The Clear Answer: Tickets Are Non-Transferable

Indian train tickets cannot be transferred to another person under any circumstances. This is governed by Section 143 of the Railways Act, 1989, which prohibits transferring, selling, or allowing another person to travel on your ticket.

The only person who can travel on an IRCTC e-ticket is the passenger whose name is on it — verified against a government-issued ID during the journey.

What Happens If Someone Else Tries to Travel on Your Ticket

  • The TTE checks name on ticket against ID proof at the time of verification.
  • If the name doesn't match — the passenger is treated as ticketless.
  • Penalty: Pay full fare for the journey distance + excess charge (₹250 minimum fine).
  • In serious cases, police involvement is possible under the Railways Act.

What to Do If Your Travel Plans Change

If you cannot travel and someone else needs to go in your place:

  1. Cancel your ticket on IRCTC and get a refund (minus cancellation charges based on timing).
  2. Book a new ticket in the other person's name — even if it is more expensive or waitlisted.
  3. If Tatkal seats are available (opens 1 day before at 10 AM for SL / 11 AM for AC), book Tatkal for the new passenger.

Exception: Spelling Corrections (Same Person Only)

If the name on the ticket has a minor spelling error but it is the same person, the TTE typically uses discretion. However, IRCTC does not have an online name correction feature — you would need to approach the railway reservation counter with your ID proof and the original ticket to request a correction before travel.

This is a correction for the same person, not a transfer to a different person.

What About Counter (Paper) Tickets?

Paper counter tickets are also non-transferable. The Railways Act applies equally to both e-tickets and paper tickets. A TTE verifying a paper ticket will ask for ID proof matching the name.

Related: How to cancel IRCTC ticket and get refund | Cancellation charges 2026