What is Aadhaar PVC Card?
Aadhaar PVC Card is a wallet-sized version of Aadhaar issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It is printed on durable Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) material and contains advanced security features such as a secure QR code, hologram, ghost image, microtext, issue date, and Aadhaar logo.
Unlike the traditional paper Aadhaar letter or e-Aadhaar printout, the PVC Aadhaar Card is more durable, easy to carry, water-resistant, and less prone to wear and tear. Any resident with a valid Aadhaar number can order a PVC Aadhaar Card online through the UIDAI portal.
The Aadhaar number and personal details remain the same across all Aadhaar formats. The PVC card only changes the physical format and improves convenience and durability.
Security Features of Aadhaar PVC Card
- Unique – The Aadhaar Card number is unique, and system generated. Hence, it reduces the chances of fraud and misinterpretation.
- Conceals information – As there is no way of leakage of information by sharing Aadhaar number information related to Aadhaar cardholders.
- Safe – A person cannot impersonate another as the same can be easily detected using biometrics.
There are various forms of Aadhaar Card available by UIDAI. One such popularly used form is the Aadhaar PVC smart card, which comes with a QR Code, hologram, and photograph along with other features.
This was introduced, keeping in mind the inconvenience faced by people while using the paper-like Aadhaar Card. The paper-like Aadhaar card can be cut into a card shape or can be carried like a postcard. While the postcard form is difficult to carry and the small one gets lost easily owing to its size. Further, the card’s shape gets distorted or develops a crease over time as it is in a paper-like format and becomes dirty. So, UIDAI has introduced a credit or debit card-like form commonly known as Aadhaar PVC Card. First, let us check out the various types of Aadhar cards available.
Eligibility Criteria to Get Aadhaar PVC Card
Residents do not need to meet any special eligibility requirements to order an Aadhaar PVC Card. Any individual who has been allotted a valid Aadhaar number can apply.
You can order a PVC Aadhaar Card if:
- You have a valid Aadhaar Number (UID)
- You have an Enrolment ID (EID)
- You have a Virtual ID (VID)
- Your mobile number is registered with Aadhaar (for OTP-based verification)
Even if your mobile number is not linked with Aadhaar, you can order the PVC card using the non-registered mobile number facility available on the UIDAI portal.
There is no age restriction for ordering a PVC Aadhaar Card. Parents or guardians can also order PVC Aadhaar Cards for children linked with Aadhaar.
Read Also: How to Download Aadhar Card Online
Types of Aadhaar Cards
There are four types of Aadhaar Cards issued by UIDAI. They are:-
1. Aadhaar Letter
- This is the most common type of Aadhaar available.
- It is a paper-based laminated sheet in which one’s QR code and date of issue and print date are written.
- After registration, it is sent to the applicant via ordinary post free of cost.
- If lost, one needs to pay Rs 50 as the cost of printing for reissuing the card.
2. e-Aadhaar
- e-Aadhaar is the virtual Aadhaar Card, which is availed through the official website of UIDAI.
- It is digitally signed and has a QR code for verification of the same offline and issue and download date.
- After the offline verification process is completed, e-Aadhaar is available almost immediately.
- You can see your e-Aadhaar by logging into the portal using a registered mobile number.
3. m-Aadhaar
- m-Aadhaar is another digital type of Aadhaar Card which is available on mobile through the official UIDAI app.
- The official app is available on the iOS store and also on Google Play Store for downloading.
- For using m-Aadhaar registered mobile number is required.
4. Aadhaar PVC Card
- This is the newest form of an Aadhaar Card, which looks like a credit card.
- The card has more unique features like hallmarks, photographs, and other features.
- There are various security features like embossed logos, ghost images, etc.
- One can get this card online easily or get it printed nearby.
- It is optional to get this card.
- For getting this Aadhaar, one needs to pay Rs 50 as an issuing charge. The steps for getting a PVC Aadhaar Card are mentioned below.
Read Also: Download Aadhar Card using Pan card
Benefits of Aadhaar PVC Card
Although ordering an Aadhaar PVC Card is optional, it offers several advantages over the traditional paper Aadhaar. Made from durable PVC material, the card is compact, wallet-sized, and easy to carry, similar to a debit or credit card.
Some key benefits of the Aadhaar PVC Card include:
- Durable and long-lasting compared to paper-based Aadhaar copies
- Convenient wallet-size format for easy portability
- Water-resistant and less prone to damage from regular use
- Enhanced security features such as a secure QR code, hologram, microtext, ghost image, and issue date
- Quick online ordering through the UIDAI portal
- Universally accepted as a valid proof of identity and address across India
The Aadhaar PVC Card provides a more secure, durable, and convenient way to carry your Aadhaar details for everyday verification and identification purposes.
PVC Aadhaar Card Fees
Unlike a paper-like Aadhaar Card, you need to pay a fee of Rs 50 for generating a new PVC card for this one. Below is a stepwise process for ordering PVC Aadhaar cards.
PVC Aadhaar Card Delivery Time
UIDAI generally prints and dispatches the Aadhaar PVC Card within 5 working days after receiving the request. Once dispatched, delivery is completed through India Post.
In most cases, residents receive their Aadhaar PVC Card within 7 to 15 working days, depending on their location, postal service availability, and local delivery timelines.
If the card is delayed, applicants can track the status using the SRN and the India Post tracking details provided after dispatch.
How to Download Aadhaar PVC Card Online
Aadhaar PVC Card itself cannot be downloaded because it is a physical card printed and delivered by UIDAI. However, you can download your e-Aadhaar online and then place an order for a PVC Aadhaar Card.
Steps to Download e-Aadhaar
- Visit the UIDAI website.
- Click on “Download Aadhaar”.
- Enter your Aadhaar Number, Enrolment ID (EID), or Virtual ID (VID).
- Complete captcha verification.
- Verify using the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- Download the password-protected PDF copy of e-Aadhaar.
How to Check Aadhaar PVC Card Status Online
After placing a PVC Aadhaar Card order, UIDAI generates a Service Request Number (SRN) that can be used for tracking.
Steps to Track Aadhaar PVC Card Status
- Visit the UIDAI PVC Card Status page.
- Enter the Service Request Number (SRN).
- Complete the captcha verification.
- Click on “Submit”.
The system will display the current status of your request, such as:
- Payment Successful
- Under Processing
- Printed
- Dispatched through India Post
- Delivered
How to Order Aadhaar PVC Card Online
The PVC Aadhaar Card can be ordered online only. Further, you need to have an existing Aadhaar Card (m-Aadhaar/Paper-like Aadhaar/e-Aadhaar).
Below mentioned are the steps to buying a PVC Aadhaar Card online.
- Step 1 – Visit the official UIDAI website only – https://uidai.gov.in/. Go to the My Aadhaar section. Select under sub menu – Order Aadhaar PVC Card.
- Step 2 – On this page, you need to enter any one of the following: 16-digit Virtual ID, 12-digit Aadhaar number, or 28-digit EID. After that, you are required to enter the security code and click on send OTP on your registered number. Enter & submit OTP.
- Step 3 – On the next page, one can see their Aadhaar card details: date of birth, gender, name, address, and photograph.
- Step 4 – If a person finds any missing or incorrect, or outdated information, you can update your Aadhaar information.
- Step 5 – Select the ‘Make Payment’ button. You get redirected to the payment page. One is required to pay Rs 50. There are various payment options available like debit cards, credit cardss, net banking, etc.
- Step 6 – Choose the suitable payment option for paying Rs 50. On completion of your application form for a PVC card, choose one of the payment options & download one receipt once the payment is completed. The SRN or Service Request Number generated by the system gets displayed on the webpage.
- Step 7 – It usually takes 15 days to get your PVC Aadhaar Card, which one can track using the SRN number. Thus, your Aadhaar PVC Card is ordered.
Difference Between Aadhaar PVC Card and Traditional Paper Aadhaar Card
| Feature | Aadhaar PVC Card | Traditional Paper Aadhaar |
| Material | PVC Plastic | Paper |
| Durability | High | Moderate |
| Water Resistance | Yes | No |
| Wallet Size | Yes | No |
| Security Features | QR Code, Hologram, Microtext, Ghost Image | Basic QR Code |
| Ease of Carrying | Easy | Less Convenient |
| Cost | ₹50 (inclusive of GST and delivery) | Free download |
| Delivery | Physical delivery by post | Download or printed copy |
Both formats are equally valid as identity and address proof. The PVC Aadhaar Card offers better durability, portability, and enhanced security features, making it more convenient for everyday use.
FAQs on Aadhaar PVC Card
1. What is an Aadhaar PVC Card?
Aadhaar PVC Card is a wallet-sized Aadhaar card issued by UIDAI. It is made of durable PVC material and comes with enhanced security features such as a secure QR code, hologram, microtext, and ghost image.
2. Is Aadhaar PVC Card mandatory?
No, Aadhaar PVC Card is not mandatory. Existing Aadhaar Letter, e-Aadhaar, and mAadhaar are equally valid and accepted as proof of identity and address.
3. Who can apply for an Aadhaar PVC Card?
Any resident with a valid Aadhaar Number (UID), Enrolment ID (EID), or Virtual ID (VID) can apply for an Aadhaar PVC Card through the UIDAI portal.
4. How much does an Aadhaar PVC Card cost?
UIDAI charges ₹50 for ordering an Aadhaar PVC Card. The fee includes printing, GST, and delivery through Speed Post.
5. Can I order an Aadhaar PVC Card without a registered mobile number?
Yes, UIDAI allows residents to order an Aadhaar PVC Card even if their mobile number is not registered with Aadhaar by using the non-registered mobile number facility.
6. How can I check my Aadhaar PVC Card status?
You can track your Aadhaar PVC Card order status online using the Service Request Number (SRN) generated at the time of placing the order.
7. How long does it take to receive an Aadhaar PVC Card?
The Aadhaar PVC Card is generally delivered within 7 to 15 working days after the order is successfully placed and processed by UIDAI.
