In India’s digital ecosystem, the Aadhaar number plays a vital role in identity verification across banking, telecom, welfare schemes, and even private-sector applications. Among its many uses, the registered mobile number associated with your Aadhaar is essential for receiving one-time passwords (OTPs), authenticating online services, and securing your digital identity. If your mobile number changes due to switching carriers, losing access to your SIM, or upgrading your device, it’s crucial to update the new number in your Aadhaar record immediately.
This comprehensive guide explains the entire process to change your Aadhaar-linked mobile number, who can do it, what documents you’ll need, how much it costs, and how long it takes.
Why Is It Important to Keep Your Aadhaar Mobile Number Updated?
Your registered mobile number allows you to:
Receive OTPs for Aadhaar-enabled authentication services
Access digital services like DigiLocker, UMANG, and Co-WIN
e-Verify your income tax returns
Update your address or other Aadhaar details online
Link Aadhaar with PAN, bank accounts, UAN (EPFO), LPG, and more
If your Aadhaar is linked to an outdated or inaccessible mobile number, you will face difficulty verifying your identity digitally, which can restrict access to essential services.
Can You Change the Mobile Number in Aadhaar Online?
As of now, UIDAI does not permit users to update their mobile number online. This change must be done in person at an Aadhaar Enrollment Center or an authorized Aadhaar Seva Kendra. This policy ensures your identity is verified biometrically before updating sensitive details such as your mobile number.
Step-by-Step Process to Change Mobile Number in Aadhaar
Step 1: Locate the Nearest Aadhaar Update Center
Visit the UIDAI official website and use the “Locate Enrollment Center” option. You can search using your PIN code, state, or city. Many banks, post offices, and government service centers are authorized Aadhaar update locations.
Step 2: Carry Your Aadhaar and Visit the Center
You need only your Aadhaar card or Aadhaar number for mobile update. No other supporting documents are necessary.
Step 3: Fill Out the Aadhaar Correction Form
At the center, ask for the Aadhaar Update/Correction form. Fill it out clearly, marking only the “mobile number” field for update. Write your new mobile number correctly and legibly.
Step 4: Biometric Verification
Your fingerprint or iris scan will be used to confirm your identity. This step prevents unauthorized changes to your Aadhaar profile.
Step 5: Pay the Prescribed Fee
A flat fee of ₹50 is charged per Aadhaar update request, including mobile number change. This fee is applicable even if you are only changing the mobile number.
Step 6: Receive the Acknowledgment Slip
After processing your request, you will be given an acknowledgment slip that includes a 14-digit Update Request Number (URN). Keep this URN safe, as it is needed to track your update status.
How to Track Your Mobile Number Update Status
You can check the status of your mobile number update online.
Go to the UIDAI website and click on “Check Aadhaar Update Status.”
Enter your Aadhaar number and the URN provided.
You’ll see whether your request is still under process or successfully updated.
Typically, updates are completed within 7 to 10 working days, but in rare cases, it may take up to 90 days.
What If You’ve Lost Access to the Previous Number?
You don’t need the old mobile number to update your Aadhaar. The process is biometric-based, not OTP-based. That means anyone can update to a new mobile number regardless of whether the previous one is active or not, as long as they can authenticate their identity using fingerprint or iris scan.
How to Add a Mobile Number to Aadhaar for the First Time
If your Aadhaar currently does not have any mobile number linked, or if you skipped mobile registration during Aadhaar enrollment, you can follow the same process mentioned above to add your number. There’s no distinction between adding a number for the first time or changing it—both require an in-person visit and biometric authentication.
Do NRIs Need to Follow a Different Process?
Non-Resident Indians who hold Aadhaar and wish to update their mobile number must also complete the update in person at a designated Aadhaar center in India. There is currently no facility for mobile number updates outside India. However, NRIs are now eligible to enroll for Aadhaar using a valid Indian passport as identity proof.
What If You Enter the Wrong Number by Mistake?
Double-check the mobile number before submitting the Aadhaar correction form. If you do submit an incorrect number, you’ll need to repeat the entire process at the Aadhaar center to correct it. Unfortunately, Aadhaar does not allow mobile updates via call or email for security reasons.
Can You Register Multiple Mobile Numbers with Aadhaar?
No, UIDAI allows only one mobile number to be associated with an Aadhaar at any given time. If you attempt to register a new number, it will automatically replace the previous one.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
Visit the center early in the day to avoid long queues
Carry your Aadhaar card and confirmation SMS or email if you booked an appointment online
Reconfirm the updated mobile number in the acknowledgment slip
Use the UIDAI portal to track your update
Keep the registered mobile number active at all times for OTP and alerts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is it mandatory to link a mobile number to Aadhaar?
A: Yes, especially if you want to access online services, e-KYC, and authentication-based facilities.
Q: Can I change my Aadhaar mobile number without visiting a center?
A: No, you must visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or update center in person.
Q: What if I don’t receive an OTP on my new number after updating?
A: Wait until the update is confirmed via SMS or check online using your URN. Only then will OTPs start routing to your new number.
Q: How do I know which number is linked to my Aadhaar?
A: Visit the UIDAI website and use the “Verify Mobile Number” feature under “My Aadhaar.”
Conclusion
Keeping your Aadhaar-linked mobile number updated is not just a recommendation—it’s a necessity in India’s expanding digital framework. Whether you’re changing numbers due to technical reasons or simply want to register a new one, the process is straightforward, quick, and inexpensive. By maintaining an up-to-date mobile number in your Aadhaar, you ensure continued access to key services like banking, healthcare, taxation, and subsidies, all while enhancing the security of your digital identity.
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