Are you planning to apply for your first PAN card but aren’t sure where to start? Don’t worry. The process is fairly simple once you know which website to use and what documents you need.
A PAN (Permanent Account Number) is a unique 10-character alphanumeric number issued by the Income Tax Department of India. It is used for income tax purposes and various financial transactions, including banking and investments.
You can apply for a PAN card online through authorised service providers. Eligible individuals can also obtain a free Instant e-PAN through the Income Tax Department.
Here’s how both methods work.
Documents Required for PAN Card Application
Before applying, keep your personal information and supporting documents ready.
Generally, applicants need documents establishing:
Identity: Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID or another accepted identity document.
Address: Aadhaar card, passport, recent utility bill or another accepted address document.
Date of birth: Birth certificate, passport, matriculation certificate or another approved document.
An Aadhaar number is normally required for Indian applicants, except in exempted cases.
Important: An Aadhaar card is accepted as identity and address proof, but is not listed as date-of-birth proof under the 2026 PAN application rules. Check the official document list before submitting your application.
How to Apply for PAN Card Online
The Income Tax Department authorises Protean eGov and UTIITSL to accept PAN applications.
Under the Income Tax Rules, 2026, Indian individual applicants use Form 93, which replaced the earlier Form 49A from April 1, 2026.
Other applicant categories have different forms.
Step 3: Enter Your Personal Details
Complete the application with your name, date of birth, contact information, address and other required details.
Double-check your spelling and personal information. Incorrect details can cause verification problems.
Step 4: Complete Document Verification
Depending on the application method, you may be able to use digital verification or submit supporting documents through the prescribed physical process.
Follow the instructions displayed by your chosen provider.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Review your details and pay the applicable fee using an available payment method.
After successful submission, save your acknowledgement or reference number. You’ll need it to track your application.
How to Get a Free Instant e-PAN Card
If you don’t need a physical card immediately, the government’s Instant e-PAN service may be a convenient option.
The service is free, but it is available only to eligible individuals who have not previously been allotted a PAN.
You must be an adult, have a valid Aadhaar linked to an active mobile number and have access to DigiLocker with an accepted date-of-birth document.
Select Instant e-PAN from the Quick Links section.
Click Get New e-PAN.
Confirm your eligibility and provide the required consent.
Complete DigiLocker verification and share the requested date-of-birth proof.
Complete Aadhaar OTP authentication and enter the remaining requested details.
Submit the request and save the acknowledgement number.
After your e-PAN is allotted, you can download it from the Income Tax e-Filing portal.
An e-PAN is a valid electronic form of PAN. However, the Instant e-PAN facility does not automatically provide a physical laminated card.
PAN Card Application Fees in 2026
The cost depends on your application method and whether you request a physical card.
The Income Tax Department publishes the following charges for applications with an Indian communication address:
Application Method
Fee
Instant e-PAN through Income Tax portal
Free
Digital application with physical PAN card
₹101
Digital application without physical card
₹66
Physical-mode application with PAN card
₹107
An additional ₹5.90 e-sign charge applies where required for the digital application. Fees for delivery outside India are different.
Always confirm the final amount shown on the authorised application website before making payment.
How to Check PAN Card Application Status
Already submitted your application? You can track its progress online.
Visit the Protean eGov or UTIITSL website, open the PAN application tracking facility and enter your acknowledgement or reference number.
For Instant e-PAN applications, use the Check Status / Download e-PAN option on the Income Tax portal and complete Aadhaar OTP verification.
Processing time varies, so avoid relying on websites promising guaranteed approval within a fixed number of days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Apply for a PAN Card Without Aadhaar?
Aadhaar is generally required for Indian applicants, except for categories specifically exempted under the applicable rules.
Can a Student Apply for a PAN Card?
Yes. Students can apply for PAN if they meet the applicable requirements. A parent or guardian can apply on behalf of a minor through the appropriate procedure.
Is a Physical PAN Card Mandatory?
No. A valid e-PAN can be used as electronic proof of PAN. You can request a physical card when needed.
Can I Apply for Another PAN If I Lose My Card?
No. If you already have a PAN, request a reprint or correction using your existing PAN instead of applying for another number.
Final Words
Applying for a PAN card online in India doesn’t have to be complicated. You can use an authorised PAN service provider or choose the free Instant e-PAN facility if you’re eligible.
Before applying, check your documents, enter your information carefully and use only official websites.
