Aadhaar virtual ID verification now operational; here's how to generate VID

The 12-digit unique identity maker UIDAI has made the Aadhaar virtual ID (VID) verification mechanism now operational. In an announcement, the UIDAI stated that, banks would have till August 31 to deploy the tool for user verification in their systems. A citizen can generate their virtual ID from official UIDAI website and than produce this data for authentication purpose. VID is a temporary, revocable 16-digit random number mapped with the Aadhaar number. VID can be used in lieu of Aadhaar number whenever authentication or e-KYC services are performed. Authentication may be performed using VID in a manner similar to using Aadhaar number. It is not possible to derive Aadhaar number from VID.

Here’s how to generate VID: 

VID can be generated only by the Aadhaar number holder. 

They can also replace (generate a new VID) their VID from time to time after UIDAI set minimum validity period (currently set as 1 day, i.e. a new VID be generated after 00:00 hrs on the next day) . 

At any given time only one VID will be valid for an Aadhaar number. 

UIDAI will provide various options to Aadhaar number holders to generate their VID, retrieve their VID in case they forget, and replace their VID with a new number. 

These options will be made available via UIDAI’s resident portal, eAadhaar download, Aadhaar Enrolment centre, mAadhaar mobile application etc. 

Presently, VID generation facility is available on UIDAI's resident portal. Whenever required, VID will be sent to residents via SMS on registered mobile number.

UIDAI provides multiple ways to generate new and/or retrieve current VID. These options will be made available via UIDAI’s resident portal, eAadhaar, Aadhaar Enrolment centre, mAadhaar mobile application etc.