DigiLocker Document Download Failed? Fix Errors

DigiLocker is the government's official digital document wallet that lets you store and access documents like Aadhaar, PAN card, driving licence, marksheets, and more. If you are facing "Document Download Failed" or other errors while fetching documents, this guide covers all common issues and fixes.

Common DigiLocker Errors and Solutions

1. "Issuer Not Available" Error

This error means the document issuing organization's server is not responding to DigiLocker.

Causes:

• The issuing department's server is down for maintenance
• The department has not updated its API integration with DigiLocker
• High traffic on the issuer's server

Fix:

1. Wait for 2-4 hours and try again — issuer servers are often restored quickly
2. Try during off-peak hours (early morning 6-8 AM or after 9 PM)
3. Check if other documents from the same issuer are working
4. If the issue persists for more than 24 hours, the issuer may have a prolonged outage

Commonly affected issuers:

• State transport departments (driving licence)
• State education boards (marksheets)
• University portals (degree certificates)

2. "URI Fetch Failed" Error

This error occurs when DigiLocker cannot retrieve the document from the issuer's system.

Causes:

• Temporary network issue between DigiLocker and the issuer
• The document URI (unique identifier) has expired or changed
• Issuer server returned an invalid response

Fix:

1. Remove the document from your DigiLocker and try fetching it again
2. Go to "Get Document" → Select the issuer → Re-enter your details
3. Ensure you are entering the correct document number (e.g., registration number, certificate number)
4. Clear the DigiLocker app cache: Settings → Apps → DigiLocker → Clear Cache
5. Update the DigiLocker app to the latest version

3. "Server Timeout" or Slow Loading

If DigiLocker takes too long and times out:

1. Check your internet connection — switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data
2. Close and reopen the DigiLocker app
3. Try using the web version at digilocker.gov.in instead of the app (or vice versa)
4. Avoid peak hours — DigiLocker servers are busiest from 10 AM to 4 PM
5. If using the app, force stop it and clear cache before retrying

4. "Document Not Found" Error

This means DigiLocker could not find your document in the issuer's database.

Possible reasons:

• The document number you entered is incorrect
• Your details in the issuer's system do not match your DigiLocker profile
• The issuing department has not digitized your specific document
• The document was issued before digitization started for that department

Fix:

1. Double-check the document number, name, and date of birth you entered
2. Verify that your name in DigiLocker (linked to Aadhaar) exactly matches the name on the document
3. For older documents, contact the issuing department to confirm if the document is available digitally
4. Try searching with alternate details (e.g., enrollment number vs. roll number for marksheets)

5. Aadhaar Mismatch Issues

DigiLocker is linked to your Aadhaar. If your Aadhaar details do not match the document issuer's records:

Common mismatches:

• Name spelling differs (e.g., "Rajesh" vs "Rajesh Kumar")
• Date of birth is different in Aadhaar vs. the document
• Father's name differs

Fix:

1. Update your Aadhaar to match the correct details — see our Aadhaar update guide
2. Or get the issuing department to correct your name/details in their records
3. After correction, wait 24-48 hours for the changes to sync
4. Then try fetching the document again on DigiLocker

6. Document Downloaded but Not Opening

If the document downloads but shows as corrupted or does not open:

1. Check your phone/computer has a PDF reader installed
2. Try downloading again — the file may have been partially downloaded
3. Clear DigiLocker app cache and re-download
4. Try downloading from the web version instead
5. Check if your device has sufficient storage space

How to Properly Fetch Documents on DigiLocker

1. Open DigiLocker app or visit digilocker.gov.in
2. Log in with your registered mobile number
3. Tap "Get Document" or "Issued Documents"
4. Select the document type (e.g., Driving Licence, PAN, Marksheet)
5. Select the issuing organization (e.g., Ministry of Road Transport for DL)
6. Enter the required document number and details
7. Tap "Get Document"
8. The document will appear in your Issued Documents section

Troubleshooting Checklist

DigiLocker Support

Important Tips

1. Keep your Aadhaar details updated — DigiLocker pulls your profile from Aadhaar
2. Save important documents offline as PDF after successful download
3. Not all documents from all states are available on DigiLocker — check the partner list at partners.digilocker.gov.in
4. DigiLocker documents are legally valid and equivalent to original documents under IT Act 2000
5. If a specific issuer consistently fails, the department may not have integrated with DigiLocker yet

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does DigiLocker show "Document Download Failed"?

This usually happens when the issuing department's server is down, your document number is incorrect, or there is a name mismatch between your Aadhaar and the document.

Is DigiLocker document legally valid?

Yes, documents issued via DigiLocker are legally valid and treated at par with original documents as per the IT Act 2000, Rule 9A.

How do I fix "Issuer Not Available" on DigiLocker?

Wait for a few hours and retry. The issuer's server may be temporarily down. Try during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening).

Can I use DigiLocker without Aadhaar?

DigiLocker requires Aadhaar for account creation and document fetching. You need a valid Aadhaar number linked to an active mobile number.

Why is my document not found on DigiLocker?

The document may not be digitized by the issuing department, or your details (name, DOB) may not match the issuer's records. Verify your document number and contact the issuing department.

How do I remove and re-fetch a document on DigiLocker?

Go to your "Issued Documents", tap on the document, and select "Remove". Then go to "Get Document" and fetch it again with the correct details.

Disclaimer: CitizenNest is an independent platform and is not affiliated with DigiLocker or the Ministry of Electronics & IT. Information is compiled from official sources for public guidance. Visit digilocker.gov.in for official information.