Aadhaar PVC Card is a compact, durable, wallet-friendly version of Aadhaar that can be ordered online from UIDAI. It contains the same Aadhaar identity details as other valid Aadhaar formats but is printed on a PVC card with additional security features. For people who prefer carrying a physical card instead of a paper Aadhaar letter or digital PDF, the PVC version can be a convenient option.
UIDAI currently allows Aadhaar holders to order the PVC Card online through its official Aadhaar services. The fee was revised from ₹50 to ₹75 from January 1, 2026, and the current ₹75 charge includes GST and Speed Post delivery. UIDAI also confirms that Aadhaar Letter, e-Aadhaar, Aadhaar PVC Card, and Aadhaar App are all equally valid forms of Aadhaar.
What Is an Aadhaar PVC Card?
An Aadhaar PVC Card is a physical Aadhaar format made from durable PVC material.
1. It Is Credit-Card Sized
The card is designed to fit easily inside a wallet.
2. It Contains Aadhaar Information
The card carries Aadhaar-related identity details and security features.
3. It Is Equally Valid
UIDAI states that Aadhaar PVC Card has the same validity as the Aadhaar Letter and e-Aadhaar.
Aadhaar PVC Card Security Features
The PVC Card includes multiple security elements.
| Security Feature | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Tamper-proof QR Code | Secure verification |
| Micro text | Helps identify genuine card |
| Ghost image | Adds document security |
| Issue date | Shows card issuance information |
| Details as on date | Reflects current Aadhaar data used for printing |
| Guilloche pattern | Anti-counterfeit design |
| Embossed Aadhaar logo | Physical authenticity feature |
UIDAI specifically lists these security features for Aadhaar PVC Card.
How Much Does Aadhaar PVC Card Cost in 2026?
The current Aadhaar PVC Card fee is:
₹75
1. GST Is Included
No separate GST amount needs to be added.
2. Speed Post Charge Is Included
The ₹75 fee also includes delivery through India Post Speed Post.
3. Revised Fee Started in 2026
UIDAI revised the PVC Card rate from ₹50 to ₹75 with effect from January 1, 2026.
How to Order Aadhaar PVC Card Online
The process can be completed through UIDAI’s official Aadhaar services.
1. Open the Aadhaar PVC Card Service
Use the official Order Aadhaar PVC Card option.
2. Enter Aadhaar Number
Provide the 12-digit Aadhaar number.
UIDAI also supports applicable alternative identifiers such as:
- VID
- Enrolment ID
in the PVC ordering process.
3. Complete Security Verification
Enter the displayed security code.
4. Request OTP
Select login or OTP verification.
5. Enter OTP
Use the OTP received on the applicable mobile number.
6. Review Aadhaar Details
When ordering for yourself with the registered mobile number, UIDAI allows a preview of Aadhaar details before final order submission.
7. Accept Terms and Conditions
Review and accept the applicable terms.
8. Make Payment
Pay the current ₹75 fee.
9. Save Receipt and SRN
After successful payment, UIDAI generates a digitally signed receipt and sends the Service Request Number by SMS.
Payment Methods for Aadhaar PVC Card
UIDAI currently supports several digital payment options.
These include:
- Credit card
- Debit card
- Net banking
- UPI
- Paytm
Use only the official payment gateway.
What Is SRN in Aadhaar PVC Card Order?
SRN stands for Service Request Number.
1. It Contains 14 Digits
UIDAI states that the SRN is a 14-digit number generated when the PVC Card or Aadhaar service request is initiated.
2. It Is Used for Tracking
Keep the SRN until the PVC Card has been dispatched.
3. It Is Sent by SMS
The Aadhaar holder also receives the SRN on the mobile number used during the request.
How to Check Aadhaar PVC Card Order Status
After ordering, the PVC Card can be tracked.
1. Open Check Aadhaar Card Status
Use UIDAI’s PVC status-checking service.
2. Enter the SRN
Use the correct service request number.
3. Review Dispatch Status
The status may show whether the card is:
- Under processing
- Printed
- Handed over to India Post
- Dispatched
UIDAI states that PVC status can be tracked using SRN until dispatch.
What Is the AWB Number?
Once India Post receives the card, an Airway Bill number is generated.
1. AWB Is the Postal Tracking Number
It is used to track Speed Post delivery.
2. UIDAI Sends It by SMS
The Aadhaar holder receives the AWB number after dispatch.
3. Delivery Can Then Be Tracked Through India Post
UIDAI specifically states that post-dispatch delivery can be tracked using the Department of Posts tracking service.
How Long Does Aadhaar PVC Card Delivery Take?
UIDAI currently states that after receiving an order, it hands over the printed Aadhaar PVC Card to the Department of Posts within 5 working days, excluding the date of the request.
After handover, actual delivery time depends on India Post Speed Post norms.
1. Printing and Handover
UIDAI processes and prints the card.
2. Speed Post Delivery
India Post handles physical delivery.
3. Location Can Affect Delivery Time
Remote areas may take longer than major cities.
Where Is Aadhaar PVC Card Delivered?
The card is sent to the address registered in the Aadhaar database.
This is important.
1. Check Aadhaar Address Before Ordering
If the Aadhaar address is outdated, update it first if you want the card delivered to the new residence.
2. PVC Order Does Not Let You Enter an Unrelated Delivery Address
Delivery is based on Aadhaar records.
What If Aadhaar Address Is Wrong Before Ordering?
Do not rush to place the order.
1. Update Aadhaar Address First
Complete the applicable address correction.
2. Wait for Update Approval
Download fresh e-Aadhaar and confirm the new address.
3. Order PVC Afterward
The newly ordered card can then use the current Aadhaar information.
Can You Order Aadhaar PVC Card Without Registered Mobile Number?
UIDAI provides an option for orders using a non-registered or alternate mobile number.
1. Use the Order for Others/ Alternate Mobile Flow
The system can send OTP to the recipient/requestor mobile number.
2. Preview May Not Be Available
UIDAI states that Aadhaar preview is not available when ordering using a non-registered mobile number.
3. Check Aadhaar Number Carefully
Because preview is unavailable, entering the correct Aadhaar details becomes even more important.
Can You Order PVC Card for Another Family Member?
Yes, UIDAI’s current service supports an order-for-others flow.
1. Enter the Family Member’s Aadhaar
Use the correct Aadhaar record.
2. Use the Applicable Mobile Authentication
Follow the OTP process.
3. Card Is Delivered to Aadhaar-Registered Address
The physical delivery address still comes from that Aadhaar record.
Can Aadhaar PVC Card Be Ordered More Than Once?
Yes, an Aadhaar holder can order another PVC Card when needed.
Common reasons include:
- Old card lost
- Card damaged
- Another physical copy required
- Updated Aadhaar details need a fresh card
The Aadhaar number remains unchanged.
What If Aadhaar PVC Card Is Lost?
Losing the physical PVC card does not cancel Aadhaar.
1. Aadhaar Number Remains Active
The identity record continues to exist.
2. Download e-Aadhaar if Urgent
A digital copy can be obtained immediately where authentication is available.
3. Order Another PVC Card
A replacement can be ordered again by paying the applicable ₹75 fee.
Aadhaar PVC Card vs e-Aadhaar
Both are valid Aadhaar formats.
| Feature | Aadhaar PVC Card | e-Aadhaar |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Physical PVC | Digital PDF |
| Fee | ₹75 | Free |
| Delivery | Speed Post | Instant download |
| Portability | Wallet-friendly | Phone/computer |
| Security features | Physical + QR | Digital signature + QR |
| Validity | Equal | Equal |
UIDAI explicitly states that all forms of Aadhaar are equally valid.
Aadhaar PVC Card vs Aadhaar Letter
The Aadhaar Letter is paper-based, while PVC is more compact and durable.
1. Aadhaar Letter
Useful as a traditional physical document.
2. PVC Card
Better suited for carrying in a wallet.
3. Same Aadhaar Number
Both represent the same Aadhaar identity.
Aadhaar PVC Card for Bank KYC
Aadhaar PVC Card may be used as Aadhaar identity evidence where Aadhaar is accepted.
1. QR Code Supports Verification
The secure QR code can help confirm the document.
2. Bank May Have Separate KYC Requirements
Aadhaar alone may not satisfy every banking process.
PAN, photograph, or other documents may also be required.
Aadhaar PVC Card for PAN Services
The card can be useful when Aadhaar details need to be referenced during:
- PAN application
- PAN-Aadhaar linking
- Identity verification
- Financial KYC
However, the PVC format does not provide any additional legal status over e-Aadhaar.
Aadhaar PVC Card for Passport Application
Aadhaar is accepted in several passport-document contexts.
The PVC Card may be convenient to carry as physical Aadhaar proof, although passport applicants should always check the exact Passport Seva document requirement for their case.
Aadhaar PVC Card for Students
Students may find the wallet-sized format convenient for:
- Bank KYC
- Scholarship verification
- Education services
- Government schemes
- Travel documentation
Students should still keep a secure digital Aadhaar backup.
Aadhaar PVC Card for Senior Citizens
PVC format can be especially useful for older Aadhaar holders.
1. Easier to Carry
It is smaller than the paper Aadhaar letter.
2. Keep a Digital Backup Too
Family members can securely store e-Aadhaar for emergencies.
Aadhaar PVC Card for Children
Children can also have Aadhaar PVC Cards.
1. Parent Can Place the Order
Use the child’s correct Aadhaar information.
2. Check Address First
The card is delivered to the address in the child’s Aadhaar record.
What If Aadhaar Details Change After PVC Card Is Ordered?
The physical card already printed will not update itself.
1. Update Aadhaar Record
Complete the required correction first.
2. Download Fresh e-Aadhaar
Verify the updated data.
3. Order a New PVC Card if Desired
The new card can reflect the updated Aadhaar information.
Does Aadhaar PVC Card Expire?
The PVC card is simply a format of Aadhaar.
UIDAI describes it as equally valid with other forms of Aadhaar.
The Aadhaar number itself does not change simply because the physical card becomes old.
What If the PVC Card Order Payment Fails?
Do not immediately place multiple orders.
1. Check Payment Status
Verify whether money was actually debited.
2. Check SRN
If an SRN was generated, check whether the request remains active.
3. Retry Only if Necessary
Avoid duplicate orders and payments.
What If Aadhaar PVC Card Is Delayed?
A delayed card should be tracked in stages.
1. Check SRN Status
Find out whether UIDAI has already dispatched it.
2. Check AWB
If dispatched, track the Speed Post consignment.
3. Verify Delivery Address
Make sure Aadhaar contains the correct postal address.
What If the Card Is Returned by India Post?
This can happen if:
- Address is incomplete
- Recipient cannot be found
- Postal delivery fails
1. Check Aadhaar Address
Correct it if necessary.
2. Place a New Order After Address Correction
Do not repeatedly order to the same incorrect address.
What If the PVC Card Is Damaged During Delivery?
If the card arrives damaged:
1. Keep the Packaging
This may help document the issue.
2. Contact UIDAI Support
Use official Aadhaar support channels.
3. Order Another Card if Necessary
Avoid using unofficial printing vendors claiming to produce “original UIDAI PVC cards.”
Why Official UIDAI PVC Card Is Better Than Local Plastic Printing
A local shop may laminate or print Aadhaar information on plastic, but that is not the same as UIDAI’s official PVC Card.
UIDAI’s card includes specific security features such as:
- Secure QR Code
- Micro text
- Ghost image
- Guilloche pattern
- Embossed logo
Aadhaar PVC Card Safety Tips
Aadhaar contains sensitive identity information.
1. Do Not Share OTP
Never disclose Aadhaar OTP to unknown callers.
2. Use Official UIDAI Service
Avoid fake PVC-ordering websites.
3. Protect SRN and Aadhaar Details
Do not post order screenshots publicly.
4. Verify Payment Amount
The current official fee is ₹75, including GST and Speed Post.
Common Aadhaar PVC Card Order Mistakes
Avoid:
- Using an outdated Aadhaar address
- Entering the wrong Aadhaar number
- Paying more than official fee to unknown agents
- Ordering repeatedly before checking SRN
- Losing the SRN
- Ignoring AWB delivery tracking
- Assuming PVC is more legally valid than e-Aadhaar
- Using fake “smart Aadhaar” websites
Aadhaar PVC Card Order Checklist
Before ordering:
1. Check Aadhaar Details
Review name, DOB, and address.
2. Confirm Delivery Address
The card goes to the Aadhaar-registered address.
3. Keep Mobile Ready
OTP verification may be needed.
4. Pay Only ₹75 Through Official Service
The current fee includes GST and delivery.
5. Save SRN
Keep the order reference.
6. Track AWB After Dispatch
Use India Post delivery tracking.
Why Aadhaar PVC Card Can Be Useful
The PVC format offers practical advantages without changing Aadhaar’s underlying identity status.
It is:
- Durable
- Compact
- Easy to carry
- Securely printed
- Equipped with verification features
For people who frequently need a physical Aadhaar document, it can be more convenient than carrying a paper printout.
Conclusion
Aadhaar PVC Card Order is an official UIDAI service that allows Aadhaar holders to receive a durable physical Aadhaar card through Speed Post. The current fee is ₹75, inclusive of GST and delivery, effective from January 1, 2026. UIDAI generally hands over the printed card to India Post within five working days after receiving the order.
After payment, keep the SRN for UIDAI status tracking and the AWB number for postal tracking. The PVC Card is convenient, but it is not more valid than e-Aadhaar or the Aadhaar Letter; all official Aadhaar formats are equally valid.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Aadhaar PVC Card fee in 2026?
The current UIDAI fee is ₹75, including GST and Speed Post delivery.
2. How long does UIDAI take to dispatch Aadhaar PVC Card?
UIDAI states that it hands the printed card to the Department of Posts within five working days, excluding the date of request.
3. Is Aadhaar PVC Card more valid than e-Aadhaar?
No. UIDAI states that Aadhaar Letter, PVC Card, e-Aadhaar and Aadhaar App are all equally valid forms of Aadhaar.
