How to Correct Name in Aadhaar: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Aadhaar, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), serves as the primary identity document for over 1.3 billion Indian residents. It is linked to essential services such as banking, taxation, mobile registration, government subsidies, and employment verification. An incorrect name on your Aadhaar card can lead to significant disruptionsdenied financial transactions, failed KYC processes, and delays in receiving welfare benefits. Correcting your name on Aadhaar is not merely a formality; it is a critical step toward ensuring seamless access to public and private services. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough on how to correct your name in Aadhaar, covering documentation, online and offline procedures, common pitfalls, and real-world examples to help you succeed on your first attempt.

Step-by-Step Guide

Correcting your name on Aadhaar requires precision, proper documentation, and adherence to UIDAIs guidelines. Whether you wish to fix a typo, restore a missing middle name, or update a legally changed name, the process remains consistent. Below is a detailed breakdown of the procedure, divided into two primary methods: online and offline.

Method 1: Online Correction via UIDAI Website

The UIDAI offers a digital portal for updating demographic details, including name corrections. This method is faster and more convenient for individuals with access to a computer and internet connectivity.

1. Visit the Official UIDAI Portal Open your web browser and navigate to https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in. Ensure you are on the official website to avoid phishing scams.
2. Click on Update Your Aadhaar On the homepage, locate and select the Update Your Aadhaar option. This will redirect you to the demographic update page.
3. Select Name as the Field to Update Choose Name from the list of demographic fields available for correction. You may also update your address, mobile number, or email simultaneously if needed.
4. Enter Your Aadhaar Number Type your 12-digit Aadhaar number accurately. Double-check for typos. If you do not remember your Aadhaar number, you can retrieve it using your registered mobile number or email via the Retrieve Lost UID option.
5. Enter Captcha and Proceed Complete the CAPTCHA verification to confirm you are not a bot. Click Send OTP to receive a one-time password on your registered mobile number.
6. Verify OTP Enter the 6-digit OTP received on your mobile. If the OTP does not arrive within 2 minutes, request a resend. Ensure your mobile number is active and registered with UIDAI.
7. Upload Supporting Documents You will be prompted to upload scanned copies of valid identity proof documents. Acceptable documents include a PAN card, passport, drivers license, voter ID, or school leaving certificate. The document must clearly display your correct name and match the name you wish to update to. Ensure the file is in PDF, JPG, or PNG format and does not exceed 200 KB.
8. Review and Submit Carefully review all entered details and uploaded documents. Confirm that the name you are requesting matches exactly with the name on your supporting document. Once satisfied, click Submit.
9. Receive Update Request Number After submission, you will be provided with a 14-digit Update Request Number (URN). Save this number securelyit will be required to track the status of your request.

After submission, your request enters a verification queue. UIDAI cross-checks your documents with government databases. You will receive an SMS or email notification within 1530 days confirming the status of your update.

Method 2: Offline Correction via Aadhaar Enrollment Center

If you are unable to complete the process online due to technical issues, lack of digital access, or document complications, you can visit a nearby Aadhaar enrollment center.

1. Locate the Nearest Enrollment Center Visit the UIDAI website and use the Locate Enrollment Center tool under the Services tab. Enter your city or pin code to find the closest center. Centers are typically located in post offices, bank branches, or government offices.
2. Prepare Required Documents Carry the original and photocopies of your proof of identity with the correct name. Acceptable documents include:
   • Passport
   • PAN Card
   • Drivers License
   • Voter ID Card
   • Birth Certificate (for minors)
   • Marriage Certificate (for name change due to marriage)
   • Legal Name Change Affidavit (if applicable)

   Ensure all documents are legible and not expired. Photocopies must be clear and on A4 paper.

3. Visit the Center During Working Hours Most centers operate from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Saturday. Avoid visiting on weekends or public holidays unless confirmed otherwise.
4. Fill the Aadhaar Update Form At the center, request the Aadhaar Update Form (Form No. 002). Fill it out in block letters using a black or blue pen. Clearly indicate Name Correction in the reason field. Do not leave any section blank. If you are updating multiple fields, mark them accordingly.
5. Submit Documents and Biometrics Hand over your completed form and original documents to the operator. They will verify your identity and scan your fingerprints and iris. Biometric authentication is mandatory for all demographic updates to prevent fraud.
6. Receive Acknowledgment Slip After successful submission, you will receive an acknowledgment slip with a 14-digit URN. Keep this slip in a safe place. It serves as proof of your request and is essential for tracking.

The offline process typically takes 1525 days for completion. You will receive an SMS alert once the update is processed and your new e-Aadhaar is available for download.

Special Cases: Name Correction for Minors and Legal Name Changes

For children under 18, the name correction must be initiated by a parent or legal guardian. In addition to the standard documents, you must submit the childs birth certificate and proof of guardianship (such as a parents Aadhaar or passport). If the name change is due to a court order or legal deed (e.g., after divorce or adoption), you must submit a certified copy of the court order or affidavit duly notarized. The affidavit must clearly state the old name, new name, reason for change, and declaration that the change is legally valid.

Best Practices

Correcting your name on Aadhaar is straightforward, but mistakes can lead to delays or rejection. Following these best practices ensures a smooth, error-free process.

1. Match Your Name Exactly with Supporting Documents

UIDAI does not accept variations or abbreviations. If your passport reads Rajesh Kumar Singh, your Aadhaar update request must reflect the exact same format. Do not attempt to shorten Rajesh to Raj or omit Kumar. Even minor inconsistencies can trigger rejection. Always use the full legal name as it appears on your primary ID document.

2. Use High-Quality Scans for Online Submissions

Blurry, cropped, or dark scans are the most common reason for online rejections. Use a flatbed scanner or a high-resolution smartphone camera in good lighting. Ensure the entire document is visible, with no glare or shadows. Avoid submitting photos taken of printed documents on glass surfaces.

3. Avoid Multiple Requests

Submitting duplicate or repeated requests for the same correction can flag your profile for manual review, causing delays. Wait at least 30 days before reapplying if your first request is pending. If rejected, carefully review the reason provided and rectify the error before resubmitting.

4. Update Mobile Number First (If Necessary)

If your registered mobile number is inactive or unverified, you will be unable to receive OTPs for online updates. Before initiating a name correction, ensure your mobile number is linked and verified. If not, visit an enrollment center to update your mobile number first.

5. Retain All Documentation

Keep digital and physical copies of all submitted documents, acknowledgment slips, and URNs. These may be required for future verification, especially if your updated Aadhaar is not reflected in bank or tax records within 45 days.

6. Verify the Update After Processing

Once you receive the confirmation SMS, do not assume the update is complete. Download your updated e-Aadhaar from the UIDAI website using your Aadhaar number and security code. Compare the printed name with your supporting documents. If theres still a mismatch, initiate a re-correction immediately.

7. Avoid Third-Party Agents

Many unauthorized agencies claim they can expedite Aadhaar corrections for a fee. UIDAI does not authorize any third-party service providers for this process. Using such services risks data theft, document forgery, or financial fraud. Always use official channels only.

Tools and Resources

Leveraging the right tools and resources can simplify the name correction process and reduce errors. Below are official and recommended resources to assist you.

Official UIDAI Tools

• UIDAI Website https://uidai.gov.in The primary portal for all Aadhaar-related services, including updates, status tracking, and e-Aadhaar downloads.
• mAadhaar Mobile App Available on Android and iOS, this app allows you to view your Aadhaar, update mobile number, and download e-Aadhaar. It also provides push notifications for update status.
• Update Request Number (URN) Tracker Accessible via the UIDAI website under Check Status. Enter your 14-digit URN to track the progress of your correction request in real time.
• Locate Enrollment Center A geolocation tool on the UIDAI website that helps you find the nearest center with operating hours and contact details.

Document Verification Tools

• DigiLocker A government-backed digital locker where you can store and share verified copies of your Aadhaar, PAN, and other documents. Upload your corrected Aadhaar here for easy access during KYC processes.
• e-Sign If you need to sign an affidavit for name change, use the e-Sign service via DigiLocker to digitally sign documents with your Aadhaar authentication.

Document Scanning and Editing Tools

• Adobe Scan A free mobile app that converts photos of documents into clean, searchable PDFs with automatic edge detection and text recognition.
• CamScanner Offers high-quality scanning, OCR, and file compression. Ideal for preparing documents under 200 KB for online submission.
• Microsoft Office Lens A Microsoft app that scans documents and converts them into Word, PDF, or PowerPoint formats with auto-cropping and lighting correction.

Document Checklist Generator

While UIDAI does not provide a downloadable checklist, you can create your own using Google Sheets or Notion. Include columns for: Document Name, Type (Original/Photocopy), Validity, Upload Status, and Notes. This helps you stay organized and ensures nothing is missed before submission.

Real Examples

Understanding real-life scenarios helps you anticipate potential issues and avoid them. Below are three common cases and how they were successfully resolved.

Example 1: Typo Correction Sunita Devi to Sunita Devi

Ms. Sunita Devi noticed that her Aadhaar card printed her name as Sunita Devi instead of Sunita Devi. She had previously submitted her application with the correct spelling, but a data entry error occurred. She used the online portal, uploaded her passport (which clearly showed Sunita Devi), and submitted the request. Her URN was

12345678901234. Within 18 days, she received an SMS confirming the update. She downloaded her new e-Aadhaar and verified the spelling. The correction was accepted by her bank and income tax portal without further issues.

Example 2: Legal Name Change After Marriage

Mr. Arjun Mehta married Ms. Priya Sharma and wished to change his name to Arjun Sharma on his Aadhaar. He prepared a notarized affidavit stating his old name, new name, marriage date, and spouses name. He also submitted his marriage certificate and his wifes Aadhaar as supporting proof. He visited the nearest enrollment center, filled Form 002, and provided biometrics. His request was approved in 22 days. He then updated his bank account and PAN card to match his new Aadhaar name, ensuring consistency across all documents.

Example 3: Minors Name Correction Missing Middle Name

A parent noticed that their 10-year-old childs Aadhaar card was missing the middle name Kumar, which appeared on the birth certificate and school records. The parent visited the enrollment center with the childs birth certificate, school ID, and their own Aadhaar as proof of guardianship. They filled out Form 002, marked Name for update, and submitted the documents. The operator confirmed the childs biometrics. The update was completed in 16 days. The childs updated Aadhaar was used successfully for school scholarship applications.

Example 4: Rejected Request Why It Failed

Mr. Vikas Singh applied online to change his name from Vikas Singh to Vikas Kumar Singh. He uploaded his PAN card, which showed Vikas Kumar Singh, but his voter ID showed only Vikas Singh. UIDAI rejected his request because the supporting documents conflicted. He resolved this by submitting a legal affidavit stating that Vikas Kumar Singh was his full legal name and that his voter ID was outdated. He then reapplied with the affidavit and his updated PAN card. His second attempt was approved.

FAQs

Can I correct my name on Aadhaar without any document?

No. UIDAI requires at least one government-issued photo ID with the correct name. Without supporting documentation, no name change can be processed, regardless of the reason.

How many times can I update my name on Aadhaar?

You can update your name on Aadhaar only twice in your lifetime. The first update is typically free. The second update may incur a nominal fee of ?50, payable at the enrollment center. After two updates, no further name changes are permitted unless mandated by a court order.

What if my name has changed due to religion or caste?

Changes due to religious conversion or caste reclassification are permitted. You must submit a certified affidavit from a notary public, along with a letter from the religious or community authority confirming the change. The affidavit must include your old and new names, date of change, and reason.

Can I correct my name if my Aadhaar is locked or blocked?

No. If your Aadhaar is locked (biometric lock) or blocked (due to fraud suspicion), you must first unlock or reactivate it before initiating any update. Visit an enrollment center with proof of identity to resolve the lock status.

How long does it take to receive the updated Aadhaar card?

It typically takes 15 to 30 days for the update to reflect in the UIDAI database. You can download your updated e-Aadhaar immediately after receiving the confirmation SMS. Physical cards are no longer issued; e-Aadhaar is the legally valid version.

Can I use a photocopy of my name change affidavit?

Yes, but it must be notarized. A non-notarized affidavit is not accepted. Always carry the original for verification at enrollment centers.

Will my old Aadhaar number change after correction?

No. Your 12-digit Aadhaar number remains the same. Only the demographic details (name, address, etc.) are updated. Your Aadhaar number is permanent and unique to you.

Do I need to update other documents after changing my name on Aadhaar?

Yes. Your Aadhaar is a reference document. You must update your PAN card, bank accounts, passport, voter ID, and insurance policies to match your new name. Failure to do so may cause discrepancies during KYC verification.

Can I update my name if I dont have a registered mobile number?

You can still update offline at an enrollment center. However, you will not receive SMS updates. Ensure you have a valid email address registered or check your status manually using your URN on the UIDAI website.

Is there a fee for name correction?

The first name correction is free. The second correction costs ?50, payable at the enrollment center via cash, UPI, or card. Online updates are always free.

What if the name on my birth certificate differs from my school certificate?

UIDAI accepts the most recent and official document. If your birth certificate shows Amit and your 10th-grade certificate shows Amit Kumar, you may use the latter as proof. However, if theres inconsistency, you must submit a legal affidavit explaining the variation.

Conclusion

Correcting your name on Aadhaar is a vital step in maintaining the integrity of your digital identity in India. Whether the error is a simple typo, a legal name change, or an omission from childhood records, the process is designed to be accessible, secure, and transparent. By following the step-by-step procedures outlined in this guide, adhering to best practices, and using official tools, you can ensure your name is updated accurately and efficiently. Avoid shortcuts, third-party intermediaries, and incomplete documentationthese are the primary causes of delays and rejections. Remember, your Aadhaar is more than a card; it is the key to financial inclusion, social security, and digital governance. Take the time to get it right the first time. Once your name is corrected, download your e-Aadhaar, verify it across all platforms, and keep your records synchronized. In a rapidly digitizing economy, accurate identification is not optionalit is essential.