How to Update Mobile in Aadhaar: A Comprehensive Tutorial

Introduction

The Aadhaar card is a vital identification document issued by the Government of India, serving as proof of identity and address for residents. One of the key pieces of information linked to your Aadhaar is your mobile number. Keeping your mobile number updated in Aadhaar is essential for receiving OTPs (One-Time Passwords), availing government benefits, and ensuring smooth access to various digital services.

Updating your mobile number in Aadhaar is a straightforward process but requires careful attention to detail to ensure your information is correctly recorded. This tutorial provides a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to update your mobile number in Aadhaar, along with best practices, useful tools, real-life examples, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Requirements

Before beginning the update process, ensure you have the following:

• Your original Aadhaar card or Aadhaar number
• A valid mobile number that you wish to link
• A government-issued photo ID proof (if required for verification)
• Access to an Aadhaar Enrollment or Update Center

Note that updating mobile numbers cannot be done online; it requires a visit to an authorized Aadhaar Update Center.

Step 2: Locate an Aadhaar Update Center

Visit the official UIDAI website to find the nearest Aadhaar Enrollment/Update Center. These centers are authorized to process updates and corrections in Aadhaar details.

To find a center:

• Go to the UIDAI official website.
• Navigate to the “Locate an Enrollment Center” section.
• Enter your state, district, and locality details.
• Choose a convenient center from the list provided.

Step 3: Visit the Enrollment/Update Center

At the center, inform the executive that you want to update your mobile number in Aadhaar. You will be asked to fill out an Aadhaar Update/Correction Form, providing your current Aadhaar number and new mobile number.

Ensure that the mobile number you want to update is active and accessible as it will be used for OTP verification.

Step 4: Submit Biometric Authentication

To authenticate the update request, your biometric details such as fingerprint or iris scan will be verified at the center. This step ensures the security of your Aadhaar data and prevents unauthorized changes.

Step 5: Pay the Update Fee

A nominal fee is charged for updating Aadhaar details. As of now, the fee is Rs. 50. Payment methods accepted typically include cash or digital payments at the center.

Step 6: Collect the Acknowledgment Slip

After submitting your update request and completing payment, you will receive an acknowledgment slip containing a Update Request Number (URN). This URN will help you track the status of your mobile number update.

Step 7: Track Your Update Status

You can track the progress of your mobile number update by:

• Visiting the UIDAI website.
• Selecting the “Check Aadhaar Update Status” option.
• Entering your Aadhaar number and URN.

Typically, updates are processed within 90 days, but mobile number updates are usually completed much sooner.

Step 8: Confirm the Update

Once you receive confirmation that your mobile number has been updated, verify by attempting to use Aadhaar-based services that require OTP verification sent to your new mobile number.

Best Practices

Keep Your Mobile Number Active

Ensure that the mobile number you want to link to your Aadhaar is active and capable of receiving SMS and calls. This is important for OTP verification during various Aadhaar-linked services.

Update Promptly

Update your mobile number immediately after changing SIM cards or switching service providers. Delayed updates can lead to missed OTPs and service disruptions.

Use Authorized Centers Only

Always perform Aadhaar updates at authorized Enrollment or Update Centers listed on the UIDAI website to avoid fraud or misuse of your personal information.

Retain Acknowledgment Details

Keep the acknowledgment slip safe until the update is confirmed. The URN on this slip is vital for tracking your update status and resolving any issues.

Verify Post-Update

After your mobile number is updated, verify the change by logging into Aadhaar-related services or checking the update status on the official website.

Tools and Resources

UIDAI Official Website

The UIDAI website is the primary resource for all Aadhaar-related services, including locating Update Centers, tracking update status, and accessing forms.

Aadhaar Update/Correction Form

Download the official Aadhaar Update/Correction Form from the UIDAI site to familiarize yourself with the information required before visiting the Update Center.

Mobile Tracking Services

Use the online status tracking tool on the UIDAI website to keep an eye on your update request using your Aadhaar number and URN.

Document Verification Guidelines

Refer to the UIDAI documentation guidelines to understand acceptable identity proofs and ensure you carry the correct documents to the Update Center.

Real Examples

Example 1: Updating Mobile Number After SIM Change

Ravi recently switched to a new mobile service provider and got a new phone number. To ensure uninterrupted access to Aadhaar-linked services, he visited the nearest Aadhaar Update Center with his Aadhaar card and new mobile number. After filling out the update form and biometric verification, he paid the update fee. Within a week, Ravi received confirmation that his new mobile number was linked to his Aadhaar successfully.

Example 2: Mobile Number Update for a Senior Citizen

Mrs. Sharma, a senior citizen, found it difficult to update her mobile number online. With the help of her family, she visited a local Aadhaar Update Center. The executive assisted her in filling the form and completing biometric authentication. Mrs. Sharma’s mobile number was updated within a few days, allowing her to avail government subsidies linked to her Aadhaar.

Example 3: Correcting a Mistyped Mobile Number

Sunita noticed that the mobile number printed on her Aadhaar card was incorrect due to a typographical error during enrollment. She promptly visited the Update Center, provided her correct mobile number, and completed the authentication process. The correction was processed quickly, preventing any further inconvenience.

FAQs

Can I update my mobile number in Aadhaar online?

No, updating the mobile number in Aadhaar requires a visit to an authorized Enrollment or Update Center. The process cannot be completed online due to security reasons.

Is there any fee for updating the mobile number in Aadhaar?

Yes, a nominal fee of Rs. 50 is charged for updating mobile numbers or other details in Aadhaar.

How long does it take to update the mobile number in Aadhaar?

The update process typically takes a few days to a maximum of 90 days. Mobile number updates are generally processed faster.

What documents are required to update mobile number in Aadhaar?

Generally, no additional documents are required if you are only updating the mobile number. However, carrying your Aadhaar card and a valid photo ID is recommended.

How can I track the status of my mobile number update?

You can track the status by visiting the UIDAI website and entering your Aadhaar number along with the Update Request Number (URN) received during the update submission.

Will updating my mobile number affect other details in Aadhaar?

No, updating the mobile number only affects the mobile contact linked to your Aadhaar. Other details remain unchanged unless specifically updated.

Conclusion

Updating your mobile number in Aadhaar is a crucial step to maintain uninterrupted access to essential services and secure communication. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial and adhering to best practices, you can ensure that your Aadhaar profile remains accurate and up-to-date.

Always use authorized centers, keep your documents ready, and track your update status diligently. This approach not only simplifies the update process but also safeguards your personal information. Staying informed and proactive about your Aadhaar details empowers you to fully benefit from India’s digital identity ecosystem.