Planning a train journey with your little one? One of the most searched questions among parents booking tickets through IRCTC is whether children below 5 years need a train ticket.
The good news is that Indian Railways allows children under 5 years of age to travel free of cost, provided they do not occupy a separate seat or berth. However, there are a few important rules every parent should understand before booking tickets.
Here's a complete guide to the latest Indian Railways child ticket rules in 2026.
Children Below 5 Years Can Travel Free on Indian Railways
According to Indian Railways guidelines, children below the age of five can travel without purchasing a ticket if they share a seat or berth with their parent or guardian.
This rule applies across all train categories, including:
- Vande Bharat Express
- Rajdhani Express
- Shatabdi Express
- Duronto Express
- Superfast Trains
- Express and Passenger Trains
Parents are not required to pay any fare for children under five who travel without a separate berth.
When Does Indian Railways Charge a Fare for Children Under 5?
A fare is applicable only when parents opt for a dedicated seat or berth for the child.
Separate Berth = Full Adult Fare
If you choose to reserve an exclusive berth or seat for your child below 5 years, Indian Railways charges the full adult fare for that reservation.
Example
| Child Age | Seat/Berth Required | Fare |
|---|---|---|
| Below 5 Years | No | Free |
| Below 5 Years | Yes | Full Adult Fare |
This policy helps families save money while still offering the option of additional comfort during long journeys.
Latest IRCTC Booking Rules for Children Under 5
While children below five travel free, parents should still include their details during ticket booking.
Adding the child to the passenger list ensures accurate travel records and helps railway authorities maintain passenger manifests.
Steps to Add a Child on IRCTC
Step 1: Enter Passenger Details
While booking tickets on IRCTC, look for the option:
- "Add Child Below 5 Years"
- "Infant Without Berth"
Step 2: Fill Child Information
Enter:
- Name
- Age
- Gender
Step 3: Avoid Selecting a Separate Berth
Do not choose berth allocation if you want free travel.
Step 4: Verify Fare Before Payment
Ensure the booking summary displays ₹0 fare for the child.
Carry Age Proof During Travel
Although children under 5 do not require a ticket, railway officials may request proof of age during ticket verification.
Parents should carry at least one valid document such as:
- Aadhaar Card
- Birth Certificate
- Passport
- Government-issued Child ID
Having age proof can help avoid unnecessary inconvenience during the journey.
What Happens if a Child Turns 5 Before the Journey?
This is an important detail many travelers overlook.
Indian Railways considers the child's age on the date of travel. If the child has already completed five years before the journey date, the applicable child fare rules for the 5–12 age category will apply.
Parents should verify age eligibility carefully while booking.
Benefits of Booking a Separate Berth for Young Children
While free travel is attractive, many parents prefer booking a separate berth for overnight journeys.
Advantages include:
- Better sleeping comfort
- More personal space
- Safer overnight travel
- Easier management during long-distance journeys
Families traveling on routes exceeding 10–12 hours often find a dedicated berth worthwhile despite the additional cost.
Tips for Traveling with Toddlers on Indian Railways
Arrive Early
Reach the station well before departure to avoid last-minute stress.
Carry Essential Supplies
Keep:
- Milk and baby food
- Water bottles
- Wet wipes
- Extra clothes
- Medicines
Choose Lower Berths
If possible, select lower berths for easier access and improved safety.
Keep Digital Copies Ready
Store copies of tickets and age-proof documents on your mobile phone.
Common Questions Parents Ask
Is a ticket mandatory for children below 5 years?
No. Children under five can travel free without a ticket if they do not require a separate berth.
Can I reserve a berth for my 3-year-old child?
Yes. However, Indian Railways will charge the full adult fare.
Do children below 5 need Aadhaar?
Not mandatory, but carrying age proof is strongly recommended.
Can children below 5 travel in AC coaches for free?
Yes. The free travel rule applies to all classes if no separate berth is requested.
Why This Rule Benefits Families
Indian Railways' child travel policy helps millions of families reduce travel expenses while ensuring flexibility. Parents can choose between free travel by sharing a berth or paying for extra comfort through a dedicated seat.
With family travel increasing during school holidays, festival seasons, and summer vacations, understanding these rules can help avoid confusion during ticket booking.
Conclusion
If you're planning a train journey in 2026, remember this simple rule: children below 5 years can travel free on Indian Railways when they share a seat or berth with an accompanying adult.
However, if you want a dedicated berth for your child, you'll need to pay the full adult fare. Adding your child's details correctly on IRCTC and carrying age proof can make your journey smooth and hassle-free.
Whether you're traveling on a Vande Bharat Express, Rajdhani, or a regular passenger train, knowing these rules beforehand can save both money and last-minute surprises.
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