What Is an IRCTC E-Ticket (ERS)?
When you book a train ticket on IRCTC online, you get an e-ticket — a digital ticket stored in your IRCTC account. The printable version is called an ERS (Electronic Reservation Slip). You do NOT need to go to the station to collect a physical ticket for e-tickets.
How to Download Your IRCTC Ticket (Step by Step)
Method 1: IRCTC Website
- Go to irctc.co.in and log in with your username and password
- Click on "My Account" in the top menu
- Select "My Transactions" or "Booked Ticket History"
- Find your booking from the list and click on the PNR number
- Click "Print e-ticket" — a PDF with your ERS opens
- Save the PDF to your phone or computer, or print it
Method 2: IRCTC Rail Connect App
- Open the IRCTC Rail Connect app on your phone
- Tap "My Bookings" from the bottom menu
- Select your booking and tap "View Ticket"
- The ERS appears on screen — tap the download/share icon to save as PDF
Method 3: IRCTC SMS
IRCTC sends an SMS with your PNR number and booking summary to the registered mobile number. This SMS is NOT a valid ticket but contains your PNR which the TTE will verify against the chart.
Do You Need to Print the Ticket?
No printing required for e-tickets. The ERS displayed on your phone is fully valid. TTEs verify passengers from the digital chart — your PNR and a photo ID is all you need to board. Save the PDF offline on your phone in case of no internet connectivity at the station or during travel.
What ID to Carry
Carry any one government-issued photo ID matching the passenger details on the ticket: Aadhaar, PAN card, passport, voter ID, or driving licence. If travelling as a group, at least one person must carry ID matching the PNR booking.
After Downloading — Check PNR Status
Enter your PNR at PNR Alert to check live status and coach/berth assignment after chart preparation. Subscribe for free WhatsApp PNR alerts to get notified the moment your seat changes.