An End to the Morning Queue
For years, securing a last-minute Tatkal ticket at a Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counter meant waking up at dawn and standing in long, uncertain queues. The process was often chaotic and stressful. Starting from August 1, 2026, Indian Railways
has begun rolling out a new token-based system at select counters to streamline this experience. The goal is to reduce overcrowding and bring transparency to offline Tatkal bookings. Instead of waiting for hours, passengers can now secure their place in the queue with a numbered token and return when their turn arrives. This change currently only applies to bookings made at physical counters; the process for booking online via the IRCTC website or mobile app remains unchanged.
How the New Token System Works
The new process is straightforward. Passengers must visit the reservation counter during a specific window before the actual Tatkal booking begins. For AC classes, tokens are distributed between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM. For non-AC classes like Sleeper, the window is from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM. The actual booking timings have not changed: AC Tatkal bookings still open at 10:00 AM, and non-AC bookings at 11:00 AM. Upon arrival during the token distribution time, you will be issued a token with a sequence number. You can then leave and return when the booking window opens, and passengers will be called to the counter according to their token number. Initially, each counter is expected to issue a limited number of tokens, such as 10 for AC and 15 for non-AC, though this may vary based on demand.
Why Your Photo ID Is Now Central
The most significant aspect of this new system is the heightened importance of a valid photo ID. To get a token, passengers must present an original, government-issued photo identity card. This rule is designed to clamp down on malpractice, such as agents or unauthorised individuals holding spots in the queue for others. The token is non-transferable and tied to the person who presents the ID. Some railway zones are even introducing priority categories. 'Category A' tokens, for those booking for themselves or immediate family, are served first. To get this priority, you must show your own valid ID and that of the family member travelling. 'Category B' is for all other bookings. This makes having a correct and valid photo ID non-negotiable for securing a ticket at the counter.
Accepted Photo IDs for Railway Travel
One of the original proofs of identity must be produced during the journey by at least one passenger on the ticket. The list of prescribed proofs of identity is extensive, but it's crucial to carry one of the accepted forms. These include: Aadhaar Card, Voter Photo ID card, Passport, PAN Card, and Driving Licence issued by the RTO. Other valid documents include a Nationalised Bank Passbook with a photograph, a Credit Card with a laminated photograph, and photo identity cards with a serial number issued by Central or State Government bodies. For students, an identity card with a photograph issued by a recognized school or college is also accepted. It is vital to carry the original document, as photocopies or digital versions may not be accepted at the counter or during travel.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
A simple mistake with your ID can jeopardise your travel plans. Ensure your documents are not expired. A common issue is relying on a driving licence that has passed its expiry date. Similarly, a laminated card where the photo is unclear or damaged may be rejected. Ensure the name on your ticket reservation form exactly matches the name on your photo ID to avoid any discrepancies. While an Aadhaar card is widely accepted, make sure it is the official, original card. Remember that while one passenger's ID is sufficient during the journey, the new token system may require the person booking at the counter to present their own ID. Always check the latest guidelines from Indian Railways before heading to the station.
