Tatkal Ticket Rules Change: Aadhaar & OTP Now Mandatory for Tatkal Ticket Booking from July 1, 2025

From July 1, 2025, Indian Railways will require Aadhaar authentication for booking Tatkal train tickets. This change aims to ensure that the benefits of the Tatkal Scheme reach the intended users. The Railway Ministry announced this directive on June 10, 2025, and it applies to all railway zones.

New Rules for Tatkal Ticket Bookings: Aadhar Card is Mandatory For Railway Tatkal

Starting July 15, 2025, an additional step involving Aadhaar-based OTP verification will be necessary for Tatkal bookings. This measure is part of a broader effort to streamline and secure the ticketing process for passengers.

The new rules specify that only users who have completed their Aadhaar authentication can book Tatkal tickets through the IRCTC website or app. This requirement is designed to enhance security and ensure that genuine passengers benefit from the scheme.

Additionally, authorised ticketing agents of Indian Railways will face restrictions regarding Tatkal bookings. They are prohibited from booking first-day Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of the booking window. For air-conditioned classes, this restriction is from 10:00 am to 10:30 am, and for non-air-conditioned classes, it is from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.

IRCTC Implementation and System Changes

The Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) and IRCTC have been tasked with implementing these changes. They must also communicate these updates to every zonal railway division to ensure smooth execution across all regions.

How to Book Tatkal Railway Tickets Online via IRCTC Website and App? - Current Booking Process

Booking Tatkal tickets can be time-sensitive, but with preparation, you can secure your seat quickly. Follow this step-by-step guide to book Tatkal railway tickets online through the IRCTC website or mobile app:

Step-by-Step Guide for Tatkal Ticket Booking Online:

• Visit the IRCTC Website or App
• Go to www.irctc.co.in or open the IRCTC Rail Connect app.
• Log in with your IRCTC user ID and password before Tatkal booking opens (log in 5-10 minutes early).
• Enter Journey Details
• Fill in your departure and destination stations.
• Choose the date of journey and click on "Find Trains."
• Select Tatkal Quota: In the quota dropdown, choose Tatkal instead of General.
• Pick your preferred train and class (AC or Non-AC) and Check Availability.
• See if Tatkal seats are available for your chosen train and class.
• Add Passenger Details: Enter the name, age, gender, and ID proof (e.g., Aadhaar, Passport).
• You can save frequent traveller details in advance to save time.
• Make Quick Payment: Use fast payment options like UPI, credit/debit card, or net banking. Speed is key-delay in payment can lead to ticket loss.
• Booking Confirmation: Once payment is successful, your Tatkal ticket is booked.
• Download the ticket or take a printout for your journey.

Tatkal Ticket Booking at Railway Counters

Tatkal tickets can also be booked at railway reservation counters. Below are the steps:

• Fill out a requisition form with journey and passenger details.
• Carry a valid government-issued photo ID (mandatory).

Booking timings are the same as online:

• 10:00 AM for AC classes
• 11:00 AM for Non-AC classes

Booking is allowed one day before the travel date.

Tatkal Ticket Charges and Fees

Tatkal charges are extra and depend on the class of travel:

• Second Class: 10% of the base fare
• All Other Classes (Sleeper, AC): 30% of the base fare

These charges are subject to minimum and maximum limits as set by Indian Railways.