Learn DigiLocker step-by-step process to create your account, link Aadhaar, upload documents, and share them securely. A simple, complete guide for hassle-free digital document management in India.
Introduction
DigiLocker has become a must-have digital utility in India, transforming how citizens store, access, and share essential government documents. Whether you’re a student looking to download your CBSE marksheet, a commuter accessing your driving license, or someone securing vital ID proofs for emergencies—DigiLocker offers a free, government-approved platform to do it all.
Launched under the Digital India initiative, DigiLocker has now crossed 43 crore registered users and over 9.4 billion documents issued as of 2025. Yet, many users still struggle with how to use it effectively.
In this DigiLocker step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to:
- Create your DigiLocker account
- Link your Aadhaar
- Upload personal documents
- Fetch issued certificates like mark sheets and driving licenses
- Use e-sign and sharing features securely
Let’s break down each part in a simple, easy-to-follow manner—perfect for beginners and advanced users alike.
What Is DigiLocker & Why You Should Use It
DigiLocker is a cloud-based document wallet launched by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) that allows Indian citizens to store and access documents issued by government departments and agencies. These documents are legally valid under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
Key Benefits:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Government-Verified Storage | All documents are issued directly by authorized agencies. |
| Paperless & Contactless | No need for physical documents—ideal for travel, admission, and KYC. |
| Free Access Anywhere | Available on Android, iOS, and web—backed by Aadhaar authentication. |
| Legally Accepted | Recognized as valid identity/address proof by transport, banking, and more. |
Documents like PAN cards, Aadhaar, CBSE mark sheets, voter IDs, vehicle RCs, and driving licenses can be fetched instantly from issuers such as the CBSE board, UIDAI, Ministry of Road Transport, and other institutions integrated via APIs.
You can verify these integrations directly on the DigiLocker Issuer Directory for transparency and scope.
Prerequisites You Need Before Using DigiLocker
Before you begin using DigiLocker, ensure you have the following ready:
- Aadhaar number (mandatory for full functionality)
- Aadhaar-linked mobile number (for OTP verification)
- Basic identity documents to upload manually (if required)
- Smartphone or computer with internet access
| Requirement | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar Number | To link and fetch official documents automatically |
| Mobile Linked to Aadhaar | For OTP-based authentication |
| Device with Internet | To use the DigiLocker app or web portal |
DigiLocker works seamlessly via:
- Web portal
- Mobile apps on Google Play Store and Apple App Store
Both platforms offer nearly identical features, although the app-based interface is optimized for touch navigation and often includes additional features like fingerprint login.
Step 1 – How to Install the DigiLocker App or Access the Website
You can start using DigiLocker either by visiting the official web portal or by installing the app on your smartphone.
Option A: Using the Website
- Visit the official DigiLocker portal at digilocker.gov.in.
- Click on “Sign Up” or “Sign In” from the top-right corner.
- You’ll be prompted to enter your mobile number and verify with an OTP.
Option B: Using the Mobile App
- Android Users: Go to the Google Play Store and search for “DigiLocker – a Digital Document Wallet.”
- iOS Users: Search and install the app from the Apple App Store.
- Open the app, tap “Get Started”, and proceed to register using your mobile number.
Note: Use only the official government app—several clones or unofficial apps exist.
Once installed or accessed, you’re ready to move forward with registration, which is critical for accessing your documents securely.
Step 2 – Register & Create Your DigiLocker Account
After installing the app or accessing the website, the next step is to register your DigiLocker account. This process is simple, secure, and requires your mobile number linked to Aadhaar for verification.
How to Register
- Open the DigiLocker app or visit digilocker.gov.in.
- Click on “Sign Up” or “Create an Account”.
- Enter your mobile number (ensure it is linked with your Aadhaar card).
- You will receive an OTP (One-Time Password) on your registered mobile number.
- Enter the OTP to verify your mobile number.
- Set a username and a secure 6-digit PIN or password for login.
- Accept the terms and conditions and complete the registration.
Your DigiLocker account is now ready, allowing you to securely access and manage your digital documents.
| Registration Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Mobile Number Input | Must be Aadhaar-linked for full services |
| OTP Verification | Validates user ownership of mobile number |
| Set Username & PIN | Credentials for future secure logins |
Step 3 – Link Your Aadhaar for Automatic Document Fetching
Linking your Aadhaar to your DigiLocker account is a crucial step that enables you to fetch issued government documents automatically. Many government departments issue documents such as driving licenses, mark sheets, and certificates directly to your DigiLocker once Aadhaar is linked.
Linking Process
- After successful registration, log in to your account.
- Navigate to the “Link Aadhaar” section.
- Enter your Aadhaar number.
- You will receive an OTP on the mobile number registered with your Aadhaar.
- Verify the OTP to complete the linking process.
Once linked, you can access a variety of official documents issued to you by different government agencies under the National Academic Depository (NAD) and other issuer frameworks.
Benefits of Aadhaar Linking:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Automatic Document Issuance | Documents like mark sheets, licenses appear automatically |
| Enhanced Security | Aadhaar-based OTP verification adds an extra layer |
| Faster Access | Avoids manual uploading and verification delays |
For more details on Aadhaar linking and privacy, refer to the official UIDAI guidelines at uidai.gov.in.
Step 4 – Navigating the DigiLocker Dashboard
Once your account is set up and Aadhaar linked, the dashboard is your central hub to access, upload, and manage documents. It has several sections designed to organize your digital documents efficiently.
Main Dashboard Sections
| Section Name | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Issued Documents | Documents issued by government agencies linked to Aadhaar |
| Uploaded Documents | Your manually uploaded files and personal documents |
| Shared Documents | Documents you have shared with others |
| Profile | Manage your personal details and security settings |
The interface is designed to be user-friendly, providing quick access to your documents with filtering and search options.
Step 5 – Uploading Your Own Documents to DigiLocker
While many documents can be automatically fetched from issuers, you may need to upload personal documents manually such as rental agreements, certificates from private institutions, or bank statements.
Supported File Types and Size Limits
| File Type | Max Size |
|---|---|
| PDF, JPEG, PNG | Up to 10 MB |
| DOC, DOCX | Up to 10 MB |
How to Upload
- Log in to your DigiLocker account.
- Click on “Upload Document” under the Uploaded Documents section.
- Select the file from your device.
- Enter document details like document type and issuer.
- Click “Upload” to save the document securely in your DigiLocker.
All uploaded documents are encrypted and stored securely, ensuring only you can access them. This feature is especially useful for non-government documents that you want to keep accessible digitally.
For more information about document upload policies, you can visit the official FAQs at digilocker.gov.in/faq.
Step 6 – How to Fetch Issued Documents in DigiLocker
One of DigiLocker’s most powerful features is the ability to fetch documents directly from government departments and agencies that are digitally issued against your Aadhaar or other identifiers. These are official, authentic documents that hold legal validity.
How to Fetch Documents
- Log in to your DigiLocker account.
- Go to the “Issued Documents” section.
- Click on “Get More Documents” or “Fetch Documents”.
- Select the issuing authority from the list (such as CBSE, Ministry of Road Transport, or Income Tax Department).
- Provide the necessary identifiers like your Aadhaar number or roll number.
- Confirm and wait for the document to be delivered instantly to your DigiLocker.
Commonly Issued Documents Available for Fetching
| Document Type | Issuing Authority | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| CBSE Marksheet | Central Board of Secondary Education | Roll Number, School Details |
| Driving License | Ministry of Road Transport | DL Number, Aadhaar |
| Vehicle Registration | Ministry of Road Transport | Vehicle Number |
| PAN Card | Income Tax Department | PAN Number |
| Voter ID | Election Commission of India | EPIC Number |
These documents can be viewed, downloaded, and shared anytime without visiting offices or submitting physical requests, making DigiLocker an indispensable tool for Indian citizens.
For a detailed list of issuers and their document types, check the official DigiLocker issuers page: digilocker.gov.in/issuers.
Step 7 – Using e-Sign Feature in DigiLocker
DigiLocker supports the e-Sign facility, enabling users to digitally sign documents electronically without needing to print or scan. This feature simplifies formalities requiring signatures and reduces paper usage.
How e-Sign Works in DigiLocker
- The user initiates e-sign on a document stored in DigiLocker.
- Aadhaar-based OTP or biometric authentication confirms identity.
- The document is digitally signed and timestamped, making it legally valid under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
Advantages of e-Sign
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Legally Valid Digital Signature | Complies with Indian IT Act and is admissible in courts |
| Saves Time and Cost | Eliminates printing, scanning, and courier costs |
| Secure and User-Friendly | Uses Aadhaar-based authentication for security and ease |
Many government forms, applications, and submissions now accept e-signed documents, increasing the utility of DigiLocker beyond just document storage.
For official information on e-Sign, visit the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) site at cca.gov.in.
Step 8 – Sharing Documents Securely from DigiLocker
DigiLocker enables you to share your documents securely with employers, educational institutions, or government agencies through the platform without risking data tampering or privacy breaches.
Methods of Sharing
| Sharing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Direct Share via DigiLocker | Share a secure link or QR code with the recipient |
| Download and Email | Download documents and send via email (less secure) |
| Generate and Share Link | Create a secure, time-bound URL to share with third parties |
How to Share a Document
- Navigate to the document in your DigiLocker account.
- Click on the “Share” option.
- Choose the recipient type (individual or organization).
- Select the preferred sharing method.
- The recipient can verify the document’s authenticity online through DigiLocker’s verification system.
This method protects you from document forgery or misuse, and the shared documents carry a digital signature certificate verifying authenticity.
Many employers and educational bodies in India now encourage DigiLocker document sharing for hassle-free verification.
Step 9 – DigiLocker Security Features and Best Practices
Security is a paramount concern when dealing with digital documents, especially sensitive government-issued ones. DigiLocker employs multiple layers of security to ensure your data remains safe and private.
Core Security Measures
| Security Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar-Based Authentication | Uses OTP or biometric authentication to verify users |
| Two-Factor Authentication | Requires PIN along with OTP for login |
| Data Encryption | All documents and data are encrypted during storage and transit |
| Secure Cloud Storage | Hosted on government-approved secure servers |
| Audit Trails | Tracks access and sharing history for accountability |
DigiLocker is compliant with the Information Technology Act, 2000 and adheres to data protection standards set by the Indian government.
Best Practices for Users
- Never share your DigiLocker login credentials with anyone.
- Always link your Aadhaar with a mobile number that is secure and active.
- Use a strong PIN or password and change it periodically.
- Log out after every session, especially on shared devices.
- Enable any additional security features like biometrics if supported on your device.
More detailed security guidelines can be found on the official DigiLocker Security page: digilocker.gov.in/security.
Step 10 – Troubleshooting Common DigiLocker Issues
While DigiLocker is user-friendly, some users may face issues during registration, document fetching, or usage. Below are common problems and their solutions:
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| OTP Not Received | Mobile number not linked to Aadhaar | Verify Aadhaar mobile linkage or request OTP resend |
| Document Not Found | Issuer hasn’t uploaded document | Contact issuing authority or check for document availability |
| Login Problems | Incorrect PIN or username | Reset PIN via “Forgot PIN” option |
| Upload Failure | Unsupported file type or large size | Ensure files are PDF/JPEG/PNG and within size limits |
| e-Sign Not Working | Aadhaar OTP failure or technical error | Retry e-sign after some time or check Aadhaar status |
If issues persist, users can reach out to DigiLocker helpdesk through digilocker.gov.in/contact.
Step 11 – Benefits of Using DigiLocker for Indian Citizens
DigiLocker offers multiple advantages that have transformed how Indians store and use official documents.
Key Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Paperless Documentation | Access and share documents digitally anytime |
| Government-Recognized Storage | Documents are legally valid as per Indian IT laws |
| Easy Verification | Quick verification for employers, banks, and govt. |
| Saves Time & Cost | Eliminates physical document handling and postal delays |
| Increased Accessibility | Access your documents from anywhere, on any device |
This digital initiative is part of the Government of India’s Digital India campaign, aimed at enhancing citizen convenience and transparency.
For more about DigiLocker benefits and features, refer to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology website: meity.gov.in.
Questions About DigiLocker Step-by-Step Process
1. Is DigiLocker free to use?
Yes, DigiLocker is a completely free digital locker service provided by the Government of India to all Indian citizens. There are no charges for creating an account, storing documents, or using the e-Sign facility.
2. Can I upload any type of document in DigiLocker?
DigiLocker allows uploading most government-issued documents and personal documents in PDF, JPEG, PNG, DOC, or DOCX formats, with a maximum file size of 10 MB per document. However, it is recommended to upload official documents to maintain authenticity and utility.
3. Are documents stored in DigiLocker legally valid?
Yes, documents issued by government agencies and digitally signed through DigiLocker are legally valid as per the Information Technology Act, 2000. Uploaded documents can be considered valid if accepted by the requesting authority.
4. How secure is DigiLocker?
DigiLocker uses advanced encryption methods, secure cloud storage, and Aadhaar-based authentication to protect user data. It complies with government security standards to ensure privacy and data integrity.
5. What happens if I lose access to my DigiLocker account?
You can recover access by using the “Forgot PIN” option or by re-registering with your Aadhaar-linked mobile number. Ensure your mobile number is always active and linked to your Aadhaar for seamless recovery.
For additional FAQs, visit the official DigiLocker FAQ page: digilocker.gov.in/faq.
Conclusion: Your Complete Guide to DigiLocker Step-by-Step
DigiLocker is revolutionizing document management in India by providing a safe, convenient, and government-recognized digital platform. From simple registration and Aadhaar linking to fetching, uploading, e-signing, and sharing documents, the DigiLocker step-by-step process empowers citizens to embrace a paperless future.
With its robust security features and user-friendly interface, DigiLocker eliminates the hassles of physical document storage and verification delays. Whether you are a student accessing mark sheets, a driver carrying your license, or a professional submitting documents for verification, DigiLocker offers unmatched convenience.
To get started today, visit the official DigiLocker website or download the app and follow the detailed steps outlined here to create your account and begin managing your documents digitally.
FAQ
What is DigiLocker and how does it work?
DigiLocker is a government digital platform that allows you to store, access, and share official documents securely online.
How can I create a DigiLocker account?
You can create a DigiLocker account by visiting digilocker.gov.in and registering with your Aadhaar number and mobile OTP.
Is DigiLocker free to use?
Yes, DigiLocker is completely free for all Indian citizens to create accounts and use its document storage and sharing features.
Are documents in DigiLocker legally valid?
Documents issued and digitally signed via DigiLocker are legally valid under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
How secure is my data on DigiLocker?
DigiLocker uses encryption, Aadhaar-based authentication, and secure cloud storage to ensure your documents are safe and private.
Can I upload my own documents to DigiLocker?
Yes, you can upload personal documents in supported formats like PDF and JPEG, with a file size limit of 10 MB per document.
What should I do if I forget my DigiLocker PIN?
You can reset your DigiLocker PIN using the ‘Forgot PIN’ option by verifying your registered mobile number linked with Aadhaar.
Can DigiLocker be used on mobile devices?
Yes, DigiLocker has official mobile apps for both Android and iOS, allowing easy access and document management on the go.