How to Find Your National ID Number in India

March 11, 2025 Mahi Bukhari

A National ID number in India typically refers to the Aadhaar number, which is a unique 12-digit identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). Aadhaar serves as the primary identity proof for Indian citizens and residents, linking biometric and demographic information.

Other identification numbers include:

PAN (Permanent Account Number) – Used for taxation purposes
Voter ID (EPIC Number) – Issued by the Election Commission of India
Passport Number – Issued by the Ministry of External Affairs
Driving License Number – Issued by Regional Transport Offices (RTOs)
Ration Card Number – Provided by state governments for subsidized food and essential commodities

This article focuses on finding your Aadhaar number, as it is India’s most widely used National ID.

How to Find Your Aadhaar Number?

If you have lost or forgotten your Aadhaar number (UID) or Enrolment ID (EID), you can retrieve it using the methods below.

1. Find Aadhaar Number Online

Step 1: Visit the UIDAI Website

Go to the official UIDAI portal: https://uidai.gov.in

Step 2: Select ‘Retrieve Lost UID/EID’

On the homepage, click on ‘My Aadhaar’ > ‘Retrieve Lost or Forgotten UID/EID’.

Step 3: Enter Required Details

You will need to provide:

Your full name (as per Aadhaar records)
Registered mobile number or email ID
CAPTCHA verification

Step 4: Receive OTP and Verify

An OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to your registered mobile number or email. Enter the OTP for verification.

Step 5: Get Aadhaar Details

After successful verification, you will receive your Aadhaar number via SMS or email.

2. Find Aadhaar Number Using mAadhaar App

Step 1: Download the App

Download and install the mAadhaar app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Step 2: Open the App and Log In

Enter your registered mobile number and authenticate using OTP.

Step 3: Access Your Aadhaar Details

Once logged in, your Aadhaar number will be visible on the home screen of the app.

3. Find Aadhaar Number via SMS

Step 1: Use Registered Mobile Number

If your mobile number is linked to Aadhaar, send an SMS to 1947 (UIDAI helpline).

Step 2: Format of the SMS

Type: GETUID [SPACE] Last 4 digits of Aadhaar Number
Send the message to 1947.

Step 3: Receive Aadhaar Details

If the information matches UIDAI records, you will receive your Aadhaar number via SMS.

4. Find Aadhaar Number Offline at Aadhaar Enrollment Centers

Step 1: Locate an Aadhaar Enrollment Center

Visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra. You can find one using UIDAI’s Aadhaar Center Locator: https://appointments.uidai.gov.in/

Step 2: Provide Biometric Authentication

Carry any government-issued ID for identity proof.
Provide fingerprints or iris scans for verification.

Step 3: Receive Aadhaar Number

After verification, the Aadhaar center will provide your Aadhaar number.

5. Find Aadhaar Number via Bank or Post Office

Many banks and post offices offer Aadhaar services. Visit a nearby branch offering Aadhaar services and request a retrieval.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I find my Aadhaar number without a registered mobile number?

Yes. You need to visit an Aadhaar Enrollment Center with a valid identity proof for biometric verification.

2. How long does it take to retrieve my Aadhaar number?

If retrieved online or via SMS, it is instant. At Aadhaar centers, it may take a few hours.

3. What if my mobile number is not linked to Aadhaar?

You need to update your Aadhaar details by visiting an Aadhaar Seva Kendra.

4. Is there any fee for retrieving an Aadhaar number?

No, UIDAI does not charge any fee for retrieving Aadhaar numbers.

5. Can I use my Aadhaar number for online verification?

Yes, Aadhaar can be used for e-KYC verification for banking, telecom, and other services.

Conclusion

Finding your National ID (Aadhaar) number in India is simple with online and offline methods. Whether through the UIDAI website, mAadhaar app, SMS, or an Aadhaar center, you can easily retrieve your Aadhaar number for various official purposes.