A Voter ID card is an important identity proof in India. It is used not only for voting but also for many official and verification purposes.
If your name on the Voter ID is incorrect or has changed due to marriage, spelling mistakes, or legal reasons, it is important to update it. Even a small error can create problems during elections or document verification.
The name change process is simple and can be done either online or offline. In this guide, we explain the steps clearly so you can update your Voter ID without any confusion.
Reasons To change name in Voter ID Card
Spelling mistakes or typing errors
Sometimes, the name on the Voter ID is misspelled or has small typing mistakes. Even if it looks minor, it can cause confusion during voting or when the card is used as an identity proof. Fixing it early saves a lot of trouble later.
Change of surname after marriage
After marriage, many people choose to change or add their spouse’s surname. To keep your records correct and consistent, it makes sense to update the same name on your Voter ID as well.
Legal name change
People may legally change their name for personal, professional, or other reasons. Once the name is officially changed, updating it on the Voter ID helps ensure that your identity documents reflect who you are today.
Name not matching other documents
If your Voter ID name does not match your Aadhaar, PAN, or passport, it can create problems during verification. Updating the Voter ID helps keep all your documents aligned and avoids unnecessary questions.
Issues with initials or name order
In some cases, initials are missing, added incorrectly, or the order of the name is wrong. These small details matter, especially in official records, so correcting them makes your Voter ID accurate and reliable.
Eligibility for name Change in Votor ID
You can apply for a name change in your Voter ID card if you meet the following conditions:
You are a registered voter in India
Your name must already be registered as a voter. Only existing voters can request a correction or update in their details.
Your details are present in the electoral roll
Your name should appear in the official electoral roll of your constituency. If your details are missing, you may need to register first before requesting any changes.
You have valid documents to support the change
You must provide proper documents as proof for the name change. This can include Aadhaar, PAN, marriage certificate, gazette notification, or any other legally accepted document.
Meeting these conditions makes the name change process smooth and hassle free.
Documents Required for Voter ID Name Change
If you want to change or correct your name on your Voter ID card, you’ll need to provide some valid documents. These help the election authorities verify your request and make sure the updated name is accurate. Submitting clear and correct documents can make the process smoother and faster.
Identity Proof with Correct Name
You need to submit at least one government-issued identity proof that shows your correct and full name. Any of the following documents are accepted:
Aadhaar Card – This is the most commonly used proof. Make sure the name on your Aadhaar matches exactly with the name you want on your Voter ID.
Passport – Useful if your name is already updated on your passport, especially for legal name changes.
PAN Card – Can be used if your name is correct and spelled properly.
Driving License – Valid if it shows your full and correct name.
Supporting Documents (If Applicable)
In some cases, you might need additional documents to support your name change:
Marriage Certificate – Needed if you are changing your surname after marriage.
Gazette Notification – Required for legal name changes. This is an official government document confirming your new name.
Affidavit for Name Change – A notarized affidavit stating your old and new name can also be submitted.
Before submitting your application, double-check that your document clearly shows your full name and has no spelling mistakes or missing initials. Any unclear or mismatched documents can delay the process or even lead to rejection.
How to Change Name in Voter ID Card Online
If you want to update your name on your Voter ID without visiting the election office, you can do it online through the National Voters’ Service Portal (NVSP). The process is simple and can be done from the comfort of your home.
Step-by-Step Process (Online)
- Visit the NVSP website – Go to the official National Voters’ Service Portal.
- Log in – Use your mobile number or email ID to log in.
- Select the form – Choose Form 8 – Correction of entries in the electoral roll.
- Enter your Voter ID details – Fill in your EPIC (Voter ID) number.
- Choose Name Correction – Select the option to correct or update your name.
- Enter the correct name – Type your updated name carefully as you want it to appear on your Voter ID.
- Upload supporting documents – Attach the documents that prove your name change, like Aadhaar, passport, marriage certificate, affidavit, or gazette notification.
- Submit the application – Once everything is filled in, submit the form.
- Save the reference number – Note down the reference number to track the status of your application later.
Once submitted, your application will be verified by the election authorities. After verification, your Voter ID will be updated with the correct name.
How to Change Name in Voter ID Card Offline
If you prefer doing things in person, you can update your Voter ID name by visiting your local election office. The offline process is straightforward and doesn’t take much time.
Step-by-Step Process (Offline)
- Visit your local election office – Go to the Electoral Registration Office (ERO) or contact your Booth Level Officer (BLO).
- Collect Form 8 – This form is used for correcting details in the electoral roll, including name changes.
- Fill in your details – Carefully enter your correct name and other required information in the form.
- Attach supporting documents – Include self-attested copies of the documents that prove your name change, such as Aadhaar, passport, marriage certificate, affidavit, or gazette notification.
- Submit the form – Hand over the filled form along with the documents to the ERO or BLO.
- Collect the acknowledgment slip – Make sure to get an acknowledgment receipt. It contains a reference number that you can use to track the status of your application.
Once submitted, the election office will verify your documents, and your Voter ID will be updated with the correct name.
Other Important Details About Voter ID Name Change
Form Used – To update or correct your name, you need to fill Form 8. This form is used for correcting personal details like name, age, address, or photo in the electoral roll.
Fee – The name change process is completely free. Whether you apply online or offline, there is no charge for updating your Voter ID.
Processing Time – Usually, it takes about 2 to 4 weeks for the name change to be processed. The duration may vary depending on verification and your location.
How to Track Your Voter ID Name Change
Once you’ve submitted your application, it’s easy to see where it stands.
- Go to the NVSP website.
- Look for the option that says “Track Application Status”.
- Enter the reference number you got when you submitted your form.
That’s it! You’ll be able to see if your request is being processed, verified, or completed. It’s a simple way to stay updated without having to call or visit the office.
How to Download Your Updated Voter ID Card
- After your name change is approved, getting your updated Voter ID is simple.
- You can download the e-EPIC, which is the digital version of your Voter ID, directly from the NVSP website.
- If applicable, a physical card will also be sent to your address by post.
This way, you’ll have both a digital copy for immediate use and a physical card for official purposes.
FAQs on Voter ID Name Change
Can I change my name on the Voter ID after marriage?
Yes! If you want to update your surname after marriage, you can do so by submitting your marriage certificate or any updated ID proof showing your new name.
Is a Gazette notification mandatory?
Not always. You only need a Gazette notification if it’s a legal name change. For simple spelling corrections, it’s not required.
Can I apply without my EPIC number?
It’s always better to have your EPIC (Voter ID) number handy, but even if you don’t, you can still apply using your personal details like name, address, and date of birth.
Will my Voter ID number change after the name update?
Nope. Your EPIC number stays the same even after your name is corrected.
Can I make corrections multiple times?
Yes, you can. But only one request is processed at a time, so you’ll need to wait for the current update to be completed before submitting another.
How long does it take for the name change to reflect?
Typically, it takes 2 to 4 weeks, but the time may vary depending on verification and your location.
Do I need to pay any fee for changing the name?
No, the process is completely free whether you apply online or offline.
Can I track my application status?
Yes! You can track it on the NVSP website using the reference number you received when submitting the form.
Will I get a physical Voter ID after the change?
You’ll get a digital Voter ID (e-EPIC) immediately after approval, and if applicable, a physical card will be sent to your address by post.
What if my documents have minor spelling mistakes?
Even small spelling errors can delay the process. Make sure your supporting documents are clear and correctly spelled to avoid rejection.
Can I update other details at the same time?
Yes! Using Form 8, you can also correct your age, address, or photo along with your name if needed.
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