You can get a PAN card online in minutes — and if you have an Aadhaar with a linked mobile number, the instant e-PAN is completely free. Under the government’s PAN 2.0 project, PAN is being issued with a QR code through a unified portal, while your existing PAN stays valid. This guide explains how to apply for a new PAN, get an instant e-PAN, and download it.
| Issued by | Income Tax Department (via Protean/NSDL & UTIITSL) |
| Instant e-PAN portal | incometax.gov.in |
| Needed for e-PAN | Aadhaar + Aadhaar-linked mobile |
| Cost | Instant e-PAN: Free; physical card: nominal fee |
| PAN 2.0 | New PAN issued with QR code; old PAN remains valid |
| Format | 10-character alphanumeric permanent number |
What is PAN and PAN 2.0?
PAN (Permanent Account Number) is a 10-character ID used for taxes and most financial transactions. PAN 2.0 is an upgrade that issues PAN through a single, paperless portal with an enhanced QR code. Importantly, you do not need to change your existing PAN — it continues to be valid.
Instant e-PAN with Aadhaar (free)
- Go to incometax.gov.in and open “Instant e-PAN” under Quick Links.
- Click “Get New e-PAN”, enter your Aadhaar number and confirm.
- Verify the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile and validate your details.
- Your e-PAN is generated instantly and can be downloaded as a PDF — free of cost.
This works only if you do not already have a PAN and your Aadhaar has a linked mobile number.
Apply for a regular PAN (Protean/UTIITSL)
If you need a physical card or are not eligible for instant e-PAN, apply through the official Protean (NSDL) or UTIITSL portals using Form 49A, complete Aadhaar-based e-KYC/e-Sign, pay the small fee, and receive the PAN — with the physical card dispatched by post.
How to download your e-PAN
Use “Check Status / Download e-PAN” on the Income Tax portal (or the Protean/UTIITSL portal you applied through), enter your Aadhaar/acknowledgement number, verify OTP and download the PDF. The PDF is password-protected (usually your date of birth in DDMMYYYY).
Common mistakes to avoid
- Never hold two PANs — it attracts a penalty. If you already have one, do not apply again.
- Apply only on official portals (incometax.gov.in, Protean, UTIITSL); avoid paid “agents” for the free instant e-PAN.
Frequently asked questions
Is instant e-PAN free?
Yes, the Aadhaar-based instant e-PAN on the Income Tax portal is free. A physical card carries a small fee.
Do I need a new PAN under PAN 2.0?
No. Your existing PAN remains valid; you can optionally get the QR-enabled card.
Can I get PAN without Aadhaar?
The instant e-PAN needs Aadhaar. Otherwise apply via Form 49A with the accepted proofs.
Information last verified: 16 July 2026. Rules and fees can change — confirm on the official Income Tax / Protean / UTIITSL portals before applying.