How to Link Mobile Number with Aadhaar: A Complete Guide

In India, linking your mobile number with your Aadhaar card has become a crucial step to access a wide range of services, from banking and government subsidies to income tax filings and mobile re-verification. This process not only ensures your identity is authenticated but also enhances security in digital transactions.

Whether you’re linking your number for the first time or updating an existing one, this guide walks you through how to link your mobile number with Aadhaar - online, offline, and through OTP-based methods.

Why Link Mobile Number with Aadhaar?

Linking your mobile number to Aadhaar provides the following benefits:

1. Receive OTPs for verification in government services and private transactions.

2. Update Aadhaar details online via UIDAI portal.

3. Access e-Aadhaar and mAadhaar services.

4. Use Aadhaar for eKYC in banks and telecom services.

5. Secure authentication for income tax filing, PAN-Aadhaar linking, and more.

It has become mandatory for availing services like LPG subsidies, DigiLocker, and even UPI transactions.

Who Should Link Mobile Number to Aadhaar?

You should link your mobile number to Aadhaar if:

• You haven’t linked any mobile number before.
• Your old mobile number is inactive or lost.
• You’ve switched numbers and want to update it with Aadhaar.
• You want to access UIDAI services online.

Methods to Link Mobile Number with Aadhaar

There are two primary ways to link your mobile number with Aadhaar:

1. Offline – By Visiting an Aadhaar Enrolment/Update Center

This is the most common and officially accepted way to link your mobile number. It applies to both first-time linking and number updates.

Steps to Link via Aadhaar Enrolment Centre:

1. Visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra or authorized Aadhaar Update Centre (available in many banks, post offices, and government offices).

2. Carry your original Aadhaar card (no need for photocopies).

3. Fill out the Aadhaar Correction/Update form, selecting the mobile number update option.

4. Provide your mobile number to be linked or updated.

5. Submit biometric verification (fingerprint/thumb impression).

6. Pay the update fee – currently ₹50 (subject to change).

7. Collect the acknowledgment slip, which contains the URN (Update Request Number).

Your number will be linked within 3 to 10 working days, and you’ll receive a confirmation SMS once done.

2. Online – For Residents with Existing Linked Number

If your current number is already linked with Aadhaar and you're just updating details (like address or re-verifying), some services are available online.

However, linking your mobile number for the first time cannot be done online due to the requirement of biometric authentication.

Services You Can Do Online (Only If Number Already Linked):

• Download e-Aadhaar
• Update address using OTP
• Check Aadhaar status
• Book appointments for Aadhaar updates

Visit: https://uidai.gov.in

Linking Mobile with Aadhaar for Telecom Services

If you're linking your mobile number specifically for SIM card verification (telecom purposes), most telecom operators have a re-verification facility.

Steps for Mobile SIM Re-verification:

1. Visit your telecom operator's outlet (Jio, Airtel, BSNL, etc).

2. Provide your Aadhaar number and mobile number.

3. Submit biometric verification.

4. You will receive a confirmation SMS.

This process was part of a directive from the Department of Telecommunications and may vary based on service providers.

Link Aadhaar to Mobile Number via IVR (For Re-verification)

Some telecom operators provide a toll-free IVR service to re-verify your mobile number using Aadhaar (only for re-verification, not first-time linking).

Steps:

1. Dial 14546 from your mobile number.

2. Choose the option for Indian or NRI.

3. Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number.

4. Confirm with OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked number.

5. You will get confirmation once successfully re-verified.

Note: This service is usually time-bound and not always available.

How Long Does It Take?

1. Offline linking takes 3 to 10 working days.

2. You’ll get a confirmation SMS once the linking is successful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I link my mobile number with Aadhaar online?

No, for first-time linking or updating your mobile number, you must visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra in person due to biometric verification requirements.

Q2. What documents are needed?

Only your Aadhaar card is required. No additional documents or photocopies are needed. Just carry your Aadhaar number and mobile phone.

Q3. Is there a fee?

Yes, the UIDAI charges a nominal fee of ₹50 for updating or linking mobile numbers.

Q4. What if I’ve lost my old number?

That’s fine. You can still link a new number by visiting the Aadhaar Centre and following the biometric update process.

Q5. How to check if mobile number is linked with Aadhaar?

You can visit the UIDAI portal and use the “Verify Aadhaar” or “Aadhaar Services” tool to check your linking status.

Q6. What is URN?

URN (Update Request Number) is provided after you submit an update request. You can use it to track the status of your mobile update on the UIDAI portal.

Where to Find Aadhaar Centres?

Use UIDAI’s locator tool:

https://appointments.uidai.gov.in/easearch.aspx

Enter your PIN code or city name to find the nearest authorized Aadhaar Seva Kendra.

Final Thoughts

Linking your mobile number with Aadhaar is essential for secure access to various digital services and government schemes. While the first-time linking cannot be done online, the offline process is straightforward and widely available across the country. Make sure your Aadhaar is always updated with your current number to enjoy seamless access to OTP-based verification, banking services, and e-governance benefits.

Keeping your Aadhaar details updated not only enhances your digital identity but also ensures compliance with various financial and legal requirements in India.