In a major reform aimed at ensuring fairness and curbing misuse of the Tatkal ticket booking system, Indian Railways has announced mandatory OTP-based identity authentication for Tatkal bookings across all platforms starting 15th July 2025.
The Ministry of Railways has rolled out new guidelines that will impact online users, PRS counters, and authorised agents to ensure that genuine passengers have equal access to Tatkal reservations.
Aadhaar Authentication for Online Tatkal Bookings
Starting 1st July 2025, all users booking Tatkal tickets via IRCTC’s official website or mobile app must be authenticated with Aadhaar.
From 15th July 2025, Aadhaar-based OTP verification will become mandatory for all online Tatkal bookings to enhance user identity verification and deter fraudulent ticketing practices.
OTP Verification at PRS Counters and Agent Bookings
Indian Railways has also made it mandatory for passengers booking Tatkal tickets at Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters or through authorised agents to undergo system-generated OTP authentication.
- OTP will be sent to the mobile number provided at the time of booking
- The rule becomes effective on 15th July 2025
This ensures uniform verification across digital and physical booking modes.
Booking Window Restrictions for Agents
To curb mass blocking of Tatkal tickets during the opening window, the following restriction will apply:
- Authorised agents will not be allowed to book Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of booking
- AC Classes: Restricted from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM
- Non-AC Classes: Restricted from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM
This move is aimed at preventing bulk agent bookings and ensuring fair access for the general public.
Why These Changes Matter
The updated Tatkal booking policy is focused on improving transparency, preventing exploitation, and streamlining user authentication across all ticketing platforms.
With Aadhaar and OTP-based verification, Indian Railways aims to:
- Reduce ticketing fraud
- Protect genuine users
- Minimize agent-led ticket monopolization
- Improve passenger satisfaction and trust in the system
Implementation and Advisory
The Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) and IRCTC have been instructed to roll out these updates and notify all Zonal Railways and relevant departments.
Passengers are advised to:
- Link Aadhaar with IRCTC accounts as soon as possible
- Keep their mobile numbers updated to ensure seamless OTP verification
- Be aware of new booking restrictions for agents to plan travel accordingly
Key Dates to Remember
| Policy Change | Effective Date |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar Authentication for Online Tatkal Bookings | 1st July 2025 |
| OTP Verification (Online, PRS, Agents) | 15th July 2025 |
| Agent Booking Restriction (30 mins) | 15th July 2025 |
Indian Railways encourages all passengers to take note of these important updates and ensure compliance to avoid disruptions while booking Tatkal tickets in the future.
