Changing your name on your Aadhaar card is usually allowed only twice in a lifetime. But what if you need to update it again due to marriage, legal reasons, or corrections?
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that outlines an exception handling process. This allows eligible residents to change name in Aadhaar card if limit exceeded, provided they meet specific conditions.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to change your name in Aadhaar more than two times, the documents you’ll need, and the steps to follow as per UIDAI’s official SOP
What Doesn't Count as an Aadhaar Card Name Update
Before exploring the exception handling process, it's important to understand that the following scenarios do not count towards your name update limit in Aadhaar:
- Typo corrections made by enrollment operators (like Aadhaar name spelling correction)
- Transliteration errors in your name
- Regional language updates of your name
- Operator mistakes during initial enrollment
These corrections won't be treated as official update attempts and won't reduce your name update chances.
Eligibility for Aadhaar Card Name Update After Two Changes
If you’ve already used your two allowed name updates, you can still request an Aadhaar name change 3rd time through the Exception Handling Process ( a special approval method allowed by UIDAI).
The SOP outlines specific conditions where this is permitted:
| Scenario | Example |
|---|---|
| Marriage, Divorce, or Adoption Related Changes | Surname change in Aadhaar Card |
| Initials Expansion or Modification | Changing "A I Hemalatha" to full expanded name |
| Name Sequence Changes | "Rakesh Prasad Sharma" to "Prasad Rakesh Sharma" |
| Complete Name Change | "Anil Kumar" to "Ranjith K Gourav" |
Required Documents for Aadhaar Card Name Change
| Condition | Within UIDAI’s 2 Allowed Name Change Limits | Beyond 2 Limits (Exception Handling) |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Reordering of Name (e.g., Rakesh Sharma → Sharma Rakesh) |
|
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| 2. Name Change after Marriage (e.g., Anuradha Gondu → Anuradha Duddu) |
| |
| 3. Initial Expansion or Edit (e.g., A I Hemalatha → Andluri I Hemalatha) |
| |
| 4. Full Name Change (e.g., Anil Kumar → Ranjith K Gourav) |
|
Step-by-Step Procedure for Name Correction on Aadhaar within Two Times
To correct your name in Aadhaar without it being counted as an update chance, follow these steps:
(1). Submit the Name Update Request
- Visit an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre to submit your Aadhaar name correction request.
- Specify the reason for the update (e.g., typo, transliteration error, or regional language update).
- Provide supporting documents, such as identity proof or address proof, as required by UIDAI
(2). Role of the Registration Officer Supervisor (ROS)
- The ROS at the Enrolment Centre reviews your request and verifies if it falls under the eligible categories (typo, transliteration error, or regional language update).
- If eligible, the ROS forwards your request to the UIDAI Tech Centre with a recommendation to reprocess the packet without counting it as an update chance.
- This ensures that your remaining update opportunities are preserved for future use.
(3). Handling Wrongly Rejected Requests
If your aadhaar update name change request is incorrectly rejected, you have multiple options to escalate the issue:
- Contact the Regional Office (RO): Reach out directly to the nearest UIDAI Regional Office for assistance.
- Use CRM Channels: Raise the issue through:
- A written letter to the UIDAI.
- An email to the official UIDAI support address.
- Calling the UIDAI helpline at 1947.
- Sometimes Twitter also helps you at any Aadhaar related special cases.
- The Regional Office will review the case and reprocess the packet as per UIDAI’s protocol for handling wrongly rejected requests.
- In some cases, the Regional Office may instruct you to re-enroll to resolve the issue.
- You will need to provide specific documents as guided by the RO and submit your Enrollment ID (EID) for further processing.
How to Update Your Name in Aadhaar More Than Allowed Times
Enrol at Nearest Aadhaar Centre
Visit the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre with the Gazette Notification for Name Change along with any supporting Proof of Identity (POI) document showing your old name with a photograph.
What to Do If Name Change in Aadhaar Card Rejected Due to Update Limit
If your Aadhaar name update request gets rejected because you've reached the maximum number of allowed updates, you can still proceed through exception processing via the UIDAI Regional Office. Here are the available methods:
Method 1: By Email to UIDAI Regional Office
You can send an email requesting exception processing:
- Email to: help@uidai.gov.in
- Attach the following documents:
- EID slip of your latest update attempt
- Gazette Notification / Marriage Certificate / Divorce Decree / Adoption Certificate (as applicable)
- Any POI showing the old name with a photo (if required)
Method 2: By Visiting the UIDAI Regional Office in Person
Visit the UIDAI Regional Office responsible for your state or Aadhaar area.
Carry printed copies of all required documents and your latest EID slip.
At the office, request exception processing for name update by submitting the documents at the public grievance counter or reception.
Aadhaar Name Update: Within Normal Limits vs. Beyond Limits
| Aspect | Name Updates Not Counted as Update Chances | Name Updates Under Exceptional Handling |
|---|---|---|
| Scenarios Covered |
|
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| Eligibility | Applies to corrections of errors (typos, transliteration) or updates due to regional language changes. | Applies only after exhausting the two allowed name update chances, under specific conditions. |
| Documentation | Already provided required proof for name change in Aadhar in the above table, please refer. | |
| Process |
|
|
| Role of Regional Office (RO) | Forwards the case to the Tech Centre with a recommendation to reprocess without counting as an update chance. | Verifies the request and documents with due diligence, then processes as per re-processing protocol. |
| Re-enrolment Requirement | May be required if the initial request is rejected, as instructed by RO. | Required if advised via 1947 helpline; resident must re-enrol and submit EID via email. |
| Counting of Update Chances | Does not count toward the two allowed name update chances. | Counts as an update only if processed under exceptional handling (after exhausting two chances). |
| Verification Process | RO ensures correction aligns with the error (typo, transliteration, or regional language update). | RO conducts thorough due diligence to verify documents (e.g., Gazette Notification, marriage certificate). |
| Processing Mechanism | Reprocessed by Tech Centre as per RO’s recommendation, ensuring the update is not counted. | Processed by RO as per re-processing protocol for wrongly rejected packets, under exceptional handling. |
Document Formats for Complete Name Change
(1). A legal affidavit declaring your new name
A legal affidavit is mandatory for changing your name in Aadhaar and other official records.
It acts as your self-declaration stating that you have officially adopted a new name, often after marriage or personal decision.
Below is a sample affidavit format you can edit, print, and get notarized. This affidavit will be valid proof when applying for a name update in your Aadhaar card.
AFFIDAVIT
I, Gariki Aparna, (Maiden Name) D/o Giriki Ramarao, presently residing at Gollanti village, Tekkalipadu Mandal, Abbalaram District, do hereby solemnly and sincerely affirm and declare as follows:
That I have married Kasimkota Sureshkumar, presently residing at Gollanti village, Tekkalipadu Mandal, Abbalaram District under Hindu Marriage Act.
That after marriage, I have changed my name and shall hereafter be known as Kasimkota Lavanya.
That my date of birth is [Your DOB Here] and my Aadhaar number is [Your Aadhaar Number Here].
I declare that what is stated above is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief, and nothing has been concealed therein.
Deponent Signature: _________________________
Name: Kasimkota Lavanya
Solemnly affirmed before me on this 13th day of March, 2025 at Tekkalipadu, Abbalaram district.
Stamp & Seal of Notary Public
Signature of Notary: _________________________
(2). Annexure-1 Declaration Format for Name Change
Annexure-1 is a government-prescribed self-declaration form required to support your name change request, especially while updating Aadhaar or publishing in the Gazette.
This document must be filled by the applicant with complete details of the old and new name, reason for change, and submitted to the local MRO or Executive Magistrate for verification and seal.
Below is an editable format of Annexure-1 that you can download, print, and use as part of your name change application process.
ANNEXURE – 1
To,
The District Magistrate /
Additional District Magistrate /
Executive Magistrate,
VISAKHAPATNAM RURAL, VISAKHAPATNAM DISTRICT,
Andhra Pradesh, India - 530012.
Sir,
- My name is KANNIBOYINA HANUMAN VENKATAPRASANNA of H. No: 3-17-21/1, Jyothinagar, Maddilapalem, MVP post, Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh, and I am a citizen of India.
- My age on the date of application is: 38 Years (23/01/1987)
- My father's full name is (in block letters): KANNIBOYINA ATAKESWARARAO
- My mother’s full name is (was) (in block letters): KANNIBOYINA LEELAVATHI
- I am: MARRIED
- My husband's full name is: DOKAVARAPU GIRIBABU
- Marks of identification:
- i. A mole on the left knee
- ii. A mole on the left side of the lower neck
- Occupation: Private Employee
- I am in the service of the State Government or the Government of India: Not Applicable
- Profession/occupation other than Government Service: Not Applicable
- I intend to change my existing name as: KANABOINA HANUMAN VENKATAPRASANNA
I, KANNIBOYINA HANUMAN VENKATAPRASANNA, do solemnly and sincerely declare that the foregoing particulars stated in this application are true and make this solemn declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true.
Signature of the Applicant: _________________________
(3). Annexure II format for Name Change Process
Annexure II is an official communication issued by the Tahsildar or MRO, acknowledging your request to change your name based on verified records.
This document helps validate the consistency of your identity and supports your application for Aadhaar name change, especially when there’s a mismatch in previous and current records.
Below is a real example of Annexure II issued by a revenue authority. Although it holds no standalone legal validity, it is often required for administrative verification in name correction processes.
L.Dis.No. 85/2025/JADt. 01.02.2025
O/o the Tahsildar,
Gajuwaka Mandal
ANNEXURE – II
With reference to the application filed by Sri Kanniboyina Hanuman Venkataprasanna D/o Atakeswara Rao, he is informed that on the basis of information available, applicant’s name “Sri Kanniboyina Hanuman Venkata Prasanna S/o Atakeswara Rao”, D. No: 3-17-21/1, Jyothinagar, Gajuwaka Mandal, Visakhapatnam District has qualified for recognition as citizen of India. This Annexure is directly issued so as to enable him to change his name from “Kanaboina H Venkata Prasanna” to “Kanniboyina Hanuman Venkata Prasanna” and therefore it has no legal validity whatsoever.
Signed,
Tahsildar,
Gajuwaka Mandal
To,
Sri Kanniboyina Hanuman Venkata Prasanna,
S/o Atakeswara Rao,
D. No: 3-17-21/1,
Ramnagar,
Gajuwaka Mandal,
Visakhapatnam District.
(4). Affidavit from Honourable Civil Judge
An affidavit attested by an Honourable Civil Judge serves as strong legal proof for your name change, especially when correcting mismatches in Aadhaar or other official records.
This document includes your old and new names, the reason for the change (such as marriage), and a declaration that both names refer to the same person. Once signed before a Civil Judge and sealed, it holds significant legal value in validating your identity.
Below is a real specimen affidavit format from Andhra Pradesh. You can edit, print it on non-judicial stamp paper, and get it attested by a Civil Judge to support your name change request.
SPECIMEN AFFIDAVIT FOR CHANGE IN NAME
(On non-judicial stamp paper of minimum value)
I, Kasimikota Lavanya W/o Kasimikota Sureshkumar, aged about 32 years, resident of 1-76, Main Veedhi, Gollanti Village and Post, Tekkalipadu Mandal, Abbalaram, State: Andhra Pradesh, Pincode: 53085421, do hereby solemnly affirm and state as follows:
- That my recorded name at birth, at my parents' village, was Gariki Aparna, but in view of my marriage to Kasimikota Sureshkumar of Horcchipora village, my name was changed as Lavanya W/o matching husband’s surname and I am called with my new name at my husband’s house, village, but due to lack of knowledge at the time of aadhaar card name change after marriage, I could not update my new name due to lack of knowledge at that time.
- That by virtue of this affidavit, I changed my name from Gariki Aparna to Kasimikota Sureshkumar W/o Kasimikota Lavanya and henceforth I shall be known as Kasimikota Lavanya W/o Kasimikota Sureshkumar for all purposes.
- That for the purpose of evidencing such my determination, I declare that I shall at all times hereafter, in all records, deeds and writings and in all proceedings, dealings and transactions, private as well as upon all occasions whatsoever, use and sign the name of Kasimikota Lavanya W/o Kasimikota Sureshkumar as my name in place and in substitution of my former name.
- That I submit that Gariki Aparna and Kasimikota Lavanya W/o Kasimikota Sureshkumar are one and the same person i.e., my name only, both names are referring to the same person only, but not two different persons.
- I request the concerned authorities who are also to whomsoever it may concern to kindly accept my name as Kasimikota Lavanya W/o Kasimikota Sureshkumar.
- That the facts stated above are true to the best of my knowledge and belief.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my former and adopted name of Gariki Aparna and affix my signature on this 15th day of April, 2025.
Former name: Gariki Aparna
Proposed name: Kasimikota Lavanya W/o Kasimikota Sureshkumar
DEPONENT Signature
Deponent has signed in my presence
Signed with Seal of Honourable Judge
Name: Sri xxxxxxx xxxx
Designation: Addl. Chief Judicial Magistrate, xxxxxxx
cum-Addl. Civil Judge (Sr. Division)
Court: Addl. C.M.J. Court, xxxxxxxx
Frequently Asked Questions:
(1Q). Can I correct my name in the Aadhaar card online?
Ans: You cannot correct or update your name in your Aadhaar card online.
Name changes or corrections must be done offline by visiting an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar Enrolment Centre in person
(2Q). Why is my Aadhaar card name mistake change request getting rejected even though it's my first time, a minor update, and all documents are correct?
Ans: Even for a minor name correction, UIDAI may require both old and new POI documents in some cases.
(3Q). How much time does it take to update an Aadhaar card name?
Ans: According to UIDAI guidelines, Aadhaar card delivery may take 30 to 90 days, but in most cases, the updated Aadhaar reaches your home within 10 days.
Conclusion
Updating your name on the Aadhaar card beyond the usual limit is possible if you meet specific criteria set by UIDAI, with the right paperwork such as a Gazette Notification, legal affidavit, or official certificates.
By following the exception handling route through an Aadhaar Centre or Regional Office, you can still complete the process.
Ensure all documents are valid and support your request. This approach helps maintain the accuracy of your Aadhaar while adhering to the established guidelines.