Starting May 1, 2025, Indian Railways has enforced strict new rules that prohibit passengers with waiting list tickets from traveling in Sleeper or AC coaches. The rule is uniform—whether the ticket was booked online via IRCTC or physically at a railway counter.
This shift is aimed at decongesting reserved coaches and ensuring a smoother, safer experience for confirmed passengers.
Let’s break down the impact of these IRCTC new rules 2025 and how you can stay compliant.
What’s Changing Under the New IRCTC Rules?
- No Sleeper/AC Access for Waiting List Tickets
If your ticket is not confirmed, you cannot board Sleeper or AC coaches—even if it was booked well in advance.
→ Only General (Unreserved) coaches are now allowed for such tickets. - Hefty Penalties for Violators
If caught in reserved coaches with a waiting list ticket:- ₹250 fine in Sleeper Class
- ₹440 fine in AC Class
- Fare charge from boarding to the next station
- TTEs Given Full Enforcement Powers
Train Ticket Examiners are directed to strictly deboard and fine violators at the next stop.
Legal Reference
As per IRCTC and Indian Railways notification (effective 01.05.2025), the rule applies across all zones and modes of booking. The move is backed by security and service objectives, aimed at reducing unsafe overcrowding in reserved compartments.
IRCTC Travel Rule 2025
| Rule Area | Change Implemented from May 1, 2025 |
|---|---|
| Waiting List in Sleeper/AC | Not allowed to travel |
| Allowed Coach | General (Unreserved) only |
| Fines (if caught) | ₹250 (Sleeper), ₹440 (AC), plus fare to next station |
| Enforcement | TTEs authorized to penalize and deboard violators |
| Advance Reservation Period | Reduced to 60 days (was 120 days earlier) |
| Online Ticket Booking | Mandatory OTP verification for all users |
Why This Rule Matters
According to IRCTC, the key reasons for this change are:
- Safety: Overcrowded reserved compartments posed regular safety issues
- Passenger Experience: Confirmed ticket holders faced discomfort due to waiting list boarders
- Fairness: Only those with valid, confirmed bookings should access reserved amenities
Before you plan travel via rail, ensure your ticket is confirmed. Use the ‘current booking’ option on IRCTC post chart preparation, or choose General coaches if your ticket remains waitlisted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I board Sleeper or AC with a waitlisted ticket?
No. Only General coaches are permitted for waitlisted passengers.
2. Will this apply to counter bookings too?
Yes. The rule applies to both online and offline tickets.
3. What’s the fine for violating the rule?
₹250 for Sleeper; ₹440 for AC; fare for travel to next station also charged.
4. What if my ticket stays in waiting after charting?
Either cancel it or travel in General coaches—do not risk fines.
5. Can I book tickets 3 months in advance?
No. Booking window now limited to 60 days only.