DigiLocker Account Setup: Documents & Requirements
DigiLocker is a government-backed digital document wallet that lets Indian citizens store and share verified copies of documents like Aadhaar, PAN, driving license, vehicle RC, and academic certificates. Digital documents issued or fetched via DigiLocker are treated as legally equivalent to physical originals under the IT Act, 2000.
Documents to Prepare
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What is DigiLocker?
It is widely accepted for identity and address verification, including at airports for domestic travel and by many RTOs and educational institutions.
What You Need to Create a DigiLocker Account
Mandatory Requirements
- Aadhaar Number (used for identity verification)
- Mobile number linked to your Aadhaar (for OTP verification)
- A 6-digit security PIN or password of your choice, set during signup
Alternative Sign-Up Options
- Mobile number-only sign-up (without Aadhaar), with reduced access to government-issued documents
- Sign-in via existing Google or other supported identity provider accounts
File Format & Upload Requirements
- Accepted formats: PDF, JPEG, or PNG.
- File size limit: Typically under 10MB per document.
- Storage limit: 1GB of personal uploaded storage is provided free per account.
Step-by-Step Account Setup
Download the DigiLocker app or visit the website (digilocker.gov.in).
Sign up using your mobile number and verify it with the OTP received.
Enter your Aadhaar number for identity-linked verification, or skip this for a basic account.
Set a 6-digit security PIN to protect your account.
Search for "Issued Documents" such as Aadhaar, PAN, or driving license, and fetch them directly from the connected government database.
Upload any additional personal documents manually under "Uploaded Documents".
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
Mobile Number Not Linked to Aadhaar
OTP-based Aadhaar verification fails if your mobile number is not updated with UIDAI; update your Aadhaar mobile number first.
Document Not Available to Fetch
Not all state departments have integrated with DigiLocker; if a document does not appear, you may need to upload a scanned copy manually instead.
Forgotten Security PIN
DigiLocker allows PIN reset via mobile OTP, so keep your registered mobile number active and accessible.
Using Uploaded Copies as "Verified"
Only documents fetched directly from the issuing department carry the digitally signed "verified" status; self-uploaded scans are not automatically treated the same way unless e-signed.
Processing Time & Fees
- Account creation and usage: Free.
Processing Time:
- Account setup: Instant.
- Fetching an issued document (Aadhaar, PAN, driving license): Instant to a few minutes, depending on the issuing department's system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a DigiLocker document valid as an original?
Yes, documents issued or fetched through DigiLocker are treated as legally valid under the Information Technology Act, 2000, equivalent to physical originals.
Can I use DigiLocker without Aadhaar?
Yes, you can sign up with just a mobile number, though access to certain Aadhaar-linked government documents will be limited.
Is DigiLocker accepted at airports?
Yes, DigiLocker-stored ID and boarding documents are accepted for domestic air travel security checks in India.
How much storage does DigiLocker provide?
Free accounts typically get 1GB of personal storage for self-uploaded documents, in addition to unlimited storage for documents issued directly by government departments.
Can I share my DigiLocker documents with someone else?
Yes, DigiLocker allows you to generate a shareable link or share specific documents digitally with authorized requesters.