What is a PVC Aadhaar Card?
The PVC Aadhaar Card is the latest version of the Aadhaar issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
PVC stands for Polyvinyl Chloride, a durable plastic material — similar to what’s used in ATM or credit cards.
This compact version of the Aadhaar is wallet-sized, waterproof, and long-lasting, making it easier to carry around.
It includes advanced security features such as a QR code, hologram, embossed Aadhaar logo, and micro text, ensuring authenticity and preventing misuse.
Anyone with a valid Aadhaar number can apply for a PVC version directly from the official UIDAI website, even if their mobile number is not registered.
🌟 Key Features of the PVC Aadhaar Card
Here are the standout features that make the PVC Aadhaar card unique:
- 🔒 Secure QR code for instant offline verification
- 🪙 Hologram and Guilloche pattern for anti-counterfeit protection
- 📅 Issue date and print date printed for transparency
- 💳 Wallet-sized – easily fits with your debit/credit cards
- 🏢 Embossed Aadhaar logo for official authenticity
- ⚙️ Easy reprint option directly from UIDAI portal
💡 Benefits of PVC Aadhaar Over Regular Aadhaar
| Feature | PVC Aadhaar Card | Regular Aadhaar Letter |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Waterproof & tear-resistant | Paper, can be damaged easily |
| Size | Credit-card-sized | A4 sheet |
| Appearance | Professional look | Plain print |
| Portability | Easy to carry in wallet | Needs to be folded |
| Lifespan | Long-lasting | Shorter lifespan |
| Security Features | QR code, hologram, micro text | QR code only |
So if you want a modern, professional, and durable version of your Aadhaar, PVC is the best choice.
👤 Who Can Apply for a PVC Aadhaar Card?
Anyone who already has an Aadhaar number is eligible to apply for a PVC version.
You can apply if:
- You are an Indian resident with Aadhaar.
- Your mobile number is registered or you have access to an alternate number.
- Parents/guardians can also apply for minors’ PVC Aadhaar.
✅ No need to visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra; everything can be done online.
📄 Documents Required
No additional documents are required to order a PVC Aadhaar card.
You’ll only need:
- Your Aadhaar Number (UID) or Virtual ID (VID) or Enrolment ID (EID)
- A registered or alternate mobile number to receive OTP
All your personal and biometric data is already stored in UIDAI’s secure database.
💻 Step-by-Step Process to Apply PVC Aadhaar Card Online
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to apply for your PVC Aadhaar Card from UIDAI’s official website.
Step 1: Visit UIDAI Official Website
Go to https://uidai.gov.in
Click on “Order Aadhaar PVC Card” under the My Aadhaar section.
Step 2: Enter Aadhaar Details
Enter your Aadhaar Number, VID, or EID and fill in the captcha code.
Step 3: Request OTP
Click on “Send OTP”.
- If your mobile number is registered, you’ll get OTP on that number.
- If not, choose the “My mobile number is not registered” option and enter an alternate number.
Step 4: Verify OTP
Enter the OTP received and click “Submit”.
Step 5: Preview Aadhaar Details
You can preview the details before making payment.
Step 6: Pay the Fee
Pay ₹50 using Debit/Credit card, Net Banking, or UPI.
Step 7: Download Acknowledgment
You’ll receive a Service Request Number (SRN) — note it for future tracking.
Once your payment is successful, UIDAI processes the card for printing and dispatch.
💰 PVC Aadhaar Card Application Fees
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | ₹50 (inclusive of GST and Speed Post charges) |
| Payment Mode | Online only |
| Refund Policy | Non-refundable |
The ₹50 covers everything — printing, packaging, and doorstep delivery via India Post Speed Post.
💳 Payment Methods Accepted
UIDAI provides multiple payment options:
- 💸 Debit/Credit Cards – Visa, MasterCard, RuPay
- 🏦 Net Banking – Available for major Indian banks
- 📱 UPI Apps – Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, BHIM UPI
After successful payment, you’ll get an SRN and confirmation message.
🔍 How to Check PVC Aadhaar Card Status
After applying, you can track your order anytime online.
Steps to Check:
- Visit UIDAI → My Aadhaar → “Check Aadhaar PVC Card Status”
- Enter your SRN (Service Request Number) and Captcha
- Click Submit
- The portal will show your order’s printing, dispatch, or delivery status.
You can also track the delivery on India Post Tracking using the consignment number sent via SMS.
🚚 Delivery Timeline and Dispatch Details
- UIDAI usually prints and dispatches within 5 working days after receiving the order.
- India Post delivers it within 10–15 days, depending on your city or region.
- You’ll get SMS notifications during the process.
📦 Delivery Partner: India Post (Speed Post)
📬 Tracking: Via consignment number shared in SMS
♻️ How to Reprint or Replace a Lost PVC Aadhaar
If your PVC Aadhaar card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can easily reorder it online.
Steps to Reprint:
- Visit the UIDAI site → Order Aadhaar PVC Card
- Enter Aadhaar/VID → Verify via OTP
- Pay ₹50 again
- Your new card will be printed and dispatched in a few days.
No separate FIR or proof required since UIDAI already has your Aadhaar data.
✅ How to Verify PVC Aadhaar Card
To ensure your PVC Aadhaar is genuine:
- Go to UIDAI website → Verify Aadhaar Number
- Enter Aadhaar number and captcha
- Click Verify
You can also:
- Scan the Secure QR code using the mAadhaar App to check authenticity.
- Verify hologram, micro text, and embossed logo on the physical card.
⚠️ Common Errors and How to Fix Them
| Error Type | Reason | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| OTP not received | Network delay or wrong number | Try “Resend OTP” or use alternate number |
| Payment failed | Bank server issue | Retry after few minutes |
| Address mismatch | Aadhaar not updated | Update Aadhaar before ordering |
| SRN not showing | UIDAI delay | Check again after few hours |
💡 Tip: Always use updated Aadhaar details before ordering to avoid delivery issues.
📊 PVC Aadhaar Card vs e-Aadhaar vs Aadhaar Letter
| Feature | PVC Aadhaar | e-Aadhaar | Aadhaar Letter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Format | Plastic card | PDF file | Paper |
| Durability | High | N/A | Low |
| Portability | Wallet-sized | Stored digitally | Foldable |
| Security | QR code, hologram, micro text | QR code only | Basic print |
| Cost | ₹50 | Free | Free |
| Issued by | UIDAI | UIDAI | UIDAI |
Verdict: The PVC Aadhaar is the most durable and professional version, while e-Aadhaar is convenient for quick downloads.
🔐 Safety & Security Features of PVC Aadhaar
The UIDAI ensures that each PVC Aadhaar card includes multiple tamper-proof security features, such as:
- 🔸 Secure QR Code for offline verification
- 🔸 Hologram with UIDAI logo
- 🔸 Guilloche pattern (anti-copy design)
- 🔸 Micro text printing for authenticity
- 🔸 Ghost image (faint duplicate image)
- 🔸 Embossed Aadhaar logo for tactile feel
These ensure your card is authentic, secure, and difficult to forge.
❓ FAQs on PVC Aadhaar Card
Q1. Can I apply PVC Aadhaar if my mobile number is not linked?
✅ Yes, you can use an alternate mobile number to receive OTP during ordering.
Q2. How long does it take to receive the PVC Aadhaar?
Usually within 10–15 days after successful payment.
Q3. Can I apply for my family members?
Yes, you can order PVC Aadhaar for any family member with a valid Aadhaar number.
Q4. Is PVC Aadhaar mandatory?
No, it’s optional. All Aadhaar versions are valid.
Q5. What should I do if my address is old?
Update it on UIDAI before applying so your new PVC card reflects the correct address.
