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Aadhaar Biometric Unlock: How to Unlock Aadhaar Biometric Online?

By Mayashree Acharya

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Updated on: Jan 20th, 2026

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3 min read

Aadhaar biometric unlock allows Aadhaar holders to temporarily enable biometric authentication. If your biometrics are locked for security, knowing how to unlock Aadhaar biometric helps you access these services quickly through UIDAI’s official platforms. You can unlock Aadhaar biometric instantly using multiple methods.

Key Highlights

  • Aadhaar biometrics can be unlocked online, via mobile app, or through SMS.
  • Unlocking enables biometric-based authentication for services like banking, subsidies, and verification.
  • Biometric access is automatically locked again after a short time.
  • UIDAI provides secure OTP-based authentication for unlocking.

What is Aadhaar Biometric?

Aadhaar is a 12-digit ID number which serves as proof of identity and residence throughout India. When one applies and registers for an Aadhaar card, the officials use their biometrics to link that with the Aadhaar card. 

Aadhaar biometric data includes fingerprints, iris scans, and facial details collected during Aadhaar enrolment. This biometric information is linked to the Aadhaar number and is used to authenticate an individual’s identity while availing government, banking, and financial services.

Is Unlocking Aadhaar Biometrics Permanently Essential?

To use your Aadhaar biometric, you must ensure that it is unlocked. You cannot use your Aadhaar biometric to avail of any service if your card is locked.

How to Unlock Aadhaar Biometric Online?

You would need your Aadhaar virtual ID for Aadhaar biometric unlock online. You can generate it from the myAadhaar portal. Once you have your virtual ID, here’s how you can unlock Aadhaar biometric online via the UIDAI portal:

Step 1: Visit UIDAI’s myAadhaar portal.

Step 2: Click on ‘Lock/Unlock Aadhaar’ tab.

Step 3: Read the guidelines and click on ‘Next’.

Step 4: Select the 'Unlock Aadhaar' box, enter the virtual ID and captcha, and click on 'Send OTP'.

Step 5: Finish the OTP verification for the Aadhaar biometric unlock.

How To Unlock Aadhaar Biometric In mAadhaar App?

You can also use the mAadhaar app for Aadhaar biometric unlock online. Here are the steps for Aadhaar biometric unlock through the mAadhaar app:

  • Step 1: Download the mAadhaar app from the Play Store or the App Store.
  • Step 2: Open it and log in with your credentials.
  • Step 3: Tap on the ‘My Aadhaar’ icon.
  • Step 4: Enter your Aadhaar number, captcha code and OTP.
  • Step 5: Tap on the ‘Biometrics Lock’ option to lock your Aadhaar biometrics.

How to Unlock Aadhaar Biometric by SMS?

There are a few simple steps that you need to follow for Aadhaar biometric unlock using the SMS service. But first, ensure that you have your virtual ID (VID) handy to complete this process. Follow the below steps to unlock Aadhaar biometric by SMS: 

  • Step 1: If you have to create your VID, write a text message writing 
    GVID <space> <last 4 digits of your Aadhaar card number>
    and send it to 1947.
  • Step 2: You need to request an OTP after the creation of your VID by sending the following text message to 1947 
    GETOTP <space> <last 6 digits of your Virtual ID>
  • Step 3: Then you need to again send the following message to 1947
    UNLOCKUID <space> <last 6 digits of your Virtual ID> <space> <6 digits of the OTP>

After the verification of your Aadhaar is complete, you will get a confirmation message from the UIDAI providing you with the status of unlocking the Aadhaar number.

Note: If your mobile number has been used to register multiple Aadhaar numbers, you will have to use the last 10 digits of your Aadhaar virtual ID instead of the last 6.

Aadhaar Biometric Unlock Time Period

When you unlock Aadhaar biometric via the myAadhaar website or by using the mAadhaar app, it stays unlocked for 10 minutes. After that, it is automatically locked again.

Understanding how to unlock Aadhaar biometric is essential for safely using Aadhaar-based services. With multiple secure options available for Aadhaar biometric unlock, including online portal, mobile app, and SMS, users can conveniently enable biometric authentication while maintaining strong data security.

Related Aadhaar Articles:
1. How To Check Aadhar PAN Card Link Status Online?
2. How to Check and Report Misuse of an Aadhaar Card?
3. How to Lock Aadhaar Biometric Online?
4. How To Scan Aadhaar Card Using QR Code?
5. Check Aadhaar Card Pan Card Link Status

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Aadhaar biometric unlock important?

You need to unlock your Aadhaar biometric to avail of services and facilities. A locked Aadhaar card can’t be used to avail of any services.

Who is eligible for an Aadhaar biometric unlock?

An Aadhaar card holder with a registered mobile number is eligible for Aadhaar biometric unlock. You can unlock your Aadhaar card by visiting the myAadhaar portal.

In what scenarios is Aadhaar biometric unlock commonly used?

It is used when you have to use your Aadhaar biometric for any purpose. For example, you may need to unlock your Aadhaar card to verify your identity.

How can I unlock my Aadhaar card biometrics?

You can unlock your Aadhaar card biometrics through the myAadhaar portal or using the mAadhaar app.

How can I update my Aadhaar card fingerprint?

You can update your Aadhaar card fingerprint by visiting your nearest Aadhaar enrolment centre. The agent at the centre will take your fingerprints for the update.

What are the benefits of unlocking Aadhaar biometrics?

You can avail of government schemes, banking services, and other facilities by unlocking your Aadhaar biometrics.

About the Author
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Mayashree Acharya

Senior Content Writer
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I am an advocate by profession and have a keen interest in writing. I write articles in various categories, from legal, business, personal finance, and investments to government schemes. I put words in a simplified manner and write easy-to-understand articles. Read more

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