If your PNR status is stuck on Waitlist (WL), RAC, or showing no movement even after several chart updates, you’re not alone. Crores of passengers experience stagnant PNR status due to quota changes, low cancellation rates, busy routes, or last-minute chart freezes.

This guide breaks down exactly what each PNR status means, why your status may not be moving, the rules behind WL → RAC → CNF movement, and the practical steps you can take to improve your chances of getting a confirmed seat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Open the official IRCTC PNR Status page or NTES app. These sources show the most accurate real-time status.
2. Enter your 10-digit PNR number correctly. Mis-typed digits often show “No Records Found”.
3. Check the current status vs. booking status. Booking/Original status shows what you initially booked; Current status shows your live position.
4. Note if your PNR displays WL, RAC, or CNF. This determines whether you can board the train, get a seat, or need to plan alternatives.
5. Check chart preparation time. Most trains prepare the first chart 4 hours before departure; the second chart 30 minutes before departure.
6. Track movement every 2–3 hours before charting. Most WL → RAC or RAC → CNF movements happen just before charts are prepared.

Required Documents

• Your 10-digit PNR number
• IRCTC login credentials (optional, for refund checks)
• SMS or email booking confirmation (for verification)
• ID proof for travel (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, etc.)

Fees (If Applicable)

Checking PNR status is completely free. If your PNR remains Waitlisted after charting, you will automatically receive a refund (for online bookings) with a minor cancellation deduction as per IRCTC policy.

Status Meaning Explained

• WL (Waitlist): No seat allotted yet. You cannot board a train with a WL ticket (if booked online).
• RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation): You are allowed to board the train, and you’re guaranteed a seat-border (half-seat). May upgrade to full CNF if seats free up.
• CNF (Confirmed): Your seat/berth is fully confirmed.
• GNWL: General Waitlist — highest chance of confirmation.
• RLWL: Remote Location Waitlist — lower probability.
• PQWL: Pooled Quota Waitlist — medium probability.
• TQWL: Tatkal Waitlist — almost never gets confirmed; no refund for counter bookings.
• Chart Prepared: No more changes will happen; final status is locked.

Common Reasons for Delays

• Low cancellation rate on your route
• High-demand season (festivals, holidays, exam periods)
• Train running fully booked for months
• Pooled or Remote Location quota restricts movement
• Last-minute Tatkal bookings occupied available berths
• Chart prepared early due to operational requirements

Solutions for Each Problem

• Switch to an alternative train. Use “Train Between Stations” to find a less crowded train with General Quota seats.
• Book another ticket under a different quota. Options include Premium Tatkal, Ladies quota, or Defence quota (if applicable).
• Use the "Vikalp" Scheme. IRCTC may shift you to another train with available seats — free of cost.
• Check if your WL type has poor confirmation chances. RLWL and TQWL have very low movement. GNWL is the most reliable.
• If still WL after chart prep (online booking), don’t travel. Your ticket is invalid; refund gets processed automatically.
• Try booking via Tatkal. For urgent trips, Tatkal gives fresh chances to secure a seat.

Offline Alternatives

If online status checking isn’t working or you don’t have internet access, you can:

• Send an SMS: Type PNR <10-digit-number> and send to 139.
• Call 139 to speak with Indian Railways helpline for live status.
• Visit the nearest railway station enquiry counter and provide your PNR number.

Offline counters can also help confirm chart preparation times and alternate train availability.

How to Escalate Complaints

• Railway Helpline: Dial 139 for assistance.
• IRCTC Customer Care Email: care@irctc.co.in
• IRCTC Ticket Refund Support: etickets@irctc.co.in
• RailMadad Portal: Register issues related to PNR not updating, refunds pending, or booking glitches.
• Visit Station Master / Enquiry Desk: For urgent travel-day confirmation issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does WL always get confirmed?
   No. It depends on route, quotas, and cancellations.
2. What is the best WL type for confirmation?
   GNWL has the highest chance. TQWL and RLWL have the lowest.
3. Can I travel with WL ticket?
   If booked online: No. If booked offline: Yes, but only if the ticket shows RAC/WL after charting.
4. What is RAC exactly?
   You get a half-seat but guaranteed travel. Upgrades to CNF happen if berths free up.
5. Why is my status not moving?
   Low cancellations, wrong quota, or high demand on the route.
6. What time should I check updates?
   Most movement happens before the first chart (4 hours before departure).
7. Will I get a refund for WL after charting?
   Yes, for online tickets. Refund is automatic.
8. Can Vikalp confirm my ticket?
   Yes — if an alternative train has seats, IRCTC may auto-assign you a CNF seat.
9. Why does TQWL never confirm?
   Tatkal quota rarely releases cancellations; unused seats go to RAC queue, not TQWL.
10. Is chart preparation time fixed?
    Usually 4 hours before departure, but can change for special trains.