PVC Aadhaar Card - Features Benefits , Steps to Apply Online

The Aadhaar Card is a unique identifier for Indian citizens and contains a 12-digit number issued by UIDAI. A PVC Aadhaar Card is one of the many introduced versions of a regular Aadhaar. It is the latest version, offering a compact and durable alternative to the traditional Aadhaar card. Made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), it is designed for longevity and conveniently fits into your wallet, much like a credit or debit card.

What Is a PVC Card? 

A PVC version of an Aadhaar Card is a hard copy of your digital Aadhaar identification. This card is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and is compact in size. This smaller version contains all the crucial information about your Aadhaar. Thus, this card ensures easy access to identification details whenever needed and is applicable for offline or online verification processes. 

Features of a PVC Aadhaar Card

Here, you can find the features of a PVC version of your Aadhaar Card:

• It comes with a logo of Aadhaar which symbolises authenticity and recognition by the Indian government. 
• The card also shows the date on which the card was issued to verify the card’s validity.
• It has printed micro texts that are invisible to the naked eye, providing security against replication. 
• It comes with a subtly incorporated ghost image that adds a security layer against forgery.
• It has guilloche patterns on its surface that serve as an anti-counterfeiting security measure. 
• This PVC card has a QR code for authentication so that compatible devices can access cardholder information quickly. 

Benefits of a PVC Aadhaar Card

Below are the different PVC Aadhaar Card benefits:

• Resilience: Due to its durable material, PVC lasts longer than regular cards and eliminates the need for replacement due to wear. 
• Compactness: PVC cards are compact and lightweight, helping in effortless carrying and fit easily into purses and wallets.
• Consolidated information: It consolidates all Aadhaar information in a single space, eliminating the need for carrying multiple documents. 
• Accessibility: Whether you apply it online or offline, you get the card delivered quickly to your home address. 
• Affordability: It requires a one-time investment and does not require multiple renewals, making it affordable. 

Steps to Apply for a PVC Aadhaar Card Online

Follow the steps below to successfully apply for a PVC version of your Aadhaar:

Step 1: Open a web browser and go to the UIDAI official website.

Step 2: Navigate to the 'My Aadhaar' tab and click 'Order Aadhaar PVC' under the 'Get Aadhaar' section.

Step 3: On the next page, enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number, fill in the captcha and click 'send OTP'.

Note: You can log in with your enrolment ID and if your mobile number is not registered, click the checkbox and send OTP. 

Step 4: You will see a preview of your Aadhaar Card on the screen to verify it and click ‘Next’.

Note: You will not see a preview of your Aadhaar if your mobile number is not linked to your card. 

Step 5: Select the confirmation box to agree with the terms and conditions and proceed.

Step 6: The next page will prompt you to choose your preferred payment options from debit card, net banking, etc.

Step 7: Choose your preferred mode of payment and pay ₹50 to obtain a PVC Aadhaar Card.

Step 8: Now you will see your payment receipt and you can download it in PDF format for future reference. 

Steps to Order a PVC Aadhaar from mAadhaar Application

Here are the detailed steps to apply for a PVC card via the mAadhaar application:

Step 1: Download the mAadhaar app from your device’s app store.

Step 2: Open the application and log in with your Aadhaar number and OTP.

Step 3: In the app menu, go to the ‘Order PVC Aadhaar Card’ option and tap on it.

Step 4: Choose your preferred payment mode from debit or credit card and UPI. 

Step 5: Follow the remaining instructions to complete the payment process.

Step 6: Note your Service Request Number (SRN) after the payment for tracking.

How to Check PVC Aadhaar Order Status?

Follow the steps below to easily check or track your ordered PVC card: 

Step 1: Visit the official website of UIDAI.

Step 2: Navigate to 'My Aadhaar' and under the 'Get Aadhaar' section, click on ''Check Aadhaar PVC Card Status'.

Step 3: Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and the security code. 

Step 4: Specify your mobile number that is registered with UIDAI to receive an OTP. If your number is not registered, then click on ‘My mobile number is not registered’. 

Step 5: Click on ‘Send OTP’. 

Step 6: You will be redirected to a page where you will see your PVC Aadhaar card status and SRN.

Check Your PVC Aadhaar Card Order Status via mAadhaar

Here are the steps to track your order for PVC Aadhaar:

Step 1: Open the mAadhaar app installed on your mobile device.

Step 2: In the application, find the ‘Check Request Status’ option and tap on it.

Step 3: Tap on ‘PVC Card Request Status’ in this section.

Step 4: Type the Service Request Number (SRN) you received upon the order and fill out a captcha code. 

Step 5: Tap ‘Check status’ and you will see your card’s current status that includes stages like processed or shipped.

PVC Aadhaar Card Download Process

Follow the below-mentioned process to download the PVC version of your Aadhaar Card:

Step 1: Visit the official UIDAI website.

Step 2: Go to the 'My Aadhaar' tab and look for 'Order Aadhaar PVC Card' in the dropdown.

Step 3: Enter your Aadhaar number or enrolment ID in the next window that opens.

Step 4: Enter the captcha code for verification and the mobile number to receive OTP. 

Step 5: Click 'Submit' and download a soft copy of the PVC version of your Aadhaar card.

Delivery Time for PVC Aadhaar Card

Below are the important details about the delivery time you need to know after placing an order for a PVC card:

• UIDAI processes your order and prints it within 5 working days but excludes the order date.
• UIDAI then hands the card to the Department of Posts (DoP).
• Via the speed post service by India Post, DOP delivers your card to your communication address. 
• The delivery time adheres to the norms of your area’s speed post services. 

What Are the Differences Between a PVC Aadhaar and a Regular Aadhaar Card?

Here are the key differences between the two versions of a Aadhaar card:

Final Word 

A PVC Aadhaar Card is a secured and durable version of a paper-based Aadhaar Card. It not only lasts longer but has effective security measures against misuse. For any assistance or enquiry regarding PVC Aadhaar, call the UIDAI helpline number 1947 to talk to a representative.