Aadhaar Card Application Form 2026: 10 Essential & Important Steps to Fill Correctly

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Aadhaar Card Application Form 2026

Aadhaar Card Application Form 2026 Complete & Verified Step-by-Step Filling Guide

⚡ Quick Answer (TL;DR)

Result: Complete your Aadhaar enrolment in 15–30 minutes by visiting an Aadhaar Seva Kendra (ASK) with Form 1, valid identity & address documents.

First Quick Step: Book a free online appointment at https://appointments.uidai.gov.in/ to skip queues.

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📋 Official Resources (UIDAI)

What is Aadhaar & Who Needs It?

Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to all residents of India. It serves as a proof of identity and address, linked to your biometric data (fingerprints, iris scans, and photograph).

Key facts about Aadhaar:

  • Free enrolment: Aadhaar enrolment is completely voluntary and free of cost for all residents.
  • Proof of identity & address: Aadhaar acts as a standalone document for identity and address verification across government and private services.
  • Used for: Bank account opening, mobile SIM registration, tax filing, government subsidies, passport applications, and school/college admissions.
  • Eligibility: Indian residents (including NRIs with Indian address proof) aged 18+ can enrol using Form 1. Children can enrol via Form 3 with parental consent.

Visit the official UIDAI enrolment page for more information.

Documents Required: Complete Checklist

You need to carry original and photocopies of the following documents to your Aadhaar Seva Kendra appointment:

AADHAAR FORM 1 DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST (2026)

✓ PROOF OF IDENTITY (POI) – Choose 1:
  □ Passport (valid/expired within 2 years)
  □ PAN Card
  □ Voter ID / Electoral Registration
  □ Driving License
  □ Government-issued Photo ID
  □ Ration Card
  □ School/College ID with photo
  □ NREGS Job Card

✓ PROOF OF ADDRESS (POA) – Choose 1:
  □ Utility Bill (electricity, water, gas, landline)
    ⊃ Must be ≤ 3 months old
  □ Bank Passbook / Statement
  □ Ration Card
  □ Passport / Voter ID / Driving License
  □ Property Tax Receipt (≤ 1 year old)
  □ Rent/Lease Agreement (registered)
  □ Telephone/Mobile Bill (≤ 3 months)
  □ Insurance Policy

✓ PROOF OF DATE OF BIRTH (OPTIONAL):
  □ Birth Certificate
  □ SSLC / School Leaving Certificate
  □ Passport
  □ PAN Card

✓ MOBILE & EMAIL:
  □ Active mobile number (for OTP)
  □ Email address (optional but recommended)

✓ ADDITIONAL FOR HoF-BASED ENROLMENT:
  □ Head of Family (HoF) Aadhaar number
  □ Proof of Relationship document
    ⊃ Ration card, marriage certificate, birth cert.

─────────────────────────────────────
Appointment Link: https://appointments.uidai.gov.in/
Enrolment is FREE. Bring originals + 1–2 photocopies.
─────────────────────────────────────
Documents at a Glance
Proof of Identity (POI) – Select Any 1
Document Type Validity Notes
📕 Passport Valid/Expired ≤2 yrs Original + photocopy
📌 PAN Card No expiry Original + photocopy
✓ Voter ID No expiry Original + photocopy
🎫 Driving License Valid/Expired ≤5 yrs Original + photocopy
🔖 Ration Card Valid Original + photocopy
Proof of Address (POA) – Select Any 1
Document Type Age Limit Notes
⚡ Electricity Bill ≤ 3 months old Original + photocopy
💧 Water Bill ≤ 3 months old Original + photocopy
🏦 Bank Passbook ≤ 3 months old Original + photocopy
🏠 Ration Card Valid Original + photocopy
📋 Lease Agreement ≤ 1 year old (registered) Original + photocopy
📝 Featured Snippet Summary

You need one Proof of Identity (PAN, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License) and one Proof of Address (electricity bill, bank statement, or ration card) to fill your Aadhaar Form 1. Both must be original documents, dated within validity limits, with photocopies for the Aadhaar Seva Kendra.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Aadhaar Form 1

This guide covers filling Form 1 (for residents 18+) at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra on desktop and mobile devices.

Step 1: Download or Obtain the Form

Option A: Download Form 1 at Home
Visit the UIDAI downloads page, download Form 1 PDF, print it on A4 white paper (both sides allowed). Bring the printed copy to your appointment.
Option B: Get the Form at the Aadhaar Seva Kendra
You can also obtain the blank Form 1 directly at any Aadhaar Seva Kendra (ASK) or authorized private enrolment centre. The staff will provide you with a fresh copy.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Gather & Arrange Documents
Collect the following in a folder:
  • Original Proof of Identity document
  • Photocopies of POI (2 copies recommended)
  • Original Proof of Address document
  • Photocopies of POA (2 copies recommended)
  • Proof of Date of Birth (optional, but recommended)
  • Printed Form 1 (if pre-downloaded) or blank form (from centre)
  • Mobile phone with active number for OTP verification

Step 3: Fill Section 1 – Personal Details

Enter Your Full Name (as per POI)
Field: Name
Instructions:
  • Write your full name as it appears in your Proof of Identity (POI) document (e.g., PAN, Passport).
  • Use BLOCK CAPITAL LETTERS ONLY (e.g., “RAJESH KUMAR SHARMA”).
  • Omit titles: Do not include Mr., Ms., Mrs., Dr., Prof., Sir, etc.
  • Omit aliases: Do not use nicknames or “also known as” names.
  • Spacing: Use a single space between first and last names; no extra spaces.
  • Mobile & Email: Enter a mobile number linked to you and an optional email address.
Enter Gender & Date of Birth
  • Gender: Mark ✓ for Male, Female, or Other.
  • Date of Birth (DOB): Write in DD-MM-YYYY format (e.g., 15-03-1990). If unavailable, write “Self-Declaration” and attach a self-declaration letter (optional).
Mark Resident or Non-Resident Status
  • Resident Indian: Mark ✓ if you have lived in India for ≥182 days in the past 12 months.
  • Non-Resident Indian (NRI): Mark ✓ only if you are an NRI with valid address proof in India (e.g., utility bill). NRIs without Indian address proof must use Form 2 instead.

Step 4: Fill Section 2 – Address Details

Enter Your Complete Address
Fields to fill (mandatory):
  • House No./Building/Flat No.: (e.g., “123” or “Flat 4B”)
  • Street: (e.g., “MG Road” or “Main Bazaar”)
  • Landmark: (Optional, but helps; e.g., “Near City Hospital”)
  • Ward No.: (If applicable in urban areas)
  • Area/Locality/Sector: (e.g., “Rajouri Garden” or “Sector 12”)
  • Village/Town/City: (e.g., “Delhi” or “Bangalore”)
  • Post Office: MANDATORY (e.g., “Malviya Nagar P.O.”)
  • PIN Code: MANDATORY (e.g., “110017”) – auto-populates city/district once entered
  • Sub-District: (auto-fills after PIN code entry)
  • District: (auto-fills after PIN code entry)
  • State: (auto-fills after PIN code entry)
Important Notes:
Minor variations in address spelling from your POA document are permitted, but the PIN code, post office, and district must match exactly.

Step 5: Fill Section 3 – Documents Details

Specify Document Type & Number
For Proof of Identity (POI):
  • Check the type of document you’re providing (e.g., “Passport,” “PAN Card,” “Voter ID”).
  • Enter the document number or ID number (e.g., passport number, PAN number).
  • You will physically present the original document to the operator; it will be scanned/photographed and returned.
For Proof of Address (POA):
  • Check the type of document (e.g., “Electricity Bill,” “Bank Passbook,” “Ration Card”).
  • Enter the account/bill number if applicable.
For Proof of Date of Birth (Optional):
  • If available, specify the document type (e.g., “Birth Certificate,” “SSLC”).
  • If not available, mark “Self-Declaration” and the enrolment operator will note this.

Step 6: Head of Family (HoF) Based Enrolment (If Applicable)

If Using HoF Verification
If you don’t have formal POI/POA documents, you can use Head of Family (HoF) verification:
  • HoF Definition: A family member with a valid Aadhaar (parent, spouse, guardian).
  • What to provide:
    • HoF’s Aadhaar number
    • Proof of Relationship (ration card, marriage certificate, birth certificate)
  • HoF’s role: The HoF will verify your identity and address in person at the Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
  • Mark on form: Check “Confirmation by Head of Family (HoF)” in Section 4 instead of “Document Verification.”

Step 7: Declaration & Consent

Read & Sign the Declaration
The form includes a Declaration that states:
  • All information you’ve provided is correct to your knowledge.
  • You are entitled to the documents/information you’ve cited.
  • You are a resident of India (resided ≥182 days in past 12 months).
You must:
  • Sign the form in the designated signature box (use the same signature as in your POI, if possible).
  • Mark consent for linking Aadhaar with government schemes (optional, but recommended for subsidies).

Step 8: Submit Form at Aadhaar Seva Kendra

Visit Your Appointment & Submit
On appointment day:
  • Arrive 5–10 minutes early with all original documents and photocopies.
  • Queue at the counter and hand over the form and documents to the operator.
  • The operator will verify the documents, scan them, and enter your data into the UIDAI system.
  • Original documents are returned to you immediately after verification.

Step 9: Biometric Data Collection

Provide Fingerprints & Iris Scans
After form verification, the operator will collect your biometric data:
  • Photograph: A digital photo of your face is taken (frontal view, neutral expression).
  • Fingerprints: All 10 fingers (index, middle, ring, pinky, and thumbs) are scanned using a fingerprint reader.
  • Iris/Eye Scans: Both eyes are scanned using an iris scanner for identity verification.
Biometric tips:
Ensure your hands and fingers are clean and dry for accurate fingerprint capture. If fingers are worn or scarred, notify the operator.

Step 10: Receive Acknowledgement Slip

Get Your Enrolment ID (EID)
After completing the enrolment process, you’ll receive an acknowledgement slip containing:
  • Enrolment ID (EID): A unique 28-digit number (e.g., 0000-1234-5678-9012).
  • Enrolment date & time.
  • Centre details & operator name.
Keep this slip safe! You’ll need the EID to download your e-Aadhaar and track enrolment status.
How to Fill Aadhaar Card Application Form: Complete Step-by-Step Guide 2026
Sample Aadhaar Form 1 filled correctly. Use block capital letters, match name to POI, and fill all mandatory fields.

5 Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

⚠️ Most Common Errors During Enrolment
❌ Mistake 1: Name Mismatch with POI

Problem: Writing your name differently from your Proof of Identity document (e.g., POI says “Rajesh Kumar” but you write “Rajesh Kumarr” on the form).

Solution: Copy the exact name from your POI document, letter-by-letter, in capital letters. Minor spelling differences will cause enrolment rejection.

❌ Mistake 2: Incorrect or Mismatched Address

Problem: Address on the form doesn’t match the Proof of Address document (e.g., different house number, missing pincode, or wrong post office).

Solution: Copy the address exactly as it appears on your POA document. Ensure PIN code matches; post office and district auto-populate after PIN entry.

❌ Mistake 3: Using Expired or Outdated Documents

Problem: Submitting POA documents older than 3 months (e.g., old utility bill, expired bank statement).

Solution: Bring recent utility bills (≤3 months old) or current bank statements. For property documents, ensure they’re not older than 1 year.

❌ Mistake 4: Missing or Incomplete Documents

Problem: Forgetting to bring the original POI/POA or not carrying photocopies, causing delays or rejection.

Solution: Checklist before leaving home: Original POI, 2 POI photocopies, Original POA, 2 POA photocopies, Form 1 (if pre-downloaded), Mobile phone, and Appointment confirmation (if booked).

❌ Mistake 5: Biometric Failure (Fingerprint/Iris Scan Issues)

Problem: Fingerprints not captured due to dirt, moisture, or scarred/worn fingers; iris scan fails due to glasses or eye makeup.

Solution: Before visit: Clean and dry your hands thoroughly. Remove glasses for iris scans (contact lenses are fine). If fingerprints are worn, inform the operator—they may use alternative biometrics or reschedule.

Where to Submit the Form & How to Book an Appointment

Featured Snippet Summary: You can submit your Aadhaar Form 1 at authorized Aadhaar Seva Kendras (ASK), private enrolment centres, or mobile camps. Book a free online appointment at https://appointments.uidai.gov.in/ to avoid queues. Walk-ins are allowed but appointments reduce waiting time.

Types of Enrolment Centres

🏛️ Aadhaar Seva Kendra (ASK) – UIDAI Run

Operated by: UIDAI directly

Availability: All Indian cities and towns

Services: New enrolment, address updates, biometric updates

Cost: Free for enrolment; ₹50 for document updates

Best for: Official and secure enrolment

🏢 Registrar-Run ASK

Operated by: State Government Registrars

Availability: District and block-level offices

Services: New enrolment and updates

Cost: Free for enrolment

Best for: Rural and semi-urban areas

🚐 Private Enrolment Centres (PEC)

Operated by: Licensed private agencies (Banks, Telecom, etc.)

Availability: Banks, post offices, telcos, e-commerce hubs

Services: New enrolment only

Cost: Free for enrolment

Best for: Convenience & multiple locations

📍 Mobile Enrolment Camps

Operated by: UIDAI and authorized agencies

Availability: Temporary camps in rural & underserved areas

Services: New enrolment only

Cost: Free

Best for: Remote villages without permanent centres

How to Book an Online Appointment (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Visit the Appointment Portal
Go to https://appointments.uidai.gov.in/ (official UIDAI booking site).
Step 2: Select Service Type
On the homepage, click “Book an Appointment” under “Get Aadhaar.”
Step 3: Choose Your Location
Select your State → City/District → Nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra (ASK) from the dropdown menu.
Step 4: Verify via OTP
Enter your mobile number and CAPTCHA code. Click “Get OTP.” Enter the OTP sent to your mobile within 2 minutes.
Step 5: Fill Appointment Details
Fill in:
  • Full Name (as per POI)
  • Nationality (Indian or NRI)
  • Preferred Enrolment Type: New Aadhaar or Update
Step 6: Select Date & Time
Pick your preferred date and time slot from available options. The portal shows available slots in real-time.
Step 7: Confirm & Download Acknowledgement
Click “Confirm Appointment.” You’ll receive an Appointment Acknowledgement slip (screenshot or PDF). Print it or note your Appointment Number for reference.

Walk-In (Without Appointment)

ℹ️ Walk-In Enrolment

Walk-ins are allowed at all Aadhaar Seva Kendras. No prior appointment is needed, but you may face longer queues during peak hours (usually 9–11 AM and 2–4 PM). Booking an appointment is recommended to skip queues and save time.

After Submission: What to Expect Next

Immediate After Enrolment

You Receive: Acknowledgement Slip
What you get: A printed acknowledgement slip with your Enrolment ID (EID) (28-digit number), enrolment date/time, and centre details.
Action: Keep this slip safe and secure. You’ll need the EID to download e-Aadhaar or check enrolment status.

Within 2–3 Days

Aadhaar Number Generated
UIDAI processes your data and generates your 12-digit unique Aadhaar number. You’ll receive an SMS notification with your Aadhaar number to your registered mobile.

Download e-Aadhaar (Digitally)

Download Your Digital Aadhaar
Steps:
  1. Visit https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/
  2. Click “Download Aadhaar” → “eAadhaar”
  3. Enter your Enrolment ID (from acknowledgement slip) or Aadhaar number
  4. Enter OTP sent to your registered mobile
  5. Password: First 4 letters of your name (CAPS) + Birth year (e.g., “RAVI1990”)
  6. Download and save the PDF
✓ e-Aadhaar is Official

Downloaded e-Aadhaar (PDF) is equally valid as the physical Aadhaar card for all purposes (KYC, bank accounts, loans, passport, etc.). No need to wait for physical card if you need it urgently.

Within 30 Days

Physical Aadhaar Card (Optional)
Delivery: India Post will deliver your physical Aadhaar card to the address you filled on the form within 30 days of enrolment (on average).
Tracking: Track your card using the Enrolment ID at myAadhaar portal → “Track Aadhaar Application.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need to book an appointment in advance, or can I walk in? ▼

Both are allowed. Walk-ins are permitted at all Aadhaar Seva Kendras, but you may face queues, especially during peak hours (9–11 AM, 2–4 PM). Booking a free online appointment at https://appointments.uidai.gov.in/ is highly recommended to skip queues and get a specific time slot.

Can I fill the Aadhaar form online at home? ▼

No. The Aadhaar enrolment form must be filled at an authorized Aadhaar Seva Kendra (ASK) in person. You cannot complete enrolment online. However, you can book an appointment online and download a blank form to familiarize yourself before your visit.

How long does the enrolment process take? ▼

At the centre: 15–30 minutes (form filling, document verification, biometric data collection).
Aadhaar generation: 2–3 days after enrolment.
Physical card delivery: Within 30 days via India Post to your address.

What if my fingerprints or iris scans fail? ▼

If your fingerprints or iris scans are not captured successfully (due to worn fingers, moisture, glasses, or technical issues), the Aadhaar Seva Kendra operator may:

  • Attempt re-scanning with clean, dry hands/eyes.
  • Use alternative biometrics (face recognition).
  • Reschedule your appointment to try again.
Notify the operator if you have scarred or worn fingerprints. The process will not be rejected—UIDAI has alternative methods to handle biometric challenges.

Can I correct or update my Aadhaar details after enrolment? ▼

Yes. You can update your Aadhaar details using Form 2 (Update Form) at any Aadhaar Seva Kendra or online through myAadhaar portal. Updates are processed within 5–7 days and are free for most changes (₹50 charged at centres for some updates, but free online).

What is the difference between Form 1, Form 2, and Form 3? ▼

Form 1: For new enrolment of adults (18+) and NRIs with Indian address proof.
Form 2: For updating existing Aadhaar details (name, address, etc.) for residents or NRIs without Indian address.
Form 3: For new enrolment of children below 18 years (requires parent/guardian’s Aadhaar and proof of relationship).

Is Aadhaar enrolment mandatory, and is it free? ▼

Mandatory: Aadhaar enrolment is voluntary but widely required for government services, bank accounts, tax filing, and school admissions. However, the government does not force citizens to enrol.
Free: Yes, enrolment is completely free. No charges are levied for form submission, biometric capture, or Aadhaar generation. Document updates at centres cost ₹50, but online updates are free.

Author: Government Policy & Identity Documentation Specialist Published: January 12, 2026 Last Reviewed: January 12, 2026 ✓ Verified

This article is based on official UIDAI guidelines and current enrolment procedures (2026). For the most up-to-date information, visit uidai.gov.in.

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