Aadhaar mandatory for early-hour train ticket booking from December 29

29 December, 2025
Aadhaar mandatory for early-hour train ticket booking from December 29

Winning Bizness Desk

Mumbai.From December 29, IRCTC users without Aadhaar-linked accounts will not be able to book reserved train tickets between 8 am and 12 noon on the opening day of reservations. The rule applies only on the first day when bookings open for a train.

Railway reservation opens 60 days before the train’s departure date. The new restriction aims to give genuine passengers a fair chance to book tickets and to curb bookings made through fake accounts and software.

The Railway Ministry is rolling out the rule in three phases-

  • From December 29: Non-Aadhaar-linked users cannot book tickets from 8 am to 12 noon
  • From January 5: Booking restriction extends from 8 am to 4 pm
  • From January 12: Such users cannot book tickets from 8 am to midnight

After the restricted hours, booking will be allowed as usual.

Rule targets fake accounts and ticket agents

Railway officials say the move is meant to stop ticket agents and fake IDs from blocking seats on the opening day. During the initial booking window, only verified users will get access, improving chances of confirmation for common passengers.

The rule applies only to general quota reserved tickets, both online and at station counters.

Questions and answers on the new rule

Why is this rule introduced?

To control ticket touts and illegal software. It ensures ordinary passengers get priority during the first few hours of booking.

How will Aadhaar work during booking?

Your IRCTC account must be linked with Aadhaar. An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number, which is mandatory to confirm the ticket.

What if Aadhaar is not linked?

You will not be able to book tickets during the restricted hours on the opening day. No alternative system has been announced yet.

Is there any change in counter bookings?

Yes. OTP authentication is mandatory at counters as well. If booking for someone else, their Aadhaar and OTP will also be required.

How to link Aadhaar with IRCTC?

Log in to the IRCTC app or website. Go to ‘My Profile’, select ‘Aadhaar KYC’, and update your details.

Where to seek help in case of issues?

For booking or OTP problems, contact IRCTC helpline 139. For Aadhaar-related issues, call UIDAI helpline 1947. Assistance is also available at railway station counters.

Is the rule applicable across India?

Yes. It applies to all railway zones nationwide, whether the route is Delhi–Mumbai or Chennai–Kolkata.

What is the 60-day reservation rule?

Earlier, tickets could be booked 120 days in advance. From November 1, 2024, this window has been reduced to 60 days, excluding the journey date.

Booking time:Every day at 8 am, reservations open for the 60th day ahead.

Example:For travel on June 30, booking opens on May 1 at 8 am.