IRCTC OTP Not Coming: 8 Fixes That Actually Work (2026)

Fix 1: Wait 60 Seconds and Resend OTP

IRCTC OTPs can sometimes take 30–60 seconds to arrive, especially during peak hours (8 AM Tatkal time, 10 AM AC Tatkal). Do not click 'Resend OTP' immediately — wait the full 60 seconds first. After 60 seconds, the 'Resend OTP' button activates. Click it once. Wait another 60 seconds. If still not received, move to the next fix.

Fix 2: Check DND (Do Not Disturb) Status

If your mobile number is registered on the DND list, transactional SMSes may be blocked. IRCTC OTPs are transactional messages — they should come through even on DND under TRAI rules. However, some carriers incorrectly block them. Call 1909 (free) from your mobile to check and deactivate DND. Alternatively, try using a different SIM temporarily.

Fix 3: Check Mobile Network and Signal

Weak or no signal prevents SMS delivery. Move to an area with better signal. Switch from 2G to 4G in your phone settings. Toggle Airplane Mode off and on to refresh network connection. Check if you're roaming — international roaming can sometimes block Indian transactional SMS.

Fix 4: Update Your Registered Mobile Number on IRCTC

If your registered mobile number is old or inactive, OTPs go to that number. To update: log in to irctc.co.in using your current password (if you can), go to 'My Account' → 'My Profile' → 'Update Mobile'. If you cannot log in at all due to OTP, contact IRCTC Customer Care at 139 with your User ID and registered email — they can help update your number after identity verification.

Common Questions

Why is IRCTC OTP not coming to my number?

Most common causes: DND activated on your number, weak mobile signal, IRCTC server delays during peak hours, or your registered number is different from the one you're checking. Try each fix in sequence.

How long does IRCTC OTP take to arrive?

Usually 10–30 seconds. During peak hours (8 AM, 10 AM IST), it can take 60–90 seconds due to high server load. Wait at least 60 seconds before clicking Resend.

Can I login to IRCTC without OTP?

No — IRCTC requires OTP for every login. This is a security feature that cannot be bypassed. If OTP is not coming, you must resolve the underlying issue.

How do I change my registered mobile number on IRCTC?

If you can log in: My Account → My Profile → Update Mobile. If you cannot log in due to OTP problem: call IRCTC helpdesk at 139 or email care@irctc.co.in with your User ID and identity proof.

Does DND affect IRCTC OTP?

It can — some carriers incorrectly block transactional SMS when DND is active. IRCTC OTPs are technically exempt from DND under TRAI rules, but deactivating DND (call 1909) resolves this for many users.

IRCTC is sending OTP to old number — how to fix?

Contact IRCTC Customer Care at 139 or 0755-6610661 with your User ID, registered email, and new mobile number. After verification, they can update your mobile number so OTPs go to the new number.

Which number does IRCTC send OTP from?

IRCTC OTPs are sent from various sender IDs like IRTCTC, IRCTCK, or similar. Make sure these are not blocked in your SMS app. Check your spam/blocked messages folder.

What if IRCTC OTP expired before I could enter it?

IRCTC OTPs expire in 10 minutes. If expired, click 'Resend OTP' to get a new one. Do not try to enter an expired OTP — it will show an error.

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