Senior Citizen Railway Concession Guide 2026
Written by Aruna Sane
Last reviewed: 15 September 2026 | Senior Citizen Information Researcher
Indian Railways offers concession on train fares to senior citizens to make rail travel more affordable. This guide covers everything you need to know about the concession – from eligibility and booking to cancellation rules and documents required.
Eligibility for Railway Concession
The concession is available to senior citizens who meet the following age criteria:
| Category | Minimum Age | Concession Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Male Senior Citizens | 60 years and above | 40% on base fare |
| Female Senior Citizens | 58 years and above | 50% on base fare |
Note: The concession applies to the base fare only and does not include reservation charges, superfast charges, or other supplementary charges.
How to Book with Senior Citizen Concession
Online Booking via IRCTC
Senior citizens can book concessional tickets online through the IRCTC website or mobile app:
- Log in to your IRCTC account at irctc.co.in.
- Enter your travel details (from, to, date, class).
- When entering passenger details, select "Senior Citizen" in the concession dropdown.
- Enter your age correctly. The system will automatically verify eligibility.
- Select the appropriate concession type (Male 60+ / Female 58+).
- Complete the booking and make payment.
Counter Booking at Railway Station
You can also book at the reservation counter:
- Fill in the reservation form with your age and select the senior citizen concession.
- Carry a valid photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID, or Senior Citizen Card).
- The concession will be applied automatically if you meet the age criteria.
Train Types and Concession Availability
Senior citizen concession is available on most train types in India:
| Train Type | Concession Available | Classes Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Rajdhani Express | Yes | All classes (1A, 2A, 3A) |
| Shatabdi Express | Yes | CC, EC |
| Duronto Express | Yes | All classes |
| Sampark Kranti | Yes | All classes |
| Mail/Express Trains | Yes | All classes |
| Garib Rath | Yes | 3A, 2A |
| Vande Bharat | Yes | CC, EC |
Tatkal Booking with Senior Citizen Concession
Senior citizens can use their concession for Tatkal bookings. However, there are some important points to note:
- The Tatkal booking window opens at 10:00 AM for AC classes and 11:00 AM for non-AC classes.
- The senior citizen concession is applied to the base fare, and then the Tatkal premium is added on top.
- Tatkal tickets with concession cannot be cancelled after chart preparation.
- It is advisable to book early to avoid Tatkal charges altogether.
Documents Required
While booking, you need to carry a valid identity proof that confirms your age. Acceptable documents include:
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Passport
- Voter ID Card
- Senior Citizen Card (issued by state or central government)
- Driving License
- Date of Birth Certificate from school
Cancellation Rules
The cancellation rules for concessional tickets are the same as regular tickets:
| Timing of Cancellation | Cancellation Charge |
|---|---|
| More than 48 hours before departure | Flat cancellation charge (₹240 for AC, ₹120 for non-AC) |
| Between 48 hours and 12 hours before departure | 25% of the fare |
| Less than 12 hours before departure | 50% of the fare |
| After chart preparation | Not permitted (except for Tatkal – no refund) |
Tips for Senior Citizens Traveling by Train
- Book Early: Book your tickets at least 30 days in advance to get confirmed berths.
- Prefer Lower Berths: Senior citizens and pregnant women are given preference for lower berths. Mention this while booking.
- Carry ID Always: Keep your ID proof handy during the journey as TTEs may verify age.
- Use IRCTC E-Catering: Order food online to be delivered to your seat during the journey.
- Wheelchair Assistance: Most major stations offer wheelchair assistance for senior citizens. Request at the station master's office.
- Medical Kit: Carry a basic medical kit with essential medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine senior citizen concession with other concessions?
No, you cannot combine two concessions. Only one concession can be availed per ticket. If you have a disability concession or ex-serviceman concession, you must choose one.
Is the concession available in General (unreserved) class?
No, the senior citizen concession is available only for reserved classes. General class tickets do not require reservations and do not offer this concession.
What if my age is wrongly entered during booking?
If your age is entered incorrectly and you are found to be below the eligible age during the journey, you may be charged the full fare along with a penalty. Always double-check your age while booking.
Can a companion travel with the same concession?
No, the concession is strictly for the senior citizen. The companion must pay the full fare unless they also qualify for a separate concession.
Is the concession available on metro and suburban trains?
No, the senior citizen railway concession is not applicable on metro rail services or suburban/local trains. It is only for long-distance mail, express, and premium trains.
Can I book senior citizen concession tickets for my parents online?
Yes, you can book concessional tickets for your parents (who meet the age criteria) through your IRCTC account. Enter their correct age and select the senior citizen concession during booking.