Masked Aadhaar: share only the last 4 digits — how to download and when to use it
A masked Aadhaar shows only the last 4 digits of your Aadhaar number (the first 8 appear as XXXX-XXXX). It is a valid e-Aadhaar you can give to hotels, SIM shops, landlords or offices that just need to see your ID. Download it free from myAadhaar → Download Aadhaar → “Masked Aadhaar”, or share only chosen details through the new Aadhaar app. Where the law requires your full number (for example some bank KYC or DBT seeding), give it only to that official entity.
Key facts Last verified: 25 Sep 2026
| Item | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| What is masked | First 8 digits replaced by XXXX-XXXX; last 4 visible | UIDAI |
| Download | myAadhaar → Download Aadhaar → tick “Do you want a masked Aadhaar?” | UIDAI |
| Cost | Free | UIDAI |
| Legal restriction | Aadhaar numbers must not be published or displayed publicly (Aadhaar Act, s.29) | Aadhaar Act, 2016 |
How to download a masked Aadhaar
- Go to myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in → Download Aadhaar.
- Enter your Aadhaar number (or enrolment ID) and captcha, and verify with OTP.
- Tick “Do you want a masked Aadhaar?” and download.
- Open the PDF with the password: first 4 letters of your name in CAPITALS + year of birth (YYYY) — for example RAVI1990.
When to use masked Aadhaar
| Situation | Use masked? |
|---|---|
| Hotel check-in, travel, rental agreement, office visitor ID | ✅ Yes |
| Giving a copy to a shop, society or private company | ✅ Yes (or show via the Aadhaar app QR) |
| Bank account opening / KYC, DBT seeding, government schemes | Full number may be required by law — give it only to the official entity |
Even better: the new Aadhaar app lets you share only specific details (e.g. name and age) through a QR code, so nobody needs to keep a photocopy at all.
Keep your Aadhaar copies safe
- Write the purpose and date across any photocopy you hand over (“For KYC at XYZ Bank only, 25-09-2026”).
- Never post Aadhaar images on social media or WhatsApp groups.
- Lock your biometrics — see lock Aadhaar biometrics.
Frequently asked questions
Is masked Aadhaar valid?
Yes. It is a digitally signed e-Aadhaar with the first 8 digits hidden, valid as proof of identity where the full number is not needed.
What is the password of masked Aadhaar PDF?
The first four letters of your name in capital letters followed by your year of birth, e.g. RAVI1990.
Can a hotel ask for my full Aadhaar?
Private entities should not store your Aadhaar number. Give a masked Aadhaar or share via the Aadhaar app QR instead.
Official links
Use only these government websites. HumainOne is not connected to any of them.
- UIDAIOfficial Aadhaar website — FAQs on e-Aadhaar and masked Aadhaar
- myAadhaar — Download AadhaarDownload masked e-Aadhaar
Disclaimer: HumainOne is an independent information website. We are not affiliated with UIDAI, the Income Tax Department, EPFO, NPCI, the Election Commission, the Government of Maharashtra or any government body. We do not accept applications, documents or fees. Information is checked against official sources on the date shown but rules change — always confirm on the official website before acting. Calculators give estimates, not official figures, and this is not tax or legal advice.