IRCTC Aadhaar Linking Mandatory for Ticket Booking 2025

New IRCTC Ticket Booking Rules: Aadhaar Linking Mandatory from October 1, 2025

Starting October 1, 2025, Indian Railways is implementing significant changes to the IRCTC train ticket booking process. Only users with Aadhaar-linked IRCTC accounts will be able to book general reservation tickets online during the first 15 minutes after bookings open. This initiative aims to prevent ticket scalping and ensure fair access to train tickets online for genuine passengers. The new IRCTC rules are designed to curb bulk ticket purchases by middlemen, a measure already in place for Tatkal bookings, ensuring that railway reservations remain accessible to all.

According to a circular issued by Indian Railways on September 15, 2025, the goal is to make online train ticket booking transparent and equitable. During the initial 15-minute window—for instance, from 10:00 AM to 10:15 AM if bookings start at 10 AM—only Aadhaar-authenticated IRCTC accounts can secure tickets via the IRCTC website or app. After this period, any registered IRCTC account holder can book as usual. However, bookings at physical railway counters (PRS) will remain unaffected, allowing ticket purchases without Aadhaar verification.

Why Aadhaar Linking for IRCTC Bookings?

The primary objective of these new railway booking rules is to eliminate fraudulent practices by ticket brokers who exploit the system to buy train tickets in bulk and resell them at inflated prices. By mandating Aadhaar authentication for IRCTC, Indian Railways aims to verify user identities and ensure tickets are booked by legitimate travelers. This system mirrors the existing restrictions for Tatkal ticket booking, where Aadhaar-linked accounts have priority during the initial booking window. The IRCTC Aadhaar linking process is a step toward a more secure and fair railway reservation system.

The circular emphasizes that these changes are intended to benefit genuine passengers, ensuring that the online railway ticket system serves its purpose without misuse. For Tatkal bookings, authorized agents at counters must wait 10 minutes before accessing tickets, and the same principle now applies to general reservations online. This restriction helps prioritize individual travelers over bulk buyers during peak booking times.

How to Link Aadhaar with Your IRCTC Account

To comply with the new IRCTC ticket booking rules, passengers must link their Aadhaar card to their IRCTC account before October 1, 2025, to book tickets in the first 15 minutes. The process is straightforward and can be completed via the IRCTC website or mobile app. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with Aadhaar linking for IRCTC:

• Log in to IRCTC: Access your account on the IRCTC website or mobile app using your credentials.
• Navigate to My Profile: Go to the ‘My Profile’ section in the user dashboard.
• Select Aadhaar Authentication: Click on the ‘Aadhaar Authentication’ option.
• Enter Aadhaar Number: Input your 12-digit Aadhaar number accurately.
• Verify with OTP: An OTP will be sent to the mobile number registered with your Aadhaar. Enter it to complete the verification.
• Ensure Matching Details: Confirm that your IRCTC account details (name, phone number, etc.) match your Aadhaar information to avoid issues.

Completing this process ensures you can book general reservation train tickets during the exclusive 15-minute window. Failure to link Aadhaar will restrict you from early online bookings, though you can still book after the initial period or at physical counters.

Benefits of Aadhaar-Linked IRCTC Accounts

The mandatory Aadhaar linking for train tickets offers several advantages for passengers and the railway system. By verifying user identities, Indian Railways can reduce fake accounts and unauthorized bulk bookings. This ensures that tickets are available to genuine travelers, especially during high-demand periods like festivals or holidays. Additionally, the IRCTC online booking system becomes more secure, reducing the risk of fraud and ensuring a smoother booking experience for users.

The railway ticket booking changes also promote fairness by giving priority to individual passengers over brokers. This aligns with Indian Railways’ mission to make travel accessible and affordable for all. The Aadhaar verification process is quick and user-friendly, encouraging more passengers to adopt digital train ticket booking while maintaining system integrity.

Impact on Tatkal and Counter Bookings

While the new rules primarily affect online general reservations, Tatkal ticket booking already follows a similar Aadhaar-based restriction for the first 15 minutes. Authorized agents at railway counters must wait 10 minutes before booking Tatkal tickets, ensuring individual passengers get priority. For general reservations, counter bookings at Public Reservation System (PRS) counters remain unchanged, allowing passengers to book train tickets without Aadhaar. This flexibility ensures that those without Aadhaar-linked accounts can still access railway services.

The IRCTC ticket booking update is expected to streamline the online reservation process, making it more efficient and transparent. Passengers are encouraged to link their Aadhaar cards well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles, especially for urgent travel plans. The railway authorities have also assured that the IRCTC mobile app and website will support users through the Aadhaar linking process with clear instructions and minimal downtime.

What Passengers Need to Know Before October 1, 2025

With the IRCTC Aadhaar verification becoming mandatory for early online bookings, passengers must act promptly to comply. The process is simple but requires attention to detail, particularly ensuring that IRCTC account information matches Aadhaar records. Incorrect details could lead to verification failures, preventing access to the 15-minute booking window. Indian Railways has urged users to update their profiles and complete the Aadhaar linking process for IRCTC by September 30, 2025, to ensure a seamless experience.

For frequent travelers, this change underscores the importance of adopting digital railway booking practices. The IRCTC platform, known for its convenience, is now enhancing security to protect passengers from ticket scalping. By prioritizing Aadhaar-authenticated users, the system aims to create a level playing field, ensuring that online train tickets are booked by those who genuinely need them. Passengers can also contact IRCTC customer support for assistance with the linking process or any technical issues.

Preparing for the New Booking System

To adapt to the new rules for train ticket booking, passengers should ensure their IRCTC accounts are ready before the deadline. The IRCTC Aadhaar linking deadline of October 1, 2025, is critical for those who rely on early bookings to secure seats during peak travel seasons. The railway authorities have emphasized that the Aadhaar verification process is secure and complies with data protection standards, ensuring user privacy.

In addition to linking Aadhaar, passengers are advised to keep their IRCTC app updated and check their account status regularly. The IRCTC online reservation system is designed to handle high traffic, but early preparation can prevent delays or technical glitches. For those who prefer counter bookings, the railway ticket counter booking option remains a reliable alternative, offering flexibility for passengers without Aadhaar-linked accounts.