The Indian Railways has introduced six major updates to its ticket booking system, effective November 5, 2025, to make the process more secure, transparent, and fraud-free. Under the revised rules, passengers must now provide two identification documents while booking train tickets. The new norms apply to both online and offline bookings.
Key Changes in IRCTC Ticket Booking Rules 2025
1. Mandatory Aadhaar Authentication (First 15 Minutes)
During the first 15 minutes of the booking window, passengers must link their IRCTC account with Aadhaar and verify it via OTP. Earlier limited to Tatkal tickets, Aadhaar verification is now mandatory for all bookings in this time frame to prevent bot or agent misuse.
2. Two Documents Required
Passengers must now verify both their Aadhaar ID and registered mobile number at the time of booking. This ensures better identity verification and reduces fraudulent activity.
3. Stricter Ticket Cancellation Rules
Cancellations made less than 4 hours before departure will attract a 25% cancellation fee.
Tatkal tickets will not be refunded unless the train is delayed by over 3 hours or canceled.
4. Restrictions for Waitlisted Passengers
Passengers with waitlisted tickets cannot travel in reserved coaches (AC/Sleeper).
Violators will be fined between ₹250–₹440 and charged the full fare for the journey.
5. New Baggage Rules
Carrying luggage beyond the allowed limit without booking it in advance will attract a fine up to six times the standard rate.
- AC First Class: 70 kg limit
- Sleeper Class: 40 kg limit
6. Agent Booking Restrictions
Authorized agents will be barred from booking tickets during the first 10–30 minutes of the booking window, especially during Tatkal hours. This ensures priority access for regular passengers.
Why Aadhaar Authentication Matters
Aadhaar-based verification ensures only genuine passengers can book tickets during the early booking phase, curbing misuse by automated bots or unauthorized agents.
Passengers who haven’t linked their Aadhaar can still book tickets — but only after the first 15 minutes of the booking window. (This rule does not apply to bookings made at railway counters.)
Aim of the New Rules
The Indian Railways’ updated system aims to:
- Enhance transparency and passenger safety
- Curb ticket fraud and agent misuse
- Ensure fair access to all travelers
These reforms mark a major step toward a more secure and passenger-friendly ticket booking experience on IRCTC.