IRCTC Mandates Aadhaar for Tatkal Bookings Starting July 1: Here’s How to Link Your Account

Starting July 1, 2025, the Indian Railways has announced a major change in online Tatkal ticket booking rules that directly impacts millions of passengers. Linking your Aadhaar card with your IRCTC account will now be mandatory to book Tatkal tickets online. This new rule is aimed at enhancing transparency, curbing misuse, and streamlining the booking process for genuine travelers.

What’s Changing from July 1?

From July 1 onwards, IRCTC users will not be able to book Tatkal tickets online without Aadhaar authentication. Additionally, the Indian Railways is also set to increase second-class passenger fares, making July a crucial month for regular rail users.

Why This Rule?

According to officials, the mandatory Aadhaar linking is being introduced to:

• Reduce fraudulent bookings

• Curb ticket touts

• Make the ticketing system more secure and identity-verified

This move is part of Indian Railways’ larger push toward digital accountability and better passenger service.

Step-by-Step Guide to Link Aadhaar with IRCTC Account

1. Visit IRCTC Official Website or App
Go to www.irctc.co.in or open the IRCTC Rail Connect app on your smartphone.

2. Log In to Your IRCTC Account
Use your username and password to log in to your existing account.

3. Navigate to ‘My Profile’
Once logged in, click on the menu and go to the ‘My Profile’ section.

4. Select ‘Aadhaar KYC’
Click on the option that says ‘Aadhaar KYC’ to start the linking process.

5. Enter Your Aadhaar Number
Fill in your 12-digit Aadhaar number (or Aadhaar Virtual ID if preferred).

6. Click on ‘Send OTP’
You will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on your Aadhaar-registered mobile number.

7. Submit the OTP
Enter the OTP in the required field and submit. Your Aadhaar will now be successfully linked with your IRCTC account.

How to Authenticate Your Aadhaar for IRCTC

If you’ve already linked your Aadhaar but haven’t completed authentication, follow these steps:

1. Log in to the IRCTC website or app

2. Go to ‘My Account’ > ‘Authenticate User’

3. Enter your Aadhaar Number or Virtual ID

4. Click on ‘Verify Details’

5. Submit the OTP received on your Aadhaar-linked phone number

6. Once verified, your IRCTC account will be fully authenticated

Important Notes

• Make sure your mobile number is linked with Aadhaar, or you won’t receive the OTP.

• This rule currently applies to Tatkal ticket bookings, but may later extend to other services.

• The fare hike for second-class passengers also kicks in from July 1, 2025, so passengers should stay informed.

Final Word

If you frequently travel by train, especially using Tatkal services, ensure your Aadhaar is linked and verified well before your next booking. This proactive step will not only save you last-minute hassle but also align with IRCTC’s evolving digital protocols.

Author Profile

Kuldeep Singh Chundawat

My name is Kuldeep Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.

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