Train Ticket Transfer: How to Change the Name on a Booking

A train ticket transfer lets you hand a confirmed reservation to someone else, but only in limited cases and only if you ask early. Indian Railways allows a name change for close family and certain groups, as LatestLY reported in February 2026.

Who can get a train ticket transfer

The rule is narrow, because a ticket is tied to a named passenger. The railways allow a transfer to a close relative: a parent, sibling, child or spouse. Also, a written request is needed.

However, some groups have their own route. A government employee on official duty can be replaced through the competent authority. The head of a recognised institution can move a ticket to another student of the same institution. Similarly, the leader of a marriage party or NCC group can move a reservation to another member.

Time limits you must meet

Timing decides everything, so plan ahead. Next, individual, family, government and NCC requests must reach the railways at least 24 hours before departure. Student and marriage party requests, however, need 48 hours.

Requests made after the deadline are not accepted. Therefore, start the process as soon as you know you cannot travel.

How to apply, step by step

1. Print the electronic reservation slip, or keep the paper ticket.
2. Carry a valid photo ID for yourself and for the new passenger, along with proof of relationship.
3. Write a short request asking for the name to be changed.
4. Visit the nearest railway reservation office.
5. Then wait for approval from the senior divisional commercial manager, or from the chief reservation supervisor at major stations.

Approval is not automatic. In short, the officer can refuse a request that does not fit the rules.

An example

Suppose a mother has a confirmed ticket for Friday evening but falls ill on Thursday. Her son can ask for the name to be changed to his own. He should go to the reservation office on Thursday before the 24 hour mark, with the printed e-ticket, both photo IDs and a written request.

However, if he waits until Friday morning, the request will be refused because the deadline has passed. So the date and time on the ticket matter more than anything else.

What is not allowed

• Concession tickets cannot be transferred under any circumstances.
• A second name change on the same ticket is refused.
• In group bookings, changes cannot exceed 10 percent of the group size.

If a transfer is not possible

Sometimes the simplest route is to cancel and rebook. First check what you would lose: our table of train ticket cancellation charges shows the cuts by class. Then compare the cost with a fresh booking, since last minute fares can be higher.

For a busy route, a new ticket may also mean waiting. Our Tatkal booking rules explain the timings if you need one in a hurry.

Confirm before you go

Railway rules can change, and officers apply them at the counter. Therefore, call the reservation office or check the Indian Railways site before you travel to the station. Also carry extra photocopies, because missing papers are a common reason for delay.

Finally, remember that this process is not meant for resale. A ticket that has been sold on is not valid for travel under these rules.

A note on groups

Group transfers go through the group head. For instance, a school trip leader asks on behalf of the students. Also, the 10 percent cap means a large change is refused, so plan the list carefully before booking.

FAQ

Can I transfer a confirmed train ticket to a friend?

No. The rules cover close family and specific groups. A friend does not qualify unless the group rules apply.

How many times can a ticket name be changed?

Only once per ticket. A second change on the same ticket is not allowed.

Can I transfer an e-ticket booked on IRCTC?

Yes, in principle, but you must visit a reservation office with a printout of the e-reservation slip. The request is not processed online.