Aadhaar PVC Card Print Guide: Step-by-Step VLE Instructions
Learn the official guidelines to order, verify, and print high-quality PVC Aadhaar cards. Step-by-step tutorial for cyber cafe owners and common service centers.
What is an Aadhaar PVC Card?
An Aadhaar PVC Card is a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) card issued officially by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It is designed to be highly durable, compact, and easy to carry in a wallet like a standard credit or debit card. Unlike paper printouts or laminated sheets, the PVC card contains advanced security features that make it secure against duplicates and tampering.
Key Security Features of the Official Aadhaar PVC Card
UIDAI has integrated top-tier security standards in these official PVC prints:
- Secure QR Code: Contains demographic details and a photograph signed by UIDAI.
- Hologram: A unique UIDAI hologram that changes color under light.
- Guilloche Pattern: A decorative technique that forms a precise, geometric pattern, preventing scanning duplication.
- Ghost Image: A small, semi-transparent ghost photo of the holder in a designated spot.
- Microtext: Microscopic text printing that cannot be reproduced by standard scanners.
How to Order Aadhaar PVC Card Online (UIDAI Portal)
Follow this step-by-step procedure to request an official PVC card directly from UIDAI. The service charges are ₹50 (inclusive of GST and speed post delivery):
- Visit the official UIDAI website (myAadhaar Portal).
- Log in using the resident's 12-digit Aadhaar number and OTP. If the mobile number is not registered, you can still place an order by selecting "My mobile number is not registered" on the home page options.
- Click on the "Order Aadhaar PVC Card" service tab.
- Verify the resident's details (Name, DOB, Gender, and Address) displayed on the preview screen.
- Click "Next" to navigate to the payment gateway. Pay the ₹50 fee using UPI, Net Banking, Credit/Debit Cards, or wallets.
- Download the receipt containing the **Service Request Number (SRN)**. You can track the dispatch status of the card using this SRN.
Professional Printing Setup for CSC VLEs
For VLEs who print PVC cards in-house using e-Aadhaar PDF downloads, proper hardware and printer settings are critical to match national quality standards:
- Printers: Use dedicated card printers such as the Epson L805 (with tray setups) or thermal printers like Evolis, Fargo, or Magicard.
- Paper Type: Always select "High Glossy Paper" or "Photo Paper Glossy" in your system properties.
- Print Resolution: Set your print configuration to **"High Quality"** (avoid Standard or Draft modes).
- Lamination: If utilizing manual PVC sheet fusion, heat the laminator to exactly 140°C–150°C for absolute binding without bubble marks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the fee for an official Aadhaar PVC Card?
UIDAI charges a flat fee of ₹50, which includes GST, printing, and speed post shipping charges.
2. How long does it take for the PVC card to arrive?
UIDAI hands over the printed PVC card to India Post within 5 working days. The speed post usually delivers it to your address in 7 to 15 days.
3. Can we order a PVC card if the mobile number is not registered?
Yes, you can order it by inputting any active mobile number to receive the validation OTP for checkout.
4. Is the PVC Aadhaar Card valid everywhere?
Yes, it is officially issued by UIDAI and carries the same legal weight as a paper Aadhaar card or e-Aadhaar.
5. Can I order one PVC card for my whole family?
No, each individual card must be ordered separately using their respective Aadhaar numbers or logins.
6. How can I track my Aadhaar PVC Card delivery?
You can check the status on the myAadhaar portal by clicking "Check Aadhaar PVC Card Status" and entering your 28-digit SRN.
7. What is an SRN in Aadhaar?
SRN is the Service Request Number generated instantly upon successful payment. It helps monitor status.
8. Can we cancel a PVC card request?
No, once the payment is completed, the printing request cannot be cancelled or refunded.
9. What should I do if the card does not arrive?
If it shows dispatched but hasn't arrived, contact your local post office with the tracking number, or call UIDAI toll-free helpline 1947.
10. Can I change my address while ordering a PVC card?
No, UIDAI prints the card with the existing address registered on your Aadhaar profile. Correct your address first if needed.
Shahid Alam
CSC Technical ExpertShahid Alam is a seasoned digital services specialist and CSC VLE consultant with over 8 years of hands-on experience helping cyber cafe owners and common service centers operate advanced online tools, fill government applications, and optimize document print solutions.