Check Aadhaar Card Services Through SMS

Last Updated on October 29, 2025 by My Aadhaar Card

Check Aadhaar Card Services Through SMS:- Aadhaar, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), is a vital identity document for Indian residents. To enhance accessibility, UIDAI offers SMS-based services that enable users to perform various Aadhaar-related functions using their mobile phones.

This innovative approach is transforming the way millions of Indians interact with their Aadhaar-related services, bringing important functionalities to their fingertips through the simple medium of text messaging. This service is beneficial for those who do not have internet access or prefer a quick way to retrieve Aadhaar-related information.

Aadhar Login: How to Login to UIDAI My Aadhaar Portal?

Check Aadhaar Card Services Through SMS

Let’s explore in detail the range of services offered by UIDAI through SMS:

Retrieve an Existing UIDAI Virtual ID through SMS

Virtual IDs are a cornerstone of UIDAI’s efforts to enhance privacy and security for Aadhaar holders. These 16-digit random numbers can be used in place of Aadhaar numbers for various services, significantly reducing the risk of Aadhaar number misuse.

Generating a Virtual ID:

To generate a Virtual ID, follow these simple steps:

• Step 1: Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.
• Step 2: Compose a new SMS with the text “GVID” (without quotes), followed by a space and the last four digits of your Aadhaar Number.
• For example, if your Aadhaar Number is 1234-5678-9123, the SMS should read: “GVID 9123“
• Step 3: Send the SMS to the designated number 1947.
• Step 4: Wait for a response SMS containing your newly generated Virtual ID.

UIDAI Appointment: How to Book an Appointment to Aadhaar Seva Kendra Online?

Retrieving an Existing Virtual ID:

To retrieve your Virtual ID, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.
• Step 2: Compose a new SMS with the text “RVID” (without quotes), followed by a space and the last four digits of your Aadhaar Number.
• For example, if your Aadhaar Number is 1234-5678-9123, the SMS should read: “RVID 9123“
• Step 3: Send the SMS to the designated number 1947.
• Step 4: Wait for a response SMS containing your existing Virtual ID.

Benefits of Virtual IDs:

• Enhanced Privacy: By using a Virtual ID instead of your Aadhaar number, you limit the exposure of your actual Aadhaar number.
• Revocable: You can generate a new Virtual ID at any time, invalidating the old one and adding an extra layer of security.
• Service-Specific Usage: You can use different Virtual IDs for different services, further compartmentalizing your digital identity.

Obtain a One-Time Password (OTP) on Aadhaar Registered Mobile Number Through SMS

OTPs play an important role in securing various Aadhaar-related transactions and services. The ability to generate OTPs via SMS ensures that users can authenticate their actions even without internet access.

To obtain an OTP using your Aadhaar Number, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.
• Step 2: Compose a new SMS with the text “GETOTP” (without quotes), followed by a space and the last four digits of your Aadhaar Number.
• For example, if your Aadhaar Number is 1234-5678-9123, the SMS should read: “GETOTP 9123“
• Step 3: Send the SMS to the designated number 1947.
• Step 4: Wait for a response SMS containing a 6-digit OTP.

Alternatively, if you prefer to use your Virtual ID, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.
• Step 2: Compose a new SMS with the text “GETOTP” (without quotes), followed by a space and the last six digits of your Virtual ID.
• For example, if your Virtual ID is 1234-1234-1234-9123, the SMS should read: “GETOTP 349123“
• Step 3: Send the SMS to the designated number 1947.
• Step 4: Wait for a response SMS containing a 6-digit OTP.

Importance of OTPs:

• Enhanced Security: OTPs add an extra layer of security to Aadhaar-related transactions, protecting against unauthorized access.
• Time-Sensitive: OTPs are typically valid for a short duration, minimizing the window of vulnerability.
• Transaction-Specific: Each OTP is unique to a specific transaction, preventing reuse and enhancing security.

How to Get a Lost Aadhaar Card Without a Registered Mobile Number?

Locking and Unlocking Aadhaar Numbers

This feature allows users to prevent unauthorized use of their Aadhaar numbers by locking them. When locked, the Aadhaar number cannot be used for authentication or other services until it is unlocked by the user.

Lock Your Aadhaar Number:

To lock your Aadhaar Number, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Obtain an OTP by sending an SMS with the text “GETOTP” followed by a space and the last four digits of your Aadhaar Number to 1947.
• Step 2: Once you receive the OTP, compose a new SMS with the text “LOCKUID” (without quotes), followed by a space, the last four digits of your Aadhaar Number, another space, and the received 6-digit OTP.
• For example, if your Aadhaar Number is 1234-5678-9123 and the OTP received is 012345, the SMS should read: “LOCKUID 9123 012345“
• Step 3: Send the SMS to the designated number 1947.
• Step 4: Wait for a confirmation SMS indicating that your Aadhaar Number has been successfully locked.

It’s important to note that for locking your Aadhaar Number, you must have a pre-generated Virtual ID. If you have multiple dependent Aadhaar Numbers linked to the same mobile number and the last four digits of the Aadhaar Numbers are the same for at least two dependents, the second SMS should include the last eight digits of the Aadhaar Number instead of the last four digits.

Check Aadhaar Validity Online: What is the Validity of Your Aadhaar Card?

Unlocking Your Aadhaar Number:

To unlock your Aadhaar Number, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Obtain an OTP by sending an SMS with the text “GETOTP” followed by a space and the last six digits of your Virtual ID to 1947.
• Step 2: Once you receive the OTP, compose a new SMS with the text “UNLOCKUID” (without quotes), followed by a space, the last six digits of your Virtual ID, another space, and the received 6-digit OTP.
• For example, if your Virtual ID is 1234-1234-1234-9123 and the OTP received is 012345, the SMS should read: “UNLOCKUID 349123 012345“
• Step 3: Send the SMS to the designated number 1947.
• Step 4: Wait for a confirmation SMS indicating that your Aadhaar Number has been successfully unlocked.

If you have multiple dependent Aadhaar Numbers linked to the same mobile number and the last six digits of the Virtual IDs are the same for at least two dependents, the second SMS should include the last ten digits of the Virtual ID instead of the last six digits.

Benefits of Locking/Unlocking:

• Prevent Misuse: Locking your Aadhaar number prevents its unauthorized use for authentication or other services.
• Flexible Control: You can easily unlock your Aadhaar number when needed and lock it again after use.
• Peace of Mind: This feature gives you greater control over your digital identity and how it’s used.

Get Aadhaar Update Status Through SMS

After submitting a request to update your Aadhaar details, you can easily check the status of your update via SMS.

Process:

• Step 1: For this, type “UID STATUS” followed by a space and your 14-digit Enrolment ID or 28-digit Aadhaar number in your phone message app and send the SMS to 51969.
• E.g., UID STATUS<space>14-digit enrollment number, or UID STATUS<space>28-digit EID and send it to 51969.

Importance of Update Status Checking:

• Stay Informed: Regularly checking your update status keeps you informed about the progress of your request.
• Plan Ahead: Knowing the status helps you plan for when you might need to use your updated Aadhaar details.
• Prompt Action: If there are any issues with your update request, you can address them promptly.

Government Launches Aadhaar Good Governance Portal: What it is and how it works?

Enable/Disable Aadhaar Biometric Lock Through SMS

Biometric locks add an extra layer of security to your Aadhaar data by preventing unauthorized biometric authentication. This feature is particularly useful for protecting sensitive biometric information.

Enabling Biometric Lock:

To enable a biometric lock using your Aadhaar Number, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Obtain an OTP by sending an SMS with the text “GETOTP” followed by a space and the last four digits of your Aadhaar Number to 1947.
• Step 2: Once you receive the OTP, compose a new SMS with the text “ENABLEBIOLOCK” (without quotes), followed by a space, the last four digits of your Aadhaar Number, another space, and the received 6-digit OTP.
• For example, if your Aadhaar Number is 1234-5678-9123 and the OTP received is 012345, the SMS should read: “ENABLEBIOLOCK 9123 012345“
• Step 3: Send the SMS to the designated number 1947.
• Step 4: Wait for a confirmation SMS indicating that the biometric lock has been successfully enabled.

Alternatively, if you prefer to use your Virtual ID, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Obtain an OTP by sending an SMS with the text “GETOTP” followed by a space and the last six digits of your Virtual ID to 1947.
• Step 2: Once you receive the OTP, compose a new SMS with the text “ENABLEBIOLOCK” (without quotes), followed by a space, the last six digits of your Virtual ID, another space, and the received 6-digit OTP.
• For example, if your Virtual ID is 1234-1234-1234-9123 and the OTP received is 123456, the SMS should be: “ENABLEBIOLOCK 349123 012345”.
• Step 3: Send the SMS to the designated number 1947.
• Step 4: Wait for a confirmation SMS indicating that the biometric lock has been successfully enabled.

Disabling Biometric Lock:

To disable a biometric lock using your Aadhaar Number, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Obtain an OTP by sending an SMS with the text “GETOTP” followed by a space and the last four digits of your Aadhaar Number to 1947.
• Step 2: Once you receive the OTP, compose a new SMS with the text “DISABLEBIOLOCK” (without quotes), followed by a space, the last four digits of your Aadhaar Number, another space, and the received 6-digit OTP.
• For example, if your Aadhaar Number is 1234-5678-9123 and the OTP received is 012345, the SMS should read: “DISABLEBIOLOCK 9123 012345“
• Step 3: Send the SMS to the designated number 1947.
• Step 4: Wait for a confirmation SMS indicating that the biometric lock has been successfully disabled.

Alternatively, if you prefer to use your Virtual ID, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Obtain an OTP by sending an SMS with the text “GETOTP” followed by a space and the last six digits of your Virtual ID to 1947.
• Step 2: Once you receive the OTP, compose a new SMS with the text “DISABLEBIOLOCK” (without quotes), followed by a space, the last six digits of your Virtual ID, another space, and the received 6-digit OTP.
• For example, if your Virtual ID is 1234-1234-1234-9123 and the OTP received is 012345, the SMS should read: “DISABLEBIOLOCK 349123 012345“
• Step 3: Send the SMS to the designated number 1947.
• Step 4: Wait for a confirmation SMS indicating that the biometric lock has been successfully disabled.

Temporarily Unlocking Biometrics:

To temporarily unlock your biometrics using your Aadhaar Number, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Obtain an OTP by sending an SMS with the text “GETOTP” followed by a space and the last four digits of your Aadhaar Number to 1947.
• Step 2: Once you receive the OTP, compose a new SMS with the text “UNLOCKBIO” (without quotes), followed by a space, the last four digits of your Aadhaar Number, another space, and the received 6-digit OTP.
• For example, if your Aadhaar Number is 1234-5678-9123 and the OTP received is 012345, the SMS should read: “UNLOCKBIO 9123 012345“
• Step 3: Send the SMS to the designated number 1947.
• Step 4: Wait for a confirmation SMS indicating that your biometrics have been temporarily unlocked.

Alternatively, if you prefer to use your Virtual ID, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Obtain an OTP by sending an SMS with the text “GETOTP” followed by a space and the last six digits of your Virtual ID to 1947.
• Step 2: Once you receive the OTP, compose a new SMS with the text “UNLOCKBIO” (without quotes), followed by a space, the last six digits of your Virtual ID, another space, and the received 6-digit OTP.
• For example, if your Virtual ID is 1234-1234-1234-9123 and the OTP received is 012345, the SMS should read: “UNLOCKBIO 349123 012345“
• Step 3: Send the SMS to the designated number 1947.
• Step 4: Wait for a confirmation SMS indicating that your biometrics have been temporarily unlocked.

It’s important to note that if your Aadhaar Number is locked, certain services, such as enabling or disabling biometric locks or temporarily unlocking biometrics, will not be allowed until your Aadhaar Number is unlocked.

Benefits of Biometric Locks:

• Enhanced Security: Prevents unauthorized use of your biometric data for Aadhaar authentication.
• Flexibility: You can easily enable or disable the lock as needed, or temporarily unlock for specific purposes.
• Control Over Sensitive Data: Gives you greater control over how and when your biometric data is used.

Advanced Considerations for Aadhaar Services on SMS

As we delve deeper into the intricacies of UIDAI’s SMS services, it’s important to highlight some advanced considerations and scenarios that users might encounter:

Multiple Linked Aadhaar Numbers

In some cases, a single mobile number might be linked to multiple Aadhaar numbers, such as those of family members. This can create potential conflicts when using SMS services, especially if the Aadhaar numbers have similar last digits.

Solution:

• For services like locking/unlocking Aadhaar, enabling/disabling biometric locks, or temporarily unlocking biometrics, use the last eight digits of the Aadhaar number instead of the last four.
• When using Virtual IDs in such scenarios, use the last ten digits instead of the last six.

Example: Instead of “LOCKUID 9123 012345”, you would send “LOCKUID 56789123 012345” to 1947.

This approach ensures that the system can accurately identify which Aadhaar number you’re referring to, preventing any confusion or unintended actions on the wrong Aadhaar account.

Locked Aadhaar Numbers and Service Restrictions

When an Aadhaar number is locked, certain SMS services become unavailable until the number is unlocked. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized changes or access to your Aadhaar details.

Restricted Services When Locked:

• Enabling or disabling biometric locks
• Temporarily unlocking biometrics
• Updating Aadhaar details

To use these services, you must first unlock your Aadhaar number using the process described earlier.

Time Sensitivity of OTPs

One-Time Passwords (OTPs) generated through SMS are typically valid for a limited time, usually around 15-30 minutes. This time sensitivity adds an extra layer of security but also requires users to act promptly.

Best Practices:

• Request the OTP only when you’re ready to complete the intended action.
• If you don’t use the OTP within the valid timeframe, simply request a new one.
• Never share your OTP with anyone, even if they claim to be from UIDAI or any other official entity.

How to File Aadhaar Card Misuse Complaint?

Conclusion

The Aadhaar SMS service is a practical and user-friendly solution for accessing essential Aadhaar-related information without the need for an internet connection. By utilizing the widespread availability of mobile phones and the simplicity of SMS technology, UIDAI has developed a system that bridges technological gaps and empowers citizens across all segments of society. Through straightforward SMS commands, users can check their Aadhaar status, retrieve details, generate a Virtual ID, and more. This service enhances accessibility and ensures that Aadhaar services are within reach for every Indian citizen.

For any further assistance, you can contact the UIDAI helpline at 1947.

FAQs

1. What Aadhaar-related services can be accessed via SMS?

UIDAI provides several Aadhaar services through SMS, including generating and retrieving Virtual IDs (VID), obtaining OTPs, checking Aadhaar linking status, locking and unlocking Aadhaar numbers, enabling and disabling biometric lock, and checking Aadhaar update status.

2. How can I generate a Virtual ID (VID) via SMS?

To generate a Virtual ID, send an SMS in the format: GVID <last four digits of Aadhaar> to 1947. You will receive an SMS with your new Virtual ID.

3. How do I retrieve my existing Virtual ID via SMS?

To retrieve your Virtual ID, send an SMS in the format: RVID <last four digits of Aadhaar> to 1947. You will receive an SMS containing your existing Virtual ID.

4. Why should I use a Virtual ID instead of my Aadhaar number?

A Virtual ID enhances privacy by acting as a substitute for your Aadhaar number. It can be generated and revoked anytime, reducing the risk of misuse.

5. How can I get an OTP for Aadhaar-related transactions via SMS?

Send an SMS in the format: GETOTP <last four digits of Aadhaar> to 1947. You will receive a 6-digit OTP on your registered mobile number.

6. Can I generate an OTP using my Virtual ID instead of Aadhaar?

Yes, send an SMS in the format: GETOTP <last six digits of Virtual ID> to 1947. You will receive an OTP on your registered mobile number.

7. How can I lock my Aadhaar number using SMS?

First, generate an OTP by sending GETOTP <last four digits of Aadhaar> to 1947. Once you receive the OTP, send another SMS: LOCKUID <last four digits of Aadhaar> <OTP> to 1947. You will receive a confirmation message upon successful locking.

8. How do I unlock my locked Aadhaar number via SMS?

To unlock your Aadhaar, send GETOTP <last six digits of Virtual ID> to 1947. Once you receive the OTP, send UNLOCKUID <last six digits of Virtual ID> <OTP> to 1947. Your Aadhaar will be unlocked.

9. What is the benefit of locking my Aadhaar number?

Locking your Aadhaar prevents unauthorized access and misuse. It ensures that your Aadhaar details cannot be used for authentication without your permission.

10. How can I check the status of my Aadhaar update via SMS?

To check Aadhaar update status, send an SMS in the format: UID STATUS <14-digit Enrollment ID> or UID STATUS <28-digit Aadhaar number> to 51969. You will receive an update on your request.

11. How can I enable biometric lock on my Aadhaar via SMS?

First, generate an OTP by sending GETOTP <last four digits of Aadhaar> to 1947. Then, send ENABLEBIOLOCK <last four digits of Aadhaar> <OTP> to 1947. Your biometric lock will be activated.

12. How do I disable the biometric lock on my Aadhaar via SMS?

First, generate an OTP by sending GETOTP <last four digits of Aadhaar> to 1947. Then, send DISABLEBIOLOCK <last four digits of Aadhaar> <OTP> to 1947. Your biometric lock will be disabled.

13. What should I do if I do not receive an SMS response from 1947?

Ensure that your mobile number is registered with Aadhaar. If the issue persists, try again after some time or contact UIDAI customer support.

14. Can I use these SMS services if my mobile number is not linked to Aadhaar?

No, SMS-based Aadhaar services are available only to users whose mobile numbers are registered with UIDAI. If your number is not linked, visit an Aadhaar Enrollment Centre to update it.

15. Is there a cost associated with using Aadhaar services via SMS?

UIDAI does not charge for these SMS services, but standard SMS charges by your mobile service provider may apply.