How to Apply for a PAN Card Online: Free Instant e-PAN Guide (2026)

A PAN (Permanent Account Number) is needed to file income tax returns, open many bank and investment accounts, and for large transactions. If you don’t have one yet, you can get it online — often in minutes and for free — using the Income Tax Department’s Instant e-PAN service. This guide explains who can use it, each step, and the other official route if Instant e-PAN doesn’t work for you.

Can you use Instant e-PAN?

According to the Income Tax Department, you can use Instant e-PAN if you:

• Do not already have a PAN
• Have a valid Aadhaar linked to an active mobile number (for OTP)
• Can access DigiLocker, which provides your date-of-birth proof

It is not available to minors, to anyone who already holds a PAN, or to a “Representative Assessee”.

How to get a free e-PAN: step by step

1. Open the Income Tax e-Filing portal.
2. Under Quick Links, click Instant e-PAN.
3. Click Get New e-PAN.
4. You are taken to DigiLocker. Choose a date-of-birth document, confirm it, and click Allow.
5. Optionally validate the email linked to your Aadhaar with a 6-digit OTP.
6. Note your Acknowledgement Number. A confirmation is also sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile.

How to check status and download your e-PAN

1. On the e-Filing home page, click Instant e-PAN under Quick Links.
2. On the Check Status / Download e-PAN tile, click Continue.
3. Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and click Continue.
4. Enter the OTP and click Validate Aadhaar OTP and Continue.
5. Choose View e-PAN or Download e-PAN.

After you receive your e-PAN, register on the e-Filing portal to log in and file returns later.

Other way: apply through Protean or UTIITSL

If your date-of-birth document isn’t in DigiLocker, if you want a physical PAN card, or if you aren’t eligible for Instant e-PAN, apply through the Income Tax Department’s authorised PAN service providers:

• Protean (formerly NSDL e-Gov)
• UTIITSL

These applications use the PAN application form, ask for identity, address and date-of-birth proof, and charge a fee. Always check the current fee and document list on the provider’s official website before paying, and never use unofficial “PAN card” sites or agents.

Instant e-PAN vs regular application

Frequently asked questions

Is Instant e-PAN free?

Yes. The Income Tax Department says the Instant e-PAN service is free of cost.

Is e-PAN valid like a PAN card?

e-PAN is a digitally signed PAN issued in electronic form by the Income Tax Department.

Why do I need DigiLocker for Instant e-PAN?

DigiLocker supplies your date-of-birth proof (such as a driving licence, birth certificate or Class X marksheet) during the process.

Can a minor get Instant e-PAN?

No. Instant e-PAN is not available to minors. Apply through Protean or UTIITSL instead.

I already have a PAN. Can I get another?

No. Holding more than one PAN is not allowed. If you lost your card, download your e-PAN or request a reprint instead.

Steps checked against the Income Tax Department’s Instant e-PAN help page in October 2026.