Aadhaar Now Mandatory for Morning IRCTC Bookings: What Passengers Must Know
Starting October 28, 2025, Indian Railways has rolled out a major update to its online ticketing system via IRCTC, making Aadhaar-based authentication mandatory ( to know new rule here : IRCTC Aadhaar Rule: Book Early Now) for booking reserved train tickets during morning hours. This move is aimed at curbing bulk bookings and ensuring fair access to genuine passengers.
What’s Changing in IRCTC Booking Rules?
The new rule applies to the first-day opening window for reserved tickets. From now on, only Aadhaar-verified users can book tickets between 8 AM and 10 AM on the IRCTC website or mobile app. This time slot is crucial, especially for high-demand trains, where tickets often sell out within minutes.
“With effect from 28th October 2025, only Aadhaar authenticated users are allowed to book tickets between 8 AM to 10 AM on the first day of opening of reserved ticket booking,” IRCTC stated The Indian Express Mathrubhumi English.
Why This IRCTC Rule Matters
Indian Railways has long battled ticketing fraud, touts, and bulk bookings that deprive genuine travelers of seats. By enforcing Aadhaar verification, the system now adds a layer of identity protection and discourages misuse.
No Change in PRS Counter Timings
Importantly, this update does not affect ticket bookings made through PRS counters. Passengers who prefer offline booking can continue using counters without Aadhaar verification.
Agents Still Restricted During Opening Minutes
The Ministry of Railways confirmed that authorized ticketing agents will continue to face a 10-minute restriction during the general reservation opening. This ensures that individual passengers get priority access.
IRCTC Tatkal Booking Rules Also Tightened
Earlier in 2025, IRCTC had already made Aadhaar authentication mandatory for Tatkal bookings. Agents are barred from booking Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of the opening window
How to Authenticate Aadhaar on IRCTC
To book tickets during the restricted window, users must:
- Link their Aadhaar with IRCTC account
- Complete OTP-based verification
- Ensure their mobile number is linked with Aadhaar
This process can be done via the IRCTC website or mobile app.
Benefits for Genuine Passengers
- Fair access to high-demand trains
- Reduced chances of fraud
- Transparent booking process
- Faster ticket confirmation
Expert Take: Why This Is a Smart Move
Digital experts believe this step aligns with India’s push for secure digital identity and transparent e-governance. It also strengthens the credibility of IRCTC as a trusted platform.
What Passengers Should Do Now
- Update Aadhaar details on IRCTC
- Avoid last-minute bookings without verification
- Use PRS counters if Aadhaar is unavailable
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✅ General FAQs for IRCTC Ticketing Rules (2025 Update)
1. What are the new rules for IRCTC tickets?
From October 28, 2025, Aadhaar-based authentication is mandatory for booking reserved train tickets on IRCTC between 8 AM and 10 AM on the first day of reservation opening. Tatkal tickets also require Aadhaar verification.
2. What are the new IRCTC rules from October 2025?
Only Aadhaar-authenticated users can book reserved tickets between 8 AM and 10 AM via IRCTC. Agents are barred from booking during the first 10 minutes of general reservation and first 30 minutes of Tatkal booking.
3. Does a 3-year-old need a train ticket?
Children below 5 years of age can travel free without a separate berth. If a berth is required, a ticket must be booked.
4. What age qualifies for a kids ticket?
Children aged 5 to 12 years are eligible for a half ticket (50% fare) if no berth is required. If a berth is needed, full fare applies.
5. What age is free on trains?
Children under 5 years travel free without a berth. No ticket is required unless a berth is booked.
6. What is a half ticket?
A half ticket is a discounted fare (50%) for children aged 5–12 years traveling without a reserved berth.
7. Can we get a 100% refund while cancelling a ticket?
Yes, under certain conditions like train cancellation, waitlisted ticket cancellation before chart preparation, or if the passenger is eligible under IRCTC’s refund policy.
8. Are TTs allowed to check tickets after 10 PM?
Yes, TTs (Traveling Ticket Examiners) are authorized to check tickets at any time during the journey, including after 10 PM, especially during boarding and berth verification.
