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If you frequently book your own train tickets using IRCTC's website or mobile app, it's time to take note. Starting July 1, 2025, the Indian Railways is enforcing a new rule—your IRCTC User ID must be linked with your Aadhaar card to book Tatkal tickets. Without linking Aadhaar, Tatkal booking will not be allowed.

Additionally, starting July 15, users must verify their Aadhaar number with an OTP while booking Tatkal tickets online. The step is aimed at curbing ticket booking by touts and ensuring fair access to tickets for genuine travelers.

✅ Benefits of Linking Aadhaar to IRCTC Account

As per IRCTC’s guidelines:

• You can book up to 24 tickets per month if your Aadhaar is linked.

• Without Aadhaar, you can only book 12 tickets per month.

• Especially helpful for users who travel with family or in groups.

• From July 1, Aadhaar linking becomes mandatory for Tatkal bookings.

🔗 How to Link Your Aadhaar with IRCTC User ID (Step-by-Step Guide)

Follow these simple steps to link your Aadhaar with your IRCTC account:

Step 1:
Open your browser and visit www.irctc.co.in

Step 2:
Log in to your IRCTC account.

Step 3:
Go to the "My Account" tab and select Authenticate User.

Step 4:
Your profile details will appear. Enter your Aadhaar Number or Virtual ID.

Step 5:
Click on the option to Send OTP for Aadhaar verification.

Step 6:
Enter the OTP received on your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.

Step 7:
Check the box after reading the terms and click Submit.

Step 8:
If the authentication is successful, a confirmation message will appear. If not, try again later.

⚠️ What If You Face an Error While Linking Aadhaar?

• Errors often occur if the name, date of birth, or address on your Aadhaar doesn’t match your IRCTC profile.

• In such cases, update your IRCTC account details to match your Aadhaar.

• If updating fails, you may need to create a new IRCTC User ID with matching information.

❌ What If You Don’t Have Aadhaar?

• You will not be able to book Tatkal tickets from July 1 without linking Aadhaar.

• If your Aadhaar is not yet generated or needs correction, get it fixed immediately to continue booking tickets.

📌 Key Points to Remember:

• July 1, 2025: Aadhaar linking becomes mandatory for all Tatkal bookings.

• July 15, 2025: Aadhaar OTP verification will also be required at the time of booking.

• You can also refer to screenshots shared on IRCTC for better understanding.

📝 Conclusion:

To ensure uninterrupted Tatkal ticket booking, link your Aadhaar to your IRCTC account as soon as possible. Not only is it now a rule, but it also provides added benefits like booking more tickets per month.