Tatkal Ticket Booking Rules Updated: Aadhaar Authentication Becomes Mandatory from July 1, 2025
Starting July 1, 2025, Indian Railways is rolling out new rules for Tatkal ticket bookings, aimed at curbing misuse and improving transparency. Under these updated guidelines, only users with verified Aadhaar authentication will be allowed to book Tatkal train tickets via the IRCTC website or mobile app.
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Neurotainment
6/11/20251 min read
This major update was confirmed in a circular issued by the Ministry of Railways on June 10, 2025, directing all railway zones to enforce the new booking protocol. According to the ministry, this move ensures that the Tatkal Scheme benefits genuine users, especially last-minute travelers.
What’s Changing for Tatkal Bookings?
🔸 From July 1, 2025:
Tatkal tickets can only be booked by users whose Aadhaar is linked and verified.
Bookings must be made exclusively through the IRCTC website or app.
🔸 From July 15, 2025:
Passengers will need to complete an additional OTP verification process linked to their Aadhaar before confirming Tatkal bookings.
Restrictions on Ticketing Agents
To further improve fair access for individuals:
Authorized agents will not be allowed to book Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of the booking window.
For AC classes: Agents are restricted from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM.
For non-AC classes: The restriction applies from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM.
Implementation and System Updates
The Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) and IRCTC have been tasked with updating the system infrastructure to support these changes. Railway zones across the country will also be briefed to ensure a smooth transition to the new booking process.
Why This Matters
These changes are intended to eliminate unfair practices in the booking process, especially during high-demand periods. By requiring Aadhaar-linked identity verification, the Railways aims to increase transparency, prevent bulk bookings, and ensure tickets go to genuine passengers, not middlemen or scalpers.
In Summary
Aadhaar authentication is now compulsory for all Tatkal ticket bookings on IRCTC from July 1, 2025.
A second level of OTP verification will be added from July 15, 2025.
IRCTC agents face time-based restrictions to give the public fairer access to last-minute travel options.
Travelers are advised to complete their Aadhaar verification well in advance to avoid last-minute hurdles while booking Tatkal tickets.