A PAN card is a laminated plastic card, similar in size to a credit card, issued by the Income Tax Department. It functions as a photo identity proof and contains the unique 10-digit Permanent Account Number.
- It displays the cardholder's photograph, signature, name, father's name (for individuals), and date of birth or date of incorporation.
- The 10-digit alphanumeric PAN has a fixed structure, where the fourth character denotes the cardholder's status (e.g., 'P' for Individual).
- Newer cards often include an Enhanced QR Code for easy digital verification of the details.