“Learn all about Aadhaar VID (Virtual ID) — its meaning, purpose, benefits, and how to generate it. Discover how to use VID for Aadhaar authentication and e-KYC while keeping your Aadhaar number safe and secure.”
The Aadhaar system, developed and maintained by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), has become a cornerstone of India’s digital identity framework. It provides every resident of India with a unique 12-digit Aadhaar number, which acts as proof of identity and address.
However, with growing concerns about privacy and misuse of personal information, UIDAI introduced an innovative feature — the Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID). This feature allows Aadhaar holders to authenticate themselves without revealing their actual Aadhaar number, offering an extra layer of security and control over personal data.
What is Aadhaar VID?
VID stands for Virtual ID. It is a 16-digit temporary, revocable number that is linked to your Aadhaar number.
The Aadhaar Virtual ID can be used in place of your Aadhaar number for authentication or e-KYC (electronic Know Your Customer) services. This means you can verify your identity or avail government and private services without revealing your actual 12-digit Aadhaar number.
Each VID is unique for every Aadhaar number and can be changed or regenerated anytime by the Aadhaar holder.
Example:
If your Aadhaar number is 1234 5678 9012, your VID might look like 8765 4321 0987 6543.
You can use this 16-digit number instead of your Aadhaar to complete KYC or verification.
Also Read: Aadhaar Update Charges Revised: Complete Details on New Rates Effective from October 1, 2025
Purpose of Aadhaar VID
The Aadhaar Virtual ID was introduced mainly to enhance privacy and data protection.
Here’s why it’s important:
- Protects Your Aadhaar Number: You no longer need to share your Aadhaar number for verification. Instead, you can use the VID, which hides your actual Aadhaar number.
- Prevents Misuse of Aadhaar: Since the VID doesn’t disclose your Aadhaar number or other personal details, it minimizes the risk of identity theft and unauthorized data usage.
- Enables Secure Authentication: Service providers can perform authentication or KYC using the VID without accessing your Aadhaar number, ensuring privacy at every step.
- Temporary and Revocable: The VID is valid until you choose to regenerate it. You can create a new VID anytime, invalidating the previous one immediately.
- Complies with Data Protection Guidelines: UIDAI introduced VID as part of India’s move toward stronger data privacy regulations, ensuring that your Aadhaar information remains secure even during third-party verification.
Key Features of Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | 16 digits |
| Type | Temporary and revocable |
| Issued by | UIDAI |
| Linked to | Your 12-digit Aadhaar number |
| Usage | For Aadhaar authentication and e-KYC |
| Validity | Valid until regenerated |
| Regeneration Limit | Can be generated multiple times (only one VID active at a time) |
| Security | Protects Aadhaar number from exposure |
How Does Aadhaar VID Work?
The Aadhaar VID acts as a proxy number for your Aadhaar during authentication. Here’s how it works step by step:
- You generate a VID through the UIDAI portal, mAadhaar app, or SMS service.
- You provide this VID instead of your Aadhaar number while availing any service that requires Aadhaar-based authentication.
- The service provider sends your VID to UIDAI’s central database for verification.
- UIDAI maps the VID to your Aadhaar number internally, verifies the details, and confirms your identity — without revealing your actual Aadhaar number to the service provider.
This process ensures that service providers never see or store your Aadhaar number, making the system much safer and more privacy-friendly.
How to Generate Aadhaar VID Online
You can generate or retrieve your Aadhaar Virtual ID through multiple channels provided by UIDAI. Here’s how to do it step by step:
1. Through UIDAI Website
- Visit the official UIDAI portal: https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in
- Click on “Aadhaar Services” → “Virtual ID (VID) Generator.”
- Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and captcha code.
- Click on “Send OTP.”
- Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number.
- Choose one of the following options:
-
Generate VID (to create a new one)
-
Retrieve VID (if you already have one)
-
- Once verified, your VID will be displayed on the screen and also sent to your registered mobile number via SMS.
2. Through mAadhaar Mobile App
- Open or download the mAadhaar App from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Log in using your registered mobile number and Aadhaar details.
- Navigate to the VID Generator option.
- Select Generate VID or Retrieve VID.
- Your VID will appear on the screen and can also be copied for immediate use.
3. Through SMS Service (Offline Method)
If your mobile number is linked with your Aadhaar, you can generate or retrieve VID using a simple SMS.
To Generate VID:
Send an SMS from your registered mobile number in the following format:
Send it to 1947.
You will receive your 16-digit VID via SMS.
How to Use Aadhaar VID
Once your Virtual ID is generated, you can use it wherever Aadhaar-based authentication is required. Here’s how:
1. For e-KYC (Electronic Know Your Customer)
You can use your VID to verify your identity with telecom companies, banks, or other service providers.
Instead of sharing your Aadhaar number, simply share your VID. The KYC process will complete securely without exposing your actual Aadhaar.
2. For Authentication
Any Aadhaar authentication, whether biometric (fingerprint/iris) or OTP-based, can be done using VID. It functions just like your Aadhaar number in these cases.
3. For Government or Private Services
Whether it’s applying for a subsidy, PAN-Aadhaar linking, EPF services, or bank verification, VID can be used instead of your Aadhaar to ensure privacy.
Difference Between Aadhaar Number and Aadhaar VID
| Parameter | Aadhaar Number (UID) | Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) |
|---|---|---|
| Digits | 12 digits | 16 digits |
| Type | Permanent | Temporary & revocable |
| Issued by | UIDAI | UIDAI |
| Purpose | Unique identity for Indian residents | Mask actual Aadhaar number during authentication |
| Validity | Lifetime | Until regenerated |
| Can be Regenerated? | No | Yes, anytime |
| Storage by Agencies | Allowed under KYC norms | Agencies cannot store VID |
| Data Security | Moderate | High (protects Aadhaar number) |
Benefits of Aadhaar Virtual ID
- Enhanced Privacy Protection: Your Aadhaar number stays hidden from service providers. This reduces the risk of data leaks and misuse.
- Full User Control: You can generate or revoke a VID anytime, giving you complete control over its use.
- Reduces Data Breach Risks: Since the VID is temporary and revocable, even if it’s leaked, it can’t be misused after you generate a new one.
- Easy to Use: Generating or retrieving VID is quick and simple via website, app, or SMS.
- Accepted Everywhere: All Aadhaar authentication agencies and service providers are mandated by UIDAI to accept VID in place of Aadhaar.
- No Additional Cost: VID generation and usage are completely free of charge for Aadhaar holders.
Important Points to Remember
- Only one VID is active for an Aadhaar number at a time.
- When you generate a new VID, the old one becomes invalid instantly.
- VID cannot be used to retrieve Aadhaar number, ensuring privacy.
- You must have your mobile number linked with Aadhaar to generate VID.
- All UIDAI services that require Aadhaar authentication now also accept VID.
Common FAQs About Aadhaar VID
1. Can I have two VIDs at the same time?
A: No, only one VID can be active per Aadhaar number. When you generate a new VID, the previous one is automatically canceled.
2. Does VID expire automatically?
A: No, a VID remains valid until you choose to regenerate a new one.
3. Is VID mandatory for Aadhaar authentication?
A: No, it’s not mandatory. You can use either your Aadhaar number or VID for authentication. However, using VID is more secure.
4. Can I generate VID without a registered mobile number?
A: No, you need your registered mobile number linked to Aadhaar for OTP verification to generate VID.
5. What happens if I share my VID with someone?
A: Sharing VID is safe because it doesn’t expose your Aadhaar number or other details. However, you can still regenerate a new VID anytime for extra security.
UIDAI Helpline for Aadhaar VID Services
If you face any issues while generating or using VID, you can contact UIDAI:
- Toll-Free Number: 1947
- Email: help@uidai.gov.in
- Official Website: https://uidai.gov.in
Final Thoughts
The Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) is one of UIDAI’s most important steps toward privacy protection and digital security. It empowers individuals to verify their identity without disclosing their actual Aadhaar number — a crucial advancement in today’s data-driven world.
Whether you’re linking your bank account, completing KYC, or availing government benefits, using VID keeps your Aadhaar safe and your personal data secure.
By adopting VID, you take control of your digital identity and ensure that your Aadhaar details remain confidential — exactly as UIDAI intended.
Key Takeaways
- VID (Virtual ID) is a 16-digit, temporary, revocable number linked to your Aadhaar.
- It can be used in place of your Aadhaar number for authentication and e-KYC.
- You can generate VID online, via mAadhaar app, or through SMS.
- It enhances data privacy and prevents misuse of Aadhaar.
- Only one VID is active at a time, and it can be changed anytime.
