IRCTC Aadhaar Linking for Tatkal Tickets: Why It’s Now Mandatory and How to Do It Easily

If you’re planning to book Tatkal train tickets, there's an important update you must know: linking your IRCTC account with Aadhaar is now mandatory. This new rule not only ensures a smoother booking experience but also helps in curbing ticket fraud. Implemented from July 1, 2025, this change is set to transform the way passengers book emergency train tickets in India.

What’s Changed in Tatkal Ticket Booking?

As per the latest guidelines by Indian Railways, effective July 1, 2025, Tatkal tickets will only be issued to passengers whose IRCTC accounts are linked and verified with Aadhaar. Whether you're booking tickets online via the IRCTC website/app or offline at counters or through agents, Aadhaar authentication via OTP has become mandatory.

This move is aimed at preventing fraudulent bookings by agents and middlemen, while ensuring that genuine passengers get priority during high-demand Tatkal hours.

Why Aadhaar Linking is Crucial for Tatkal Booking

Linking Aadhaar to your IRCTC account offers several benefits beyond just eligibility for Tatkal tickets:

• Stops fake bookings and agent misuse: Ensures transparency and prevents black-marketing of Tatkal tickets.

• Speeds up the booking process: Once Aadhaar is linked, a Master Passenger List can be created. This lets you skip filling in details every time, which is crucial during Tatkal’s narrow booking window.

• Increased ticket limit: Earlier, you could only book 12 tickets/month from one IRCTC account. Now, if passengers are Aadhaar verified, the limit increases to 24 tickets/month.

• Improved security and account safety: Aadhaar verification adds a layer of protection to your account, minimizing unauthorized access.

• Faster refunds and smoother identity checks: With Aadhaar-linked accounts, refunds are quicker and identity verification becomes seamless.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Link Aadhaar with Your IRCTC Account

Follow these simple steps to link your Aadhaar:

1. Visit the IRCTC official website or open the Rail Connect mobile app.

2. Log in using your username and password.

3. Go to the ‘My Profile’ or ‘Profile’ section.

4. Click on ‘Aadhaar KYC’ or ‘Link Aadhaar’ option.

5. Enter your full name (exactly as printed on your Aadhaar card) and your 12-digit Aadhaar number.

6. Tick the consent box to allow Aadhaar verification.

7. Click on ‘Send OTP’ or ‘Verify Details’.

8. Enter the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.

9. Click ‘Update’ or ‘Submit’.

10. Once you receive the confirmation message, your Aadhaar is successfully linked.

Don’t Let OTP Issues Hold You Back

If you do not receive the OTP during Aadhaar linking, it's likely your Aadhaar is not updated with your current mobile number. In that case:

• Visit the UIDAI website or

• Go to the nearest Aadhaar enrollment center to update your mobile number.

Key Advantages for Tatkal Travelers

• Faster access during the tight Tatkal booking window.

• Instant passenger selection from saved Aadhaar-verified master list.

• Eliminates need for filling repetitive forms during booking.

• Reduces ticket fraud and enhances transparency.

• Reliable and efficient railway service through automation and digitization.

Final Word: Is Aadhaar Linking Mandatory?

Yes, Aadhaar linking is now a non-negotiable requirement for Tatkal ticket bookings. While the process is possible through both the IRCTC website and app, using the website is often faster and more user-friendly.

To avoid last-minute hiccups while booking emergency travel, link your Aadhaar now and enjoy hassle-free, secure Tatkal bookings.