IRCTC Updates Tatkal Rules from July 2025: Aadhaar Required for Online Bookings

Indian Railways, the lifeline of India, is rolling out significant changes to its Tatkal ticket booking system, effective July 1, 2025. These updates aim to streamline the process, enhance security, and ensure a fairer chance for genuine travellers.

If you rely on Tatkal bookings for your urgent travel needs, it’s crucial to understand these new regulations.

New Tatkal Booking Rules 2025

India’s Tatkal ticket booking system, popular among last-minute train travellers, is getting a significant overhaul. From 1 July 2025, new rules will apply to all Tatkal reservations made via the IRCTC platform, PRS counters, and authorised agents.

1. Aadhaar Now Key for Online Tatkal Bookings!

If you’re booking Tatkal tickets through the IRCTC website or app, Aadhaar verification will be compulsory from 1 July 2025. Only users authenticated with Aadhaar will be allowed to complete bookings.

• OTP-based Aadhaar verification will be enabled from 15 July 2025, offering a secure and seamless login process.
• Ensure your Aadhaar is linked to your IRCTC profile in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

2. OTP Verification Required for Non-Aadhaar Users at PRS Counters

Even if you’re booking offline, there are changes you need to note:

• From 15 July 2025, PRS counters and authorised agents (YTSK) will require OTP-based verification.
• The OTP will be sent to the mobile number of the person booking the ticket, ensuring better identity verification and reducing misuse.

3. Travel Agents Face Booking Restrictions

To curb bulk or early travel agent bookings that block genuine users, IRCTC has introduced stricter booking windows for agents:

• Authorised agents are banned from booking Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes after opening.
  • AC classes: Agents can book only after 10:30 AM (booking starts at 10:00 AM).
  • Non-AC classes: Agents can book only after 11:30 AM (booking starts at 11:00 AM).

This gives regular passengers a fairer shot at securing last-minute seats.

Essential Tatkal Booking Rules

While the new rules are significant, it’s important to remember other key aspects of Tatkal bookings:

• Booking Timings: Tatkal tickets for AC classes open at 10:00 AM daily, and for Non-AC classes at 11:00 AM daily, one day in advance of the actual date of journey (excluding the date of journey).
• Limited Availability: Tatkal tickets are a limited quota. Once they’re gone, they’re gone!
• No Refunds on Confirmed Tickets: Generally, there are no refunds on confirmed Tatkal tickets, except under specific circumstances like train cancellation or late running.
• Dynamic Pricing: While not always applicable to Tatkal, some premium trains might have dynamic pricing for Tatkal tickets.
• One Passenger Per PNR: For Tatkal, only one passenger name is allowed per PNR if booked online to reduce the chances of bulk booking.

Top Tips for Securing a Confirmed Tatkal Ticket

With these new rules and the inherent competition, getting a confirmed Tatkal ticket can still be a challenge. Here are some pro tips for travellers:

1. Be Prepared in Advance: Fill in passenger details in the “Master List” on the IRCTC website/app before the booking time. This saves crucial seconds.
2. Ensure Good Internet Connectivity: A fast and reliable internet connection is paramount.
3. Log In Early: Log in to your IRCTC account a few minutes before the booking time (e.g., 9:58 AM for AC, 10:58 AM for Non-AC).
4. Have Payment Details Ready: Save your payment details or use a quick payment method like UPI for a faster transaction.
5. Choose Your Train Wisely: Have alternative trains and routes in mind, especially if your first choice fills up quickly.
6. Avoid Peak Travel Dates: If possible, try to book on non-peak travel days for slightly better chances.
7. Consider Premium Tatkal: For some routes, “Premium Tatkal” offers a higher fare but potentially more availability, especially on popular routes.

Stay Informed for Seamless Journeys!

These new Tatkal rules by Indian Railways are a step towards a more transparent and efficient booking system. By understanding and adapting to these changes, travellers can enhance their chances of securing those coveted last-minute tickets. Keep an eye on official Indian Railways and IRCTC announcements for any further updates!