Using Aadhaar Photos or Digital Copies
Limited
Printed Aadhaar photocopies accepted if QR code is legible. Photos on phone accepted only via mAadhaar/DigiLocker, not gallery images.
Quick answer
Digital IDs are a lifesaver when wallets go missing, but they only work if the security officer can confirm itās a government-issued copy. That means opening the DigiLocker or UIDAI app, refreshing the document, and letting the officer scan the QR code or check the watermark animation.
Treat digital IDs as plan A only when your phone is charged and you have data/Wi-Fi. Otherwise, keep a physical card ready. Remember, the DigiLocker document is legally the same as a printed one, yet the verification takes a few seconds longer, so be patient.
Set up your DigiLocker account days before travel. Many passengers try to sign up in the queue, forget their OTP, and delay everyone. Once itās linked to your Aadhaar or driving licence, the document stays cached offline.
Before reaching the airport
- āInstall DigiLocker or mAadhaar from official app stores only.
- āLink your Aadhaar and set a strong PIN.
- āDownload the ID (tap āSave to deviceā) so it works even without data.
At security
- āOpen the app, go to āIssued Documentsā, and show the live QR code.
- āIncrease screen brightness so the QR scanner reads it quickly.
- āKeep a backup physical ID handy in case the scanner is offline.
Digital ID acceptance matrix
| Document | Accepted digitally? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aadhaar via DigiLocker/mAadhaar | ā Yes | Must show animated hologram or QR |
| Driving Licence (DigiLocker) | ā Yes | Same as Aadhaar; RTO-signed copy |
| PAN card screenshot | ā No | Upload to DigiLocker if needed |
Do this
- ā Set a memorable PIN/passcode so you donāt fumble in line.
- ā Clear smudges on your screen; scanners struggle with cracks/glare.
- ā Update to the latest app version for better offline caching.
Avoid this
- ā ļø Donāt rely on WhatsApp forwards of IDsāthey count as photocopies.
- ā ļø Avoid giving your DigiLocker PIN to others; instead share the document via the appās sharing feature.
- ā ļø Do not log out right before the trip; you may forget the password under pressure.
FAQ
Q. Is a PDF downloaded months ago acceptable?
Only if it is the original DigiLocker PDF with the digital signature. Plain PDFs or photos lose authenticity. Always download fresh copies before travel.
Q. What if security officers havenāt seen the app before?
Politely tell them itās an issued DigiLocker document; most airports have QR readers now. If a lane is busy, they may direct you to a supervisor desk for scanning.
Q. Can I use DigiLocker ID for boarding too?
Yes, airlines accept it during domestic boarding. For international flights, still carry the passport.
Tips before you fly
- āļø Store your DigiLocker PIN in a password manager or jot it down in a locked note.
- āļø Keep a slim physical ID holder clipped inside your cabin bag as plan B.
- āļø Use phone widgets or quick shortcuts to open the app faster when CISF waves you forward.
Related YourTravelGuide guides
Official references
India DGCA guidelines ā simplified
Verified on: 5 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.