“Learn how to change your name on an Aadhaar card with this step-by-step guide. Explore method, required documents, fees, and processing time for a hassle-free name update.”
Your name is one of the most important parts of your identity, and that’s exactly why it should be correct on your Aadhaar card. Aadhaar, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), is widely used as proof of identity across India. From banking and official documents to government benefits and verification processes, the details mentioned on your Aadhaar should always match your other records.
Sometimes, however, mistakes happen. It could be a spelling error during enrolment, a name change after marriage, or a legal name update for personal reasons. In such cases, updating your name on the Aadhaar card becomes necessary to avoid future complications.
Even a small mismatch in spelling can create issues while linking documents, completing KYC, or accessing certain services. To deal with it, UIDAI provides a simple process to change or update your name on Aadhaar.
Eligibility for Name Change in Aadhaar
You can request a name change in the Aadhaar card under the following circumstances:
- Spelling Mistakes: If there is a typographical error in your name.
- Legal Name Change: If you have legally changed your name.
- Marriage: If you have changed your name after marriage.
- Divorce: If you wish to revert to your maiden name after divorce.
- Adoption: If a legal adoption has resulted in a name change.
- Religious or Personal Preferences: If you have changed your name due to religious beliefs or personal choice.
UIDAI allows name corrections and updates only under these circumstances, and proper documentation must be provided.
How Many Times Names on Aadhaar Card Can be Changed?
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) allows individuals to change their name on an Aadhaar card under specific conditions. As per UIDAI’s latest policies, a name can be updated twice in a lifetime.
If a person undergoes a major name change due to marriage, legal procedures, or any other significant reason, they must provide relevant documentary proof, such as a marriage certificate or a gazette notification.
How to Change Name in Aadhaar Card?
The name on the Aadhaar card can be changed or updated only offline. Till date, UIDAI has not provided any online method to change or update the name on the Aadhaar Card.
Process to Change Name in Aadhaar Card Offline
For any major or minor name changes (like after marriage, divorce, or a legal name change), you must visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
Step 1: Locate an Aadhaar Seva Kendra
- Find the nearest Aadhaar Enrollment Center.
- Book an appointment online or visit directly.
Step 2: Fill the Aadhaar Update Form
- Collect the Aadhaar Update/Correction Form from the center or download it from the UIDAI website.
- Fill in your correct name as per your supporting document.
Step 3: Provide Supporting Documents
Submit a photocopy of any of the following:
| List of Documents | POI |
|---|---|
| Valid Indian Passport | Yes |
| PAN Card/e-PAN Card | Yes |
| Ration /PDS Photograph Card/eRation Card | Yes |
| Voter Identity Card /e-Voter Identity Card | Yes |
| Driving Licence | Yes |
| Service Photo Identity Card | Yes |
| Pensioner Photo Identity Card / Freedom Fighter Photo Identity Card / Pension Payment Order | Yes |
| CGHS/ ECHS/ ESIC/ Medi-Claim Card | Yes |
| Disability Identity Card / Certificate of Disability | Yes |
| Photograph Identity Card / Certificate e.g., Bhamashah scheme, Domicile Certificate, MGNREGA/NREGS Job Card, Labour Card, etc. | Yes |
| Scheduled Tribe (ST) / Scheduled Cast (SC) / Other Backward Caste (OBC) Certificate | Yes |
| Mark sheet/Certificate issued by a recognized Board of Education or university | Yes |
| Passbook with photograph issued by a Public Sector Bank (as categorized by RBI) | Yes |
| Third gender / Transgender Identity Card / Certificate | Yes |
| Certificate by Gazetted Officer at NACO / State Health Department / Project Director | Yes |
| Certificate by Superintendent/ Head of Institution of recognised shelter homes or orphanages | Yes |
| Prisoner Induction Document (PID) | Yes |
| Marriage Certificate (In case of getting married) | Yes |
Step 4: Biometric Verification
- Your fingerprints, iris scan, and photograph will be captured.
- The operator will verify your documents and make the necessary updates.
Step 5: Pay the Fee
- A fee of Rs. 75 (including GST) is charged for name updates.
Step 6: Acknowledgment Receipt
- After submission, you will receive a receipt with an Update Request Number (URN).
- Use this URN to check the update status online.
Processing Time: Updates typically take 7-10 working days.
How to Track Aadhaar Name Change Status?
You can track your update request by following these steps:
- Visit the Aadhaar Update Status page.
- Enter your URN and Aadhaar Number.
- Solve the CAPTCHA and click Check Status.
If your request is approved, you can download the updated Aadhaar card.
How to Download the Updated Aadhaar Card?
Once the name change request is approved, download your new Aadhaar card:
- Go to UIDAI’s myAadhaar portal.
- On the mainpage, locate and click on Download Aadhaar option.
- Enter your Aadhaar Number or Enrollment ID.
- Verify using OTP.
- Download the updated PDF version of your Aadhaar (Click here to check how to open a downloaded Aadhaar PDF file).
- Print and laminate it for future use.
FAQs on Name Change in Aadhaar
1. How many times can I change my name on Aadhaar?
A: UIDAI allows name changes only twice in a lifetime.
2. Is it mandatory to link my mobile number to change my name online on Aadhaar Card?
A: Yes, an active mobile number linked to Aadhaar is required for OTP verification.
3. What if my Aadhaar name change request is rejected?
A: If your request is rejected, reapply with correct documents and ensure they match exactly.
4. Can I update my name on Aadhaar for free?
A: No, UIDAI charges a Rs. 75 fee for name updates.
