Applying for a new PAN card online is a very easy and popular way to do it. You can do it from the comfort of your home.
The official process is handled by two main government-authorized websites: NSDL (now Protean) and UTIITSL. If you have an Aadhaar card linked to your mobile, there's also a way to get an instant e-PAN directly from the Income Tax portal, which is even faster!
Here is a simple, step-by-step guide for the most common online application method (using NSDL/Protean or UTIITSL):
💻 Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
- Go to the official website of either Protean eGov Technologies Limited (NSDL) or UTIITSL. These are the authorized agencies.
Step 2: Choose the Application Type
- Look for the section that says "Apply Online" or "PAN Card Services".
Select the application form for a "New PAN".
For Indian citizens, choose Form 49A.- For foreign citizens, choose Form 49AA.
- Select your 'Category' (most people will choose 'Individual').
Step 3: Fill Out the Basic Registration Form
- Fill in your basic details like your name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number.
- Once you submit this part, you will get a Token Number (or Reference Number) on your screen and email. Make sure to save this number! It helps you come back and finish the application later.
Step 4: Complete the Detailed Application Form
- Click on "Continue with PAN Application Form".
Now you'll fill in the main form with more details:
Personal details (like father's name).- Source of Income.
- Contact and Address details.
- You will also be asked to enter your AO Code (Area Code). Don't worry, the website usually has a link like "Search AO Code" that helps you find it based on your address.
Step 5: Select Document Submission Mode
This is an important choice. You have three main options:
- Digital Submission (e-KYC & e-Sign - Paperless): This is the fastest method. If you have an Aadhaar card linked to your mobile number, you can use this. You don't need to upload any documents or send anything physically. The data from your Aadhaar card is used for verification.
- Scanned Image Based Submission (e-Sign): You fill the form, upload your scanned photo and signature, and then digitally sign it using an Aadhaar OTP. You don't need to send the physical papers.
- Physical Document Submission: You fill the form online, but you will need to print the acknowledgment form, paste your photo, sign it, and then send it by post/courier along with your supporting documents to the NSDL/UTIITSL office.
Step 6: Upload Documents (If applicable)
Depending on the method you chose in Step 5, you will either upload your photo, signature, and documents (like Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.) or you will skip this step and proceed to payment.
| Document Type | Common Accepted Documents |
| Proof of Identity (POI) | Aadhaar Card, Voter ID Card, Passport, Driving License. |
| Proof of Address (POA) | Aadhaar Card, Passport, Electricity/Water Bill (recent), Bank Account Statement (recent). |
| Proof of Date of Birth (PODB) | Aadhaar Card, Birth Certificate, Passport, Matriculation Certificate. |
Step 7: Make the Payment
Pay the application fee online using a Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking. The fee is generally around ₹107 for an Indian communication address.
Step 8: Final Submission and Acknowledgment
Once the payment is successful, an Acknowledgment Slip will be generated. Save and print this slip! It has a unique 15-digit number you can use to track the status of your PAN application.
If you chose Physical Submission (Option 3): You must send the printed and signed acknowledgment slip, along with the physical copies of your documents, to the Protean (NSDL) or UTIITSL office address mentioned on the slip within 15 days.
After processing, you will first receive an e-PAN (digital copy) via email, and then the physical PAN card will be sent to your address!
Can we apply free for a new PAN card online?
That is a great question! And the answer is Yes, you absolutely can, but there's a specific way to do it.
There are two main ways to apply for a PAN card online, and one of them is completely free of cost:
1. 🌟 The Free Option: Instant e-PAN (Recommended)
This service is provided directly by the Income Tax Department of India. It is the fastest and completely free way to get a PAN.
What you get: You receive an e-PAN (Electronic PAN), which is a digital copy (PDF) of your PAN card.
4 This e-PAN is a valid and legal document, same as the physical card.Requirements:
You must have a valid Aadhaar card.
Your mobile number must be linked to your Aadhaar card (for OTP verification).
You must not already have a PAN card.
The Best Part: The process is paperless, free, and you can get the e-PAN PDF allotted in a matter of minutes to hours.
Key Point: You only get the digital (e-PAN) copy with this free method.
2. 💳 The Paid Option: Physical PAN Card (NSDL/UTIITSL)
This is the traditional method through the official agents, Protean (formerly NSDL) or UTIITSL.
What you get: You get the physical, plastic PAN Card mailed to your address, and you usually get an e-PAN copy via email as well.
Cost: This method requires you to pay a small processing fee (currently around ₹101 to ₹107 for Indian addresses, depending on the submission mode). This fee covers the cost of processing your application, printing the card, and mailing it to you.
The Bottom Line: If you must have the physical, plastic card, you will need to pay the fee through this route.
In simple terms:
| Goal | Method to Use | Cost | What you get |
| Urgent PAN, No Cost | Instant e-PAN on Income Tax Portal | ₹0 (FREE) | Digital PAN (e-PAN) only |
| Physical Plastic Card | Application via NSDL/UTIITSL | ~₹107 | Physical Card + Digital PAN (e-PAN) |
Since you asked for the free option, the Instant e-PAN service on the Income Tax website is your best choice!
How to get PAN in 2 days?
That's a very common and practical question! When you need a PAN card quickly, the process is streamlined to get you the most important part—the e-PAN (digital copy)—in a matter of minutes to 48 hours.
The fastest way to get your PAN card is through the Instant e-PAN service provided by the Income Tax Department.
Here is a breakdown of the two methods you can use to get your PAN number in 2 days or less:
Option 1: The Fastest Way (10 Minutes to 1 Hour) 🚀
This method gets you a valid, digital copy of your PAN card (e-PAN) almost instantly.
Instant e-PAN (Aadhaar Based)
| Feature | Details |
| Speed | 10 minutes to 1 hour (The fastest method) |
| Cost | FREE |
| What you get | A legally valid e-PAN (PDF copy) sent to your email. |
| Requirements | 1. Your Aadhaar Card. 2. Your mobile number must be linked to your Aadhaar. 3. You must be a first-time applicant (never been allotted a PAN before). |
How to Apply for Instant e-PAN
Go to the Official Portal: Visit the Income Tax e-Filing portal.
Find the Service: Look for the "Instant E-PAN" link under the "Quick Links" section.
Start the Process: Click on "Get New e-PAN".
Enter Aadhaar: Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and check the confirmation box.
OTP Verification: Enter the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number for verification (e-KYC).
Validate Details: Review the details pulled automatically from your Aadhaar card and confirm they are correct.
Final Submission: Submit the application. Your e-PAN will be generated and sent to your email ID (and will be available to download on the portal) very quickly, often within 10 minutes, but generally within 48 hours.
Option 2: The Paid, Fast Way (48 Hours for e-PAN) 💳
This method uses the official Protean (NSDL) or UTIITSL portal and is the fastest way to get both the e-PAN and the physical card (though the physical card takes longer).
Online Application with e-KYC/e-Sign
| Feature | Details |
| Speed | e-PAN in ~48 hours |
| Cost | ~₹107 (Processing Fee) |
| What you get | A legally valid e-PAN (PDF copy) via email. The physical card will be mailed later (usually 10-15 working days). |
How to Apply with NSDL/UTIITSL (Fast Mode)
Visit the Portal: Go to the official Protean (NSDL) or UTIITSL website.
Select Submission Mode: On the application form, you must choose the option to submit documents "Submit digitally through e-KYC and e-Sign (Paperless)".
9 Fill the Form: Fill in all required details in Form 49A.
Pay the Fee: Make the online payment.
Aadhaar Verification: You will be prompted to verify your application using an OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number. This step replaces the need for physically sending documents.
By using the Aadhaar-based e-KYC/e-Sign option (either the Free Instant PAN or the Paid NSDL/UTIITSL method), your details are verified instantly, which drastically speeds up the processing. Your PAN number will be allotted and sent to your email within 48 hours.
Which documents are required for PAN card?
That's a smart thing to check upfront! For an Indian citizen applying for a new PAN card, the documents are generally sorted into three easy groups.
Here is the simple, step-by-step list of documents required for an individual Indian citizen:
📃 Documents Required for a New PAN Card
Step 1: Get Your Proof of Identity (POI)
This document confirms who you are. You need to submit a copy of ANY ONE of these:
Aadhaar Card (This is the most common and easiest to use!)
Voter ID Card
Passport
Driving License
Photo ID card issued by a Central or State Government entity.
Step 2: Get Your Proof of Address (POA)
This document confirms where you live. You need to submit a copy of ANY ONE of these:
Aadhaar Card (If your Aadhaar has your current address, it can cover both Identity and Address!)
Passport
Electricity Bill (Must not be older than 3 months)
Water Bill (Must not be older than 3 months)
Bank Account Statement (Must not be older than 3 months)
Post Office Passbook (with the address).
Latest Property Tax Assessment Order.
Step 3: Get Your Proof of Date of Birth (PODB)
This document confirms when you were born. You need to submit a copy of ANY ONE of these:
Aadhaar Card (Again, if it has your full Date of Birth: DD/MM/YYYY)
Birth Certificate (Issued by a Municipal Authority)
Passport
Matriculation Certificate (10th Class mark sheet/certificate)
Driving License
Pension Payment Order.
💡 Simple Tip: The Power of Aadhaar
If you have a valid Aadhaar Card that contains your photo, your correct current address, and your full Date of Birth (DD/MM/YYYY), it can usually be used as proof for ALL THREE categories!
In fact, if you use the Instant e-PAN method (the free and fastest option), all you need is your Aadhaar card linked to your mobile number, and no other documents need to be uploaded or sent!
How can I change my PAN card name?
That is a very common requirement, especially after marriage or a legal name change! You cannot simply apply for a "new" PAN card, as having two PANs is illegal.
This process is done online through the official agencies, Protean eGov (formerly NSDL) or UTIITSL.
Here is the simple, step-by-step guide on how to change your name on your PAN card:
💻 Step-by-Step Guide for PAN Card Name Change
Step 1: Start the Application Online
Go to the Official Website: Visit the official website of Protean eGov Technologies Limited (NSDL) or UTIITSL.
Select the Form: Look for the section on "PAN Services" and select "Changes or Correction in PAN Data/Reprint of PAN Card".
Fill Basic Details: Fill in the initial form, making sure to enter your existing 10-digit PAN number and your correct new name details, email, and mobile number.
6 Get Token: A Token Number will be generated. Save this number!
Step 2: Fill the Correction Form
Continue: Click on "Continue with PAN Application Form".
Tick the Box: The most important step for a name change is to tick the square box on the left margin right next to the "Full Name" field. This tells the system that you are requesting a change to this specific detail.
Enter New Name: Carefully enter your new, corrected name exactly as you want it to appear on the card.
Fill Other Details: Fill in all other mandatory details on the form (like Father's Name, Address, etc.).
Step 3: Select Document Submission Mode & Payment
Choose Submission Mode: The fastest and easiest method is "Submit digitally through e-KYC & e-Sign (Paperless)" if your new name is already updated in your Aadhaar. If not, you may need to choose the "Physical" submission mode.
Make Payment: Pay the required fee online (it is usually around ₹101 to ₹110 for Indian addresses).
Aadhaar Authentication: If you choose the paperless method, you will authenticate the form using an OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
Step 4: Provide Proof for the Name Change
This is the second most critical step. You must provide a valid document that proves your name has legally changed.
| Reason for Name Change | Document You Need to Provide (ANY ONE) |
| Change after Marriage (for women) | Marriage Certificate OR Passport showing your husband's name OR a copy of the Official Gazette Notification for the name change. |
| Change due to other reasons | A copy of the Official Gazette Notification publishing your name change OR a relevant document like a new Passport or Aadhaar Card that clearly has the new name. |
Step 5: Final Submission and Tracking
Submit the Form: After successful payment and document submission/upload, a final Acknowledgment Receipt will be generated.
Track Status: Use the 15-digit Acknowledgment Number to track the status of your name correction online.
Once your application is approved, the e-PAN (digital copy) with the new name will be sent to your email (usually within a few days), and the physical PAN card will be mailed to your address shortly after.
What is next if I lost my PAN card?
That's stressful, but don't worry—losing your PAN card is a very common issue, and the process to fix it is straightforward!
You don't need to apply for a "new" PAN card, because you already have a permanent PAN number. What you need is a "Reprint" or "Duplicate" of your existing card.
Here is the simple, step-by-step guide on what to do next:
🧐 What to Do if You Lost Your PAN Card
Step 1: Get Your PAN Number
The first thing you need is your 10-digit PAN number. You will need it to apply for a reprint.
Check Your Records: Look through your old income tax returns, salary slips, bank account opening forms, or investment documents (like mutual funds or demat accounts). Your PAN number should be on one of those.
Don't Know It? If you cannot find it, you can use the Income Tax Department's "Know Your PAN" service online. You will need to enter your name and date of birth to retrieve it.
Step 2: Apply for a "Reprint of PAN Card"
Once you have your PAN number, you need to use the official facility offered by the authorized agencies: Protean eGov (formerly NSDL) or UTIITSL.
Visit the Website: Go to the official Protean or UTIITSL website.
Find the Service: Look for the link that says "Reprint of PAN Card" or "Request for PAN Change/Correction" (and select the "Reprint" option inside).
Fill the Request Form:
Enter your existing 10-digit PAN number.
Enter your Aadhaar number.
Enter your Date of Birth.
Validate Contact Info: You will need to validate your request by receiving an OTP (One-Time Password) on your mobile number or email ID that is linked to your PAN/Aadhaar records.
Pay the Fee: You will have to pay a small fee online (around ₹50 for delivery within India). This covers the cost of printing and mailing the card.
Step 3: Wait for the New Card
After you successfully submit the request and pay the fee, the system will process your application.
Digital Copy (e-PAN): You will usually receive a digital copy (e-PAN) in your email within a few hours to 2-3 days. This is a legally valid document you can use immediately.
Physical Card: The physical plastic card will be printed and mailed to the address linked to your PAN/Aadhaar. This usually takes around 10 to 15 working days to reach you.
⚠️ Important Note: What NOT to do
Do NOT apply for a "New PAN" card (Form 49A). This is illegal and can result in a fine, as you are not allowed to have two PANs. Always use the "Reprint" or "Correction" facility for a lost card.
Can I have two PAN cards?
That is a very important question, and I need to be clear: No, you absolutely cannot have two Permanent Account Number (PAN) cards.
The PAN is designed to be a Permanent Account Number and a unique identifier for all financial and tax transactions. The law is very strict on this.
Here’s a breakdown of why it's illegal and what you need to do if you accidentally have two:
🛑 Why You Can Only Have One PAN Card
It's Illegal: The Income Tax Act of India (Section 139A and 272B) clearly states that a person must not hold more than one PAN.
Strict Penalty: If the Income Tax Department discovers that you have two different PAN numbers, you can face a heavy penalty of up to (₹10,000).
Financial Complications: Having two PANs can cause huge confusion in your tax records, delay refunds, and make it difficult to file your Income Tax Returns (ITR) or apply for loans/investments, as banks see it as a red flag.
Common Reasons People End Up With Two PANs (Mistakes):
You applied for a card, didn't receive it quickly, and then applied again.
A woman changes her surname after marriage and mistakenly applies for a brand new PAN instead of requesting a name correction on the old one.
✅ What to Do If You Accidentally Have Two PANs
If you realize that you were accidentally allotted two different PAN numbers, you must surrender (cancel) the extra one immediately to avoid the penalty.
Here is the simple process to surrender the duplicate PAN:
Step 1: Choose the PAN to Retain
Decide which PAN card number you want to keep and actively use (it is usually the older or the one with all correct details).
Step 2: Apply for Surrender
Visit the Official Portal: Go to the official website of Protean eGov (formerly NSDL) or UTIITSL.
Select the Form: Choose the "Changes or Correction in PAN Data/Reprint of PAN Card" option.
Fill the Form: On the form, you will enter the PAN number you want to KEEP at the top.
Mention the Duplicate PAN: On the form (usually in section 11), there will be a specific field labeled "Mention other Permanent Account Numbers (PANs) if any, inadvertently allotted to you." List the duplicate PAN number(s) you want to surrender here.
Submit and Pay: Complete the rest of the form, pay the small fee, and submit the application.
Step 3: Write a Letter (Optional but Recommended)
It is a good idea to write a simple letter to your Jurisdictional Assessing Officer (AO) stating clearly:
Your full name and address.
The PAN you want to retain.
The PAN you want to surrender/cancel.
The reason you ended up with two PANs (e.g., "accidental multiple application").
Then, submit this letter, along with a copy of the duplicate PAN card and the application acknowledgment, to your local Income Tax office.
By taking these steps to voluntarily surrender the extra PAN, you show the department that it was an honest mistake and you will likely avoid any penalty.