Tatkal Ticket Booking Rules : Booking last-minute Tatkal tickets used to be a stressful process, but in 2025, Indian Railways has introduced new rules that make booking much easier, transparent, and convenient for passengers. If you’re planning to travel last minute, here’s what you need to know about the Tatkal ticket system in 2025.
New Booking Timeline
A major change in 2025 is the revised Tatkal booking time. Previously, passengers could book Tatkal tickets starting at 11:00 am, but now bookings open at 10:00 am, two days before the journey. This new rule gives passengers an extra hour to grab those much-needed last-minute tickets without the stress of missing out.
Tatkal Fee Changes
Along with the new timeline, the Tatkal fee structure has been updated. The surcharge now varies depending on the travel class and distance. For general class, the fee can range between ₹200 to ₹400, while for AC classes, the range extends from ₹400 to ₹800. The premium Tatkal option remains available for last-minute bookings but comes at a higher cost, offering a faster booking process with a higher surcharge.
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Aadhaar Linked Booking
In a bid to reduce fraud, Aadhaar verification has become mandatory for booking Tatkal tickets. From 2025 onward, you’ll need to provide the Aadhaar number of each passenger while booking tickets. This move aims to stop individuals from booking multiple tickets for the same journey and ensures transparency. Additionally, Aadhaar verification will also be required when cancelling tickets.
Changes to Waiting List and RAC Rules
Good news for those who often face waiting lists. In 2025, waiting list and RAC rules have been relaxed. Confirmation probabilities for waiting list tickets will now be displayed more clearly, helping passengers understand their chances of getting a seat. If your ticket doesn’t get confirmed, you’ll be fully refunded (excluding the Tatkal fee), which wasn’t the case in previous years.
Offline Booking Restrictions
Another significant change is the ban on offline Tatkal bookings. You can now only book Tatkal tickets through the IRCTC website or app. Private ticket agents are no longer allowed to sell Tatkal tickets, ensuring that all benefits go directly to the passengers. However, a special exemption is made for senior citizens and Divyang (differently-abled) passengers, who can still book their Tatkal tickets at railway counters.
New Refund Policy
Cancellations have also seen a shift in the refund policy. If you decide to cancel your Tatkal ticket, you’ll now face a cancellation charge ranging from ₹200 to ₹500, depending on your class of travel.
If you cancel a ticket more than 24 hours before the journey, you’ll get a 50% refund (minus the Tatkal surcharge). However, if you cancel within 24 hours of the journey, no refund will be issued.
Conclusion
Booking Tatkal tickets in 2025 comes with new rules and a streamlined process. Make sure to book tickets online via the IRCTC website or app, and have your Aadhaar number ready to avoid any hiccups. Always check your ticket status before traveling and don’t hesitate to contact the Railway helpline number 139 for assistance in case of any issues.
