Introduction

The Aadhaar card is a critical identity document issued by the Government of India, serving as proof of identity and address for millions of residents. However, mistakes or changes in personal details, especially names, can occur during the enrolment process or over time due to various reasons such as marriage, legal name changes, or clerical errors. Correcting the name on your Aadhaar card is essential to ensure that all your official documents and services linked to Aadhaar remain valid and consistent.

This tutorial provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to correct your name in Aadhaar, along with best practices, useful tools, real examples, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you are correcting a spelling error, changing your name after marriage, or updating any other name-related detail, this guide will help you navigate the process smoothly and efficiently.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Identify the Need for Correction

Before proceeding, confirm that your Aadhaar card contains an incorrect or outdated name. This may include spelling mistakes, name mismatches with other official documents, or changes due to personal reasons. Having a clear understanding will help you prepare the necessary documents.

2. Gather Required Documents

To update your name in Aadhaar, you must provide valid proof of identity that reflects the correct name. Acceptable documents include:

• Passport
• Voter ID card
• PAN card
• Driving license
• Government-issued ID cards
• Marriage certificate (for name changes after marriage)
• Gazette notification (for legal name changes)

Ensure your documents are original or attested copies as per the requirements.

3. Choose the Mode of Update

You can update your Aadhaar name either online or offline. Each method has its advantages.

• Online Update: Convenient for minor corrections and name updates if you have an Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
• Offline Update: Requires a visit to an Aadhaar Enrollment Center for biometric verification and document submission.

4. Online Name Correction Procedure

Follow these steps for online correction:

1. Visit the official UIDAI website's Aadhaar Self-Service Update Portal.
2. Enter your Aadhaar number and the captcha code, then request an OTP on your registered mobile number.
3. Enter the OTP to log in.
4. Select the Name field for correction and enter the correct name as per your supporting documents.
5. Upload scanned copies of your proof of identity document reflecting the correct name.
6. Submit the update request.
7. You will receive an Update Request Number (URN) to track the status.

5. Offline Name Correction Procedure

For offline update:

1. Locate your nearest Aadhaar Enrollment Center using the UIDAI portal.
2. Visit the center with original documents and a photocopy of the document for verification.
3. Fill out the Aadhaar Correction/Update Form available at the center.
4. Submit the form along with your documents to the executive.
5. Provide biometric authentication if requested.
6. You will receive an acknowledgment slip containing the Update Request Number (URN).

6. Track Update Status

You can monitor the status of your correction request using the URN on the UIDAI portal. Updates typically take a few days to a few weeks, depending on the mode of submission and verification requirements.

7. Download the Updated Aadhaar

Once the update is approved, you can download the updated Aadhaar card (e-Aadhaar) from the UIDAI website by entering your Aadhaar number and OTP sent to your registered mobile number.

Best Practices

1. Verify Documents Before Submission

Ensure all supporting documents are valid, legible, and consistent with the name you want to update. Mismatched or unclear documents may result in rejection.

2. Keep Your Mobile Number Updated

Your registered mobile number is essential for receiving OTPs and notifications during the update process. Update your mobile number in Aadhaar beforehand if it has changed.

3. Use Official Channels Only

Always update your Aadhaar information through the official UIDAI website or authorized enrollment centers to avoid fraud and ensure data security.

4. Maintain Proof of Update

Keep the acknowledgment slip and URN safely until your update is confirmed and the updated Aadhaar is downloaded.

5. Double Check the Details

After downloading the updated Aadhaar, verify all details carefully to ensure that the correction has been accurately applied.

Tools and Resources

1. UIDAI Official Website

The primary resource for all Aadhaar-related updates and services is the UIDAI official website (https://uidai.gov.in). Here, you can access the Self-Service Update Portal, download forms, and track update status.

2. Aadhaar Self-Service Update Portal

This portal allows you to update your Aadhaar details online quickly and securely.

3. Enrollment Center Locator

The UIDAI website provides a tool to locate the nearest enrollment or update centers for offline correction.

4. Document Verification Guidelines

UIDAI publishes a comprehensive list of acceptable documents and verification procedures to assist applicants.

Real Examples

Example 1: Correcting a Spelling Mistake

Mr. Rajesh Kumar noticed that his name on Aadhaar was spelled as "Rajesh Kummar." He downloaded the update form from the UIDAI website, visited the local enrollment center with his passport as proof, and submitted the correction request. After two weeks, the corrected Aadhaar was available for download.

Example 2: Name Change After Marriage

Ms. Anjali Sharma got married and changed her last name to "Verma." She updated her name on Aadhaar by uploading her marriage certificate through the online update portal. The update was processed successfully within ten days.

Example 3: Legal Name Change

Mr. Suresh Patil legally changed his first name to "Saurabh" and published the change in the government gazette. He submitted the gazette notification at the Aadhaar enrollment center for updating his name. The update was verified and completed within three weeks.

FAQs

Q1: Can I correct my name in Aadhaar without updating my mobile number?

A: It is recommended to have your current mobile number registered with Aadhaar, as OTP verification is required for online updates. If your mobile number is not linked, you may need to update it first or opt for offline update at an enrollment center.

Q2: Is there a fee for correcting the name in Aadhaar?

A: Yes, a nominal fee is charged for updating Aadhaar details, whether online or offline. The exact fee can be checked on the UIDAI website and is subject to change.

Q3: How long does it take to update the name in Aadhaar?

A: The update process typically takes 7 to 30 days depending on the method of submission and document verification.

Q4: Will the name correction reflect in all linked services automatically?

A: Once updated, your corrected Aadhaar information will be available for all services linked with Aadhaar. However, some services may require you to update details separately.

Q5: Can I update the name of a minor in Aadhaar?

A: Yes, name correction for minors can be done by their parents or guardians following the same process, with appropriate documents.

Conclusion

Correcting the name on your Aadhaar card is a straightforward but important process that ensures your identity documents remain accurate and consistent. Whether through online or offline methods, understanding the steps, preparing the right documents, and following best practices can help you update your name efficiently. Utilize the official UIDAI resources and keep track of your update status to avoid delays. A correctly updated Aadhaar card not only facilitates smooth access to government and financial services but also safeguards your identity integrity.