Tatkal Booking Rules on Indian Railways

Complete guide to Tatkal booking rules on Indian Railways. Timings, charges, eligibility and cancellation rules explained.

Updated 29 Apr 2026

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Tatkal is a special booking scheme by Indian Railways that allows passengers to book tickets one day before travel at a premium price. Understanding the Tatkal rules helps you plan better and avoid surprises at the time of booking.

Key Information

  • Tatkal is a special booking scheme by Indian Railways that allows passengers to book tickets one day before travel at a premium price.
  • Understanding the Tatkal rules helps you plan better and avoid surprises at the time of booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key Tatkal booking rules?
Tatkal opens 1 day before journey (10 AM for AC, 11 AM for Non-AC). Maximum 4 passengers per PNR. No refund on confirmed Tatkal tickets. Agent booking is banned for the first 30 minutes.
Is ID proof mandatory for Tatkal booking?
Yes. One of the passengers must carry the ID proof used at the time of Tatkal booking. ID details must be entered while booking.
Can I book Tatkal tickets from an agent?
Yes, but only after the first 30 minutes of the Tatkal window. Agents are banned during 10:00–10:30 AM for AC and 11:00–11:30 AM for Non-AC classes.
What is the Tatkal surcharge range?
Tatkal surcharge ranges from 10% to 30% of the basic fare depending on the class, subject to minimum and maximum caps. For example, it is between 10% and 30% for SL, and between 15% and 30% for AC classes.

Disclaimer: RailWise is an independent information platform and is not affiliated with Indian Railways or IRCTC. All information is provided for general guidance only. Railway rules can change — always verify current policies on the official Indian Railways website.

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Related Tools

Use these free calculators to plan your journey.

Booking Date Calculator

Find out exactly when advance booking opens for your train.

Tatkal Time Calculator

Check the Tatkal booking window for AC and Non-AC classes.

Refund Calculator

Estimate your refund after ticket cancellation.

Chart Preparation Time

Know when the chart is prepared for your train.