Lost your PAN card? Download e-PAN or order a reprint — never apply for a new PAN
If you lose your PAN card, your PAN number still works. Download an e-PAN (a digitally signed PDF that is as valid as the card) from the Income Tax portal (if you got an Instant e-PAN), Protean or UTIITSL, or order a physical reprint (now with a QR code) for a small fee. Do not apply for a new PAN — holding two PANs is illegal and can attract a ₹10,000 penalty.
Key facts Last verified: 25 Sep 2026
| Item | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| e-PAN validity | Valid proof of PAN, same as the physical card | Income Tax Dept |
| Instant e-PAN | Free on incometax.gov.in (Aadhaar-based PANs) | Income Tax Dept |
| Protean / UTIITSL e-PAN | Free for a limited period after issue/update; a small fee after that | PAN service providers |
| Physical reprint | Small fee; new cards carry an enhanced QR code | PAN service providers |
| Two PANs | Not allowed; penalty up to ₹10,000 | Income-tax law |
Which option should you use?
| Your need | Best option |
|---|---|
| Need a copy today (KYC, form upload) | e-PAN PDF |
| Need a plastic card | Reprint from Protean or UTIITSL |
| Don’t remember your PAN number | Log in to the e-filing portal, or check Form 16/26AS, bank KYC or an old ITR |
| Card stolen | File a police complaint (online in many states) and monitor your credit report — see PAN misused for a loan |
Download e-PAN
- Instant e-PAN (Aadhaar-based): incometax.gov.in → Instant e-PAN → Check Status/Download PAN → enter Aadhaar and OTP → download.
- PAN issued by Protean (NSDL): Protean website → “Download e-PAN” → enter PAN, Aadhaar (for individuals) and date of birth → OTP → download.
- PAN issued by UTIITSL: UTIITSL website → “Download e-PAN” → enter PAN and details → OTP → download.
- The PDF password is usually your date of birth in DDMMYYYY format.
Not sure which agency issued your PAN? The back of the card or your allotment letter shows NSDL/Protean or UTI; otherwise try Protean first.
Order a physical reprint
Choose “Reprint of PAN card” on Protean or UTIITSL, verify with Aadhaar OTP, pay the fee shown and the card is posted to your Aadhaar address. If your details also need correction, choose the change/correction option instead.
Frequently asked questions
Is e-PAN valid as proof of PAN?
Yes. The e-PAN is a digitally signed document and is valid wherever a PAN card is required.
I lost my PAN card. Should I apply for a new PAN?
No. Your PAN number never changes. Download e-PAN or order a reprint. Applying for a second PAN is illegal.
What is the password for the e-PAN PDF?
Usually your date of birth in DDMMYYYY format (for companies, the date of incorporation).
How much does a PAN reprint cost?
A small fee shown on the Protean or UTIITSL website at the time of applying; e-PAN is free in many cases.
Official links
Use only these government websites. HumainOne is not connected to any of them.
- Income Tax e-Filing — Instant e-PANDownload Aadhaar-based e-PAN
- Protean — PAN servicese-PAN download, reprint
- UTIITSL — PAN servicese-PAN download, reprint
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.