Last-minute ticket booking under the tatkal service of Indian Railways offers passengers a good alternative for quickly booking tickets. However, each year introduces a few changes in the manner of booking. For the year 2025 too, Railways have made certain amendments to the rules of tatkal ticketing. If you want to book tickets fast, you must understand the latest rules.
Tatkal Booking Time And Date
Tatkal ticket booking starts from 10:00 am the day before the journey. The tatkal ticket booking time for AC coaches starts 10:00 am, while for non-AC coaches, it is from 11:00 am. Online booking can be done using an IRCTC website or mobile app.
Tatkal Ticket Price And Charges
Tatkal tickets are available at a higher price compared to normal tickets. From 2025, the concept of dynamic pricing will also be having an effect on ticket pricing, meaning that prices may be increased as per demand. On top of this, tatkal charge and superfast charge are also applicable. If booked on short notice, cancellation charges may apply.
ID Proof And Verification
While booking tatkal tickets, the passenger’s ID proof is a must. If booking is done online, the passenger must carry the original ID proof on the day of travel. IRCTC may perform random verification in some cases.
Tatkal Ticket Limit For An Individual
The rule permits the booking of only four tatkal tickets in a day by a passenger. This rule is in place to prevent black marketing of tickets. Under such circumstances, where a passenger goes for booking of more than regulated tatkal tickets, his account may be banned.
Refund And Cancellation Rules
For tatkal ticket cancellations, more deduction will be charged than for normal tickets. There will be a deduction of 25% to 50% whenever possible in case of cancellation of tickets 24 hours before the journey. Whereas cancellation on the day of travel will mean no refund.
Conclusion
In 2025, tatkal-ticket booking remains a circus, but understanding the latest rules makes your travel plans much more manageable. You can avoid unnecessary troubles if you ensure ID verification and refund policy while booking. If the necessity of traveling at short notice arises, do utilize the tatkal facility, but heed the rules.
Also Read: NHAI Guidelines 2025: Now There Will Be No Queue At Toll Plaza, Know Full Details
