How to apply for UDID?

What is a UDID card?

The Unique Disability ID (UDID) card is an official identification card issued to persons with disabilities (PWDs) in India. It includes key demographic and disability-related information and serves as a single document for availing benefits and schemes provided by the Government of India.

It’s designed to make life easier by reducing paperwork, making records digital, and allowing for smoother access to entitlements. The card can be used across states, and once you have it, there’s no need to carry multiple medical documents everywhere.

It acts as a digital record of disability status, accepted across government departments and public services.

Who issues the UDID?

The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment) initiated the UDID project. This initiative aims to build a centralised, transparent, and standardised system for issuing both the UDID card and the Disability Certificate.

This also helps create a national database of persons with disabilities, enabling better policy planning and implementation of rights-based programs. It supports the idea that people with disabilities should not have to prove their needs again and again across different offices.

Who is eligible for UDID?

Anyone with a disability recognised under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016 is eligible for the UDID. This includes individuals with:

• Developmental disabilities such as Autism Spectrum Disorder or Intellectual Disabilities
• Physical disabilities such as locomotor impairments or cerebral palsy
• Sensory disabilities such as visual or hearing impairments
• Mental health-related conditions such as depression or schizophrenia
• Multiple disabilities
  

You can apply for a UDID card for a child or adult.

Why is UDID important?

The UDID card enables individuals with disabilities to access:

• Government schemes and welfare benefits (such as pension schemes, assistive devices, skill training, and more)
• Health and rehabilitation services
• Concessions in travel (bus, railways, flights), education (exam accommodations, fee waivers), employment, and more
• Easier documentation and service access without needing to carry multiple certificates
  

For individuals who may face challenges with complex paperwork or navigating different systems, this single card offers a simple solution.

It is especially helpful for those with developmental or intellectual disabilities, where carrying multiple documents or repeating medical evaluations can be stressful.

In practical terms, the UDID card allows schools, colleges, hospitals, and government offices to offer accommodations like:

• Extra time or a scribe during exams
• Access to special educators or learning aids
• Quicker admissions under reserved categories
• Priority for accessible housing or job reservations

How to apply for a UDID?

You can apply for the UDID card online through the official Swavlambancard portal: Visit the site here

A step-by-step video guide is also available to walk you through the process.

Step-by-step process to apply

1. Visit the Swavlambancard portal
   Go to the official website and click on “Apply for Disability Certificate and UDID Card.”
   
2. Register yourself
   Enter basic information like name, phone number, Aadhaar number (if available), and address. Create a login ID and password.
   
3. Fill in the application form
   Provide details like the type of disability, previous medical evaluations (if any), and any supporting documentation.
   
4. Upload documents
   Attach scanned copies of your ID proof, address proof, photograph, and any medical documents or disability certificate you already have.
   
5. Choose medical authority
   Select a government hospital or centre for medical evaluation. If your child does not already have a Disability Certificate, the evaluation will happen here.
   
6. Submit and track your application
   Once submitted, your application will be reviewed. You can check the status using your login credentials.
   
7. Receive your UDID
   Once approved, the UDID card will be delivered to your registered address. A digital copy can also be downloaded.
   

Documents required for UDID Application

You will need documents like:

• Proof of identity (Aadhaar card, voter ID, etc.)
• Address proof
• Recent passport-sized photo
• Disability certificate (if already available)
• Medical assessment documents (if you are applying for both certificate and UDID)

An article outlining the list of required documents for applying is available here. You can also explore this presentation on the Disability Certificate to understand its connection to the UDID application.

If your child does not yet have a Disability Certificate, you can apply for both the certificate and the UDID card through the same process.

Additional support from Nayi Disha

If you’re looking for guidance on this process or want to explore your child’s rights further, the Know Your Rights (KYR) programme by Nayi Disha offers:

• Easy access to legal and financial resources
• Information on government schemes and entitlements
• Practical support to navigate benefits for your child’s long-term well-being
  

To explore more, type “KYR” on our WhatsApp Helpline at 844-844-8996, or click this link to chat with our bot.

Disclaimer:

This guide is for informational purposes only. For legal or financial advice tailored to your child’s needs, please consult a qualified professional.