Introduction

In the digital age, managing personal information online has become essential, especially on platforms related to healthcare and government services. One such important platform in India is CoWIN, the official portal for COVID-19 vaccination registration and certification. Updating your mobile number on CoWIN is a crucial task for those who have changed their contact details and want to ensure seamless communication regarding vaccination appointments, certificates, and alerts.

This tutorial provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to update your mobile number on the CoWIN platform efficiently. Whether you have changed your phone number or want to link a new number for better accessibility, understanding this process is vital. Additionally, we explore best practices, useful tools, real-world examples, and frequently asked questions to help you navigate this update smoothly.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Visit the Official CoWIN Website

Begin by opening your preferred web browser and navigating to the official CoWIN portal at https://www.cowin.gov.in. This is the primary platform for vaccine registration, appointment scheduling, and profile management.

Step 2: Log In to Your Account

Click on the Sign In button located at the top-right corner of the homepage. You will be prompted to enter your registered mobile number. Since you want to update this number, use your existing registered mobile number to receive the OTP (One-Time Password) for login verification.

After entering the OTP, you will be logged into your CoWIN account dashboard.

Step 3: Access Your Profile

Once logged in, locate and click on your profile icon or name on the dashboard. This action will take you to your personal details page where your current mobile number and other information are displayed.

Step 4: Understand Mobile Number Update Policy

Currently, CoWIN does not allow direct editing of the registered mobile number from the user dashboard. This security measure is to prevent unauthorized changes and ensure data integrity. Therefore, you cannot simply replace your old mobile number with a new one via the portal.

However, there are alternative methods to update your mobile number on CoWIN which we will cover next.

Step 5: Alternative Method - Register Using New Mobile Number

The recommended way to update your mobile number is to register again on CoWIN using your new mobile number. This involves creating a fresh profile associated with the new number.

Heres how to do it:

• Log out from your existing CoWIN account.
• On the CoWIN homepage, click on Register / Sign In and enter your new mobile number.
• Complete the registration process by entering the OTP sent to the new number.
• Fill in your personal details such as name, ID proof, and vaccination history as required.

By registering with the new mobile number, you will be able to receive all notifications and updates on that number going forward.

Step 6: Link Existing Vaccination Records to New Profile

Since your vaccination history is linked to your previous profile, it is essential to transfer or link your vaccination certificates to your new account. This can be done by:

• Logging into your new CoWIN account.
• Clicking on Add Member and entering the details exactly as in your previous vaccination record.
• Alternatively, download your vaccination certificate using your old number and upload or link it to your new profile.

This ensures continuity and access to all past vaccination data under your new mobile number.

Step 7: Update Mobile Number on DigiLocker (Optional)

CoWIN vaccination certificates are linked to DigiLocker accounts as well. If you use DigiLocker to store your vaccination certificates, update your mobile number there to maintain consistency.

Log into your DigiLocker account, navigate to the profile settings, and update your mobile number accordingly.

Step 8: Verify the Update and Receive Notifications

Once registered with the new number and linked to your vaccination records, verify that you receive OTPs and notifications on your updated mobile number. This confirms that the update process has been successful.

Best Practices

Use a Valid and Active Mobile Number

Always ensure that the mobile number you register with on CoWIN is active and accessible. This is important because all OTPs, appointment alerts, and vaccination certificates are sent via SMS to this number.

Maintain Consistency in Personal Details

When registering with a new mobile number, provide accurate and consistent personal information including your name as per official ID proof, date of birth, and gender. This helps in seamless linking of vaccination records and prevents discrepancies.

Keep Your ID Proof Ready

During registration or adding members, you will be asked to provide valid identity proof such as Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, or others. Keep a scanned copy or physical document handy for quick reference.

Download and Backup Vaccination Certificates

After updating your mobile number and linking your vaccine records, download copies of your vaccination certificates. Store them securely on your device or cloud storage to avoid any future inconvenience.

Regularly Check for Updates

The CoWIN portal is frequently updated with new features and policies. Keep an eye on official announcements and update your details accordingly to stay compliant and informed.

Tools and Resources

CoWIN Official Website

The primary platform for all vaccination-related activities is the CoWIN portal (https://www.cowin.gov.in). It offers registration, appointment scheduling, certificate download, and profile management.

DigiLocker

DigiLocker (https://digilocker.gov.in) is a government-backed digital storage platform that allows you to store vaccination certificates securely. Linking your CoWIN certificates here provides easy access anytime.

UMANG App

The UMANG app integrates multiple government services, including CoWIN. It provides an alternative way to register, check vaccination status, and download certificates.

Government ID Proof Documents

Keep your Aadhaar card, PAN card, Passport, or other accepted ID proofs ready for verification during CoWIN registration and updates.

Mobile Phone with SMS Capability

An active mobile phone capable of receiving SMS is crucial for OTP verification and communication from CoWIN.

Real Examples

Example 1: Updating Mobile Number After SIM Change

Ravi recently switched his mobile service provider and got a new SIM card with a different number. To continue receiving vaccination updates, he logged out of his old CoWIN account, registered again using his new number, and added his previous vaccination details. He downloaded the certificates and saved them on DigiLocker. Ravi verified that he received OTPs on his new number before scheduling the second dose.

Example 2: Family Registration with Multiple Numbers

Priya wanted to register her entire family for vaccination. Each member had a different mobile number, so she created separate CoWIN accounts for each person using their respective numbers. After completing the registrations, she ensured that all details matched their ID proofs and downloaded the certificates for each member.

Example 3: Linking Vaccination Certificates to New Mobile Number

Sunil lost access to his old phone number and registered on CoWIN with a new number. He then used the Add Member feature to input his vaccination details and linked his previous certificates to the new account. This allowed him to download updated certificates without any hassle.

FAQs

Can I directly change my mobile number on CoWIN?

No, CoWIN currently does not support direct mobile number changes on an existing profile. You need to create a new account with the updated number and link your vaccination details accordingly.

Will I lose my vaccination history if I register with a new mobile number?

No, you can add existing vaccination details to your new profile by entering the same personal information and ID details. Make sure to download vaccination certificates before switching accounts.

Is it mandatory to update my mobile number on CoWIN?

While not mandatory, updating your mobile number ensures you receive timely notifications about vaccination appointments, certificates, and important updates.

Can I use the same Aadhaar number for multiple mobile numbers on CoWIN?

Yes, the same Aadhaar number can be linked to multiple registrations if required, but it is advisable to maintain consistency to avoid confusion.

How do I download my vaccination certificate after updating my mobile number?

Log in to your new CoWIN account, go to the Certificate section, and download the available vaccination certificates linked to your profile.

Conclusion

Updating your mobile number on CoWIN is a necessary step to maintain uninterrupted access to vaccination services and information. Although direct number changes on existing profiles are not supported, registering anew with your updated number and linking your vaccination records is a practical solution. By following the detailed steps and best practices outlined here, you can ensure your vaccination journey remains smooth and hassle-free.

Remember to keep your personal information consistent, secure your vaccination certificates, and regularly check for updates on the CoWIN platform. With these measures, staying informed and protected during the ongoing health crisis becomes easier and more efficient.