Easily check PNR Status & book IRCTC train tickets with MakeMyTrip
PNR Status
Check your PNR status and with our Trip Guarantee feature, get a confirm IRCTC ticket of 3X refund incase ticket is not confirmed. You can also opt for real time PNR status update on WhatsApp.
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Rest assured about your upcoming travel plans, even when the PNR status is waitlisted. With Trip Guarantee, get a confirmed ticket or receive a 3X refund.
Free Cancellation
Keep your travel plans flexible. When you book with free cancellation, you get a full and instant refund for your ticket cost, whether the PNR status is confirmed or waitlisted.
Live Train Status
Apart from the PNR status, you can also check the live train status on the MakeMyTrip app or website. Stay updated about route, running time, schedule, delays, and more along the way.
Highest Booking Success
MakeMyTrip offers seamless and instant train booking. On the app or website, you can get real-time info on the PNR status, live train status, and other important details.
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Alternate Route Tickets
With our alternate route feature, increase your chances of getting confirm IRCTC train tickets and easily check and get instant updates of your PNR Status.
What is PNR Status?
PNR Status is the status of a train ticket that has been booked and checked using PNR, or Passenger Name Record. When you check the PNR status of your train ticket, you will obtain one of the following statuses:
- CNF or Confirmed status: This status displays if the ticket has been confirmed and shows the passenger's assigned coach and berth.
- Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC) status: If the Indian Railway PNR status says RAC, it means that the passenger is likely to acquire a ticket confirmation if someone else cancels. The number that shows up with RAC status is for the RAC queue. If the PNR status check for railway ticket says RAC, the passenger is still allowed to travel.
- WL or Waiting List/Waitlist: If the PNR status check online shows WL as the status, it means that the ticket is on the Waiting List.
On making the PNR status inquiry, you might come across one of these statuses for your booked tickets, although a cancelled ticket also has a CAN/MOD PNR status.
What is a PNR Number?
A PNR, or Passenger Name Record number, is a unique 10-digit alphanumeric identifier that is given to each ticket that has been booked. All of the tickets will have the same PNR number if you buy tickets for more than one person at a time. The following is the most crucial information that a PNR number has.
- Name, age, gender, and berth preference of the passenger
- Information about your trip, such as the train number, coach number, berth number, class of travel, and place of departure
- Details about the itinerary include the booking status, the current status, the time of travel, and the departure and arrival times.
- Information about the payment, such as the transaction ID, payment method, and fare
When you make your IRCTC train ticket bookings, you'll get a unique 10-digit PNR number delivered to your registered email address and mobile phone number. A PNR number is valid for nine months or until the trip is over, whichever comes first. The PNR number stops working as soon as the trip is over.
The PNR number is significant since it lets you easily check the status of your PNR and see current updates on changes to your ticket status and queue. The top left corner of each rail ticket has the PNR number on it.
PNR Number Structure in Indian Railways
The PNR number on your rail ticket may look like a random 10-digit code when you look at it. But each number in this number has information about your booking. If you know how this structure works, you can better understand the intricacies of your ticket.
The Indian Railways gives each booked ticket a unique 10-digit Passenger Name Record (PNR) number. There are two key aspects to it:
- The first digit (Reservation Zone): The first number in your PNR number tells you the railway zone or system you used to book your ticket. The Indian Railways is split into several zones, and this number shows where the booking came from.
- The next nine digits are the unique booking details: The last nine digits are created by the system and hold information about your trip and reservation. These numbers assist the railway database to keep track of your ticket information, like the train number, the date of travel, and the names of the passengers. Even though the complete breakdown of each digit is not publicly available, this structured style makes sure that every ticket has its own identification in the huge Indian Railways network.
Please note that you can't check your PNR status with name or any other personal or ticket information. You can only check the status of your PNR with the 10-digit PNR number given.
How to Check PNR Status Online
How to Check PNR Status through IRCTC
The train PNR status check is possible through your PNR number. The Indian Railways offers different PNR statuses. Each one shows the status of your train ticket reservations. Here is what some of the short forms mean:
- Go to the official website or app for IRCTC.
- On the homepage, click on the "PNR Status" or "PNR Status Check" feature.
- Type your 10-digit PNR number into the right box on the new page and click "Check Status."
- After that, it will take you to your PNR number details, which will include your ticket confirmation and, if you already have one, your coach and berth assignment details.
How to Check PNR Status through MakeMyTrip
MakeMyTrip, IRCTC's authorised booking partner, also lets you check the status of your Indian Railway PNR. To check your PNR status on the platform, follow the steps below.
- Go to the official website or app for MakeMyTrip.
- Click on "Trains" on the webpage, then click on the "PNR Status/PNR Status Check" service.
- Enter the 10-digit PNR number on the service page that opens.
- After that, you can click "Check" to see your PNR number's status right away on the screen as WL, RAC, or CNF, along with all the other important information about your itinerary.
You may also find PNR status prediction on the platform. This tells you how likely it is that your ticket status will change from waitlisted to RAC or confirmed. You can easily opt for PNR status live check on mobile or any other device that is connected to the internet with MakeMyTrip's PNR status service.
Check PNR Status via SMS or Missed Call (139)
- Check PNR status by text message: You can text your 10-digit PNR number to 139 or 5676747 and get an instant SMS with your PNR status and other information.
- Check PNR status by phone: You can also call to verify the status of your PNR. To check your PNR status straight now, call 139 and follow the instructions to connect with the Indian Railways IVR.
How to Check PNR Status on WhatsApp
Your railway PNR status check is quick and convenient using WhatsApp, especially when you want instant updates without opening multiple apps or websites.
Follow these steps to check your PNR status on WhatsApp:
- Open WhatsApp chat — Go to WhatsApp and start a chat with the official WhatsApp number provided by Indian Railways enquiry service.
- Enter your PNR number — Type your 10-digit PNR number in the chat box and send it.
- Get your status instantly — You will receive your current PNR status within seconds, including confirmation details, coach and berth (if available), or your waitlist/RAC position.
This method is ideal when you want a fast and hassle-free way to track your ticket status on the go.
Other Ways to Check Your PNR Status
- At the Railway Information Desk: A visit to the Railway Enquiry counter in person makes it easier to get the latest information about your booked ticket's PNR status.
- Through the final reservation chart: You can also verify the status of your booked train ticket's PNR at the last minute by looking at the final reservation chart on the platform of the railway station.
How to Get Live PNR Status Updates
You can check the status of your PNR in real time from the time you book your ticket until the train is scheduled to leave. If the tickets you want for your chosen train and coach type aren't available, your booking will show a Waitlisted PNR status and a 10-digit PNR number, and will be updated later.
Check the status of your railway PNR to see real-time updates. For example, if the waitlisted queue in the WL status reduces, the changes in numbers will be available later. In the same way, if the train ticket changes from "Waitlisted" to "RAC," the PNR status online will change right away. After the RAC queue is over, the ticket that was booked gets a Confirmed PNR status.
The IRCTC PNR status changes from WL to CNF in real time, depending on how many tickets are cancelled by current passengers. The status is updated frequently, and the time frame is based on how many current passengers cancel their bookings. Some of the most important things that can affect the change in your rail ticket's PNR status are the following:
- If you cancel a ticket that already has a confirmed or RAC status, it affects the probability of your PNR status and its change thereto.
- Any holiday season that is going on can affect your PNR status. This is because there are fewer cancellations of already confirmed tickets, which makes it less likely that you will get a confirmation.
- Changes to the number of seats available also affect the PNR status of passengers.
- If the train is cancelled or moved to a different time, your PNR status will also change.
- When a waitlisted ticket is confirmed, the PNR status also changes.
If the chart is prepared and there is no seat assignment, your PNR status will change from "Waiting List" to "Cancelled/Modified."
What Does Confirmed (CNF) PNR Status Mean?
If your PNR status says CNF or Confirmed, it signifies that your train ticket has been bought and your seat is secured. Once the chart is prepared, your ticket will show you the coach and berth number you have been given. When you have a verified status, you can travel without worry and plan your trip with ease.
What Does RAC PNR Status Mean?
Reservation Against Cancellation, or RAC, is a semi-confirmed status. This implies you can get on the train, but you might not get a berth for yourself right away. Instead, you can get a shared seat, which is normally shared by two people. If other people cancel their tickets, your RAC status can change to confirmed, which means you have a full berth before you leave.
What Does Waitlist (WL) PNR Status Mean?
Your ticket hasn't been confirmed yet if your PNR status is WL or Waitlist. If your status doesn't change to RAC or Confirmed before the final chart is prepared, you won't be able to travel. Your position in the waiting queue is shown by the WL number, and it may change as people cancel. If the status doesn't move, the ticket will be cancelled and the money will be refunded.
IRCTC PNR Status Prediction
With PNR status prediction, you may get an idea of whether your waitlisted or RAC ticket is likely to be confirmed before your trip. This forecast lets you figure out your odds ahead of time by looking at past booking patterns, current seat availability, and cancellation histories.
It can be helpful when you're planning your trip and considering whether to keep your reservation or explore for other possibilities, even though it's not a guarantee. You can look for IRCTC PNR status prediction on the website or app of MakeMyTrip.
What to Do If Your PNR Status is on Waitlist
If your ticket is still on the waitlist, there are a few things you can do to make your vacation plans go more smoothly:
- Check your status often: Check your PNR status often to stay up to date on any changes.
- Wait for the chart to be ready: A lot of tickets are confirmed at the last minute when the final chart is prepared.
- Search other trains: Look for trains on the same route that have more available seats.
Don't stress out at the last minute. If your waitlist number is large and not moving, it's wiser to make plans ahead of time.
Recommended Read: “Alternate Trip” feature
PNR Abbreviations Fact Sheet
Get a quick glimpse at the PNR abbreviations to get a clear idea about your train ticket status.
- PNR: Passenger Name Record
- CNF: Confirm
- WL: Waiting List
- RAC: Reservation Against Cancellation
- CAN/MOD: Cancellation/Modification
There are different types of WL statuses available, depending on the queue your ticket is in.
- RLWL: Remote Location Waiting List
- GNWL: General Waiting List
- CKWL: Tatkal Quota Waiting List (CK is the Tatkal Quota code)
- PQWL: Pooled Quota Waiting List
- RSWL: Roadside Station Waiting List
- RQWL: Request Waiting List
PNR Status Enquiry Quick Facts
| What is PNR in e-ticket? | Passenger Name Record |
| Length of PNR number | It is a 10-digit unique code. |
| Meaning of first 3 digits of your PNR | In the PNR number, the first 3 digits are called PRS. They give information about the system used by passengers to book train tickets. |
| Meaning of last 7 digits of your PNR | The last seven digits are randomly generated by the system. |
| Validity period of a PNR number | A PNR is applicable for the maximum of 9 months. After that period, it becomes invalid. However, the same PNR can be generated after a year. |
Train PNR Status FAQS
Q. How to Check PNR Status?
A: You can check PNR Status online via makemytrip.com. Follow the steps mentioned below:
Step 1: Go to Makemytrip website or download the Makemytrip app.
Step 2: Click on 'Check PNR Status' button.
Step 3: Enter your 10 digit PNR number and search. You will get your booked train ticket current status along with passengers details.Q. What does a PNR number store?
A: A PNR no. has the following information: Details of the passenger, which include name, age and gender. Details of the train, which include train number, coach and seat numbers, class of travel and departure station. Details of the ticket, which include the mode of payment, transaction ID and fare.
Q. How is a PNR number issued for a train?
A: The PNR number contains two parts and the first three digits specify the area from where the ticket is booked. The starting digit of the PNR number indicates from where the train would start. As any Indian Railways train ticket is booked from a PRS (Passenger Reservation System), the two succeeding digits after the first number will denote the particular PRS. When the PNR number on the train ticket begins from 1, it will originate from SCR zone from Secunderabad PRS. When the PNR no. begins from 2 or 3, it will be issued from NR, NCR, NWR, or NER from New Delhi PRS. With starting digits 4 or 5 on the PNR number, the point of origin can be SWR, SCR, or SR from Chennai PRS. When the PNR number starts from 6 or 7, it will originate from station codes, NFR, ECR, ER, ECoR, SER, or SECR, from Kolkata PRS. With 8 or 9 as the beginning digit, the PNR issued will be from CR, WCR, or WR, from Mumbai PRS. The last 7 digits of an Indian Railways PNR number are produced at random to give it a unique identity.
Q. How to find the PNR number on a train ticket?
A: On an Indian railways train ticket, you can find the PNR number on the top left hand corner. When you have booked an e-ticket from IRCTC website, or from an online travel website, the number would be present on the top section. To check your PNR status, enter your PNR number in the form at the top of this page, and instantly get the updated result.
Q. How to check PNR status on a phone?
A: Check PNR Status by sending SMS on:
Type 'PNR (10-digit PNR Number)' and send it to 139.Q. Is PNR number allotted for unreserved and reserved tickets?
A: PNR number is only allotted for reserved tickets.
Q. Where is the PNR number printed on a train ticket?
A: If the train ticket is bought at a railway station, you can find your PNR number on the top left of your ticket. In case the ticket is bought online, the PNR number would be separately displayed on the top of the train ticket.
Q. Can we travel with only the PNR number?
A: Yes, passengers can travel without tickets, if the PNR status is confirmed. If you don’t have the ticket, approach the TC and give the details of your ticket along with a valid ID proof for verification.
Q. What do CNF, RAC, and WL mean in PNR status?
A: When you check your Indian Railway PNR status, either of the three statuses are displayed, i.e., CNF, RAC and WL. CNF refers to the confirmation of booked tickets and seat allotment in your selected coach type. When the PNR status shows RAC, it refers to Reservation Against Cancellation and allows travel on the booked train. However, it does not guarantee separate berth allotment and the passenger often has to share a berth with another co-passenger if the ticket remains under RAC status.
WL for PNR status indicates Waiting List, which means that all berth tickets are booked. The number associated with WL status indicates the passenger’s queue in the Waiting List before the status moves to RAC and then CNF seat allotment.Q. How often is PNR status updated by Indian Railways?
A: The Indian Railways updates the Passenger Name Record or PNR status frequently, and many times the changes reflect in real-time as PNR status live. It helps confirm the itinerary of the passengers as and when they need it. Easy PNR enquiry can be done in real-time via the IRCTC platform. MakeMyTrip, the official booking partner of IRCTC also provides updated PNR status in real-time.
Q. What does it mean if my PNR status shows RLWL or GNWL?
A: The Waiting List status on your PNR status enquiry can reflect different types of waiting lists with varying degrees of confirmation chances. RLWL and GNWL are two such Waiting List status types. RLWL means Remote Location Waiting List while GNWL refers to General Waiting List. RLWL reflects the waiting list for a small berth quota for train boarding at intermediate stations on the route. GNWL on the other hand is a common waiting list type with higher chances of confirmation than RLWL.
Q. Why should I check my PNR status before travelling?
A: You should go for your train PNR status check before travelling because it helps to know whether your ticket is confirmed with an allotted berth, on the waiting list or on RAC. You can thus plan your journey accordingly and avoid facing any inconvenient experiences.
A confirmed ticket or ticket with RAC status enables train boarding while waitlisted tickets do not allow boarding. Checking your PNR status from time to time also helps gauge the chances of confirmation so that you can make necessary arrangements alternatively if needed. Checking the status of your PNR also allows a quick look at berth and coach number, if confirmed. When checking your PNR status, you can also get to know about train schedule changes, if any.Q. How can I check PNR status through SMS or the IRCTC website?
A: You can check your PNR status easily through SMS or the IRCTC website. When going for PNR status live check on mobile through SMS, simply type your 10-digit PNR number as a message and send it to 139 or 5676747. You will get all the status details related to your PNR, including coach and berth numbers, if confirmed.
The IRCTC website also provides an easy facility to check PNR status. On the website, click on the ‘PNR Status’ option and enter your PNR on the next page that opens. All the PNR and ticket details will be displayed on the page for you.Q. Can I track my train’s platform and running status with my PNR?
A: No, the PNR status feature does not provide details related to your train’s running status or the platform it will arrive on. With your PNR status check, you can only check if the ticket is confirmed, the seat and coach allotted, the type of waiting list, and other pertinent details related to the ticket.
Q. Can I cancel a train ticket booked through MakeMyTrip? If yes, will the PNR be updated?
A: Yes, the feature to cancel a ticket booked through MakeMyTrip is available on the online platform. Once you cancel your train ticket booked with MakeMyTrip, the booked berth is released and a fare refund is initiated. Once the ticket is cancelled, your PNR status check online shall reflect CAN/MOD status, meaning Cancelled/Modified.
Q. What are my options if my ticket is still waitlisted after the PNR Status Check on the day of travel?
A: If your train ticket remains waitlisted after the PNR Status check on the day of travel, you can either cancel your ticket before chart preparation or wait for confirmation. Ticket cancellation is allowed until 4 hours before the departure schedule. In case you are waiting for confirmation of your ticket booked online until the last minute and the chart is prepared while the ticket remains waitlisted, it will be automatically cancelled. On automatic cancellation of the waitlisted ticket, the ticket fare is fully refunded.
For waitlisted tickets booked at the counter, one can either surrender the ticket for a refund or board an alternative unreserved coach of the train. In the case of waitlisted Tatkal tickets, a full refund is provided.Q. What happens if my RAC ticket is not confirmed after the PNR Status Check Online?
A: If your RAC ticket is not confirmed after the PNR status check online, you can still board your train and get on the RAC allotted coach and berth. Reservation Against Cancellation tickets, however, do not provide complete berth allotment and often a co-passenger travels along on the same berth. In that case, you can either board your train and travel with an RAC ticket or cancel your ticket 4 hours before the departure schedule.
Q. Can I check my PNR status without an internet connection?
A: Yes, if you do not have an internet connection, you can choose PNR status live check on mobile either through SMS or via call. When checking the PNR status through SMS, send your 10-digit PNR number to either 139 or 5676747. Alternatively, you can call 139 and follow the IVR options to check the PNR status.
