhaar without any verification. UIDAI does not allow that.
What You Need Before You Start
- Your 12-digit Aadhaar number, 16-digit VID or Enrolment ID (EID).
- An Android or iOS smartphone with a working front camera and internet.
- The official Aadhaar app from UIDAI (Play Store / App Store).
- On Android, the Aadhaar Face RD app from UIDAI, which does the face capture in the background.
- A well-lit place, with your face clearly visible (no cap, mask or heavy shadows).
Steps: Download Aadhaar Using Face Authentication
- Install the official Aadhaar app and the Aadhaar Face RD app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Check that the publisher is UIDAI.
- Open the Aadhaar app and allow the camera permission.
- Tap "Download Aadhaar".
- Enter your Aadhaar number / VID / EID.
- Choose "Face Authentication" as the verification method instead of OTP.
- Look straight at the camera in good light and complete the face scan.
- After successful verification, your e-Aadhaar PDF will be downloaded. Save it safely.
If Face Authentication Does Not Work: Other Official Options
| Method | How it works | You get |
|---|---|---|
| Order Aadhaar PVC Card | On myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in choose "Order Aadhaar PVC Card", enter Aadhaar/VID and captcha, click "My mobile number is not registered", enter any active mobile number, verify the OTP on it and pay the fee. | PVC card by post (prescribed fee applies) |
| Aadhaar Enrolment / Seva Kendra | Visit the nearest centre. Your identity is checked with fingerprint, iris or face instead of an OTP. | Printout or mobile number update |
| Update the mobile number | Link your current number (at a centre, or through the Aadhaar app with face authentication). After it is updated, download e-Aadhaar normally with OTP. | Permanent fix for OTP problems |
Link or Update Your Mobile Number
The best long-term solution is to get your current mobile number registered with Aadhaar. Once it is linked, you can use the Aadhaar app, the UIDAI portal, DigiLocker and many other services easily.
- Open the Aadhaar app and go to the Mobile Number Update service, or visit your nearest Aadhaar centre.
- Enter the new mobile number and verify it with the OTP sent to that number.
- Complete face authentication (or biometrics at the centre) and pay the prescribed fee.
- Note your update request number and wait for the update to complete, which can take a few days.
How to Open the e-Aadhaar PDF Password
The password is the first 4 letters of your name in CAPITALS followed by your year of birth (YYYY).
Important Precautions
- Download apps only from the official Play Store / App Store, published by UIDAI.
- UIDAI never asks for your OTP, Aadhaar number or face scan over a phone call or WhatsApp.
- If you use a public computer or cyber cafe, delete the downloaded file afterwards.
- Prefer the masked Aadhaar when you only need ID proof, since it hides the first 8 digits.
Need help with Aadhaar download or mobile update?
Contact the Emitrawala team on WhatsApp. We will guide you step by step.
Chat on WhatsApp Call: +91 94606 26065Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I download Aadhaar in the Aadhaar app without a linked mobile number?
Yes, you can try Face Authentication in the Aadhaar app with the Aadhaar Face RD app. It verifies you with a face scan instead of an OTP.
Is a face scan really needed?
Yes. The face is matched live with the photo stored in your Aadhaar record, so good light and a clear face are important.
What if face authentication keeps failing?
Try better lighting, remove glasses or cap, and update both apps. If it still fails, visit an Aadhaar centre.
Can I use someone else's mobile number?
For ordering a PVC card, UIDAI lets you use any active mobile number. For downloading e-Aadhaar, the OTP is sent only to the registered number, so link your own number to avoid problems.
Is it free?
Downloading e-Aadhaar is free. A fee applies for the PVC card and for mobile number update.
Which number should I call for help?
UIDAI toll-free helpline 1947.
Note: This information is based on UIDAI's official website and public sources. App features and fees may change, so please confirm in the Aadhaar app or on uidai.gov.in before you proceed.
