Features, fees and how to order
Recently, the Aadhaar issuing body - UIDAI, introduced new Aadhaar PVC cards that are easier to carry and have better security features. In this article, let's compare the Aadhaar PVC card with the classic Aadhaar card and check its features, fees, and steps to order it online.
Aadhaar vs Aadhaar regular PVC card: everything you need to know
Until now, we only had Aadhaar cards on paper - you could either use a printout or cut from the letter Aadhaar. However, the government has also introduced optional PVC cards.
Aadhaar PVC card measures the same as a debit or credit card with rounded corners. It is made of polyvinyl chloride, which makes it durable and suitable for rough and tough use.
On the front, you will see the usual information such as your name, date of birth, and gender next to the 12-digit Aadhaar number. There is a hologram to the right that reads "mera Aadhaar meri pehchaan" followed by "Aadhaar", which glows in Hindi and English from different angles.
The date of issue is mentioned on the left, accompanied by a guilloche pattern and a ghost image (a small version of your photo and Aadhaar number) on the right. There is also a Microtext that reads UIDAI, bordering the ID photo.
In addition, there is an embossed Aadhaar logo (logo invisible in the picture) in the middle. It is felt with the fingers and is visible by tilting the map.
On the back, you have your address and a secure QR code that can be scanned for instant offline verification. The back also contains the Aadhaar print date as well as the guilloche pattern.
In comparison, the ordinary Aadhaar card is made of laminated paper. It can be easily torn or damaged by water and other liquids. Additionally, it lacks security features like hologram, guilloche pattern, ghosting, micro-text, issue date, and print date.
Main features of Aadhaar PVC card
- Good print quality and lamination.
- Aadhaar PVC is more durable and more convenient to carry, like a debit card.
- It has the latest security features including a hologram, guilloche pattern, ghosting, and microtext.
- Contains an embossed Aadhaar logo.
- On the date of issue and the date of printing as additional security features.
- The Aadhaar PVC card is weather resistant. No need to worry about it being damaged by rain or moisture.
- Instant offline verification by QR Code.
Charges / Costs
The Aadhaar PVC card costs Rs. 50 including the shipping cost, which is the same for a regular Aadhaar card. It can be ordered online. You don't have to go to Aadhaar centers.
How to order Aadhaar PVC card online
As mentioned, PVC printing costs the same as regular paper card. You can order it online from the UIDAI website by following the steps below.
- Visit the official UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in/.
- Scroll to Get Aadhaar And click Order PVC Aadhaar.
- Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number or virtual ID / EID to continue. Then enter the captcha code.
- Click on Send OTP and enter the OTP received on your mobile. If your mobile is not registered, click on “My mobile is not registered”.
- Once you have verified OTP, you will see a preview of your card.
- Now click on Make a payment and pay the fees online, either by debit / credit card, UPI or net banking.
After order is placed, your Aadhaar PVC Card will be delivered to your doorstep in about 5-7 days via India Post. You can track the status of your order using your service request number listed on the payment receipt.
Here is a detailed guide to ordering Aadhaar PVC Card online for you and your family.
Is it obligatory? Should you order it?
No, this is not mandatory at the moment. The government is simply offering it as an option for people who want a more durable card with additional security features. Having said that, if your existing card is damaged, you can surely order the PVC version as it costs the same as the regular reprint.
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As obvious, the Aadhaar PVC card is overall a better option compared to the classic Aadhaar card. It is not only more durable, but also offers some safety features that are missing from the latter. However, note that this will add weight to your wallet just like an additional debit card would. So, only order if you need it.
Also Read: How To Get Color Voter ID Card Online In India
