How to Verify Aadhaar Number

Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to residents of India. It serves as a foundational identity document for accessing government services, financial products, mobile connections, and more. With increasing digitization and regulatory mandates, verifying an Aadhaar number has become a critical step in onboarding, compliance, fraud prevention, and service delivery across sectors including banking, healthcare, education, and e-governance.

Verifying an Aadhaar number is not merely about confirming its format—it involves validating its authenticity, ensuring it is active, and confirming that it belongs to the individual presenting it. Incorrect or fraudulent Aadhaar numbers can lead to denied services, legal complications, and financial risks. Therefore, understanding how to verify Aadhaar numbers accurately and securely is essential for individuals, businesses, and government entities alike.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to verifying Aadhaar numbers using official and trusted methods. Whether you are an individual checking your own details, a business validating customer data, or an administrator managing large-scale enrollment systems, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge to perform Aadhaar verification with confidence, accuracy, and compliance.

Step-by-Step Guide

Method 1: Verify via UIDAI’s Official Website

The most reliable and secure method to verify an Aadhaar number is through the official UIDAI portal. This method allows you to check the status and basic details of an Aadhaar number without sharing sensitive personal information.

1. Open your web browser and navigate to the official UIDAI website: https://uidai.gov.in.
2. From the top navigation menu, click on “My Aadhaar”.
3. Select the option “Verify Aadhaar Number” from the dropdown.
4. You will be redirected to the Aadhaar verification page. Here, you will be asked to enter the 12-digit Aadhaar number you wish to verify.
5. Enter the CAPTCHA code displayed on the screen. Ensure you type it exactly as shown, including case sensitivity.
6. Click the “Verify” button.
7. The system will respond with one of two messages: “Aadhaar Number is Valid” or “Aadhaar Number is Invalid”.
8. If valid, the system may also display the last four digits of the enrolled mobile number (if registered) and the state of enrollment, without revealing full personal details.

This method is ideal for quick, one-time validation. It does not require authentication via OTP or biometrics, making it suitable for preliminary checks in forms, applications, or customer onboarding workflows.

Method 2: Verify Using Aadhaar OTP Authentication

For higher assurance, especially when identity confirmation is required (e.g., for financial transactions or KYC compliance), Aadhaar OTP (One-Time Password) authentication is the recommended method.

1. Access the UIDAI e-KYC portal or a registered service provider’s platform that supports Aadhaar-based authentication.
2. Enter the 12-digit Aadhaar number in the designated field.
3. Select the option to send an OTP to the mobile number linked to the Aadhaar.
4. The UIDAI system will generate and send a 6-digit OTP to the registered mobile number associated with the Aadhaar.
5. Ask the individual to provide the OTP received on their mobile device.
6. Enter the OTP into the verification field on your platform.
7. Click “Submit” or “Authenticate”.
8. If the OTP matches, the system will confirm the Aadhaar number is valid and linked to the provided mobile number.

This method confirms two critical factors: the Aadhaar number is active, and the person presenting it has access to the mobile number registered with UIDAI. It is widely used by banks, fintech platforms, and telecom providers for real-time identity verification.

Method 3: Biometric Authentication via Aadhaar-Enabled Devices

For organizations with physical access to individuals (e.g., government offices, hospitals, or enrollment centers), biometric authentication using Aadhaar-enabled devices offers the highest level of verification.

1. Ensure you have an approved Aadhaar biometric device (fingerprint scanner or iris scanner) connected to a system with UIDAI-certified software.
2. Ask the individual to place their finger (or iris) on the biometric scanner.
3. Enter the 12-digit Aadhaar number into the system manually or via card swipe if using an Aadhaar card with embedded chip.
4. Initiate the authentication request through the software interface.
5. The system will send a request to UIDAI’s central authentication server, matching the biometric data against the stored template.
6. Within seconds, the system will display a success or failure message.
7. A successful match confirms the individual is the legitimate holder of the Aadhaar number.

Biometric authentication is mandatory for certain government schemes and is often used in welfare distribution systems to prevent impersonation and duplicate claims. It is the most secure method but requires specialized hardware and certified software integration.

Method 4: Verify via mAadhaar Mobile App

The mAadhaar app, developed by UIDAI, allows individuals to manage and verify their own Aadhaar details using their smartphones.

1. Download the official mAadhaar app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Ensure you are downloading from the official UIDAI source.
2. Open the app and select “Verify Aadhaar”.
3. Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number.
4. Generate an OTP by clicking “Send OTP”. The OTP will be sent to the mobile number registered with your Aadhaar.
5. Enter the OTP received on your phone into the app.
6. Once verified, the app will display your Aadhaar details including name, photo, gender, date of birth, and registered mobile number (with last four digits masked for privacy).
7. You can also use the app to generate a time-based one-time password (TOTP) for authentication without SMS.

The mAadhaar app is particularly useful for individuals who want to confirm their own details or share a digitally signed QR code with service providers. It eliminates the need for physical documents and supports secure digital sharing.

Method 5: Verify Using XML or JSON e-KYC Data

For businesses and institutions that require full demographic data for KYC compliance, UIDAI provides an e-KYC service that delivers encrypted XML or JSON data after successful authentication.

1. Register your organization as a registered entity with UIDAI under the e-KYC framework. This requires legal documentation and technical compliance.
2. Integrate your system with UIDAI’s e-KYC API using secure HTTPS endpoints.
3. When a customer initiates verification, collect their Aadhaar number and obtain their explicit consent for data sharing.
4. Send an authentication request to UIDAI’s API, including the Aadhaar number and a unique transaction ID.
5. UIDAI sends an OTP to the customer’s registered mobile number.
6. Upon successful OTP entry, UIDAI returns an encrypted XML or JSON response containing the individual’s name, gender, date of birth, address, photo, and registered mobile number.
7. Your system decrypts the data using a private key provided during registration.
8. Store the data securely in compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, and delete it after the required retention period.

This method is used by banks, insurance companies, and large enterprises for automated, paperless onboarding. It ensures compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations and reduces manual data entry errors.

Method 6: Verify Using Aadhaar QR Code

Since 2020, UIDAI has embedded a dynamic QR code on all Aadhaar letters and the mAadhaar app. This QR code contains encrypted demographic and biometric data.

1. Ask the individual to open the mAadhaar app and navigate to the “Show QR Code” option.
2. Use a QR code scanner app or a UIDAI-certified reader to scan the code.
3. The scanner will decode the data and display the name, gender, date of birth, and last four digits of the mobile number.
4. Compare this information with the individual’s provided identity documents.
5. Ensure the QR code is dynamic (refreshes periodically) and not a static image—static QR codes may be tampered with.

The QR code method is fast, contactless, and increasingly adopted in airports, banks, and educational institutions. It does not require internet connectivity during scanning, making it ideal for offline environments.

Best Practices

Always Use Official Channels

Only use verification methods provided by UIDAI or its authorized partners. Avoid third-party websites or apps that claim to verify Aadhaar numbers for a fee or without authentication. These platforms may collect your data for resale or misuse. The UIDAI website and mAadhaar app are the only trusted sources for accurate verification.

Obtain Explicit Consent

Under India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, you must obtain clear, informed, and voluntary consent from the individual before verifying or storing their Aadhaar data. Consent must be documented and can be withdrawn at any time. Never pre-check consent boxes or assume implied permission.

Do Not Store Full Aadhaar Numbers Unnecessarily

UIDAI guidelines strictly prohibit storing the full 12-digit Aadhaar number in databases unless absolutely necessary for legal compliance. Instead, use masked versions (e.g., XXXX-XXXX-1234) or generate unique internal IDs linked to verified Aadhaar records. This reduces the risk of data breaches and non-compliance penalties.

Validate Against Multiple Methods

For high-risk transactions (e.g., large financial transfers or government subsidy disbursement), combine verification methods. For example, use OTP authentication to confirm the number is active, then validate the name and date of birth against a government-issued photo ID. This layered approach minimizes fraud risk.

Ensure Data Security

If you are handling Aadhaar data digitally, implement end-to-end encryption, secure APIs, and role-based access controls. Store data in encrypted databases with regular audits. Use only UIDAI-certified software for e-KYC and biometric authentication. Non-compliance can result in legal action and heavy fines.

Keep Verification Logs

Maintain an audit trail of all verification attempts, including timestamps, IP addresses, methods used, and consent records. This is critical for internal compliance reviews and regulatory inspections. Logs should be retained for a minimum of five years or as required by sector-specific regulations.

Train Staff on Aadhaar Compliance

Employees involved in Aadhaar verification must be trained on UIDAI’s guidelines, data privacy norms, and ethical handling procedures. Misuse of Aadhaar data—even unintentional—is punishable under law. Regular refresher training and simulated audits help maintain standards.

Update Systems Regularly

UIDAI occasionally updates its authentication protocols, APIs, and security standards. Ensure your software, devices, and integrations are updated to the latest versions. Outdated systems may fail to authenticate valid Aadhaar numbers or expose vulnerabilities to fraudsters.

Verify Only When Necessary

Do not request Aadhaar verification for services where it is not mandated by law. For example, private schools, retail stores, or non-governmental organizations should not routinely demand Aadhaar unless required under specific schemes. Over-collection of Aadhaar data increases risk and violates the principle of data minimization.

Tools and Resources

Official UIDAI Tools

• UIDAI Website – https://uidai.gov.in – The primary source for all verification services, updates, and guidelines.
• mAadhaar App – Available on iOS and Android. Enables individuals to manage their Aadhaar details, view QR codes, and authenticate via TOTP.
• Aadhaar e-KYC API – For registered entities, this secure API enables automated demographic data retrieval after authentication.
• Aadhaar Authentication API – Allows integration of OTP and biometric authentication into enterprise systems.

Third-Party Certified Tools

Several technology partners are certified by UIDAI to provide Aadhaar verification solutions. These include:

• Paytm KYC – Offers Aadhaar-based e-KYC for businesses via API integration.
• Signzy – Provides AI-powered Aadhaar verification with liveness detection and document matching.
• DocuSign eSignature + Aadhaar – Enables digital consent and verification workflows for legal and financial documents.
• NSDL e-Governance – Offers Aadhaar enrollment and verification services for government and private agencies.

Always verify that any third-party tool is listed on UIDAI’s official partner directory before integration.

Hardware Requirements

For biometric authentication, use only UIDAI-certified devices. Common certified vendors include:

• Suprema – Fingerprint scanners compatible with UIDAI standards.
• Mantra – Multi-modal biometric devices for Aadhaar authentication.
• Jio – Biometric readers integrated with Aadhaar-enabled payment systems.
• Wipro – Enterprise-grade Aadhaar authentication terminals.

Non-certified devices may fail to authenticate valid Aadhaar numbers or compromise data security.

Developer Resources

For technical teams integrating Aadhaar verification into applications:

• UIDAI Developer Portal – https://uidai.gov.in/developer-resources.html – Contains API documentation, SDKs, sample code, and test credentials.
• Authentication Protocol Specifications – Detailed technical manuals for OTP, biometric, and QR code workflows.
• Test Environment – UIDAI provides a sandbox environment to test integrations before going live.

Legal and Compliance Resources

• Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 – Governs the lawful use of Aadhaar data.
• UIDAI Guidelines on Aadhaar Authentication – Available on the UIDAI website under “Policies”.
• Reserve Bank of India (RBI) KYC Directions – Mandates Aadhaar-based verification for banking services.
• SEBI Guidelines – For investor onboarding using Aadhaar.

Real Examples

Example 1: Bank Account Opening

A customer visits a branch of a nationalized bank to open a savings account. The bank officer uses a UIDAI-certified biometric device to scan the customer’s fingerprint while entering their 12-digit Aadhaar number. The system sends an authentication request to UIDAI, which matches the biometric data against its database. Upon successful match, the bank receives a confirmation message and proceeds to collect the customer’s signature and photo for account activation. The full Aadhaar number is masked in the bank’s internal records, and only a unique reference ID is stored. This process completes in under 90 seconds and eliminates the need for paper-based KYC forms.

Example 2: Mobile SIM Activation

A consumer purchases a new SIM card from a telecom provider. The retailer uses a handheld device to scan the customer’s Aadhaar QR code from the mAadhaar app. The device decodes the encrypted data and displays the name and date of birth. The customer is then asked to enter an OTP received on their registered mobile number. Once verified, the system automatically populates the customer’s details into the telecom provider’s database. The SIM is activated within minutes, and the customer receives a digital receipt with the verification timestamp.

Example 3: Government Subsidy Distribution

In a rural district, a welfare officer uses a tablet with a fingerprint scanner to verify beneficiaries of a food subsidy scheme. Each beneficiary presents their Aadhaar card. The officer enters the Aadhaar number and scans the fingerprint. The system confirms the identity and links the beneficiary to their ration card. If the biometric match fails, the officer uses OTP authentication as a fallback. The system logs the verification and prevents duplicate claims by flagging any Aadhaar number used more than once in a 30-day period. This has reduced subsidy leakage by over 60% in the region.

Example 4: Online Loan Application

A borrower applies for a personal loan through a fintech app. During onboarding, the app requests consent to access Aadhaar e-KYC data. The user enters their Aadhaar number and receives an OTP on their mobile. After entering the OTP, the app receives encrypted demographic data from UIDAI. The system automatically populates the applicant’s name, date of birth, and address. The lender uses this verified data to assess creditworthiness and approve the loan within 15 minutes. The full Aadhaar number is not stored; only a hashed identifier is retained for future reference.

Example 5: Educational Institution Enrollment

A university requires students to verify their identity for scholarship eligibility. Students upload a photo of their Aadhaar card and their mAadhaar QR code. The admissions office uses a certified QR scanner to decode the data and cross-check it with the student’s application form. A manual check is performed if the QR code is unreadable. Students who cannot access the mAadhaar app are allowed to visit a nearby Aadhaar enrollment center to obtain a printed copy with the QR code. This process ensures only eligible students receive benefits and reduces fraudulent applications.

FAQs

Can I verify someone else’s Aadhaar number?

You can verify an Aadhaar number using the UIDAI website or OTP method only if you have the individual’s consent and access to their registered mobile number. Unauthorized verification attempts are prohibited under data protection laws.

Is it safe to share my Aadhaar number?

Sharing your Aadhaar number alone is not inherently unsafe, as it is not a secret like a password. However, combining it with other personal details (e.g., OTP, biometrics, address) can enable identity theft. Always verify the recipient’s legitimacy before sharing.

What if my Aadhaar number is not verified?

If your Aadhaar number fails verification, it may be due to outdated biometrics, unregistered mobile number, or data mismatch. Visit the nearest Aadhaar enrollment center to update your details or link your mobile number via the UIDAI website.

Can I verify an Aadhaar number without internet?

Yes, using a certified biometric device with offline authentication capability. These devices store temporary authentication templates and can verify without real-time connectivity, though results are synced later.

Is Aadhaar verification mandatory for all services?

No. While Aadhaar is widely used for government schemes and financial services, it is not mandatory for all services. The Supreme Court of India has ruled that Aadhaar cannot be made compulsory for non-welfare services like private bank accounts or school admissions unless mandated by law.

How often should I re-verify my Aadhaar?

There is no requirement to re-verify your Aadhaar number unless your biometrics or mobile number changes. However, businesses may require periodic re-verification for compliance purposes—typically every 2–5 years depending on sector regulations.

Can I verify an Aadhaar number for a child?

Yes. Children under 5 receive a “Baal Aadhaar” card, which is later upgraded to a full Aadhaar at age 5 or 18. Verification for children follows the same process, using biometrics or OTP if a mobile number is registered under a parent or guardian.

What happens if I enter the wrong Aadhaar number during verification?

The system will return an “Invalid Aadhaar Number” message. You can retry with the correct number. Repeated failed attempts may trigger temporary blocks for security reasons.

Can I use Aadhaar verification for international users?

No. Aadhaar is issued only to residents of India. Non-residents and foreign nationals are not eligible for Aadhaar and cannot be verified using Indian government systems.

Is there a fee for Aadhaar verification?

No. UIDAI provides all verification services free of charge. Any website or service asking for payment to verify Aadhaar is fraudulent.

Conclusion

Verifying an Aadhaar number is a fundamental process in India’s digital ecosystem. Whether you are an individual checking your own details, a business ensuring compliance, or a government official managing public services, accurate and secure verification is non-negotiable. The methods outlined in this guide—ranging from simple online checks to biometric authentication and encrypted e-KYC—offer scalable solutions for different use cases.

Always prioritize official channels, obtain explicit consent, and follow data protection norms. The misuse or careless handling of Aadhaar data can lead to legal consequences and erode public trust in digital systems. By adopting best practices and leveraging certified tools, you ensure not only compliance but also the integrity of the identity verification process.

As India continues to advance toward a fully digital economy, Aadhaar will remain a cornerstone of identity infrastructure. Understanding how to verify it correctly is not just a technical skill—it is a civic responsibility. Stay informed, stay compliant, and verify with confidence.