Virtual ID (VID)

VID is a temporary, revocable 16-digit random number mapped with the Aadhaar number. VID can be used in lieu of Aadhaar number whenever authentication or e-KYC services are performed. Authentication may be performed using VID in a manner similar to using Aadhaar number. It is not possible to derive Aadhaar number from VID.

VID can be generated only by the Aadhaar number holder. They can also replace (generate a new VID) their VID from time to time. At any given time only one VID will be valid for an Aadhaar number. UIDAI provide various options to Aadhaar number holders to generate their VID, retrieve their VID in case they forget, and replace their VID with a new number. These options will be made available via UIDAI’s website (www.myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in), eAadhaar download, mAadhaar mobile application, etc.

VID can also be generated by sending an SMS to the Aadhaar helpline number 1947. Aadhaar number holder will have to type “GVIDLast 4 digits of Aadhaar Number” and send it to 1947 through the registered Mobile Number.

No other entity like AUA/KUA can generate VID on behalf of Aadhaar number holder. The VID can be generated by Aadhaar number holder by himself/herself only. Aadhaar number holder will receive the VID through SMS on registered mobile number.

Yes, UIDAI provide multiple ways to generate new and/or retrieve current VID. These options are made available via UIDAI’s website (www.myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in), eAadhaar, mAadhaar mobile application, SMS, etc.

For retrieval of VID, Aadhaar number holder may send SMS to the Aadhaar helpline number 1947. Aadhaar number holder will have to type “RVID Last 4 digits of Aadhaar Number” and send it to 1947 through the registered Mobile Number.

Yes. VID can be used in lieu of Aadhaar number to perform Aadhaar Authentication.

Yes, Aadhaar number holder consent is necessary for VID based authentication. Agency is required to inform the Aadhaar number holder the purpose for authentication and collect explicit consent for performing authentication.

No. Since VID is temporary and can be changed by the Aadhaar number holder, storing VID has no value. Agencies should not store VID in any database or logs.

After the minimum validity period (currently set as 1 calender day or after midnight 12), Aadhaar number holder may requests regeneration of a new VID. In this way, new VID will be generated and the previous VID will be deactivated.
In case, if Aadhaar number holder opts for retrieval of VID, the last active VID will be sent to the Aadhaar number holder through SMS. Aadhaar number holder will have to type “RVIDLast 4 digits of Aadhaar Number” and send it to 1947 through the registered Mobile Number.

At this time there is no expiry period defined for VID. VID will be valid till the time a new VID is generated by the Aadhaar number holder.