In India, individuals with disabilities are entitled to various government benefits and support systems, but to avail of these, having an official Disability Certificate commonly known as a Handicapped Certificate is essential. This certificate acts as proof of disability and eligibility for schemes like educational and job reservations, financial assistance, travel concessions, and medical support. This blog will guide you through the step-by-step process to apply for the certificate, both online and offline, along with required documents, eligibility, and tips for a smooth experience.
Who Can Apply
Any Indian citizen who has a specified degree of disability (40% or more) as defined under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016 can apply. This includes:
Physical Disability
Visual or Hearing Impairment
Mental Retardation or Mental Illness
Multiple Disabilities
Autism, Cerebral Palsy, and other conditions notified by the government
Step-by-Step Process to Apply
Register on UDID Portal (for online application)
The government of India launched the UDID (Unique Disability ID) portal for streamlined application and digital certificates.
Steps:
Go to the UDID portal
Click on “Apply Online”
Select “New Disability Certificate”
Fill out the personal, contact, and disability details
Upload necessary documents
Submit the application
Required Documents
Keep scanned copies of the following documents ready:
Recent passport-size photo
Aadhaar card
Address proof (Ration Card / Voter ID / Passport etc.)
Medical records and reports
School certificate or age proof
Application Form (if applying offline)
Two passport-size photographs
Disability Assessment Form (if issued by hospital)
Medical Assessment
Once the application is submitted, you will be called for a medical assessment at a designated government hospital. A medical board or specialist will evaluate and certify the extent of your disability.
Note: If applying offline, visit the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of the district with all documents and medical reports.
Issuance of Certificate
After successful verification and assessment:
A Disability Certificate will be issued by the CMO or the authorized medical board.
If applied via the UDID portal, you will receive a digital certificate and UDID card, which you can download and print.
Timeline: Usually issued within 30 days of application, depending on the district.
Benefits of Having a Disability Certificate
With a valid certificate, individuals are eligible for:
Reservation in education and government jobs
Concession in railway and air travel
Financial assistance and scholarships
Income tax exemption
Free assistive devices (under ADIP scheme)
Special pensions and insurance schemes
Offline Application Option
You can also apply offline by visiting:
Government Civil Hospital
District Disability Welfare Office
CMO Office
Collect the application form, attach required documents, and undergo the medical test at the hospital.
Tips and Suggestions
Ensure your medical documents are recent and relevant
Keep multiple copies of all documents
Track your application status on the UDID portal
Renew the certificate as per validity (some are permanent, some are periodic)
Helpline and Support
For queries, contact the UDID helpdesk:
Phone: 1800-11-2046 (toll-free)
The Handicapped or Disability Certificate is not just a document it is a key that unlocks access to government assistance and empowers individuals with disabilities to lead better and more independent lives. Whether you choose the online UDID portal or the traditional offline route, having the right information and documents in place can make the process smooth and stress-free. Don’t delay apply today and make full use of the rights and resources available to you.
In India, individuals with disabilities are entitled to various government benefits and support systems, but to avail of these, having an official Disability Certificate commonly known as a Handicapped Certificate is essential. This certificate acts as proof of disability and eligibility for schemes like educational and job reservations, financial assistance, travel concessions, and medical support. This blog will guide you through the step-by-step process to apply for the certificate, both online and offline, along with required documents, eligibility, and tips for a smooth experience.
