What Is Aadhar Card Enrollment?

Aadhar enrollment is the process through which a resident of India registers their biometric and demographic information with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). Upon successful enrollment, you receive a unique 12-digit Aadhar number that serves as a universal identity proof across India.

Enrollment is free of cost and available to all residents of India regardless of age, including newborns and senior citizens.

Who Can Apply for Aadhar?

  • Any resident of India (Indian citizens as well as foreign nationals residing in India for over 182 days)
  • Infants and children (with parents/guardians providing documents)
  • Senior citizens
  • Persons with disabilities

Documents Required for Enrollment

You need to provide Proof of Identity (POI) and Proof of Address (POA). Here are commonly accepted documents:

Proof of Identity (any one)

  • Passport
  • PAN Card
  • Voter ID Card
  • Driving License
  • Government-issued photo ID

Proof of Address (any one)

  • Passport
  • Bank/Post Office Passbook
  • Utility bill (electricity, water, gas) — not older than 3 months
  • Ration Card
  • Voter ID Card

Note: For children below 5 years, only the birth certificate and one parent's Aadhar are required.

Step-by-Step Enrollment Process

  1. Find an Enrollment Center: Visit the official UIDAI portal at uidai.gov.in and use the "Locate Enrolment Centre" tool. Centers are found at post offices, banks, government offices, and dedicated Aadhar Seva Kendras.
  2. Book an Appointment (Optional): You can book a slot online via the UIDAI appointment portal to avoid long queues, though walk-ins are generally accepted.
  3. Fill the Enrollment Form: Collect the Aadhar Enrollment Form at the center and fill in your demographic details — name, date of birth, address, gender, and mobile number.
  4. Submit Documents: Hand over your original documents (for verification) and photocopies to the enrollment operator.
  5. Biometric Capture: Your fingerprints (all 10 fingers), iris scans (both eyes), and a photograph will be captured. This is mandatory for residents aged 5 and above.
  6. Review and Confirm: The operator will display your details on screen for you to verify. Confirm that all information is correct before submission.
  7. Receive Acknowledgment Slip: After enrollment, you will receive a 14-digit Enrollment ID (EID) printed on an acknowledgment slip. Keep this safe — it is used to track your Aadhar status.

After Enrollment: What to Expect

After your enrollment is complete:

  • UIDAI verifies your information and biometrics, which typically takes 60–90 days.
  • You will receive an SMS on your registered mobile number once your Aadhar is generated.
  • You can check your Aadhar status on uidai.gov.in using your Enrollment ID.
  • Your Aadhar letter is dispatched by post to the address you provided. You can also download your e-Aadhar online once it is generated.

Key Tips for a Smooth Enrollment

  • Carry original documents — photocopies alone are not accepted for verification.
  • Provide an active mobile number to receive OTPs and status updates.
  • Double-check the spelling of your name and date of birth before confirming.
  • Enrollment is completely free — never pay anyone for Aadhar enrollment.

Once your Aadhar is ready, it can be used for a wide range of services including opening bank accounts, filing taxes, availing government subsidies, and more.