PAN Forms & Documents Guide: Requirements, Specifications & Acceptable Proof

Yes. Aadhaar card is the most convenient option as it serves as valid proof for identity, address, and date of birth simultaneously. This means you only need to upload one document for all three requirements. Ensure your Aadhaar details (name, address, DOB) are correct and up-to-date before using it for PAN application.

Minor spelling variations may be acceptable, but it's best to ensure exact name match across all documents, especially with Aadhaar. Significant differences (different surname, missing middle name, extra initials) can cause verification issues and application rejection. If discrepancies exist, get your Aadhaar corrected first to match other documents, then apply for PAN. See our PAN-Aadhaar name mismatch guide for details.

For online applications: Scan or photograph original documents and upload digital copies. Physical documents are not required. For offline applications at PAN centers: Self-attested photocopies are acceptable - sign across each photocopy page stating "true copy". Original documents are never submitted - you only show them for verification at the center.

You have two options: (1) Use address proof in parent's or spouse's name along with relationship proof document (birth certificate, marriage certificate), or (2) Update your Aadhaar card with current address and use Aadhaar as single proof for all categories. The second option is simpler and recommended. You can update Aadhaar address online through UIDAI portal.

For online applications through NSDL/UTIITSL portals: No attestation needed - just upload scanned/photographed documents directly. For offline applications at PAN service centers: Self-attestation required on all document photocopies - sign and write "true copy" on each page. Some centers may also require you to show original documents for verification.

No. Mobile phone bills (both prepaid and postpaid) are NOT accepted as address proof for PAN application. Only landline telephone bills or broadband connection bills are acceptable (and must be within 3 months). For address proof, use Aadhaar, voter ID, passport, driving license, electricity bill, or bank statement instead.

Utility bills (electricity, water, gas, landline) must NOT be older than 3 months from the date of PAN application submission. Bills older than 3 months are automatically rejected. Bank statements must also be within 3 months. Identity documents like Aadhaar, voter ID, passport, and driving license don't have this restriction as long as they are valid/not expired.

If your document PDF exceeds 1 MB or photo/signature exceeds 50 KB, you need to compress them. For PDFs: Use online compression tools or reduce scan resolution (200-300 DPI is sufficient). For photos: Resize image dimensions and reduce quality slightly while maintaining clarity. Ensure compressed files remain readable and clear - blurry documents will be rejected even if size is correct.

Yes. This is common and recommended. For example, Aadhaar card contains name (identity), address, and date of birth - satisfying all three proof requirements with single document. Similarly, passport can serve as identity and DOB proof. Driving license with DOB can serve as identity, address, and DOB proof. You don't need to submit three different documents if one document covers multiple categories.

No. Notarization is NOT required for most documents. Standard identity, address, and DOB proof documents don't need notarization. Exception: Registered rent/lease agreements should be notarized if using them as address proof. For online applications, self-attested scans are sufficient. For offline applications at centers, self-attestation with "true copy" signature is enough.