PNR Help & Frequently Asked Questions
Everything about Indian Railways PNR — what every status code means, how to check, refund rules, travel classes, Tatkal, and more. 61 expert-written answers.
General
What is a PNR number in Indian Railways?Where can I find my 10-digit PNR number?How accurate is PNR confirmation prediction?What is Split PNR? When does it happen?How does General class booking work?IRCTC online vs counter booking — pros and consHow to find a train's stoppage list?How to get two confirmed berths next to each other?TTE allotted my vacant seat — is that legal?What is a platform ticket? When do I need one?IRCTC mobile app vs website — which is better?What are the railway zones in India?What are railway station codes? How are they assigned?How accurate is the PNR data shown by third-party sites?Split booking strategy — when does it help?PNR vs Ticket Number — what's the difference?Is PNR status check free of cost?Difference between Boarding Station and Source Station
How-to
How to check PNR status online?Do I need an IRCTC account to check PNR?How to check seat availability before booking?Difference between PNR status and train running statusIRCTC booking failed but money deducted — what to do?How to track a live running train?Train is running late — what are my options?
Status codes (CNF / RAC / WL ...)
What does CNF mean in PNR status?What is RAC status in PNR?What is WL or Waitlist in PNR?GNWL vs PQWL — what is the difference?What is TQWL in PNR status?What does RLWL mean in PNR?What is PQWL in train PNR?What does Chart Prepared mean in PNR?What does Chart Not Prepared mean?What is Auto Upgrade in PNR booking?What does Flushed PNR mean?All PNR status codes explained
Classes & berths
Rules & policy
Tatkal booking rules and timingsTrain ticket cancellation refund rulesWhat is TDR and how to file it?Can I change boarding station after booking?What is Premium Tatkal and how is it different?What is Ladies quota in train booking?Senior citizen concession on train ticketsChild fare rules in Indian RailwaysWhat is Current Booking in trains?Can I transfer my train ticket to another person?Can I modify passenger names after booking?Train ticket concessions available in IndiaIRCTC service charge breakdownHow early can I book a train ticket?Ladies special coaches and trainsTatkal vs Premium Tatkal — which to choose?What is form PCFB / Booking against concession?Are there any Covid travel protocols still active?What if I lose my train ticket before journey?Which trains include free meals?
Ready to check your PNR?
10-digit PNR + captcha = live status from Indian Railways