Your Voter ID's EPIC Number: A Step-by-step Guide To Finding It
The Voter ID card , also known as the Election Photo Identity Card (EPIC), is a fundamental document for Indian citizens, enabling them to exercise their democratic right to vote. Apart from facilitating voting, the Voter ID card also serves as a valid proof of identity. This article provides an in-depth look at the EPIC number, explaining its significance, where to find it, and how to use it.
What is an EPIC Number on a Voter ID Card?
The Election Commission of India assigns a unique identification number to every registered voter, known as the EPIC number. This 10-digit alphanumeric code is prominently displayed on the front side of your Voter ID card. The EPIC number not only serves as your unique identifier for voting purposes but also ensures that your voter details are securely stored online. With this number, you can access and download your Voter ID details from the Election Commission's online portal.
Significance of the EPIC Number
The EPIC number is a testament to your status as a registered voter in India. It is essential for the following reasons
- Proof of Voter Registration: Your EPIC number confirms that you are listed on the electoral roll, enabling you to vote in elections.
- Digital Identity: The EPIC number signifies that your voter identification information is digitally stored, providing easy access to your details via platforms like DigiLocker or the National Voters' Service Portal (NVSP).
- Security: By using the EPIC number, you can securely access and manage your voter ID details online, ensuring your personal information remains protected.
Finding your EPIC number is straightforward. It is printed on the front side of your Voter ID card. If you do not have your physical card, you can retrieve your EPIC number online through the NVSP portal.
How to Find the EPIC Number Online
To locate your EPIC number online, follow these steps
- Visit the NVSP Portal: Go to the official National Voters' Service Portal (NVSP) website.
- Search in Electoral Roll: Click on the ‘Search in Electoral Roll’ tab.
- Choose Search Method: On the new page, you can either ‘Search by Details’ or ‘Search by Mobile’.
- Enter Required Information: Select your state, choose your preferred language, and enter the necessary details along with the captcha code.
- Find Your EPIC Number: Click ‘Search’, and your EPIC number will be displayed in the ‘EPIC Number’ column along with your voter ID details as per the electoral roll.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to downloading your Voter ID using the EPIC number
- Access the NVSP Portal: Visit the NVSP website and click ‘Login’.
- Login Credentials: Enter your mobile number, password, and captcha code, then click the ‘Request OTP’ button.
- Verify OTP: Enter the OTP received on your mobile phone and click ‘Verify & Login’.
- Download e-EPIC: Click on the ‘E-EPIC Download’ tab.
- Select Identification Method: Choose either ‘EPIC No’ or ‘Form Reference No.’ option.
- Input EPIC Number: Enter your EPIC number or Form Reference Number, select your state, and click ‘Search’.
- Generate OTP: Click the ‘Send OTP’ button. If your mobile number is not updated, update it by filling Form 8 on the NVSP Portal.
- Verify and Download: Enter the OTP and click on ‘Verify’. Then, click the ‘Download e-EPIC’ button to download your Voter ID card.
The EPIC number serves various crucial functions
- Election Participation: Essential for casting votes during elections, ensuring only registered voters can participate.
- Identity Verification: Acts as a valid proof of identity for various services and administrative purposes.
- Access to Voter Services: Enables easy access to voter services online, such as updating details, checking voter lists, and downloading the e-EPIC.
- Digital Storage: Facilitates digital storage and retrieval of voter ID details, reducing dependency on physical documents.