How to Update Your Name and Gender on Your Aadhaar Card
This guide explains how to update your name and gender on your Aadhaar card in India.
It is based on personal experience, research, and conversations with others who have gone through the process. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, implementation can vary depending on the Aadhaar Seva Kendra and the officials involved.
Please verify details independently and proceed in a way that prioritises your safety and comfort.
Important things to know before you begin
Before updating your name or gender, make sure your address, mobile number, and email address linked to your Aadhaar are up to date.
If your address is outdated or unsafe, you can update it online at https://uidai.gov.in. Address updates usually require proof such as an electricity bill, water bill, rental agreement, or even a mobile postpaid bill. Address updates typically reflect within a week, though timelines can vary.
Ensure that the mobile number and email linked to your Aadhaar are yours. If they belong to someone else, make sure it is safe for that person to receive Aadhaar-related messages. Updating your phone number can currently be done through the Aadhaar app or by visiting an Aadhaar Seva Kendra. No notification is sent to the old number or email when these details are changed.
Updating your name or gender does not automatically update your photograph. If you want your picture updated, you must request a biometrics update, which includes fingerprints, iris scan, and photograph.
Some people have reported that changing name and gender on the same day may increase the risk of rejection. While this is not officially confirmed, a safer approach is to update your gender first, wait for it to reflect online, and then update your name.
Finding an Aadhaar Seva Kendra
You can locate Aadhaar Seva Kendras using the mAadhaar app (available on Android and iOS). Centres are commonly located in post offices and banks, though UIDAI-run Aadhaar Seva Kendras also exist in some cities.
UIDAI-run centres are generally recommended, as they are more likely to follow official guidelines and avoid unnecessary demands or overcharging. If possible, book an appointment in advance through https://uidai.gov.in to reduce waiting time and uncertainty.
Updating your gender on Aadhaar
To update your gender, you only need to self-declare the gender you identify with. No medical proof, gazette notification, or transgender ID card is required.
UIDAI allows individuals to update their gender to:
- Female
- Male
- Transgender
Some Aadhaar Seva Kendras may incorrectly insist on legal or medical documentation. This is not allowed under UIDAI rules. If a centre refuses to update your gender, you may report them to UIDAI or visit another Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
It is generally advised not to argue extensively with the operator, as this often leads to unnecessary stress without resolution. Visiting another centre is usually the more effective option.
Important:
You can change the gender on your Aadhaar only once in your lifetime. Changing it again is extremely difficult and involves significant bureaucratic hurdles.
Updating your name on Aadhaar
Unlike gender, updating your name does require documentation.
The most commonly accepted document is a gazette notification, which typically allows for a smooth update with minimal resistance.
If you do not wish to publish a gazette notification, you may use a Transgender Certificate issued under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act. Note that Aadhaar centres require the certificate, not the Transgender ID card.
Some centres may incorrectly insist on a gazette notification even when a valid transgender certificate is provided. In such cases, visiting a different Aadhaar Seva Kendra often resolves the issue.
If you want the easiest possible experience, having both a gazette notification and a transgender certificate can help, but either one is legally sufficient.
Important:
You can change your name on your Aadhaar only twice in your lifetime. Any further changes are extremely difficult and involve extensive bureaucracy.
Final notes
Processing times vary. Gender updates may reflect within hours or days, while name updates can take longer. Once updated, you can verify changes online through the UIDAI portal.
This process can be stressful, especially when officials are misinformed or uncooperative. Take breaks, bring someone you trust if needed, and remember that you are within your rights to access these updates.
This guide is based on personal experience, UIDAI guidelines, and shared community knowledge. Always verify details independently before proceeding.