Tatkal Booking Rules Change from July 1: Aadhaar Now Mandatory for IRCTC Tatkal Tickets
Tatkal Booking New Rules: The Indian Railways has announced a major update to the Tatkal ticket booking process. Starting July 1, 2025, only Aadhaar-verified users will be able to book Tatkal train tickets online through the IRCTC website or mobile app. This new rule aims to reduce fraudulent bookings and ensure genuine passengers get fair access to Tatkal tickets.
A directive was issued by the Railway Ministry on June 10, 2025, to all railway zones outlining the mandatory Aadhaar authentication for online Tatkal ticket bookings. The move is designed to enhance transparency and prevent misuse of the Tatkal quota by bots and fake user accounts.
What’s Changing in Tatkal Booking from July 1, 2025?
1. Aadhaar Mandatory for Online Bookings
Only users who have completed Aadhaar authentication will be allowed to book Tatkal tickets online via IRCTC.
2. OTP-Based Aadhaar Verification from July 15
An additional OTP authentication linked to Aadhaar will be introduced for online Tatkal bookings from July 15, 2025.
3. OTP Required for Counter Bookings
For Tatkal tickets booked at railway counters, a mobile number will be required to receive an OTP. Tickets will only be issued after successful verification.
Key Reforms Introduced by Indian Railways
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2.5 Crore Fake IDs Blocked: Indian Railways has already deactivated over 2.5 crore fake or suspicious IRCTC accounts to curb misuse via bots and illegal software.
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First 30 Minutes Reserved for Individuals:
To ensure fair access, the first 30 minutes of Tatkal booking will be exclusive to individual users:-
AC Class: 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
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Non-AC Class: 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM
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Restrictions for Travel Agents:
Travel agents and booking agencies can only book after the first 30-minute window:-
AC Tatkal: After 10:30 AM
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Non-AC Tatkal: After 11:30 AM
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Limited Booking Options for Non-Aadhaar Users:
Those without Aadhaar can still book Tatkal tickets, but only at PRS counters or through authorised agents. Online booking will not be allowed without Aadhaar verification.
Quick Comparison: Old vs. New Tatkal Rules
| Feature | Until June 30, 2025 | From July 1, 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Aadhaar Requirement | Optional | Mandatory for online Tatkal bookings |
| OTP Verification | Not applicable | Required from July 15 |
| First 30 mins Booking | Open to all | Only individual users and counters |
| Travel Agents Access | Immediate | Delayed by 30 mins |
| Counter Booking Verification | Basic ID check | Mobile number + OTP |
| Anti-bot Measures | Minimal | 2.5 crore fake IDs blocked |
How to Book Tatkal Tickets on IRCTC (From July 1)
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Log in to your Aadhaar-linked IRCTC account at www.irctc.co.in or via the IRCTC app.
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Select departure and arrival stations, journey date, and click “Find Trains.”
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Choose your train and class, and select the Tatkal quota.
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Enter passenger details including Aadhaar numbers.
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From July 15, complete Aadhaar-linked OTP verification.
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Proceed to make the payment.
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Receive confirmation and e-ticket via SMS/email.
What You Need Before Booking Tatkal Tickets
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An IRCTC registered account
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Aadhaar numbers for all passengers (mandatory for online Tatkal)
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A valid payment method (debit card, credit card, UPI, or net banking)
Final Word
These reforms mark a significant step by Indian Railways to ensure a secure, transparent, and fair Tatkal booking experience. By giving individual users priority and blocking bots, the new system is set to make Tatkal bookings smoother for genuine passengers.
Make sure to link your Aadhaar with your IRCTC account well before July 1, 2025, to avoid last-minute issues during Tatkal booking.
