A permanent account number (PAN) is a ten-character alphanumeric identifier, issued in the form of a laminated “PAN card”, by the Indian Income Tax Department, to any “person” who applies for it or to whom the department allots the number without an application.

A PAN card helps the Income-tax Authority in keeping a track of all financial transactions that may be essential in assessing an individual or companies tax liability, it helps in reducing the chances of tax evasion. … The PAN number is unique to every entity who holds a PAN card.

Eligibility to Apply a PAN Card

The applicant must be a citizen of India with the valid documents listed above that is with a valid address, an identity of proof and date of birth. In case you are a minor, your parents can apply for the PAN card on your behalf.

Identity proof documents (any one of them):
1. 3 Passport size photograph
2. Passport
3. Driving license
4. Voter ID card
5. Aadhaar card issued by the UIDAI

Address proof document (any one of them):
1. Passport
2. Driving license
3. Voter ID card
4. Aadhaar card issued by the UIDAI.