Aadhaar Authentication Will be Mandatory for All IRCTC Bookings Through Website & App from July 1, 2025

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is set to implement a new requirement for Tatkal ticket bookings. From 1 July 2025, Aadhaar authentication will be mandatory for all bookings made through the IRCTC website and mobile app. This change aims to enhance transparency, improve passenger verification, and curb misuse of the Tatkal quota by agents engaging in bulk bookings.

To ensure compliance, the Ministry of Railways has outlined specific steps for linking Aadhaar with IRCTC accounts. Users must first visit the IRCTC website or app and log in using their registered credentials. They should then navigate to the "Profile" tab and select "Link Aadhaar." After entering their Aadhaar number and name as printed on the card, users must tick the consent box and request an OTP.

Aadhaar-Based OTP Verification

From 15 July 2025, an additional layer of security will be introduced with Aadhaar-based OTP verification for all Tatkal bookings. This includes reservations made via Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters and authorised railway agents. The ministry has also decided that agents will be prohibited from booking Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes after the booking window opens.

Upon receiving an OTP on their Aadhaar-linked mobile number, users should enter it to complete verification. A confirmation message will be sent once the process is successful, indicating that Aadhaar verification is complete and KYC details are updated. This step is crucial to avoid any delays during the limited Tatkal booking window.

Steps for Verifying Aadhaar

To verify Aadhaar for Tatkal bookings, users need to access the "My Account" section on the IRCTC platform. They should select "Authenticate User" under account settings and input their 12-digit Aadhaar number. After clicking "Verify Details," an OTP will be sent to their registered mobile number linked with Aadhaar.

Users must input this OTP, tick the consent checkbox, and click "Submit." The status of Aadhaar authentication can be checked under the same "My Account" section. It is important to note that OTPs for booking verification will only be sent to numbers registered with Aadhaar.

This initiative by IRCTC reflects a broader effort to streamline processes within India's railway system while ensuring secure transactions for passengers. By mandating Aadhaar authentication, authorities aim to prevent fraudulent activities associated with Tatkal ticket bookings.