Starting a business with low investment and steady income is a goal for many people today. If you are looking for a practical opportunity in the travel services sector, becoming an authorized agent of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) can be a smart option. This business allows you to earn money by booking train tickets and offering other travel-related services using digital platforms.

With millions of passengers travelling by train every day in India, the demand for ticket booking assistance remains strong—especially in small towns and semi-urban areas. As an IRCTC agent, you can turn this demand into a regular source of income.

What Is an IRCTC Agent?

An IRCTC agent is an officially authorized person or business that helps customers book railway tickets and related travel services. While online ticket booking is common, many people still prefer assistance due to lack of digital awareness, internet access, or confidence in online payments.

IRCTC agents act as a bridge between passengers and the railway booking system. They provide reliable booking services and earn a commission on every successful transaction. This role is particularly valuable in areas where online booking facilities are limited or underused.

Services You Can Offer as an IRCTC Agent

Once registered, an IRCTC agent can provide multiple services, including:

• Train ticket booking (reserved and unreserved)


• Tatkal ticket booking


• Catering and meal booking on trains


• Hotel reservations


• Flight ticket booking


• Travel planning assistance

By offering a combination of services, agents can increase customer footfall and boost their overall earnings.

How to Register as an IRCTC Agent

The registration process to become an IRCTC agent is completely online and straightforward. Interested applicants must apply through the official IRCTC-authorized portals.

During registration, you will need to submit basic documents such as identity proof, address proof, and a passport-size photograph. After successful verification, a registration certificate is issued. This certificate confirms your status as an authorized IRCTC agent and allows you to begin operations legally.

Registration Fees and Validity

To become an IRCTC agent, a registration fee is required. The cost depends on the duration of the plan you choose:

• Approximately ₹3,999 for a one-year plan


• Around ₹6,999 for a two-year plan

Once the fee is paid and the registration is approved, your agent account becomes active, and you can start booking tickets immediately.

How Much Can an IRCTC Agent Earn?

Earnings for an IRCTC agent mainly come from commissions on ticket bookings. The standard commission structure includes:

• Around ₹20 per PNR for Non-AC tickets


• Approximately ₹40 per PNR for AC tickets

In addition to railway ticket commissions, agents can earn extra income through flight bookings, hotel reservations, and other travel-related services. Agents who manage to book a good number of tickets daily can generate a steady and profitable monthly income.

Skills Required for Success

To succeed as an IRCTC agent, a few basic skills are essential:

• Basic computer and internet knowledge


• Understanding of online payment systems


• Ability to communicate clearly with customers


• Trust-building and customer service skills

Agents operating in smaller towns often find it easier to attract customers, as many people there rely on local service providers for ticket bookings.

Important Points to Keep in Mind

Building customer trust is key to long-term success in this business. Accuracy in ticket booking, transparency in charges, and timely service can help you build a loyal customer base. Since the business is digital, ensuring a stable internet connection and staying updated with railway booking rules is also important.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an IRCTC agent is a low-investment business opportunity with consistent demand. It is ideal for individuals who want to start a self-employed venture in the travel services industry. With the right approach, customer focus, and service expansion, this business can turn into a reliable income source over time.

For those seeking a flexible and scalable business option linked to Indian Railways, working as an IRCTC agent can be a rewarding choice.