What is Masked Aadhaar?
Masked Aadhaar is a secure version of your Aadhaar card issued by theAadhaar Type
Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) that hides the first
eight digits of your 12-digit Aadhaar number and shows only the last four.
It helps protect your privacy while still allowing you to verify your
identity. The masked version contains your name, photograph, date of birth,
gender, QR code, and digital signature by UIDAI - making it valid and
authentic for most purposes where the full Aadhaar number is not required.
Why Use a Masked Aadhaar?
- Protects Privacy: Hides the first 8 digits of your Aadhaar number from misuse or identity theft.
- Legally Valid: Signed digitally by UIDAI and accepted as valid proof of identity and address.
- Safe for Online Sharing: Ideal for document uploads, online forms, and private companies where full Aadhaar isn’t needed.
- QR Code Verification: Includes a scannable QR code for instant offline identity verification.
- VID Option: Contains a 16-digit Virtual ID (VID) for secure e-KYC authentication without exposing your Aadhaar number.
How to Download Masked Aadhaar from UIDAI Website
You can easily download Masked Aadhaar card PDF online directly from the official UIDAI portal. Follow these simple steps:
- Visit the official UIDAI website: https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/
- Click on “Download Aadhaar” under the My Aadhaar section.
- Choose your preferred option: Aadhaar Number (UID), Enrolment ID (EID), or Virtual ID (VID).
- Enter your details, captcha, and click Send OTP.
- Check the box “I want a masked Aadhaar” before downloading.
- Verify the OTP received on your registered mobile number.
- Click Verify & Download - your masked Aadhaar card PDF will be saved automatically.
First 4 letters of your name in CAPITAL + Birth Year (YYYY).
Example: If your name is RAVI KUMAR and birth year is 1998, then password = RAVI1998.
Alternative Ways to Download Masked Aadhaar
1. Using DigiLocker App
- Download and open the DigiLocker App.
- Log in using your mobile number and 6-digit security PIN.
- Search for UIDAI Aadhaar under “Issued Documents”.
- Click “View PDF” to download your masked Aadhaar instantly.
2. Using mAadhaar App
- Install the mAadhaar App from Google Play or App Store.
- Register your Aadhaar-linked mobile number and verify via OTP.
- Tap on Download Aadhaar and select Masked Aadhaar.
- Enter your Aadhaar Number (UID) or VID and download the PDF.
When Should You Use Masked Aadhaar?
- While sharing Aadhaar with private companies, hotels, or service providers.
- For online transactions, e-KYC, or document uploads.
- For job applications, digital verifications, or non-government KYC forms.
- Whenever you want to keep your full Aadhaar number private.
Difference Between Regular Aadhaar and Masked Aadhaar
| Feature | Regular Aadhaar | Masked Aadhaar |
|---|---|---|
| Aadhaar Number | Shows full 12 digits | Hides first 8 digits (xxxx-xxxx) |
| Purpose | For official government and KYC use | For privacy and online document sharing |
| Usage | KYC, Passport, PAN, Bank, SIM | Hotels, jobs, private firms, online uploads |
| Visibility | Full number visible | Only last 4 digits visible |
| Legality | Valid under Aadhaar Act 2016 | Also valid under Aadhaar Act 2016 |
Related articles
• Regular Aadhaar – Complete Guide (2025) • Download Aadhaar Card Online – Step-by-Step Guide (2025)Final Words
Your Masked Aadhaar card offers a perfect balance of security and convenience.
It’s officially issued by UIDAI, valid everywhere, and the best way to share
identity proof without revealing your complete Aadhaar number.
Stay connected with Easy Aadhaar
for verified guides on Aadhaar download, update, and verification – all in one trusted place.
You can get your Masked Aadhaar card by visiting the official UIDAI portal myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in. Go to the “Download Aadhaar” option, enter your Aadhaar number, Enrolment ID, or Virtual ID, and check the box that says “I want a Masked Aadhaar.” Verify via OTP and download the Masked Aadhaar card PDF instantly.
Yes, Masked Aadhaar is highly recommended when sharing your identity with private companies, hotels, or online platforms. It hides the first eight digits of your Aadhaar number, keeping your personal information secure while still being valid and accepted under the Aadhaar Act 2016.
The Masked Aadhaar hides the first 8 digits of your Aadhaar number and shows only the last 4, while the Regular Aadhaar displays the full 12-digit number. Both versions are digitally signed by UIDAI and legally valid, but Masked Aadhaar is preferred for privacy during online sharing or form uploads.
Most banks and private institutions accept Masked Aadhaar for identity verification, provided the full number is not mandatory. However, for full KYC processes like opening new accounts or government subsidy applications, you may be asked to provide your Regular Aadhaar with the complete number.
Every Masked Aadhaar card PDF downloaded from UIDAI is password protected. To open it, use the format: First 4 letters of your name (in CAPITAL) + Year of Birth (YYYY). Example: If your name is RAVI KUMAR and your birth year is 1998, the password will be RAVI1998.
Yes. You can download Masked Aadhaar on mobile through the DigiLocker or mAadhaar App. Both apps allow you to log in with your registered mobile number, verify via OTP, and download the Masked Aadhaar PDF directly on your smartphone.
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