IRCTC has made a major change to ticket booking starting October 1, 2025. The first 15 minutes will now be exclusively for Aadhaar-authenticated users. Learn about the new rules, procedures, and FAQs.
New rule comes into effect from October 1, 2025 (1 October 2025 New Rule): Indian Railways (Indian Railways News) has taken a major step to make the ticket booking process transparent and fair. Now, the first 15 minutes of ticket booking on the IRCTC website or app will be reserved only for passengers whose IRCTC account is linked and authenticated with Aadhaar. This rule will apply to both regular and Tatkal bookings.
Aadhaar linked users will get priority
- Only Aadhaar authenticated users will be able to book tickets during the first 15 minutes of ticket booking opening.
- This rule was earlier applicable only on Tatkal tickets, now it will be applicable on normal tickets as well.
- After the booking opens, all registered users will be able to book tickets.
Agents will also be banned
- Authorised railway agents will not be able to book tickets for the first 10 minutes
- This ban will continue even after the Aadhaar rules come into effect.
The rule will also apply to Tatkal tickets.
- The first 15 minutes of Tatkal ticket booking will also be only for Aadhaar linked users.
- Aadhaar authentication made mandatory for Tatkal tickets from July 2025
No change at offline counters
- There is no change in the ticket booking process at the PRS counters of the railway station.
- This rule will be applicable only for online bookings.
How to link Aadhaar with IRCTC account?
- Login to the IRCTC website or app
- Go to the “My Account” tab and select “Authenticate User”
- Enter Aadhaar number or Virtual ID
- Check Name, Date of Birth and Gender Information
- Receive and enter the OTP
- Read and submit the consent box
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Will this rule apply to all trains?
Yes, this rule will be applicable on all normal and Tatkal bookings.
Q2. Can agents book tickets in the first 15 minutes ?
No, agents cannot book tickets for the first 10 minutes.
Q3. Will offline ticket bookings be affected?
No, this rule is applicable only on online booking.
Q4. Is Aadhaar linking mandatory?
If you want to book tickets in the first 15-minute window, then yes.
PC:Prabhat Khabar
