The Aadhaar card remains one of the most important identity documents in India, serving as proof of identity and address for millions of citizens. Issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the document is widely used for accessing government services, receiving subsidies and carrying out financial transactions.

To maintain the reliability of Aadhaar data and prevent misuse, UIDAI has established strict guidelines under the Aadhaar Update Rules 2026, placing limits on how many times certain personal details can be modified.

Date of Birth and Gender Change Allowed Only Once

Under the latest rules, two crucial details — date of birth and gender — can be updated only once in a lifetime. The move aims to ensure that an individual’s core identity remains stable and cannot be altered repeatedly.

Authorities say the restriction is intended to maintain accuracy in demographic records and strengthen trust in the Aadhaar database.

Process for Correcting Date of Birth

If a person's date of birth is incorrectly recorded in Aadhaar, it can be corrected once by submitting valid documentary proof. Accepted documents include:

• Birth certificate

• Passport

• Other government-approved identity documents

Officials have clarified that the one-time change rule is strictly enforced. In exceptional cases where a second correction is required, the request must undergo detailed verification and special approval.

One-Time Rule Also Applies to Gender Updates

Similar restrictions apply to gender details in Aadhaar. Individuals can update their gender information only once, and the request must be supported with appropriate government-issued identification or other valid documentation.

Since Aadhaar is widely used as an identity verification tool across India, maintaining accurate demographic details is considered essential.

Name Change Allowed Up to Two Times

UIDAI rules also specify limits for updating the name on an Aadhaar card. A person can change their name a maximum of two times.

These changes may include:

• Correcting spelling errors

• Updating the name after marriage

If a person wishes to change their name more than twice, they must seek permission from the regional office of the Unique Identification Authority of India.

Online and Offline Methods for Aadhaar Updates

Aadhaar details can be updated through two methods:

Online Method:
Applicants can submit update requests by visiting the official UIDAI website and completing the required process from home.

Offline Method:
Individuals can visit a nearby Aadhaar enrollment or update centre, fill out the required form and submit supporting documents. Staff at the centre will assist in completing the update process.

Documents and Update Charges

For name changes and other updates, applicants may need to submit documents such as a gazette notification or other strong identity proofs supporting the modification.

UIDAI also charges a nominal fee for every update request. However, applicants can update multiple details in a single form, allowing them to complete more than one correction at the same time.

Importance of Keeping Aadhaar Details Accurate

Experts advise citizens to regularly check the information on their Aadhaar card and ensure that all details are correct. Accurate Aadhaar data helps avoid complications while accessing government benefits, banking services and other official processes.