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Identity Documents

Complete guide to obtaining Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License, and other essential identity documents in India.

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Common Use Cases

Apply for new Aadhaar cardUpdate address in AadhaarDownload e-Aadhaar instantlyUpdate mobile number in AadhaarApply for new PAN cardLink Aadhaar with PANE-KYC using AadhaarApply for fresh passportRenew expired passportApply for Tatkal passportPolice verification for passportApply for Voter ID (new)Add name to voter listChange address in Voter IDCorrect name spelling mistake in documentsApply for Learner Driving LicenseGet Permanent Driving LicenseRenew expired driving licenseGet duplicate document (lost/damaged)Apply for Caste CertificateGet Income CertificateApply for Domicile CertificateGet Birth Certificate (delayed registration)Apply for Ration Card (new)Download digital signatures for documents

Document Types & Fees

Aadhaar Card

Official Site

12-digit unique identity number issued by UIDAI. Mandatory for most government services, bank accounts, mobile SIM, LPG subsidy, and income tax filing.

Fee
Free (₹50 for update/reprint)
Validity
Lifetime (mobile update mandatory every 10 years)

PAN Card

Official Site

Permanent Account Number for tax identification. Essential for financial transactions above ₹50,000, opening bank accounts, buying property, and filing income tax returns.

Fee
₹93 for Indian address, ₹864 for foreign address
Validity
Lifetime

Passport

Official Site

International travel document. Booklet type (36/60 pages) available. Required for foreign travel, international education, work visas.

Fee
₹1,500 (36 pages), ₹2,000 (60 pages), ₹3,500 (Tatkal), ₹10,000 (Tatkal 60 pages)
Validity
10 years for adults, 5 years for minors under 18

Voter ID (EPIC)

Official Site

Electoral Photo Identity Card for voting. Proof of identity and address. Accepted for opening bank accounts, getting government services.

Fee
Free
Validity
Lifetime (update needed for address/name change)

Driving License

Official Site

Authorization to drive vehicles. Categories: LMV (4-wheeler), MCWG (2-wheeler with gear), MCWOG (scooter), Transport (commercial). International driving permit available.

Fee
₹200 for learner, ₹200 for permanent DL (state-dependent, can vary ₹150-₹1000)
Validity
20 years or till age 50, then 5-year renewal required

Ration Card

Official Site

Entitlement card for subsidized food grains under Public Distribution System. Required for many government schemes, school admissions, and serves as address proof.

Fee
Free
Validity
Annual renewal required in some states

Birth Certificate

Official Site

Official record of birth from Municipal Corporation. Essential for passport, school admission, Aadhaar enrollment. Must be registered within 21 days of birth.

Fee
Free if applied within 21 days, ₹5-50 for delayed registration
Validity
Lifetime

Domicile Certificate

Official Site

Proof of residence in a particular state. Required for state government jobs, admission in state quota, scholarships. Each state has different criteria (usually 3-15 years residence).

Fee
₹10-100 (varies by state)
Validity
Lifetime

Caste Certificate

Official Site

Proof of belonging to SC/ST/OBC category. Required for reservation benefits in education, jobs, and government schemes. Issued by competent authority (Tehsildar/SDM).

Fee
Free to ₹50 (state-dependent)
Validity
Lifetime (OBC validity: 3 years for Central Govt)

Income Certificate

Official Site

Proof of annual family income. Required for scholarships, admission under EWS quota, fee concessions, government schemes. Valid for specific purpose and time.

Fee
Free to ₹50 (state-dependent)
Validity
6 months to 1 year (purpose-dependent)

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1

Aadhaar Card Application Process

Visit nearest Aadhaar Enrollment Center (find on UIDAI website) → Fill enrollment form (take help if needed) → Provide biometrics (10 fingerprints, both iris scans, photograph) → Get acknowledgment slip with 14-digit Enrollment ID (keep it safe!) → Wait 3-5 days for biometrics quality check → Download e-Aadhaar from UIDAI website → Physical card delivered by post in 60-90 days → Track status using Enrollment ID

2

PAN Card Application (e-PAN)

Visit NSDL or UTIITSL website → Click "Apply for New PAN" → Fill Form 49A online (for Indian citizens) → Upload recent color photo (signature scanned) → Upload ID proof (Aadhaar/Voter ID/Passport) → Upload address proof (within 3 months) → Pay ₹93 fee via net banking/card → Submit and note 15-digit acknowledgment number → Receive e-PAN instantly on email → Physical PAN card delivered in 15-20 days → Track status on NSDL/UTI website

3

Passport Application - Complete Flow

Register on Passport Seva Portal → Login and fill application form (choose Normal/Tatkal) → Upload photo and signature (as per specifications) → Pay fee online (₹1,500 normal, ₹3,500 Tatkal) → Book appointment at nearest PSK (Passport Seva Kendra) → Take printout of application → Visit PSK on appointment day with original documents → Document verification by officer → Biometric capture (fingerprints, photo) → Wait for police verification (15-20 days) → Track status online → Passport dispatched via Speed Post → Receive passport in 30-45 days (7-10 days for Tatkal after police clearance)

4

Voter ID Application Process

Visit National Voter Service Portal (voters.eci.gov.in) → Register as new user → Click "Apply for new Voter ID" → Fill Form 6 online → Upload passport-size photo (recent) → Upload age proof (Aadhaar/Birth certificate) → Upload address proof (Aadhar/Electricity bill) → Submit application → Note reference number → Alternatively, visit ERO office with physical Form 6 → Electoral officer visits for verification (within 7 days) → Objection period (if any) → Name added to electoral roll → EPIC card issued and delivered in 30 days → Track status using reference number

5

Driving License - Learner to Permanent

LEARNER LICENSE: Visit Parivahan Sarathi portal → Register → Fill Form 2 for Learner License → Upload documents (age proof, address proof) → Book slot for learner test → Visit RTO on test day → Pass written test (traffic rules, road signs - 60% marks required) → Get learner license (valid 6 months) → Practice driving with L-board. PERMANENT LICENSE (after 30 days): Apply for permanent DL on same portal → Book driving test slot → Visit RTO on test day → Pass driving test (practical on designated track/road) → Submit learner license → Get permanent DL (valid 20 years) → Digital DL on mParivahan app

6

Link Aadhaar with PAN - Quick Process

METHOD 1 (Online): Visit Income Tax e-filing portal → No login required → Click "Link Aadhaar" → Enter PAN number → Enter Aadhaar number → Click Validate → OTP sent to Aadhaar-registered mobile → Enter OTP → Linked successfully. METHOD 2 (SMS): Send SMS "UIDPAN<space><12-digit Aadhaar><space><10-digit PAN>" to 567678 or 56161 → Confirmation SMS received. METHOD 3 (ITR filing): While filing Income Tax Return, system automatically validates and links if name matches. IMPORTANT: Link by March 31 deadline to avoid PAN becoming inoperative!

7

Aadhaar Update - Address/Mobile/Name

ONLINE UPDATE (Address/Mobile): Visit myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in → Login using Aadhaar and OTP → Select "Update Aadhaar Details" → Choose what to update → Upload supporting documents → Pay ₹50 fee → Submit → Track using Update Request Number (URN) → Updated Aadhaar delivered in 15-20 days. VISIT CENTER (Major changes like name/DOB): Visit Aadhaar Seva Kendra → Fill update form → Provide supporting documents → Give biometrics again → Pay ₹50 → Get acknowledgment → Updated Aadhaar in 15-20 days. DOCUMENT UPLOAD: For address only, upload document on UIDAI website without center visit

8

Passport Renewal/Re-issue Process

Login to Passport Seva Portal → Click "Apply for Re-issue" → Select reason (validity expiry/exhausted pages/lost/damaged) → Fill application (most details auto-filled) → Upload new photo if needed → Pay fees (Same as fresh: ₹1,500/₹2,000) → Book PSK appointment → Visit PSK with old passport + documents → Verification quicker than fresh (police verification may be waived if address unchanged) → New passport in 15-30 days → Old passport cancelled and retained or returned with cancellation stamp → 10-year validity from date of issue

Important Notes

🚨 Aadhaar is MANDATORY for almost all government services including bank accounts, GST, PAN cards, subsidies (LPG, ration), passport applications, voter ID, school admissions, and scholarships. Get it as priority!
⚠️ PAN-Aadhaar linking DEADLINE: Not linking by March 31 makes your PAN INOPERATIVE - you cannot file ITR, get tax refunds, open bank accounts, or complete high-value transactions. Link immediately!
📱 Update mobile number in Aadhaar first! Many services send OTPs to Aadhaar-linked mobile. Without registered mobile, you cannot update Aadhaar online, creating a deadlock situation!
🏦 DigiLocker is FREE and official - stores digital copies of Aadhaar, PAN, Driving License, Voter ID, vehicle RC. Government issued documents are legally valid. Download mAadhaar app for offline Aadhaar access without internet.
⏰ Tatkal Passport requires police clearance certificate first - get local police verification done BEFORE applying. Normal passport is cheaper and takes similar time after police verification is factored in.
🎓 Student discounts: Many applications offer fee waivers or discounts for students, senior citizens, and BPL families. Check eligibility before paying full fees.
📄 Document age matters: Address proofs must be under 3 months old for most applications (bank statements, electricity bills). Permanent proofs (property documents, rent agreement) can be older.
✅ Name spelling MUST be identical across all documents. Discrepancy can cause rejection - match exactly with birth certificate/school leaving certificate for new applications.
🚗 Driving License interstate transfer: If you permanently move to another state, transfer your DL to new RTO within 12 months. Keep both state RCs if you have vehicles in both.
💳 e-KYC through Aadhaar is instant - use for bank accounts, mobile connections, mutual funds. No need to submit physical documents if Aadhaar OTP authentication is used.
🏥 For passport applications, if you have any tattoos on arms, mention location in application form - required by new guidelines. Medical examination required only for government officials.
📞 Lost documents: Immediately file police complaint (FIR) for lost passport/DL. FIR copy is mandatory for re-issue. For Aadhaar/PAN, download e-copies from respective portals and apply for duplicate.
🔐 Aadhaar security: Enable virtual ID (VID) and use it instead of actual Aadhaar number for authentication. Mask first 8 digits when sharing Aadhaar copy to prevent misuse.
💰 Fee payment: Most portals accept online payment. Keep transaction ID and take screenshot. If payment deducted but not reflected, contact helpline within 7 days with proof.
📬 Address for delivery: Provide complete address with pincode, landmark, and mobile number. Most documents are sent by Speed Post - track using acknowledgment/consignment number on India Post website.
⚡ Aadhaar is FREE - never pay anyone for enrollment. Only ₹50 for updates. Beware of agents charging extra fees.
📅 Apply for passport 3-6 months before international travel as processing takes time. Police verification may take up to 45 days in some areas.
🆔 PAN card required for bank account, SIM card, and any transaction >₹50,000. Also mandatory for filing income tax returns (ITR).
🗳️ Voter ID doubles as age & address proof - very useful for identity verification. Also known as EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card).
📞 Helplines: Aadhaar-1947, Passport-1800-258-1800, Driving License-Parivahan Helpline, PAN-1800-222-990

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Not linking mobile number with Aadhaar first - causes OTP issues later. Update mobile BEFORE starting other applications!
❌ Spelling mismatch in name across documents - "Kumar" vs "Kumarr", "Mohammed" vs "Mohammad" causes rejection. Keep spelling identical!
❌ Using old address proof - electricity bills, bank statements must be within 3 months for most documents. Check date!
❌ Not keeping Enrollment ID/Acknowledgment slip safe - you need this 14-digit number to download e-Aadhaar and track status.
❌ Paying agents/touts unnecessarily - 99% services can be done online FREE. Only pay official government fees on official portals.
❌ Wrong passport category selection (Normal vs Tatkal) - Tatkal doesn't guarantee faster delivery if police verification delayed. Normal is better value.
❌ Not updating address after moving cities - causes delivery failures. Update immediately in all documents especially Aadhaar.
❌ Skipping police verification appointment - this delays passport by MONTHS. Attend verification on first call itself.
❌ Uploading wrong document format - most portals need JPEG/PDF under 200KB. Large files or wrong formats cause rejection.
❌ Father's name mismatch - use EXACTLY as per birth certificate or school certificate. "Late" prefix only if deceased.
❌ Not taking printout of application form - always carry physical copy to government offices even after online submission.
❌ Ignoring deadline reminders - PAN-Aadhaar linkng, passport renewal, license renewal have strict deadlines. Set calendar reminders!
❌ Using informal photo - wear light colored clothing (not white), neutral background, no sunglasses/hats. Follow size specifications exactly.
❌ Not checking application status - track every 2-3 days using reference number. If stuck, contact helpline immediately.
❌ Applying for duplicate when original exists - reprint Aadhaar/PAN online FREE before applying for duplicate and paying ₹50.
❌ Wrong fee payment - verify official website URL before payment. Beware of fake websites charging extra fees with similar domains.
❌ Not mentioning all addresses - if you have current + permanent address different, mention both and provide proof for both.
❌ Assuming instant processing - most documents take 15-90 days. Plan ahead, don't apply at last minute before urgent need.
❌ Not enabling Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) - using actual Aadhaar number everywhere is security risk. Generate 16-digit VID and use that.
❌ For DL, not practicing enough after learner license - minimum 30 days practice mandatory. Failing driving test requires re-applying and waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for Aadhaar online?

No, Aadhaar enrollment requires physical presence at enrollment center for biometrics (10 fingerprints, iris scan, photo). However, you can book appointment online at UIDAI website and track status online after enrollment. For updates (address/mobile), online submission is possible on myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in.

How long does Aadhaar take?

Aadhaar enrollment to physical card delivery takes up to 90 days. But you can download e-Aadhaar (equally valid) within 3-5 days after enrollment if biometrics are verified. E-Aadhaar is PDF with password (first 4 letters of name + year of birth). Check status using your 14-digit Enrollment ID on UIDAI website.

What if I lost my Aadhaar card?

Your Aadhaar number is permanent and linked to biometrics - never lost. You can: 1) Download e-Aadhaar FREE from UIDAI website using Aadhaar number or Enrollment ID. 2) Order reprint from UIDAI website (₹50 fee). 3) Visit any Aadhaar Seva Kendra with any valid ID proof to get reprint. No need to re-enroll!

Is Aadhaar mandatory? Can I refuse it?

Yes, Aadhaar is mandatory by law for: filing income tax returns (ITR), opening bank accounts, getting mobile SIM, LPG subsidy, PAN card linking, passport application, voter ID, and availing most government schemes. Supreme Court upheld validity in 2018. Refusal will block access to these services.

Can I apply for passport completely online?

Partly yes. Entire passport application, document upload, fee payment, and appointment booking are online on passportindia.gov.in. However, you MUST visit Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) once for: document verification by officer, biometrics (fingerprints + photo), and interview. After that, police verification happens at your address. So it's hybrid - online + one physical visit.

How to link Aadhaar with PAN? Is it really mandatory?

YES, mandatory by law. If not linked by March 31 deadline, your PAN becomes INOPERATIVE - you cannot file ITR, receive tax refunds, or do high-value transactions. Linking is FREE: Visit incometax.gov.in → Link Aadhaar → Enter PAN + Aadhaar → Validate → Enter OTP → Done. Alternatively, SMS "UIDPAN<space><Aadhaar><space><PAN>" to 567678.

What is Tatkal passport? Is it really faster?

Tatkal is "urgent" passport service for emergency travel. Fee is ₹3,500 extra (₹2,000 normal + ₹3,500 Tatkal = ₹5,500 total). Processing is 1-3 days AFTER police verification. Catch: Police verification still takes 7-15 days, so total time similar to normal. Use Tatkal only if you have immediate travel proof (ticket booking). Otherwise normal passport (₹1,500-₹2,000) is better value.

Can minor (below 18) get PAN card?

Yes, minors can get PAN card for income from investments, bank accounts, or inheritance. Parent/guardian applies using Form 49AA (not 49A). Minor's recent photo required, but signature not needed. Father's or mother's PAN mandatory. After turning 18, minor should apply for reprinting with signature. Useful for opening PPF/mutual fund accounts in child's name.

How to check my Voter ID application status?

Visit National Voter Service Portal (voters.eci.gov.in) → Track Application Status → Enter Form 6 reference number received at submission → See current status. Alternatively, search your name in electoral roll using EPIC number/name/father name. Processing takes 30 days. If name appears in electoral roll, EPIC card delivery takes additional 15 days by post.

My name is spelled differently in different documents (Kumarr vs Kumar). What to do?

Very common issue! Options: 1) QUICK FIX: Get notarized affidavit declaring "both names refer to same person" - costs ₹100-300. Sufficient for most purposes. 2) PERMANENT FIX: Update all documents to match ONE spelling (use birth certificate/school leaving certificate as reference). For passport, name mismatch with educational certificates causes visa rejections - best to standardize.

How to update mobile number in Aadhaar without registered mobile (catch-22)?

This is deadlock situation many face! Solution: Visit Aadhaar Seva Kendra physically with any valid ID proof (PAN/Voter ID/DL/Passport). Fill update form → Give biometrics → Update mobile number → Pay ₹50 → Get Update Request Number (URN). Updated Aadhaar in 15 days. Cannot be done online without existing registered mobile as OTP cannot be sent!

What is e-Aadhaar, e-PAN, DigiLocker? Are they legally valid?

YES, 100% legally valid! e-Aadhaar = PDF downloaded from UIDAI website. e-PAN = PDF from NSDL website. DigiLocker = government app storing all digital documents. Supreme Court and IT Act recognize these as valid as physical documents for ALL purposes including bank KYC, mobile SIM, government applications. Many organizations prefer digital copies as they cannot be forged. You can even show on mobile screen!

Driving License: Learner vs Permanent. Can I drive with learner license?

Learner License (LL): Valid 6 months. You can drive ONLY with L-board displayed front & back, and licensed driver (holding permanent DL) sitting beside you.违ating this = ₹5,000 fine + 3 years jail. After 30 days minimum, apply for permanent DL. Pass driving test to get permanent DL (valid 20 years). With permanent DL, drive alone without restrictions.

I moved to another state. Do I need to transfer my documents (DL, Voter ID, Aadhaar)?

AADHAAR: Update address online on myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in (₹50 fee). DRIVING LICENSE: If permanent move, transfer to new state RTO within 12 months. Apply on Parivahan portal with new address proof. VOTER ID: Add name to new constituency electoral roll using Form 6. Delete from old roll using Form 7. PASSPORT: No transfer needed - valid across India. Update address if you want delivery at new address.

What is Virtual ID (VID) in Aadhaar? Should I use it?

VID = 16-digit temporary number that works like Aadhaar number for authentication but doesn't reveal your actual Aadhaar. STRONGLY RECOMMENDED! Generate FREE on UIDAI website. Use VID instead of Aadhaar number when: booking SIM card, opening bank account, hotel check-in, any KYC. You can revoke and regenerate new VID anytime. Protects privacy and prevents Aadhaar number misuse. Also lock your biometrics on UIDAI website!

Required Documents

  • Date of Birth Proof: Birth Certificate, School LC, 10th Marksheet
  • Address Proof: Aadhaar, Electricity Bill, Rent Agreement, Ration Card
  • Identity Proof: Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID (for other documents)
  • Passport size photographs (Recent, white background)
  • Mobile number (linked to Aadhaar for OTP)
  • Email ID (for acknowledgment and communication)
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