IRCTC to mandate aadhaar authentication for Tatkal bookings starting July 1, 2025

Hyderabad: In a significant update, Indian Railways has announced changes to the Tatkal ticket booking system. The new rules, effective July 1, 2025, will require users to authenticate their identity through Aadhaar when booking Tatkal tickets online via the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) website or mobile app.

According to the announcement, users will need to complete Aadhaar-based OTP (One-Time Password) authentication when booking Tatkal tickets starting from July 15, 2025. This change is intended to ensure that the benefits of the Tatkal scheme reach genuine users.

The updated procedure also includes a new system for booking Tatkal tickets through computerized Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters. Users will be required to authenticate their identity by entering an OTP sent to their registered mobile number at the time of booking.

Additionally, authorized ticketing agents will face restrictions on booking opening day Tatkal tickets. Agents will be prohibited from booking tickets for the first 30 minutes after the Tatkal booking opens, 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM for air-conditioned classes and 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM for non-air-conditioned classes. Indian Railways has directed CRIS and IRCTC to update their systems accordingly and ensure that all zonal railways are informed.