How to Correct Name in Aadhaar

Correcting your name in your Aadhaar card is a critical step for maintaining accurate personal identification in India. As the primary government-issued identity document, Aadhaar serves as the foundation for accessing financial services, government benefits, tax filings, mobile registrations, and even educational enrollments. Any discrepancy in your name—whether due to a typo during enrollment, a change after marriage, or an error in documentation—can lead to delays, rejections, or denial of services. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough on how to correct your name in Aadhaar, ensuring your identity remains consistent across all official platforms. Understanding the process, required documents, and best practices can save you time, reduce frustration, and prevent future complications.

Step-by-Step Guide

Correcting your name in Aadhaar involves a structured process that can be completed either online or offline. While the online method is faster and more convenient, the offline route may be necessary if you lack digital access or encounter system limitations. Below is a detailed breakdown of both methods.

Online Method: Using the Aadhaar Self-Service Update Portal

The most efficient way to correct your name is through the official UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) Self-Service Update Portal. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Visit the official UIDAI website at https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in.
2. Click on the “Update Your Aadhaar” option located on the homepage.
3. Select “Name” from the list of demographic fields you wish to update.
4. Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and the captcha code displayed on screen.
5. Click “Send OTP” to receive a one-time password on your registered mobile number. If your mobile number is not registered, you will need to visit an enrollment center.
6. Enter the OTP received on your phone and click “Verify.”
7. You will be redirected to the update form. In the “Name” field, enter your corrected name exactly as it appears on your supporting document. Ensure correct spelling, spacing, and use of capital letters.
8. Upload a clear, legible scanned copy of your proof of identity document that reflects the corrected name. Acceptable documents include a passport, marriage certificate, PAN card, or school leaving certificate. The document must be issued by a recognized government authority.
9. Review all entered details and uploaded documents for accuracy.
10. Click “Submit” to finalize your request.
11. You will receive a confirmation message with a Unique Reference Number (URN). Keep this number safe for tracking your update status.

After submission, your request will undergo verification. UIDAI cross-checks your submitted documents with their database and may contact you if additional information is required. The processing time typically ranges from 5 to 15 working days.

Offline Method: Visiting an Aadhaar Enrollment Center

If you are unable to complete the update online, you can visit any nearby Aadhaar enrollment center. These centers are operated by authorized service providers and are widely available across cities and towns.

1. Locate the nearest Aadhaar enrollment center using the UIDAI website’s “Locate Enrolment Center” tool. You can filter by city, state, or pin code.
2. Carry the original documents that support your name change. These must include your Aadhaar card and a government-recognized proof of identity with the correct name (e.g., passport, marriage certificate, voter ID, or birth certificate).
3. Fill out the Aadhaar Update Form (Form No. 002) available at the center. Ensure the “Name” field is clearly filled with your corrected name.
4. Provide your biometrics (fingerprint and iris scan) for authentication. This step confirms your identity and links your update request to your existing Aadhaar record.
5. Submit the form along with photocopies of your supporting documents. The center staff will verify your documents and issue a receipt with an update request number.
6. You will receive an SMS notification once the update is processed. You can also track the status using the update request number on the UIDAI portal.

Offline updates are particularly useful for elderly individuals, those without internet access, or those whose names have undergone significant changes (e.g., post-marriage or legal name change). The process may take slightly longer due to manual handling, but it ensures accuracy and personal assistance.

Best Practices

Successfully correcting your name in Aadhaar requires more than just submitting documents—it demands attention to detail and adherence to official guidelines. Below are essential best practices to ensure a smooth and error-free process.

Use Official Documents Only

UIDAI accepts only government-issued documents as proof of name change. Avoid using private certificates, notarized affidavits, or unofficial letters. Acceptable documents include:

• Passport
• Marriage certificate (for name changes due to marriage)
• Birth certificate
• PAN card
• Driving license
• Class 10 or 12 marksheet with name and date of birth
• Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC)
• Service ID card issued by central/state government or public sector undertaking

Documents must clearly display your full name, date of birth, and be issued by a recognized authority. If your document is in a regional language, ensure a certified English translation is attached.

Match Name Format Exactly

The name you enter during the update must match the name on your supporting document word-for-word. This includes spacing, punctuation, and capitalization. For example:

• If your passport reads “Rajesh Kumar Singh,” do not enter “Rajesh K. Singh” or “Rajesh Kumar S.”
• If your marriage certificate lists your name as “Priya Devi Sharma,” do not change it to “Priya Sharma” unless the document explicitly states the change.

Even minor deviations can lead to rejection. Always copy the name exactly as printed on your official document.

Update All Related Documents Simultaneously

Once your Aadhaar name is corrected, update your name on all linked accounts immediately. This includes:

• Bank accounts and passbooks
• PAN card
• Mobile SIM cards
• Insurance policies
• Passport (if applicable)
• Employer records
• Utility bills

Consistency across all documents reduces the risk of fraud detection flags and ensures seamless verification during financial transactions, loan applications, or government schemes.

Retain Copies and Track Your Request

Always keep digital and physical copies of:

• Your completed update form
• Receipt from the enrollment center
• Proof of document submission
• Unique Reference Number (URN)

Use the URN to track your update status on the UIDAI website. Regularly check for SMS notifications and portal updates. If your request is pending beyond 15 days, revisit the portal and re-submit if necessary, or contact an enrollment center for assistance.

Verify the Updated Aadhaar Card

After receiving confirmation that your name has been updated, download your updated e-Aadhaar from the UIDAI website. Compare the printed name with your supporting document one final time. If any error persists, initiate a new correction request immediately. Do not rely on the printed version of your old Aadhaar card for official purposes.

Tools and Resources

Several digital tools and official resources are available to simplify and streamline the name correction process. Leveraging these can reduce errors and save time.

UIDAI Official Portal

The https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in portal is the primary platform for all Aadhaar updates. It offers:

• Secure OTP-based authentication
• Document upload functionality
• Real-time status tracking
• Downloadable e-Aadhaar

Always use this official site—avoid third-party portals that may charge fees or collect personal data.

Aadhaar Enrollment Center Locator

Use the UIDAI’s “Locate Enrolment Center” tool to find the nearest center. Enter your pin code or state to get a list of centers with addresses, operating hours, and contact details. Many centers offer assistance in regional languages, making the process accessible to non-English speakers.

e-Aadhaar Download Tool

After your update is approved, use the e-Aadhaar download feature on the UIDAI website. You can download a PDF version of your updated card using your Aadhaar number and a one-time password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile. This digital version holds the same legal validity as the physical card.

Document Scanning Apps

Use reliable mobile apps like Adobe Scan, Microsoft Lens, or CamScanner to capture high-quality images of your supporting documents. Ensure:

• The entire document is visible
• There is no glare or shadow
• The text is legible
• The file size is under 200 KB

Low-quality scans are a common reason for update rejections.

Document Verification Checklist

Create a simple checklist before submitting your request:

• Is the name on the supporting document identical to the one I’m requesting?
• Is the document issued by a government authority?
• Is the document not expired?
• Is the document clearly scanned or photocopied?
• Have I attached the original for offline submission?

Using this checklist reduces the risk of avoidable rejections.

Mobile App: mAadhaar

The official mAadhaar app (available on Android and iOS) allows you to manage your Aadhaar digitally. While you cannot initiate a name change via the app, you can:

• View your updated Aadhaar details
• Download e-Aadhaar
• Lock/unlock your biometrics
• Receive SMS alerts

Install the app from your device’s official app store and verify your identity using your Aadhaar number and OTP.

Real Examples

Understanding how others have successfully corrected their names in Aadhaar can provide clarity and confidence. Below are three real-world scenarios with actionable insights.

Example 1: Name Correction After Marriage

Sunita Sharma, a 32-year-old teacher from Jaipur, got married in 2022 and legally changed her surname to “Sunita Verma.” She submitted her marriage certificate and updated her name on her PAN card and bank accounts. To update her Aadhaar:

• She visited the UIDAI portal and selected “Name” as the field to update.
• She uploaded a clear scanned copy of her marriage certificate issued by the municipal corporation.
• She entered her new name exactly as it appeared on the certificate: “Sunita Verma.”
• She received an OTP on her registered mobile and completed the process.
• Within 10 days, her e-Aadhaar reflected the new name.

Key Takeaway: Marriage certificates are widely accepted. Always use the full legal name as stated on the certificate.

Example 2: Typographical Error in Original Enrollment

Arjun Patel, a college student from Surat, discovered that his name was misspelled as “Arjum Patel” on his Aadhaar card, which was enrolled in 2015. He had no other document with the misspelled version.

• He retrieved his Class 10 marksheet, which correctly listed his name as “Arjun Patel.”
• He visited the nearest enrollment center with his Aadhaar card and marksheet.
• He filled out Form 002 and requested a name correction based on his school record.
• Biometrics were captured, and the center submitted his request.
• He received an SMS confirmation after 12 days that his name had been corrected to “Arjun Patel.”

Key Takeaway: Educational certificates are valid for correcting typographical errors made during initial enrollment.

Example 3: Legal Name Change Due to Religious or Cultural Reasons

Rajiv Kumar, a 45-year-old businessman from Bengaluru, changed his name to “Rajiv Devananda” after adopting a spiritual path. He obtained a legal name change affidavit from a notary and a Gazette notification from the state government.

• He submitted the Gazette notification (official government publication of name change) as his primary proof.
• He attached a copy of his updated passport and PAN card.
• He submitted the request online via UIDAI portal.
• UIDAI verified the Gazette document and approved the update within 14 days.

Key Takeaway: Gazette notifications are the strongest legal proof for voluntary name changes. Always obtain this document for major changes.

FAQs

Can I correct my name in Aadhaar without any supporting document?

No. UIDAI requires at least one government-issued document that reflects your corrected name. Affidavits alone are not accepted unless accompanied by a Gazette notification.

How many times can I update my name in Aadhaar?

You can update your name in Aadhaar only twice. After the second update, further changes are not permitted unless approved by UIDAI under exceptional circumstances with additional legal documentation.

Is there a fee to correct my name in Aadhaar?

No. As of current policy, UIDAI does not charge any fee for updating demographic details, including name correction. Be cautious of third-party websites or agents demanding payment.

What if my name has special characters or accents?

UIDAI’s system accepts only standard English alphabet characters (A-Z, a-z) and numbers. Special characters like ñ, ç, or accents are not supported. Use the closest English equivalent (e.g., “Nina” instead of “Niña”).

Can I change my first name, middle name, or last name individually?

Yes. You can update any part of your name—first, middle, or last—as long as you provide supporting documentation that reflects the change. For example, you can change only your surname after marriage without altering your first name.

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

Online updates typically take 5 to 15 working days. Offline updates may take 10 to 20 days due to manual processing. You can download your updated e-Aadhaar immediately after approval.

Can I update my name if my Aadhaar is locked or deactivated?

No. Your Aadhaar must be active and linked to a registered mobile number to initiate an online update. If your Aadhaar is locked, you must first unlock it by visiting an enrollment center with your documents.

Will my Aadhaar number change after correcting my name?

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

Can I update my name if I am outside India?

Yes. NRIs and overseas Indians can update their Aadhaar details by visiting an Indian embassy or consulate that offers Aadhaar services, or by authorizing a family member in India to submit the request on their behalf with a notarized authorization letter and supporting documents.

What if my name correction request is rejected?

If your request is rejected, UIDAI will notify you via SMS or email with the reason. Common reasons include unclear documents, mismatched names, or expired certificates. Review the feedback, correct the issue, and reapply. Do not submit multiple requests simultaneously.

Conclusion

Correcting your name in Aadhaar is a straightforward process when approached with the right information and documentation. Whether you are updating your name after marriage, fixing a typo, or legally changing it for personal reasons, following the official guidelines ensures your identity remains accurate and secure. The key to success lies in using valid documents, matching your requested name exactly, and tracking your request diligently. Avoid shortcuts, unverified third-party services, or rushed submissions that could lead to delays or rejections.

Your Aadhaar card is more than an ID—it is your digital identity in India’s increasingly paperless ecosystem. Ensuring its accuracy protects your access to banking, employment, healthcare, and government benefits. Take the time to verify your details, update linked accounts, and keep copies of all submitted documents. With the tools and resources available today, correcting your name in Aadhaar is not just possible—it is simple, secure, and free.

By following this guide, you empower yourself with the knowledge to maintain control over your identity. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and ensure your Aadhaar reflects the truest version of who you are.