IRCTC Account Registration 2024

Learn how to create an IRCTC account step-by-step for hassle-free train bookings, password recovery, and troubleshooting tips.
IRCTC New Account Registration Step-by-Step Guide
Contents

What is IRCTC?

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, popularly known as IRCTC, is the official website and online ticketing portal for the Indian Railways. The website is used by users for booking train tickets, checking seat availability, and accessing other railway services like catering and tourism. Apart from its basic services, IRCTC also offers additional hospitality services such as booking hotel rooms, tourist packages, and air travel tickets. To use these services, you need an IRCTC account, which is essential for booking train tickets online.

Why Do You Need to Create an IRCTC Account?

An IRCTC account helps you benefit from many facilities:

  • Easy Ticket Booking: You can book your railway ticket from any place and at any time.
  • Instant Confirmation: Instant booking confirmation and generation of e-tickets will be sent to your email and mobile number.
  • Seat Availability & Timetable: You can check seat availability, train timetables, and fares.
  • Exclusive Offers: Access a range of deals and discounts on railway travel, hotel bookings, and tour packages.
  • Faster Cancellations and Refunds: Cancel tickets easily and receive refunds directly in your account.
  • Tourism & Ancillary Services: The website also allows you to book tour packages, food, and even airplane tickets.

If you frequently travel by train in India, having an IRCTC account is essential for hassle-free travel planning.

How to Register an IRCTC Account: Step by Step

Now that you know the importance of having an IRCTC account, let's walk through the steps required to register an account:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website of IRCTC

  1. Open your browser and visit www.irctc.co.in Signup page.

Step 2: Start the Registration Process

  1. A registration form will open. Enter details like your name, date of birth, email address, and mobile number.
  2. Ensure all details are accurate before proceeding.

Step 3: Generate Your IRCTC Login ID and Password

  1. Create a unique username for your IRCTC account (3 to 10 characters long). This username cannot be changed later.
  2. Set a strong password (8 to 15 characters, including uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters).

Step 4: Enter Personal Details

  1. Provide your full name as per your government-issued ID.
  2. Enter your date of birth, gender, and occupation.

Step 5: Enter Address Details

  1. Fill in your residential address, including street address, city, state, and pin code.

Step 6: Choose a Security Question

  1. Select a security question and answer it. This will help you recover your account if you forget your password.

Step 7: Enter Contact Information

  1. Provide a valid mobile number. IRCTC will use this for sending OTP and booking notifications.
  2. Enter your primary email address to receive booking confirmations and account-related messages.

Step 8: Select Language and Captcha

  1. Select your preferred language (English or Hindi).
  2. Enter the captcha code as displayed on the screen.

Step 9: Accept Terms and Conditions

  1. Scroll down to accept the IRCTC terms and conditions by checking the box.

Step 10: Submit the Form

  1. Once all details are filled in, click the "Submit" button. An OTP will be sent to your mobile number and email address for verification.

Step 11: Verification of Mobile Number and Email

  1. Enter the OTP received on your mobile number in the verification field on the IRCTC portal.
  2. Check your email inbox for the verification code and enter it in the appropriate field on the website.

Step 12: Log in to Your IRCTC Account

  1. Once the verification process is complete, go back to the IRCTC login page.
  2. Enter your username and password to log into your newly created account.
  3. You can now start booking train tickets, check PNR status, and more!

You may want to read this post:

FAQs About Creating an IRCTC Account

Is creating an IRCTC account free?

Yes, creating an IRCTC account is free of charge.

Can I create multiple IRCTC accounts using the same mobile number?

No, each account requires a unique mobile number and email address.

How do I recover my IRCTC password if I forget it?

You can recover your password by clicking on "Forgot Password" on the login page.

Can I change my IRCTC username?

No, the username cannot be changed after account creation.

What if I do not get the OTP during registration?

Ensure your mobile number and email address are correct. Check your spam/junk email folder for the OTP.

Can NRIs create an IRCTC account?

Yes, NRIs can create an IRCTC account using an international mobile number.

How do I change my email or mobile number in the IRCTC account?

Log in to your IRCTC account, go to the "My Profile" section, and update your email or mobile number.

Troubleshooting and Common Issues

  1. Username Already Exists: If the username you choose already exists, try adding numbers or making it unique.
  2. OTP Not Received: Ensure your mobile network is stable and your email address is correct. Your phone should not be in Do Not Disturb (DND) mode.
  3. Captcha Error: Ensure that the captcha code is entered correctly. It is case-sensitive, so be mindful of uppercase and lowercase letters.
  4. Registration Page Not Loading: Clear your browser cache and cookies, or try using a different browser.

Follow this guide to create your IRCTC account and start booking train tickets online with ease. IRCTC offers a user-friendly platform for managing your railway travel, whether for personal or official purposes.