Aadhaar Card Biometric Update is the process of updating the biometric information linked with an Aadhaar number. Biometric information mainly includes the facial photograph, fingerprints and iris scans of the Aadhaar holder. Since biometric details can change with age and may sometimes cause authentication problems, UIDAI provides a facility to update them at an Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Centre.
Unlike some Aadhaar services that can be completed online, biometric information cannot currently be updated through the regular MyAadhaar website or Aadhaar App. The Aadhaar holder needs to visit an Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Centre or Aadhaar Seva Kendra for biometric updating. UIDAI confirms that photo, fingerprints and iris details are updated at an Aadhaar centre.
Biometric updating is particularly important for children because their physical characteristics change significantly as they grow. UIDAI has a mandatory biometric update system at the ages of 5 years and 15 years. These mandatory updates help replace the biometric information captured during childhood with updated biometrics.
For adults, biometric updating can also be requested when there are authentication failures, poor-quality biometric data, or other circumstances covered by UIDAI’s update process.
What Is Aadhaar Card Biometric Update?
Aadhaar Card Biometric Update means updating the biometric information stored against an existing Aadhaar number.
The biometric information associated with Aadhaar includes:
- Facial photograph
- Fingerprints
- Iris scans
UIDAI’s Aadhaar update information identifies iris, fingerprints and facial photograph as biometric information.
During a biometric update, the Aadhaar operator captures the required biometric information using the authorised Aadhaar enrolment equipment. The information is then submitted for processing and verification according to UIDAI procedures.
The Aadhaar number generally remains the same after a successful biometric update. The purpose is to refresh the biometric information associated with the existing Aadhaar identity rather than issue a new Aadhaar number.
Why Is Biometric Update Required in Aadhaar?
Biometric information can change over time, particularly during childhood and adolescence. A fingerprint captured when a child is very young may not provide the same quality of authentication after the child grows.
There can also be situations where an Aadhaar holder experiences authentication failures because the biometric information captured earlier was of insufficient quality or has become less suitable for reliable authentication.
UIDAI identifies several circumstances in which biometric updates may be required or recommended, including:
- A child enrolled before the age of 5 reaching the age of 5.
- An Aadhaar holder enrolled between ages 5 and 15 reaching the age of 15.
- Authentication failures caused by biometric mismatch.
- Poor-quality biometric information captured during enrolment or an earlier update.
- Certain biometric exceptions caused by circumstances such as accidents or other conditions.
- A requirement communicated by UIDAI for updating biometric quality.
- Periodic biometric updating for Aadhaar holders above the age of 15.
UIDAI’s current information states that Aadhaar holders who were enrolled after the age of 15 are recommended to update biometric data every 10 years.
What Details Are Updated in Aadhaar Biometrics?
A biometric update can involve the main biometric identifiers associated with Aadhaar.
1. Fingerprints
Fingerprints are captured from the fingers using an authorised biometric device.
UIDAI’s enrolment guidelines provide for capturing the fingerprints of all ten fingers. The operator follows the prescribed sequence and positioning requirements to obtain usable fingerprint images.
2. Iris Scans
The iris patterns of both eyes are captured during the applicable biometric process.
Iris information is particularly important for authentication where fingerprint-based authentication may not work properly.
3. Facial Photograph
A fresh facial photograph is captured at the Aadhaar centre.
The photograph forms part of the biometric information stored with Aadhaar and can be updated separately or as part of an applicable biometric update request.
Aadhaar Mandatory Biometric Update for Children
Mandatory Biometric Update, commonly referred to as MBU, is especially important for children.
A child enrolled in Aadhaar before the age of 5 initially has only the facial image captured. Fingerprints and iris information are not captured at that stage. When the child reaches the age of 5, the biometric information is updated by capturing the required fingerprints, iris scans and photograph.
A second mandatory biometric update is required when the Aadhaar holder reaches the age of 15.
UIDAI’s 2026 Aadhaar Handbook states that children need two mandatory biometric updates:
- First mandatory update at age 5
- Second mandatory update at age 15
The Aadhaar number remains the same after these updates.
Aadhaar Biometric Update at Age 5
The first mandatory biometric update is associated with the child attaining the age of 5 years.
At the initial enrolment of a child below 5 years, only the facial image is captured. The fingerprint and iris capture screens are not activated for children below 5.
After the child reaches 5 years, the required biometrics are captured.
The process generally includes:
- Visiting an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre.
- Providing the child’s Aadhaar number.
- Completing the applicable verification.
- Capturing fingerprints.
- Capturing both iris scans.
- Capturing the updated photograph.
- Completing the request submission.
- Collecting the acknowledgement.
The biometric update is linked with the child’s existing Aadhaar number rather than creating a new Aadhaar number.
Aadhaar Biometric Update at Age 15
The second mandatory biometric update is required when the Aadhaar holder reaches 15 years of age.
At this stage, the Aadhaar holder’s biometric information is refreshed again because the person’s physical characteristics have developed considerably since childhood.
UIDAI requires the Aadhaar holder to furnish the applicable biometrics for updating the Aadhaar record at this stage.
Parents or guardians should make sure that a child’s mandatory biometric update is completed within the applicable period rather than waiting until the Aadhaar is required urgently for another service.
Is Mandatory Biometric Update Free?
Yes, UIDAI provides free mandatory biometric updates for children in the specified age brackets.
The current UIDAI information states that mandatory biometric updates are free when performed once between the age of 5 to 7 years and once between 15 to 17 years.
UIDAI’s current homepage also states that the Mandatory Biometric Update is free for children aged 5–17 until 30 September 2026.
The applicable fee policy can change through UIDAI notifications, so parents should check the latest UIDAI fee information when arranging the update.
Aadhaar Biometric Update Fee
The fee depends on the type and age at which the biometric update is performed.
UIDAI’s current Aadhaar Seva Kendra information lists the following biometric update charges:
| Biometric Update | Applicable Charge |
|---|---|
| First biometric update between 5 and 7 years | Free |
| First or second mandatory update between 15 and 17 years | Free |
| Biometric update between 7 and 15 years | Free until 30 September 2026 |
| Other biometric updates | ₹125 |
The fee information is subject to UIDAI’s current rules and applicable fee notifications.
It is therefore important to distinguish between a mandatory child biometric update and a voluntary or other biometric update requested outside the specified free categories.
Who Needs Aadhaar Biometric Update?
Not every Aadhaar holder needs to update biometrics immediately.
Biometric updating may be required or useful in several situations.
Children
Children who were enrolled before age 5 need a mandatory biometric update after turning 5. A second mandatory update is required at age 15.
People Facing Authentication Failure
An Aadhaar holder may request a biometric update when authentication repeatedly fails because the stored biometric information does not provide reliable matching.
UIDAI specifically recognises false rejection or authentication failure as one reason an Aadhaar holder may approach for biometric updating.
People With Poor-Quality Existing Biometrics
If the biometric information captured during enrolment or an earlier update was of poor quality, a later update may improve the quality of the biometric record.
Adults Requiring Periodic Updates
For Aadhaar holders enrolled after age 15, UIDAI recommends biometric updating every 10 years.
How to Apply for Aadhaar Biometric Update
Biometric updating requires a physical visit to an authorised Aadhaar centre.
Step 1: Locate an Aadhaar Centre
Find a nearby Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Centre or Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
UIDAI provides a centre-locator facility, and Aadhaar Seva Kendras provide biometric update services.
Step 2: Take the Aadhaar Number
Carry the Aadhaar number of the person whose biometrics need to be updated.
For a child, parents or guardians should keep the child’s Aadhaar details available.
Step 3: Visit the Centre
Go to the selected Aadhaar centre and request a biometric update.
For children, clearly mention if the visit is for the mandatory biometric update after reaching age 5 or age 15.
Step 4: Complete the Required Verification
The operator will verify the Aadhaar details and process the biometric update request according to the applicable UIDAI procedure.
Step 5: Capture Fingerprints
Where applicable, the operator captures the fingerprints using the authorised biometric equipment.
UIDAI provides specific technical guidelines for capturing all ten fingerprints and ensuring that the fingers are correctly positioned for quality capture.
Step 6: Capture Iris Information
The applicable iris information is captured as part of the biometric update.
Step 7: Capture a New Photograph
The facial photograph is captured and submitted with the update request.
Step 8: Complete Authentication and Submission
The operator completes the required authentication and submits the biometric update request.
Step 9: Collect the Acknowledgement
After the request is submitted, collect the acknowledgement or update receipt.
Keep the reference information safe so that the request can be tracked later.
Can Aadhaar Biometrics Be Updated Online?
No. Aadhaar biometric information cannot currently be updated through the normal online Aadhaar portal.
UIDAI states that biometric updates involving the photo, fingerprints, and iris require a visit to an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Centre.
The Aadhaar App currently supports certain services such as mobile number and address updates, but biometric updates are not available directly through the app.
Therefore, applicants should not rely on websites claiming that fingerprints, iris scans, or Aadhaar photographs can be completely updated online.
Aadhaar Biometric Update for Children Below 5 Years
A child below 5 years is treated differently during Aadhaar enrolment.
At this stage, UIDAI captures the child’s facial image, while the fingerprint and iris capture screens are not activated.
Once the child reaches 5 years, the biometric update becomes important because fingerprints and iris information need to be captured.
Parents should therefore keep track of the child’s age and complete the mandatory biometric update within the applicable period.
Aadhaar Biometric Update for Children Between 5 and 15 Years
Children who have Aadhaar during this age period may already have biometric information associated with their Aadhaar record.
The mandatory update at age 5 provides the first complete biometric capture. The next mandatory biometric update takes place at age 15.
The current UIDAI information also provides a temporary fee relaxation for biometric updates in the 7–15 age group until 30 September 2026.
Parents should check the latest UIDAI fee schedule before visiting the centre because applicable charges can change.
Aadhaar Biometric Update After Age 15
Once the Aadhaar holder reaches 15, the second mandatory biometric update becomes applicable.
This update is particularly significant because the biometric information captured during childhood may not remain equally suitable as the person grows.
UIDAI’s current guidance also recommends periodic biometric updates every 10 years for Aadhaar holders who were enrolled after the age of 15.
This recommendation is different from the mandatory child updates at ages 5 and 15.
Can Aadhaar Photo Be Updated Separately?
Yes. Aadhaar photo is part of the biometric information and can be updated by visiting an Aadhaar centre.
UIDAI’s current information confirms that facial photograph is included in biometric updates.
A person who wants a new Aadhaar photograph does not need to use the online portal. The request can be made at the Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Centre.
The applicable biometric update charge should be confirmed according to the current UIDAI fee schedule.
Can Fingerprints Be Updated in Aadhaar?
Yes. Fingerprints can be updated at an Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Centre.
The operator uses authorised equipment to capture the fingerprints according to UIDAI’s prescribed process.
All ten fingerprints are captured under the applicable biometric enrolment/update procedure. UIDAI also provides quality-related instructions for positioning the fingers and operating the fingerprint device.
If an Aadhaar holder repeatedly experiences fingerprint authentication failure, a biometric update may be one of the steps considered under the applicable UIDAI process.
Can Iris Be Updated in Aadhaar?
Yes. Iris information is part of Aadhaar’s biometric information and can be updated at an authorised Aadhaar centre.
The iris scan is captured using the equipment available at the centre. The applicant should follow the operator’s instructions during the capture process.
Children receiving the mandatory biometric update at age 5 and age 15 have their applicable iris information captured as part of the update.
Aadhaar Biometric Update After Authentication Failure
A biometric authentication failure does not always mean that the Aadhaar record is incorrect.
Authentication can fail for different reasons, including poor biometric capture, changes in physical characteristics or issues with the device being used for authentication.
UIDAI identifies false rejection as one situation in which Aadhaar holders may approach for biometric updating.
If authentication repeatedly fails, the Aadhaar holder can visit an Aadhaar centre and request biometric updating.
It is useful to explain the authentication problem to the centre operator so the appropriate process can be followed.
Biometric Update After an Accident or Physical Change
UIDAI also recognises situations involving biometric exceptions.
An accident or other physical circumstance can sometimes affect the ability to capture or use a particular biometric.
In such cases, the Aadhaar enrolment or update centre follows the applicable biometric exception procedure rather than simply treating the applicant as an ordinary fingerprint or iris capture case. UIDAI lists accidents and similar circumstances among situations that may lead to a need for biometric updating.
The exact process depends on the nature of the biometric exception and the applicable UIDAI instructions.
Documents Required for Aadhaar Biometric Update
A biometric-only update is different from a demographic or document update.
For a standard biometric update, the key Aadhaar information is required to identify and process the existing Aadhaar record. UIDAI also advises Aadhaar holders to bring original documents when an update request involves supporting documents.
If a person is simultaneously changing name, address, date of birth or another demographic detail, the appropriate supporting document may also be required.
For children, parents or guardians should carry the child’s Aadhaar details and any documents required under the applicable child update process.
How Long Does Aadhaar Biometric Update Take?
After the biometric information is captured, the request goes through UIDAI’s processing and verification system.
The update is not necessarily reflected immediately in every Aadhaar service.
Applicants should keep the acknowledgement or update reference and use the official Aadhaar status service to monitor the request.
UIDAI explains that submission of an update request does not guarantee that the requested Aadhaar data will be updated because requests are subject to verification and validation.
How to Check Aadhaar Biometric Update Status
After submitting the biometric update, the applicant can use UIDAI’s Aadhaar status facility to check the progress of the update.
Keep the acknowledgement details received at the Aadhaar centre.
The status may indicate that the request is being processed or has been completed. If the request is rejected, the applicant should check the reason and follow the applicable UIDAI process rather than submitting multiple requests without understanding the issue.
The current UIDAI website provides a Check Update Status service for tracking Aadhaar-related updates.
What Happens After Aadhaar Biometric Update?
Once the biometric update is successfully processed, the newly captured biometric information becomes part of the Aadhaar record.
The Aadhaar number itself does not need to be replaced simply because biometric information has been updated.
The updated biometric information can then be used for Aadhaar authentication subject to the requirements of the authentication service being used.
For children, completing the mandatory biometric update allows their Aadhaar record to contain biometrics appropriate to their age and development. UIDAI states that the original Aadhaar number remains the same after the mandatory child biometric updates.
Biometric Update vs Demographic Update
Biometric and demographic updates are two different Aadhaar services.
| Biometric Update | Demographic Update |
|---|---|
| Updates fingerprints | Updates name |
| Updates iris scans | Updates address |
| Updates facial photograph | Updates date of birth |
| Requires centre visit | Some eligible services can be online |
| Captures biometric information | Changes personal demographic details |
| Includes mandatory child biometric updates | Used for correcting demographic information |
UIDAI lists name, address, date of birth, gender, mobile number and email as demographic information, while iris, fingerprints and facial photograph are biometric information.
A person can also request both biometric and demographic updates together when applicable.
Can Biometric and Demographic Updates Be Done Together?
Yes. Aadhaar centres provide facilities for biometric as well as demographic updates.
For example, an applicant may need to update a photograph while also correcting an address or another demographic detail.
UIDAI’s current fee information states that when a demographic update is performed at the same time as a biometric update, the separate demographic-update charge does not apply.
The applicant should provide the required supporting documents if the demographic information being changed requires documentary proof.
Aadhaar Biometric Update for Adults
Adults can also request biometric updates when needed.
Common circumstances include:
- Repeated authentication failures
- Poor-quality fingerprints
- Poor-quality biometric information from earlier enrolment
- A need to update the facial photograph
- A need to refresh biometric information
- UIDAI-directed biometric quality updates
- Periodic updating recommended for Aadhaar holders enrolled after age 15
UIDAI recommends biometric updating every 10 years for Aadhaar holders who were enrolled after the age of 15.
This is a recommendation rather than the same mandatory age-based requirement that applies to children.
Important Points Before Visiting the Aadhaar Centre
Before going for a biometric update, keep the following points in mind:
- Biometric updates require a physical visit to an Aadhaar centre.
- Carry the Aadhaar number or available Aadhaar details.
- For a child, check whether the visit is for the age-5 or age-15 mandatory update.
- Keep the acknowledgement after submitting the request.
- Confirm the applicable fee before payment.
- If a demographic update is also required, carry the relevant original documents.
- Check the information entered by the operator before final submission.
- Do not share Aadhaar OTPs with unauthorised persons.
- Use an authorised Aadhaar centre.
- Check the update status after submission.
- Keep the receipt until the update has been processed.
- Follow the latest UIDAI instructions because fees and procedures can be revised.
Common Reasons for Aadhaar Biometric Update
There is no single reason why every person needs a biometric update.
For children, the update is mainly related to age-based mandatory biometric requirements.
For adults, the reasons can include authentication failures, poor-quality biometric information or the need for a fresh photograph or biometric record.
UIDAI specifically lists authentication failure, poor biometric quality and certain biometric exceptions among the circumstances associated with biometric updating.
Understanding the reason for the update can help the applicant choose the correct service at the Aadhaar centre.
What If Aadhaar Biometric Update Is Rejected?
A biometric update request can be subject to UIDAI’s verification and processing requirements.
If the request does not get completed successfully, the applicant should first check the status and any available reason for the issue.
If the problem is related to biometric capture, the applicant may need to revisit an Aadhaar centre and follow the instructions provided by UIDAI.
Where there is a biometric exception, the centre may need to follow a special procedure rather than attempting ordinary biometric capture.
Applicants should avoid using unofficial agents who claim they can guarantee approval of an Aadhaar biometric update.
Aadhaar Biometric Update and Aadhaar App
The Aadhaar App provides several Aadhaar-related services, but biometric updating is not currently one of the services that can be completed directly through the app.
UIDAI’s current Aadhaar App FAQ states that photo, fingerprint and iris updates require a visit to an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar enrolment and update centre.
The app can still be useful for other Aadhaar services, including available mobile and address update facilities and biometric lock/unlock functionality.
Biometric update and biometric lock/unlock are different services. Locking biometrics prevents their use for authentication until they are unlocked, while a biometric update replaces or refreshes the biometric information held in the Aadhaar record.
Aadhaar Biometric Update and Security
Biometric information is highly sensitive, so Aadhaar holders should use authorised UIDAI channels for biometric services.
Do not allow unknown persons to handle Aadhaar documents or authentication information unnecessarily.
At the centre, make sure the operator provides the acknowledgement after the request is submitted.
For additional Aadhaar security, UIDAI also provides biometric lock and unlock facilities. The Aadhaar App currently supports one-click biometric lock and unlock.
Final Checklist for Aadhaar Biometric Update
Before completing the process, check these points:
- Aadhaar number is available
- Correct update type has been selected
- Nearest authorised centre has been identified
- Child’s age has been checked for mandatory update
- Applicable fee has been confirmed
- Original documents are available if another demographic update is being requested
- Fingerprints have been captured properly
- Iris information has been captured where applicable
- New photograph has been captured
- Information has been reviewed
- Acknowledgement has been collected
- Update reference has been saved
- Status will be checked after submission
Conclusion
Aadhaar Card Biometric Update is an important process for keeping the biometric information linked with an Aadhaar number current and usable for authentication. The biometric details covered by UIDAI include fingerprints, iris scans and the facial photograph. Unlike address and some other Aadhaar services, biometric updating currently requires a visit to an authorised Aadhaar centre.
For children, biometric updating has a specific age-based requirement. The first mandatory biometric update is associated with reaching 5 years of age, while the second is required at 15 years. UIDAI states that these mandatory updates are free under the applicable rules, and the current UIDAI website shows a temporary free facility for children aged 5–17 until 30 September 2026.
Adults can also update biometrics when required because of authentication failures, poor biometric quality or other applicable circumstances. Before visiting the centre, applicants should check the latest UIDAI fee and service requirements and keep their acknowledgement safely after submitting the request.
FAQs
1. When should a child complete the Aadhaar biometric update?
The mandatory biometric updates are required at age 5 and again at age 15.
2. Can fingerprints and iris be updated online?
No. Fingerprints, iris and facial photograph updates require a visit to an Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Centre.
3. Is Aadhaar biometric update free for children?
Mandatory updates are free under the applicable age-based rules. UIDAI currently shows the 5–17 years facility as free until 30 September 2026.