PNR Status Check (2026): Official methods, meanings of WL/RAC/CNF, and FAQs

What is a PNR and why it matters

A Passenger Name Record (PNR) is your booking reference for a reserved ticket. It links your passenger details, train, class, boarding point, and booking status. You’ll use it to check whether your ticket is confirmed and to view coach/berth details after charting.

How to check PNR status safely (official methods)

• Indian Rail Enquiry website: open the official PNR enquiry page and enter your PNR.
• IRCTC app/website: logged-in users can view bookings and current status.
• NTES/other official tools: useful for live running status, not for PNR itself.

Understanding status codes: CNF, RAC, WL

CNF means your berth/seat is confirmed. RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) allows travel, usually with a shared seat/berth until upgraded. WL (Waitlist) means you are not confirmed yet; for e‑tickets, travel is typically not permitted if it remains waitlisted at charting.

Status often appears like WL/12 (position 12) or RAC/5. Lower numbers are closer to confirmation.

Charting time and when status becomes final

Coach/berth details are generally finalized after chart preparation. Many trains prepare the final chart around a few hours before departure, but it can vary. After charting, the status changes less frequently and coach/berth numbers appear for confirmed/RAC passengers.

Common problems and quick fixes

• PNR not found: wait a few minutes after booking; sometimes it takes time to sync.
• Mismatch in passenger name: verify on IRCTC booking history; for corrections, check official rules.
• Train rescheduled/cancelled: confirm using NTES and IRCTC alerts.

Frequently asked questions