Train Seat Availability - To Check before Reservation

Without a ticket you cannot travel in trains as it is a crime and punishable by law. The TTE in the train checks whether you are traveling with a ticket or not, and also whether you are traveling in the same coach as mentioned in the ticket. Nowadays you have to carry a valid photo ID proof also when you travel in the train. If you are caught without a ticket, you will be put into jail or charged a fine. So it is necessary to check the train seat availability and book your train tickets.


Every train has got a limited number of seats. After all the seats are booked, there is the option for a few bookings to be made under RAC or Reservation against Cancellation. After the quotas are over, further bookings can be done only under the waiting list. Each time cancellations are done, the tickets under RAC or waiting list get their reservation status upgraded.

Reservation is not required for children under the age of 5 years, and they are also not offered a berth. Those between 5 years and 12 years need a half ticket. They will be offered a berth and also a luggage allowance half of that offered to the passengers holding a full ticket.

Travelers with the tickets under RAC are allowed to travel, but they get only a side seat to sit. If your ticket is under a waiting list, you will not get a chance to travel. So, it is essential to ensure the train seat availability before you make a booking.