From Rush Hour to Real ID: IRCTC’s Tatkal Gets a Digital Makeover

From July 1, 2025, Indian Railways has introduced an end-to-end makeover of Tatkal ticket reservation. Aadhaar authentication will be mandatory for Tatkal ticket reservations on IRCTC in order to check misuse by agents and bots. This is intended to ensure level playing field for genuine last-minute travelers.

New Booking Mandate

Only Aadhaar-authenticated IRCTC users can now book Tatkal tickets from July 1.

From July 15, an OTP-based Aadhaar verification will also be required at the time of every reservation.

Step-by-Step: Link Aadhaar to IRCTC

Log in to your IRCTC account on the website or mobile app.

Go to 'My Account' and select 'Authenticate User' or 'Aadhaar KYC'.

Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number or Virtual ID.

Select 'Verify Details' to receive an OTP on your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.

Enter the OTP and provide consent.

Acknowledge message will be shown on successful connection.

Speed Up with Master List

Book advance passengers in 'My Profile > Master List'.

Complete name, gender, DOB, and Aadhaar number.

All these auto-fill while booking after confirming, thus saving precious seconds.

Agent Restrictions

Booking AC Tatkal tickets is blocked for agents from 10:00-10:30 AM and non-AC between 11:00-11:30 AM.

Why It Matters

This Aadhaar-assisted process is designed to prevent unfair practices and accelerate Tatkal reservations, secure and transparent for regular travelers. 

Sources: Hindustan Times, The Hindu, CNBC TV18, Newsd, MSN India, IRCTC guidelines.