Aadhaar is used for identity verification across a wide range of services, but sharing the Aadhaar number isn’t always necessary. UIDAI introduced the Virtual ID as a temporary alternative that can be used for supported authentication and e-KYC transactions.
As long as your mobile number is linked to Aadhaar, the procedure is quite simple. To generate a VID number, you can either use UIDAI’s approved services or send a specific SMS to 1947. Knowing how the process works is also useful if you ever need to create a new VID or retrieve your old one.
What is VID in Aadhaar Card?
VID, or Virtual ID, is a temporary and revocable 16-digit random number mapped to an Aadhaar number. It can be used in place of the Aadhaar number for supported authentication and e-KYC services. The Aadhaar number cannot be derived from the VID.
A VID number can only be generated by the Aadhaar holder. UIDAI allows the holder to create a new VID when necessary, but an Aadhaar number can only have one valid VID at a time.
How is a VID Different From an Aadhaar Number?
A VID and Aadhaar number are linked, but they are not the same. An Aadhaar number is the primary identity number of an individual, whereas a VID is a temporary identity number that can be replaced.
| Aspect | Aadhaar Number | VID |
| What it is | A 12-digit identity number issued to an Aadhaar holder | A temporary 16-digit number mapped to the Aadhaar number |
| Validity | Remains associated with the Aadhaar holder | Remains valid until a new VID is generated |
| Can it be replaced? | The Aadhaar number itself cannot be replaced | A new VID can be generated when required |
| Purpose | Used for Aadhaar-based identity and verification services | Can be used instead of Aadhaar for supported authentication and e-KYC |
| Privacy | Directly identifies the Aadhaar holder | The Aadhaar number cannot be obtained from the VID |
| Who can generate it? | Assigned by UIDAI | Generated by the Aadhaar holder through authorised UIDAI services |
Therefore, rather than taking the place of the Aadhaar number itself, a VID serves as a temporary substitute identifier for eligible Aadhaar-based transactions.
Why is an Aadhaar Virtual ID Used?
When an authentication or e-KYC service accepts a VID as a substitute for the Aadhaar number, an Aadhaar Virtual ID may be utilised. It offers an additional method for completing supported verification without revealing the Aadhaar number, since the VID cannot be used to determine it.
The VID can also be replaced when required. This gives the Aadhaar holder control over the temporary identifier being used for supported transactions.
How Can You Generate an Aadhaar Virtual ID?
You can generate an Aadhaar Virtual ID through UIDAI’s authorised services using the mobile number registered with your Aadhaar. The available options include the MyAadhaar website, mAadhaar and SMS. The process is completed by the Aadhaar holder, so you don’t need to visit an enrolment centre just to generate a VID number.
For the online method, use the Virtual ID service available through the MyAadhaar portal and follow the instructions shown on the screen. The generated VID is sent to your registered mobile number once the necessary verification has been completed. If you need to replace or retrieve an existing VID, you can use the same services.
How Can You Generate a VID Through SMS?
Additionally, UIDAI offers a VID generation option based on SMS. Send GVID and the final four digits of your Aadhaar number to 1947 from the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar.
For example, if the last four digits of your Aadhaar number are 9123, the message should read:
GVID 9123
The request is then processed, and the generated VID is sent to your registered mobile number. This option can be useful when you need a VID but don’t have immediate access to an online Aadhaar service.
How Can You Retrieve Your VID if You Forget it?
If you’ve forgotten your VID number, you don’t necessarily need to generate a new one. UIDAI provides a facility to retrieve your last active VID through its authorised services.
For SMS retrieval, send RVID followed by the last four digits of your Aadhaar number to 1947 from your registered mobile number. For example:
RVID 9123
Your active VID will then be sent to the registered mobile number. You can also use UIDAI’s other supported services to retrieve the VID.
How Long Does an Aadhaar VID Remain Valid?
There is no set expiration date for an Aadhaar VID. It doesn’t need to be replaced after a certain number of days or months because it stays valid until you create another VID.
The old VID is rendered inactive when a new one is created. This implies that at any given time, only one VID is valid against an Aadhaar number. A minimum amount of time must pass before another VID can be created, according to UIDAI.
Can You Generate a New VID?
Yes. You can generate a new VID number when you want to replace your existing one. The new VID differs from the previous one and is the active identifier associated with your Aadhaar.
Once the new VID is generated, the earlier VID is deactivated. This gives Aadhaar holders the option to replace their temporary identifier when required, rather than continuing to use the same VID indefinitely.
Where Can You Use an Aadhaar Virtual ID?
An Aadhaar Virtual ID can be used instead of the Aadhaar number for authentication and e-KYC services that support VID. It can help complete eligible verification without requiring you to provide your actual Aadhaar number directly.
However, a VID isn’t a substitute for the Aadhaar number in every situation. Its use depends on whether the particular authentication or e-KYC service accepts VID. It is therefore useful to check the service’s requirements before relying on your VID for verification.
What Should You Keep in Mind While Using VID?
A few easy steps can make using your Aadhaar Virtual ID safer and easier. Make sure the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar is active and always use approved UIDAI channels when generating, acquiring, or modifying your VID.
Remember that a VID is a temporary identifier, not a replacement for your Aadhaar number. If you create a new VID, the old one becomes inactive. Additionally, you should verify the purpose of an authentication request before completing it and refrain from sharing your VID or Aadhaar details needlessly.
Read More: How to Download PAN Card with Aadhaar Number Online
Conclusion
An Aadhaar Virtual ID gives Aadhaar holders another option for supported authentication and e-KYC services without directly using their Aadhaar number. Since a VID number can be generated, retrieved or replaced through UIDAI’s authorised services, understanding these options can make Aadhaar-based verification easier to manage.
For MSMEs, keeping KYC and business information organised can also make financial processes easier when additional funding is needed. At Lendingkart, we work to make business financing simpler for eligible MSMEs through a digital-first application process, helping entrepreneurs access funds for working capital and other business needs as they focus on running and growing their businesses.
FAQs
What is VID in an Aadhaar card?
VID is a temporary 16-digit number linked to Aadhaar that can be used for supported authentication and e-KYC services.
How can I generate my Aadhaar Virtual ID?
You can generate it through UIDAI’s authorised online services, mAadhaar or SMS using your registered mobile number.
Is VID the same as an Aadhaar number?
No. Aadhaar is a 12-digit identity number, while VID is a temporary 16-digit number.
Can someone else generate my VID?
No. Only the Aadhaar holder can generate a VID through authorised UIDAI services.
How long is a VID valid?
There is no fixed expiry. It remains valid until you generate a new VID.
Can I generate a new VID?
Yes. A new VID can be generated when required, replacing the previous one.
Related Articles
Aadhaar Se PAN Card Download Kaise Kare
Small Business Ideas with Low Investment
Jan Aadhaar Card Registration Status Check
