From October 1, only Aadhaar-linked IRCTC accounts can book train tickets online in first 15 minutes - All you need to know

Early train ticket bookings now Aadhaar-only! Link your IRCTC account to secure tickets in the first 15 minutes from October 1. (Representative Image)

Starting October 1, 2025, Indian Railways will make Aadhaar authentication mandatory for booking general reserved tickets online through the IRCTC website or app during the first 15 minutes after reservations open. Currently, this restriction applies only to Tatkal bookings.

"With a view to ensure that the benefits of the reservation system reach the common end user and are not misused by unscrupulous elements, it has been decided that with effect from 1.10.2025, during the first 15 minutes of opening of general reservation, reserved general tickets can be booked through the website of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC)/its app only by Aadhaar authenticated users," a ministry circular stated on Monday, September 15, 2025, according to PTI reports.

Ministry officials clarified that after this 15-minute window, authorized ticket agents will be allowed to book online reservations. "There shall, however, be no change in timing for booking of general reserved tickets through computerized PRS counters of Indian Railways," the circular added.

The ministry also confirmed that the existing 10-minute restriction for authorized ticketing agents at PRS counters will continue. "There shall also be no change in the timing of restriction of 10 minutes of opening of general reservation during which authorized ticketing agents of Indian Railways shall not be allowed to book opening day reserved tickets," officials said.

Earlier, a similar restriction was imposed for Tatkal bookings. "Earlier, we had issued a circular that imposed a 15-minute restriction for Tatkal bookings. Considering the benefits of that order, we have now decided to extend this facility to general reservation bookings as well," a ministry official said.

How the New Rule Works

From October 1, 2025, only passengers with an Aadhaar-linked IRCTC account will be able to book general reserved tickets online during the first 15 minutes after the reservation window opens. After this period, the regular booking process will resume for all registered users.

Here’s a quick guide:

• First 15 minutes: Only Aadhaar-authenticated users can book tickets online.
• After 15 minutes: Booking reverts to normal; all registered users can book.
• PRS Counters: No changes; physical ticket bookings continue as usual.
• Authorized Agents: Continue to face a 10-minute restriction for Tatkal bookings.

Why Aadhaar Authentication Is Required

The primary goal of this rule is to curb ticket touting and ensure that tickets reach genuine passengers. By restricting early online bookings to Aadhaar-authenticated users, Indian Railways aims to reduce bulk bookings for resale at inflated prices and ensure a smoother, more transparent booking experience.

"For example, if a train is scheduled to depart at 10 am on October 1, and reservations open today at 10 am, for the first 15 minutes, only Aadhaar-authenticated users will be allowed to book general reservations," the official explained. Previously, this restriction was applicable only to Tatkal bookings, which open a day before the train’s departure.

How to Link Aadhaar with Your IRCTC Account

Passengers must link their Aadhaar to their IRCTC account before October 1, 2025, to avail the 15-minute early booking window. Here’s how:

• Log into your IRCTC account.
• Go to the ‘My Profile’ section.
• Select ‘Aadhaar Authentication.’
• Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number.
• Complete the verification process using the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.

What This Means for Travelers

For regular train travelers, this new rule will significantly impact booking during peak demand periods. By linking their Aadhaar, passengers can book tickets immediately when the window opens, avoiding last-minute disappointments.

Aadhaar authentication for online train bookings from October 1, 2025, is a step towards creating a fairer and more secure reservation system. Passengers are encouraged to complete their Aadhaar linking in advance to ensure a smooth, hassle-free ticket booking experience.

(With inputs from PTI)