What is UDID card? – A quick guide

What is the UDID card?

The Unique Disability ID (UDID) card is a government-issued identification card for persons with disabilities.
It is meant to make life easier by providing a single document that helps access different types of support, benefits, and services offered by the Government of India.

Before the UDID project, individuals with disabilities had to manage many different documents depending on the benefits they were applying for. This could be confusing and difficult.
The UDID card solves this problem by combining important information into one card that can be used anywhere in India.

The project was started by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, which is a part of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
Their goal is to create a single, national system for issuing both the Disability Certificate and the UDID card, making the process simpler, faster, and more transparent.

Who can get a UDID?

Anyone with a disability mentioned in the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016 can apply for a UDID card.
This law recognizes a wide range of disabilities, including:

• Developmental disabilities (such as autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and specific learning disabilities)
• Sensory disabilities (such as hearing impairment and visual impairment)
• Physical disabilities (such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or limb loss)
• Mental health conditions (such as mental illness and psychosocial disability)
• Multiple disabilities (when a person experiences two or more disabilities together)

It is important to note that disability is a natural part of human diversity. The UDID system aims to respect this and create better access to rights and opportunities.

Why is the UDID card important?

The UDID card is more than just an identity document. It helps in many ways:

• Easier proof of eligibility: You can easily show that you are eligible for various government schemes, services, and concessions.
• Access to multiple benefits: With the UDID card, you can apply for travel discounts, educational support, healthcare benefits, employment opportunities, and more.
• One card, less paperwork: Instead of carrying different documents for different schemes, you only need your UDID card.
• Nationwide recognition: The UDID card is valid across all Indian states and union territories, so you don’t need to get new certificates if you move.
• Better inclusion: For individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities, the UDID card is often the first step to accessing the support they need in schools, hospitals, offices, and other spaces.
  

How to apply for a UDID card?

The UDID card application process is completely online, making it easier and faster to apply.

Here’s how you can do it:

1. Visit the official website: Go to swavlambancard.gov.in.
2. Register: Create a login ID and password.
3. Fill in the application form: Enter your basic details, disability-related information, and contact details.
4. Upload documents: Attach scanned copies of the necessary documents (list below).
5. Submit the application: Review everything carefully and submit your application.

If you’re unsure about any step, Nayi Disha has created a step-by-step video guide you can watch.It explains the process in a simple and clear way.

What documents will you need?

To complete your registration, you’ll typically need:

• Aadhaar Card or other identity proof
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Proof of disability (such as a medical report, Disability Certificate, or hospital records)
• Address proof (like a utility bill, ration card, or voter ID)
  

For a full list and extra tips, you can read our detailed article on UDID documentation.

We also recommend checking out the presentation on the Disability Certificate, since this certificate is often needed as part of the UDID application.

What happens after you register?

Once you have submitted your application:

1. Document verification:
   Your uploaded documents will be checked by a medical authority.
2. Medical assessment (if needed):
   In some cases, you may be invited for a medical check-up to confirm details about your disability.
3. Approval:
   If everything is correct, your Disability Certificate and UDID card will be generated.
4. Download and print:
   You can download your e-UDID card online once it is issued, or you may receive a physical copy depending on your location.

You can track the status of your application anytime on the Swavlambancard portal.

Need more support?

If you need extra help or have questions, Nayi Disha’s Know Your Rights (KYR) programme is here to support you.

Through the KYR programme, you can:

• Get easy-to-understand information about government schemes and benefits
• Learn about your child’s legal rights and entitlements
• Understand financial, education, and healthcare options
• Plan better for your child’s future well-being
  

How to reach us:

• Chat with our bot: Click this link to start a conversation.
  
• WhatsApp us: Type “KYR” on 844-844-8996.

Our team is happy to talk to you in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Telugu, and Bengali.

Disclaimer: This guide is for information purposes only. For legal or financial advice that is specific to your personal situation, please consult a qualified professional or advisor.