Tatkal Train ticket bookings have always been a race against time. However, starting July 1, 2025, if your IRCTC account isn’t Aadhaar-authenticated, you may be left at the platform. In one of the biggest digital shifts in railway ticketing, IRCTC has made Aadhaar verification mandatory for all Tatkal bookings. Whether you book via the website, the app, or through an agent, the new rule applies.
And if you think you can just show up at a railway station and book a Tatkal ticket in person, think again. Starting July 15, OTP-based Aadhaar authentication becomes mandatory even for offline and PRS counter bookings.
Here’s everything you need to know to stay ahead of the curve and book your Tatkal tickets without hiccups.
What Rules Has IRCTC Announced from July, 2025?
According to IRCTC and the Ministry of Railways, the following changes are effective:
- From July 1, 2025: Aadhaar authentication is mandatory for all online Tatkal bookings on IRCTC.
- From July 15, 2025: Aadhaar OTP verification becomes mandatory for both online and offline bookings, including those at PRS counters.
- IRCTC-authorised agents are now blocked for the first 30 minutes of Tatkal booking windows (10 AM for AC, 11 AM for non-AC).
The goal? Curb ticket touts and bulk agents using bots to hijack tickets before genuine passengers can even click.
Why Did the IRCTC Change the Tatkal Ticket Booking Rules Now?
This Aadhaar mandate is a digital weapon to fight bot activity and fake accounts that clog IRCTC during peak booking hours. With over 16 billion passwords recently leaked online, the timing could not be more relevant. IRCTC and Railways want to ensure that verified users, not scripts or fraudsters, get access to Tatkal tickets.
It’s a move towards fair access, reduced fraud, and better passenger experience.
Is The New Rules Only for Tatkal Train Ticket Booking?
Yes. As of now, Aadhaar authentication is only mandatory for Tatkal bookings. General tickets can still be booked without linking Aadhaar to your IRCTC account. However, with the system in place, don’t be surprised if the requirement is expanded in future.
How to Authenticate Your IRCTC Account with Aadhaar?
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Log in to your IRCTC account on the website or mobile app.
- Navigate to “My Profile” > “Aadhaar KYC” or search for “Authenticate User”.
- Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number or Virtual ID (VID).
- An OTP will be sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Enter the OTP to complete the authentication process.
- Your Aadhaar status will be shown as “Verified” in your profile.
Can You Still Book Tatkal Train Tickets for Others?
Yes. Once you’re authenticated, you can add Aadhaar-verified co-passengers to your Master List on IRCTC. Ensure all their Aadhaar details are pre-verified for smooth bookings. However, even after Aadhaar Authentication of your IRCTC account, you will only get 24 Tatkal Bookings per month from IRCTC.
How Does This Aadhaar Verification Threaten Data Leak?
Users are understandably cautious about Aadhaar-related changes. But here’s what you should know:
- The process only verifies identity through OTP-based consent, not biometrics.
- IRCTC doesn’t store your Aadhaar number or access your full details.
- The verification runs through UIDAI-approved secure channels.
Still, always update your Aadhaar-linked mobile number and check for suspicious account activity.
Tips to Beat the Tatkal Rush (Now with Aadhaar Involved)
- Authenticate your IRCTC account before July 1, 2025.
- Ensure your mobile number is linked to Aadhaar.
- Pre-add family/friends to the Aadhaar-verified Master List.
- Log in 10 minutes early during Tatkal window.
- Use fast browsers and apps; network speed matters.
What Happens if You Don’t Authenticate Your IRCTC Account with Your Aadhaar Card?
- Post July 1: You won’t be allowed to book Tatkal tickets online.
- Post July 15: Even offline/PRS agents will require OTP verification for your Aadhaar.
So yes, your train travel depends on a few OTPs.
TL;DR Recap
- New Rule: Aadhaar authentication required for Tatkal bookings from July 1.
- Offline Included: OTP needed at railway counters from July 15.
- Why: To stop bots and touts.
- How: Link Aadhaar via IRCTC website/app.
- Safe? Yes. OTP-only, UIDAI-secured. No biometric data involved.
- Pro Tip: Authenticate early, stay calm, and book smart.
Final Word from The Peak View Stories:
Booking a train ticket shouldn’t feel like launching a satellite. But with agents blocked, Aadhaar required, and OTPs flying faster than trains — 2025’s Tatkal game is no joke.
So take five minutes, authenticate your account, and make sure your next booking doesn’t get derailed. And stay tuned with The Peak View Stories for all updates on rules, updates and policy changes.
Disclaimer: This article is based on official updates from IRCTC, UIDAI, and reports from Livemint, Economic Times, and PIB. For legal, privacy, or technical concerns, always refer to IRCTC’s official website or contact UIDAI directly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the changes in Tatkal rules?
As per a new rule by IRCTC effective July 1, 2025, Aadhaar-based authentication is now mandatory for booking Tatkal tickets on the IRCTC website or app. This means if you haven’t linked or verified your Aadhaar, you can’t book last-minute train tickets under the Tatkal quota anymore.
This is being done to curb fake bookings, bots, and tout-based ticket hoarding — which often ruin the experience for genuine passengers.
What are the new rules for Tatkal ticket booking 2025?
Here’s what changes starting July 1, 2025:
1 – Aadhaar authentication is mandatory for all Tatkal bookings (via IRCTC).
2 – This applies to both individuals and agents.
3 – You don’t need Aadhaar authentication for booking general tickets — only Tatkal.
4 – Aadhaar number must be verified before attempting the booking.
5 – IRCTC supports OTP verification linked to Aadhaar.
These rules have been announced to tighten security and improve fair access, especially during peak travel times.
What are the rules for Tatkal booking?
Here’s a simplified version of current Tatkal ticket rules (including the July 2025 updates):
1 – Tatkal booking opens:
10:00 AM for AC classes
11:00 AM for non-AC classes
2 – Only 1 Tatkal ticket per user login per train is allowed.
3 – Aadhaar authentication is now mandatory (from July 1, 2025).
4 – No agent bookings allowed for the first 30 minutes of Tatkal opening.
5 – No waitlist allowed — tickets are either confirmed or not.
Can we book Tatkal for 5 people?
Yes. You can book a Tatkal ticket for up to 6 passengers in one booking (provided seats are available). However, all passenger Aadhaar numbers must be entered and authenticated if you’re booking after July 1, 2025.
Can we book Tatkal 10 days before?
No. Tatkal bookings can only be made one day before the train’s departure.
So if your train departs on July 10, Tatkal opens on July 9 at the designated time (10 AM for AC, 11 AM for non-AC).