Author: Akshay Published Date: June 19, 2025
Get ready for a big change in how you book last-minute train tickets! Starting July 2025, booking Tatkal tickets through the IRCTC app or website will require mandatory Aadhaar verification. This new rule, introduced by Indian Railways in partnership with UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India), aims to crack down on fraud, make ticket booking fairer, and speed up the process.
But what does this mean for you? How do you verify your Aadhaar? What if you book for a family or travel last-minute?
Don’t worry – this guide breaks it all down into simple, easy steps so you’re fully prepared when the rule kicks in.
What is Aadhaar Verification in IRCTC?
Simply put, it’s linking your 12-digit Aadhaar number to your IRCTC account. Once verified (using an OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number), IRCTC can confirm your identity.
Key Point: From July 1st, 2025, you must have your Aadhaar verified in your IRCTC account to book any Tatkal ticket. No verification? No Tatkal booking.
Why the Change?
Tatkal tickets are prime targets for misuse – think touts blocking seats using fake IDs or multiple accounts. Aadhaar verification helps:
- Stop fake or duplicate accounts
- Prevent bulk bookings by unauthorized agents
- Make online booking more accountable
- Ensure genuine travelers get a fair shot at tickets
It’s part of a larger push by Indian Railways to make ticket booking smoother and fairer for everyone.
Who Needs to Do This?
- Anyone wanting to book a Tatkal ticket via IRCTC, both new and existing users.
- Important: If you’re booking regular (non-Tatkal) tickets, verification isn’t required for now.
- Group Bookings: Every passenger listed under a Tatkal booking must have their Aadhaar verified.
How to Verify Your Aadhaar in the IRCTC App (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps on your phone:
- Update Your App: Make sure you have the latest version of the IRCTC app.
- Log In: Open the app and sign in with your username and password.
- Go to Your Profile: Tap “My Account” > “My Profile” > Look for “Aadhaar KYC”.
- Enter Your Aadhaar Number: Carefully type in your 12-digit Aadhaar number. Double-check it!
- Verify with OTP: You’ll get an OTP on the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar. Enter this OTP in the app.
- Success!: You’ll see a confirmation message once your Aadhaar is successfully linked.
What if My Mobile Number Isn’t Linked to Aadhaar?
Uh-oh. You’ll need to visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or your bank branch to update your mobile number first. This can take a few days, so don’t wait until July 2025! Get it sorted well ahead of time to avoid missing out on Tatkal bookings.
Booking Tatkal Tickets After Verification
Once verified, booking is smoother:
- Log in to the IRCTC app.
- Find your train and class.
- Select the “Tatkal” quota.
- Add passenger details (must match their Aadhaar info).
- Pay and confirm.
No more scrambling to upload ID proofs during the frantic Tatkal booking window!
Benefits for You
- Faster Bookings: Less friction during peak booking times.
- More Secure: Reduced risk of scams and fake bookings.
- Simpler Travel: Your verified booking acts as ID – no need to carry extra documents (though having Aadhaar handy is always wise).
- Fairer Access: Real travelers get a better chance as misuse is reduced.
Privacy & Security Concerns
Understandably, some folks worry about their data. Here’s the official stance:
- Aadhaar data is stored securely and encrypted.
- IRCTC only uses essential details like your name and age for booking.
- Your biometric data (fingerprints/iris scan) is NOT shared with IRCTC.
- The system follows strict government privacy and cybersecurity rules.
What Happens If You Skip Verification?
Plain and simple: You won’t be able to book Tatkal tickets starting July 2025. Regular ticket bookings will still work, but the crucial Tatkal option will be locked.
Note for Travel Agents
Registered IRCTC travel agents also need to comply with Aadhaar verification. Any Tatkal bookings attempted through unverified accounts will be blocked, and IRCTC may take action against suspicious activity.
Get Ready Now! Tips for July 2025
- Verify Early: Don’t wait for the deadline rush. Do it now!
- Check Mobile Link: Ensure your Aadhaar-linked mobile number is correct and active.
- Spread the Word: Tell family and friends who book Tatkal tickets.
- Keep App Updated: Always use the latest IRCTC app version.
- UIDAI Help: Use the official UIDAI portal (https://uidai.gov.in/) for Aadhaar-related issues.
While adding an extra step might seem like a hassle at first, mandatory Aadhaar verification for Tatkal bookings is a significant move towards a fairer and more secure ticketing system. Once you’re verified, the process gets easier and faster.
This push for digitization is ultimately about making Indian Railways work better for genuine passengers like you. So, if spontaneous trips are your thing, don’t put it off – verify your Aadhaar in the IRCTC app today and travel worry-free from July 2025 onwards!