Changing a name on Aadhaar now comes with a clearer rulebook. UIDAI uploaded a revised Standard Operating Procedure on 18 September 2026, replacing the earlier 2021 process and explaining how routine corrections, marriage-related surname changes, regional-language errors and major name changes should be handled. The new SOP is listed on UIDAI’s official circulars page.
The key point is simple: a name change is still not an online myAadhaar service. UIDAI says residents must visit an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre or Aadhaar Seva Kendra for name corrections. A separate demographic update currently costs ₹75.
Key Highlights
- UIDAI’s revised SOP separates minor corrections from major name changes and sets different document requirements for each.
- An Aadhaar holder can ordinarily update the name twice in a lifetime. Requests beyond that limit move to the exception process.
- Major name changes may require a Gazette Notification, while marriage, divorce and specified corrections follow separate document rules.
- Applicants should carry original supporting documents; they are electronically copied and returned after verification.
What Changed Under UIDAI’s New Aadhaar Name Update Rules?
The September SOP recognises several situations instead of treating every name correction alike. Minor changes can include adding or removing a middle or last name, changing name order, expanding initials or fixing a phonetically similar spelling.
The rules also cover an incorrect regional-language version when the English name is correct. Titles such as Dr, Prof, Mr, Ms or military ranks are not meant to remain part of the Aadhaar name. “Urf” or “alias” entries, random capitalisation and dots in names also receive specific treatment.
A complete identity-level change is different. Changing one first name to an unrelated first name may fall under a major name change, where stronger proof and a Gazette Notification can become essential.
The two-update lifetime limit remains. If both standard opportunities have already been used, UIDAI provides an exception route with further verification.
Which Documents Are Accepted For Aadhaar Name Change In 2026?
The document depends on why the name is changing. UIDAI’s 2026 acceptable-document rules include a valid Indian passport, voter ID and driving licence among Proof of Identity options. A government-issued marriage certificate is also recognised. If it has no photograph, an additional photo identity document carrying the old name is required.
For divorce-related changes, a family court divorce decree is accepted. A major or full name change may require a Gazette Notification with applicable identity proof.
Before leaving for the centre, run this quick document check:
- Match the proposed Aadhaar name with the spelling on the supporting record.
- Carry the original document, not only a phone photograph.
- For marriage, divorce or a complete name change, check the category-specific proof.
- Keep the acknowledgement until the update is completed.
A mismatch between the requested name and documentary record can lead to rejection.
How To Change The Name On Aadhaar Step By Step
The process starts at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or authorised enrolment centre. UIDAI allows online address and document updates, but its current service information does not list online name changes.
A practical sequence is:
- Locate an authorised Aadhaar centre or book an appointment where available.
- Fill the enrolment/update form with the name exactly as it should appear.
- Submit original Proof of Identity and any extra document needed for that change.
- Complete verification and authentication at the centre.
- Pay the applicable charge. UIDAI currently lists ₹75 for a separate demographic update.
- Collect the acknowledgement and use its request details to track progress.
UIDAI says Aadhaar updates generally take around 30 to 90 days, depending on the request and verification involved.
The Aadhaar system is becoming more digital too. UIDAI reported that the Aadhaar App crossed 31 million downloads by June 2026, with newer services including mobile-number and address updates. Name changes, however, still require the assisted centre route.
What Applicants Should Check Before Submitting A Name Change
Do not treat a spelling correction and a complete legal name replacement as the same request. Supporting paperwork changes with the category. Anyone who has exhausted both name-update chances should use UIDAI’s exception procedure instead of repeatedly filing ordinary requests.
FAQs
How many times can a person change the name on Aadhaar?
UIDAI ordinarily permits two name updates during a person’s lifetime. A further change requires the exception process, supporting records and additional verification directly by UIDAI.
Can an Aadhaar name change be completed fully online in 2026?
No. UIDAI currently directs residents to an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre or Aadhaar Seva Kendra for name changes, while selected other updates remain available online through UIDAI.
How much does an Aadhaar name correction cost in 2026?
A separately requested demographic update, including a name correction, currently costs ₹75 at an Aadhaar centre under UIDAI’s published service charges for one update request.
Is a Gazette Notification compulsory for every Aadhaar name change?
No. Routine corrections use applicable supporting documents. A Gazette Notification becomes important for major or complete name changes and certain exception cases under UIDAI rules.
Can a surname be changed after marriage using a marriage certificate?
Yes, a government-issued marriage certificate is accepted. If it has no photograph, UIDAI requires additional photo identity proof carrying the applicant’s old name for verification.
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