mAadhaar App: How to Use for All Aadhaar Services

The mAadhaar app is UIDAI's official mobile application that puts all Aadhaar services in your pocket. From downloading your eAadhaar to locking biometrics, generating VID, and sharing your identity via QR code — everything is available on your smartphone.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the mAadhaar app.

Disclaimer: CitizenNest is an independent platform and is not affiliated with UIDAI or any government body.

Download mAadhaar App

Requirements:

• Android 5.0+ or iOS 13.0+
• Active internet connection
• Mobile number registered with Aadhaar

How to Set Up mAadhaar

Step 1: Install and Open

• Download from the official store (links above)
• Open the app and accept the terms & conditions

Step 2: Set App Lock

• Create a 4-digit PIN or set up biometric lock (fingerprint/face)
• This PIN protects access to the app — remember it

Step 3: Add Your Aadhaar Profile

1. Tap Add Profile or the + icon
2. Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number
3. Enter the captcha
4. Tap Send OTP — OTP goes to your Aadhaar-registered mobile
5. Enter the OTP and tap Verify
6. Your Aadhaar profile loads with your photo, name, and details
7. Set a profile password to secure individual profile access

Step 4: Add Multiple Profiles (Family)

• mAadhaar supports up to 3 profiles on one device
• Tap + to add additional profiles (spouse, children, parents)
• Each profile needs its own Aadhaar number and OTP verification
• All family Aadhaar cards accessible from one phone

Key Features and How to Use Them

1. View and Share eAadhaar

• Open your profile → Your digital Aadhaar with photo is displayed
• Tap Show Aadhaar to view the full card with QR code
• Use this as a valid ID at hotels, airports, and offices

2. QR Code Sharing

• Your profile includes a secure QR code
• Any Aadhaar-enabled scanner can verify your identity by scanning it
• No internet required for the person scanning the QR
• Useful at hotels, airports, and verification points

3. Offline eKYC

Offline eKYC lets you share your Aadhaar details without online authentication:

1. Go to Offline eKYC in the app
2. Create a share code (4-digit password)
3. Download the XML file or generate a shareable document
4. Share with the requesting organization along with the share code
5. They can verify your identity without accessing the UIDAI server

Use cases: Bank account opening, mutual fund KYC, insurance, telecom

4. Biometric Lock/Unlock

• Go to Biometric Lock in the app menu
• Toggle ON to lock biometrics (fingerprint + iris)
• Toggle OFF to temporarily unlock when needed
• See our detailed Aadhaar Biometric Lock guide for best practices

5. Generate Virtual ID (VID)

• Go to VID Generator
• Tap Generate VID
• A 16-digit temporary number is created and sent via SMS
• Use VID instead of your Aadhaar number for authentication
• You can retrieve or regenerate VID anytime

6. TOTP (Time-Based OTP)

• Go to TOTP Generator in the app
• Generates a time-based OTP that works for 30 seconds
• Use this instead of waiting for SMS OTP
• Works even in areas with poor network reception
• Give the TOTP verbally at the authentication point

7. Update Aadhaar Details

From the app, you can initiate:

• Address update request
• Mobile number update (redirects to online portal)
• Check update status

8. Aadhaar Authentication History

• Go to Authentication History
• View who authenticated using your Aadhaar
• Set date range and type (demo/bio/OTP)
• See our Aadhaar Authentication History guide for details

9. Locate Enrollment Centre

• Go to Locate Enrollment Centre
• Find nearest centres based on your location
• See our Aadhaar Enrollment Centre Locator guide

All Services Available in mAadhaar

Troubleshooting Common Issues

"OTP not received"

• Ensure your mobile number is registered with Aadhaar
• Wait 60 seconds before requesting again
• Check if SMS is blocked by your phone's settings or DND

"Profile not loading"

• Check internet connection
• Clear app cache: Settings → Apps → mAadhaar → Clear Cache
• Update to the latest app version

"App crashing on startup"

• Uninstall and reinstall from the official store
• Ensure your phone meets minimum OS requirements
• Free up storage space if low

"Biometric lock toggle not working"

• Ensure you're logged in to the correct profile
• Try from the myAadhaar web portal as an alternative
• Update the app to the latest version

Important Tips

1. Download from official stores only — Fake mAadhaar apps exist. Only use the UIDAI official app from Google Play or Apple App Store
2. Set a strong app PIN — Anyone with your phone and PIN can access your Aadhaar details
3. Add family profiles — Manage your family's Aadhaar cards from one phone
4. Use TOTP in low-network areas — It generates OTP locally, no SMS needed
5. Keep the app updated — UIDAI regularly adds features and security patches

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mAadhaar app safe to use?

Yes, it is the official UIDAI app. Data is stored securely on your device and protected by your PIN. Always download from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Can I use mAadhaar on multiple phones?

Your profile can be active on only one device at a time. Setting up on a new phone will deactivate it on the old one.

Does mAadhaar work without internet?

Some features like viewing your saved profile and QR code work offline. However, services like biometric lock, VID generation, and authentication history require internet.

How many profiles can I add?

Up to 3 profiles on a single device. This is useful for managing family members' Aadhaar.

Is mAadhaar a valid ID proof?

The digital Aadhaar displayed in mAadhaar with the QR code is accepted as valid ID at most places including airports, hotels, and government offices. However, acceptance may vary — carry a physical copy as backup.

Can I order an Aadhaar PVC card through the app?

Yes, you can order an Aadhaar PVC card for ₹50 through the mAadhaar app. It will be delivered to your Aadhaar-registered address.

What if I change my phone number?

You'll need to update your mobile number with Aadhaar first (visit an enrollment centre). After that, set up mAadhaar fresh on the new number.