Identity Documents

Aadhaar Enrollment ID Lost โ€” How to Retrieve It

Lost your Aadhaar enrollment slip? Learn how to retrieve your Aadhaar Enrollment ID (EID) online, via email/SMS, or by visiting an Aadhaar centre.

CitizenNest Editorial Team7 min read
โš ๏ธ
Disclaimer: This is an independent informational guide. We are NOT affiliated with any government body. Always verify on official websites.

Aadhaar Enrollment ID Lost โ€” How to Retrieve It

Lost your Aadhaar enrollment slip and can't find your 14-digit Enrollment ID (EID)? Don't worry โ€” there are multiple ways to recover it. This guide covers every method, from online retrieval to visiting an Aadhaar centre.

What Is the Aadhaar Enrollment ID (EID)?

When you apply for Aadhaar, you receive an acknowledgement slip with a 28-digit Enrollment Number โ€” this includes a 14-digit EID plus date and time of enrollment. You need this EID to:

  • Check your Aadhaar enrollment status
  • Download your e-Aadhaar (before Aadhaar number is assigned)
  • Track your application progress

Format: 1234/56789/01234 followed by date-time stamp (e.g., 1234/12345/12345 dd/mm/yyyy hh:mm:ss)


Method 1: Check Your Registered Email

When you enrolled for Aadhaar, UIDAI sends an acknowledgement email to your registered email address.

Steps

  1. Open the email account you provided during Aadhaar enrollment
  2. Search for emails from donotreply@uidai.gov.in or search for "Aadhaar enrollment"
  3. Look for the enrollment acknowledgement email โ€” it contains your full EID

Tip: Check your Spam/Junk folder if you can't find it in your inbox.


Method 2: Check SMS on Registered Mobile

UIDAI also sends an SMS with your Enrollment ID to the mobile number registered during enrollment.

Steps

  1. Open the messaging app on the phone number you gave during enrollment
  2. Search for messages from UIDAI or containing "enrollment"
  3. Note down the 28-digit Enrollment Number

Note: If you've changed your phone number or deleted old messages, this method won't work. Try other methods below.


Method 3: Retrieve EID via UIDAI Portal (If Aadhaar Already Generated)

If your Aadhaar has already been generated but you've lost the EID, you may not need it at all โ€” you can use your Aadhaar number or VID instead. But if you specifically need the EID:

Steps

  1. Go to resident.uidai.gov.in
  2. If you know your Aadhaar number, use the "Retrieve Lost or Forgotten EID/UID" option
  3. Enter your registered name and email ID or mobile number
  4. Complete the security captcha
  5. Click Send OTP
  6. Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile/email
  7. Your EID or UID will be sent to your registered mobile/email

Direct link: https://resident.uidai.gov.in/lost-uideid


Method 4: What If No Mobile Number Is Linked?

If you didn't register a mobile number during enrollment, or the number has changed:

Options Available

Situation Solution
Mobile changed but email still active Use email-based OTP retrieval on UIDAI portal
Neither mobile nor email accessible Visit nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre
Never registered mobile/email Visit Aadhaar centre with biometric verification

You must visit an Aadhaar centre in person โ€” there is no online workaround if both mobile and email are inaccessible.


Method 5: Visit an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre (Biometric Retrieval)

This is the most reliable method when all online options fail. UIDAI can verify your identity using your biometrics (fingerprints or iris scan).

Steps

  1. Locate your nearest centre at appointments.uidai.gov.in/easearch.aspx
  2. Visit the centre with a valid photo ID (Voter ID, PAN card, passport, driving licence)
  3. Request Aadhaar enrollment retrieval โ€” the operator will verify your biometrics
  4. Once verified, the operator can provide your Aadhaar number or help you retrieve your EID
  5. You may need to pay a nominal fee (โ‚น50 for reprints/updates)

Documents to Carry

  • Any government-issued photo ID
  • Any document with your address (if applicable)
  • No need for the enrollment slip โ€” your biometrics are sufficient

Method 6: Book an Appointment Before Visiting

Avoid long queues by booking an appointment online.

Steps

  1. Visit appointments.uidai.gov.in
  2. Select your state and city
  3. Choose an available Aadhaar Seva Kendra or enrolment centre
  4. Pick a date and time slot
  5. Enter your basic details and confirm the booking
  6. Carry the appointment confirmation (SMS/email) when you visit

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I check my Aadhaar status without the Enrollment ID?

Yes โ€” if your Aadhaar has already been generated, you can retrieve your UID (Aadhaar number) using your name and registered mobile/email at resident.uidai.gov.in/lost-uideid.

Is there a fee to retrieve my Enrollment ID?

Online retrieval via the UIDAI portal is free. Visiting an Aadhaar centre may involve a nominal fee of โ‚น50 if a reprint or update is required.

How long does it take to get the EID after biometric verification?

Typically immediate โ€” the operator can look up your record on the spot once your biometrics match.

I enrolled months ago but never received my Aadhaar. What should I do?

If it's been more than 90 days since enrollment and you haven't received your Aadhaar, visit an Aadhaar centre with your biometrics for status check. Your enrollment may need to be re-processed.

Can someone else retrieve my Enrollment ID for me?

No. Since biometric verification is required at the centre, you must visit in person. Online retrieval also requires OTP on your registered mobile/email.


Quick Summary

Method Works When Cost
Check email Email registered during enrollment Free
Check SMS Same mobile number still active Free
UIDAI portal (EID/UID retrieval) Mobile or email still accessible Free
Visit Aadhaar centre All online methods fail โ‚น50 (if applicable)

Official Resources