No Aadhaar, No Tatkal Ticket: New IRCTC Rules to Be Enforced From July 1, 2025

Aadhaar authentication becomes mandatory for Tatkal bookings; IRCTC introduces major reforms to curb misuse and ensure transparency.

New Delhi, June 11, 2025 — In a significant overhaul of the Tatkal ticket booking system, the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has announced that Aadhaar will be mandatory for booking Tatkal tickets starting July 1, 2025.
According to the new guidelines issued by IRCTC, Aadhaar-authenticated login will be a must to book Tatkal tickets on both the IRCTC website and mobile app. The initiative is aimed at minimizing fraudulent bookings and increasing transparency in the high-demand ticketing system.

Aadhaar-Based OTP Authentication Starts July 15

While Aadhaar-based login becomes mandatory from July 1, an additional layer of security will be introduced starting July 15, 2025, when OTP-based Aadhaar verification will become compulsory for:

• Online Tatkal bookings via IRCTC platform

• Bookings at PRS counters and through authorized agents

A system-generated OTP will be sent to the mobile number linked with the Aadhaar at the time of booking. Completion of the OTP authentication will be necessary to finalize the ticket.

Agents Restricted from Opening Hour Tatkal Bookings

In another major move, IRCTC has barred authorized ticketing agents from booking Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of booking windows:

• AC Tatkal Tickets: Agents barred from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM

• Non-AC Tatkal Tickets: Agents barred from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM

This restriction aims to offer a fair opportunity to individual passengers and limit bulk and bot-driven bookings by agents during the most critical period of ticket release.

Why the Change?

These measures are part of the Indian Railways’ broader strategy to:

• Prevent dummy or fraudulent bookings

• Increase ticket availability for genuine travelers

• Create a more secure and streamlined booking experience

• Reduce agent monopolies and middleman exploitation

“This is a long-awaited reform. We want Tatkal booking to benefit common passengers, not profiteering agents. Aadhaar authentication will help ensure transparency and accountability,” said a senior Railway Ministry official.

🧾 How to Book Tatkal Tickets Now?

From July 1, here’s what you’ll need:

✅ IRCTC Account Linked with Aadhaar
✅ Active Mobile Number linked with Aadhaar
✅ OTP verification during the booking window (from July 15 onward)

Key Highlights of New IRCTC Tatkal Rules (2025)

🛂 Need Help?

Passengers are advised to link Aadhaar with their IRCTC account well in advance. To do so:

1. Log in at www.irctc.co.in

2. Navigate to My Account > Link Aadhaar

3. Enter Aadhaar number and submit OTP for verification

For assistance, visit nearest railway counters or call the IRCTC helpline: 139.