Why Can't I Access My IRCTC Account? Troubleshooting Steps and Common Issues

Accessing your Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) account can sometimes be frustrating if you're encountering issues. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to troubleshooting common problems and resolving IRCTC account access issues.

1. Blocked or Time-Barred Account

One common reason for losing access is that your account has been blocked or is time-barred. This can happen if you haven't used your account in a long time. To resolve this, you may need to re-register your account. If you suspect this is the issue, you could also contact someone else with an active account to make an inquiry about the status of your account. They might be able to help you get back into your account.

2. Incorrect Credentials

Ensure that you are entering the correct email ID and password when logging in. If you have forgotten your password, you can reset it. However, if you still face issues, it might be worth creating a new account with a different number and email ID.

3. Time and Date Settings

Another issue might be related to your device's time and date settings. I had to address this issue myself when my phone's clock was set 20 minutes ahead. The IRCTC software does not work well with incorrect time settings. This tip came from a Quora post by an anonymous contributor. Therefore, resetting your device's date and time to the correct values may resolve the issue.

4. Server Overload and Internet Connectivity

If the IRCTC servers are experiencing high traffic due to a large number of users, this can also prevent you from accessing your account. Ensure that you are using a stable internet connection. The official IRCTC app available on the Google Play Store is a better alternative to the website because it is more user-friendly and less prone to connection issues.

5. User ID and Password Issues

If you are still unable to access your account despite following the above steps, double-check that you are entering the correct user ID and password. If you have forgotten your credentials, you can request IRCTC to change your password via your email account. However, changing your user ID is not typically supported.

6. Account Deactivation

Your account might have been deactivated. In such a case, you can attempt to retrieve your username or password using the 'Forgot Username/Password' option on the IRCTC platform. If this fails, you can send a screenshot of the issue to care@

Happy journey and remember to always check the official IRCTC website or app for the most up-to-date information and support resources.