ESIC Pehchan card guide

The Pehchan card is the identity card of an insured person under the ESI scheme. It is how ESIC facilities identify you and your registered family members when you seek treatment or other benefits. This guide explains what it is, how to get it, and what to do if something is wrong.

What is the Pehchan card?

"Pehchan" means identity. The card carries your details, including your insurance number (sometimes called your IP number or ESIC number), your photograph, and the details of family members registered with you. Today it is commonly issued as an e-Pehchan card, a document generated online that you can download and print.

Your insurance number is the key piece of information. It stays with you even if you change employers, so keep a note of it in a safe place.

How does ESIC registration work?

Under the ESI scheme, it is generally the employer's responsibility to register eligible employees with ESIC through ESIC's online portal. Once you are registered:

1. An insurance number is generated for you;
2. Your personal and family details, and photographs, are recorded;
3. The e-Pehchan card can be generated and printed.

If you have joined a new job and believe you should be covered, ask your HR team whether you have been registered and request your insurance number. If you have worked in an ESI-covered job before, give your new employer your existing insurance number so that a duplicate is not created.

How do I download my e-Pehchan card?

You can get your e-Pehchan card through your employer, who generates it on the ESIC portal after registering you, or from the official ESIC website; an ESIC branch office can also help. The usual routes are:

• Through your employer. Employers can generate and print the e-Pehchan card from the ESIC portal after registering you. This is often the simplest route.
• From the official ESIC website. ESIC has provided online access for insured persons to view and print their details. Check esic.gov.in for the current process.
• At an ESIC branch office. Staff can help if you cannot get it online.

Adding family members

Eligible dependants (typically including a spouse, children, and in some cases dependent parents, subject to ESIC's conditions) can be registered on your record so they can use ESIC medical care. To add them, you usually provide their details and photographs through your employer or branch office. The exact eligibility conditions for each type of dependant are set by ESIC; check esic.gov.in or ask your branch office.

Make sure family members are added before they need care. It avoids problems at the registration counter.

Using your card at a facility

Carry your e-Pehchan card (printed or on your phone) or at least your insurance number, along with a photo ID, whenever you visit an ESIC dispensary or hospital. Family members should carry the card or a copy showing they are registered. See the full list in documents required for ESIC services.

Common problems and what to do

Wrong name, date of birth or other details

Ask your employer to check the details on the ESIC portal. Some corrections can be made by the employer; others may need a visit to the branch office with supporting documents. Check which applies on esic.gov.in or at your branch office.

Lost card

Because the e-Pehchan card is generated online, you can usually print it again through your employer or the official website. Knowing your insurance number makes this much easier.

Two insurance numbers

If a new employer registered you again instead of using your existing number, tell your HR team and contact your ESIC branch office. Having one number keeps your contribution and benefit history in one place.

Photo or family details missing

Ask your employer or branch office to update them. Missing photos can cause delays at facilities.

Keep your details safe

• Do not share your ESIC login details or OTPs with anyone;
• Keep a copy of your insurance number separate from the card;
• Share your card only with your employer, ESIC and healthcare staff who need it.

Want to understand what your card entitles you to? Read ESIC benefits explained or visit our FAQ.

Related ESIC guides: how to find an ESIC hospital, ESIC appointment guide, ESIC benefits explained, documents required for ESIC. Quick reference: ESIC benefits at a glance · ESIC hospital and dispensary finder · all ESIC guides.

Source: ESIC (esic.gov.in) · Last reviewed: 25 September 2026 · Always confirm current rules on the official website