Voter IDs go digital from today: Here's how to download them

Voters can access an electronic version of their voter ID either by logging on to voterportal.eci.gov.in or www.nvsp.in

Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar launched the digital voter ID card today, which also happens to be National Voter's Day. Starting today, voters both new and already registered can download an electronic version of their Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC), also known as the voter ID.

The e-EPICs will be made available to old and new voters in two phases. The first phase, from January 25 to January 31, would see the rollout of e-EPICs for newly registered voters, specifically those who have not previously appeared in any electoral roll. The second phase will start from February 1, for those who have voted in previous polls.

Voters can access an electronic version of their EPIC either by logging on to voterportal.eci.gov.in or www.nvsp.in. The IDs can also be accessed from the Voter Helpline App, which is available for both Google and Apple play stores. It will eventually be made available on digital locker applications.

The e-voter card, available in the PDF format which cannot be edited, can be self-printed and laminated by the voter when required.

With its formal launch on Monday, electors in poll-bound West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry can use e-voter card on polling days. Elections are due in these states and the union territory in April-May.

The conventional 'PV' physical voter card would continue to be in use.

Newly registered voters who are yet to be issued their physical card will require only their registered mobile number mentioned in their Form 6 to access their e-voter ID. Meanwhile, registered voters will need to input both their mobile number and voter ID number to access the e-voter ID.

The physical card takes time to print and reach the voter, and the idea is to provide faster delivery and easy accessibility to the document, EC officials said.

The Aadhaar card, Permanent Account Number (PAN) card and driving licence are available in digital mode.

Introduced in 1993, the elector photo identity cards are acceptable as proof of identity and address. The EC came into being on January 25, 1950, a day before India became a republic. For the past few years, January 25 is also observed as National Voters' Day.

(With inputs from PTI)