Introduction – Why is the Correct Name in Aadhaar Important?

Aadhaar Card is one of the most important identity documents in India. Whether it is opening a bank account, applying for a passport, or availing government schemes, Aadhaar is required everywhere.

However, if there is a spelling mistake in your name, you have changed your surname after marriage, or you have legally changed your name, then updating your name in Aadhaar becomes essential.

In this guide, we explain how you can change your name in Aadhaar both online (from home) and offline (by visiting Aadhaar Seva Kendra).

Who Can Change Their Name in Aadhaar?

According to UIDAI, any Indian citizen with a valid Aadhaar number can apply for a name update.

Note: A person can update their name only twice in a lifetime, so make sure you apply carefully.

Common Reasons for Name Change in Aadhaar

• Spelling mistake in name

• Surname change after marriage

• Court-approved legal name change

• Adding or removing surname

Required Documents (Proof of Identity – POI)

You must submit a valid identity document that shows your correct name.

Accepted documents (any one):

• PAN Card

• Passport

• Voter ID Card

• Driving License

• Ration Card (with photo)

• Marriage Certificate

• Gazette Notification (in case of legal name change)

• Service Book (for government employees)

• Notary Affidavit (in some cases)

Tip: For married women, both marriage certificate and husband’s ID proof can be useful.

Method 1 – Online Name Change (via MyAadhaar Portal)

If your mobile number is linked with Aadhaar, you can update your name online without visiting a center.

Step-by-step process:

1. Visit https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in

2. Click Login and log in using OTP sent to your registered mobile number.

3. Select Update Aadhaar Online.

4. Choose the Name option.

5. Enter your correct name.

6. Upload supporting document (PDF or JPG format).

7. Pay the fee of ₹50.

8. Submit and download the acknowledgement receipt.

Processing time: 5–7 working days.
You can track the status on the same portal using your SRN number.

Method 2 – Offline Name Change (via Aadhaar Seva Kendra)

If your mobile is not linked with Aadhaar, or if the online update is unsuccessful, you can visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra.

Process:

1. Visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra (check location on UIDAI website).

2. Fill out the name correction form.

3. Attach a self-attested copy of your document.

4. Complete biometric verification.

5. Pay the fee of ₹50.

6. Receive an acknowledgement slip with a URN number.

Processing time: 7–10 working days.

How to Check Aadhaar Name Update Status?

1. Visit https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in

2. Click Check Update Status.

3. Enter Aadhaar number and SRN/URN.

4. View the live status (Pending / Approved / Rejected).

How to Download Updated Aadhaar Card?

1. Visit https://eaadhaar.uidai.gov.in

2. Enter Aadhaar number and verify with OTP.

3. Download the PDF file.

4. Password: First 4 letters of your name (in capital) + Year of Birth (YYYY).

If You Are Changing Your Name Legally…

If you are legally changing your name (not just correcting spelling), you must first complete the three mandatory steps:

1. Create an Affidavit (Notarized or Magistrate attested in special cases)

2. Publish in a Newspaper (National daily – Hindi or English)

3. Publish in Gazette Notification (Central or State)

Only after completing these steps can you update your Aadhaar Card with the new name.

Gazette Notification Process for Legal Name Change

A Gazette Notification is an official document published by the Government of India (Central or State) to declare your legal name change.

Why is Gazette required for Aadhaar Name Change?
UIDAI requires valid legal proof for a complete name change. A Gazette Notification serves as an official government record and is accepted nationwide.

Step 1 – Affidavit Creation

• Prepare an affidavit on stamp paper.

• Clearly mention your old name, new name, and reason for name change.

• Get it notarized or attested by a First-Class Magistrate (in special cases like adoption, gender change, etc.).

Step 2 – Newspaper Advertisement

• Publish your name change in a national-level newspaper.

• Only original full newspaper copies are accepted (no cuttings or photocopies).

Step 3 – Gazette Publication

• Apply in the Central Gazette or State Gazette for official name publication.

• Central Gazette is widely accepted across India and is recommended for maximum recognition.

Central vs State Gazette for Aadhaar Update

• UIDAI accepts both Central and State Gazette notifications.

• If you plan to update documents like a passport or for inter-state use, the Central Gazette is the safest option.

Make the Process Easy with LSO Legal

Changing your name legally can be time-consuming and complex. With LSO Legal, you get:

• Expert drafting of affidavits.

• Assistance in newspaper publication.

• Complete Gazette Notification process.

• Guidance from senior advocates with over 22 years of experience.

Apply now at lsolegal.com to start your legal name change process.

FAQs

Q1. How many times can I change my name in Aadhaar?
A: Only twice in a lifetime.

Q2. My application was rejected. What should I do?
A: Check the reason, correct documents, and reapply (offline if online fails).

Q3. Can I change my name without documents?
A: No, valid POI document is mandatory.

Q4. Can I update my name using mobile?
A: Yes, if your mobile number is linked with Aadhaar.

Q5. For marriage name change, what documents are needed?
A: Marriage certificate and husband’s ID proof.