How to Cancel Aadhaar Card 2025

If you’re wondering how to cancel Aadhaar card, you’re not alone it's not a simple “delete my ID” thing, but there are certain cases where cancellation or deactivation is possible.

What Does “Cancel Aadhaar” Mean?

In short, cancelling (or “omitting”) your Aadhaar number means it’s removed from UIDAI’s system permanently — for example, if you had more than one Aadhaar. In other cases, like deactivation after death, your Aadhaar is only marked inactive.

When Can You Cancel or Deactivate It?

Here are the main situations:

• After turning 18: You can apply for cancellation within six months of turning 18 using Form 9.
• Duplicate Aadhaar: If more than one Aadhaar was issued to you, the extra number(s) can be cancelled.
• After death: Legal heirs can report death on the myAadhaar portal to mark Aadhaar “deactivated due to death.” 

How to Cancel Aadhaar — Step by Step

1. Download Form 9 from UIDAI’s website.
2. Fill in your Aadhaar number, name, date of birth, and choose a regional office. 
3. Submit the form to the selected regional office — you’ll need to verify your identity (usually via Aadhaar authentication).
4. Wait: UIDAI says cancellation may be completed within about 3 months after identity is verified.
5. After cancellation, all Aadhaar-based services tied to your number will stop.

Quick Comparison: Cancel vs Deactivate vs Lock

Here’s a quick look to avoid confusion:

• Cancel – Permanent removal of Aadhaar (e.g., via Form 9).
• Deactivate – Temporarily disabled (common after death).
• Lock biometrics – Your fingerprints/iris get locked, but Aadhaar stays active.