Child Berth In IRCTC

Train journeys with children are always special-whether it’s watching the landscape race by or sharing homemade snacks along the way. But once parents begin booking tickets on IRCTC, a common confusion arises: Does a child need a ticket? Should I book a berth for my child? What exactly is “Child Berth in IRCTC”?

To clear all doubts, here is a detailed guide to help you understand IRCTC child ticket rules, fare slabs, booking options, and the meaning of child berth in IRCTC—along with helpful tips for smooth travel with kids.

⭐ What Is Child Berth in IRCTC?

“Child berth in IRCTC” refers to a separate reserved seat or sleeping berth allocated to a child passenger during ticket booking.
IRCTC allows parents to choose with berth or without berth depending on the child’s age:

• Below 5 years: Child can travel without a ticket if no berth is claimed.
  If berth is needed → full adult fare applies.
• 5 to under 12 years:
  • Berth required → full adult fare.
  • No seat/berth (NOSB) → half fare.
• 12+ years: Treated as adult → full fare & full berth.

🚆 IRCTC Child Ticket Rules (Latest 2025 Updated)

1. Children Below 5 Years

• Travel free without a ticket if no berth/seat is taken.
• If a berth is requested, you must pay full adult fare.
• You must select Child (No Seat/Berth) on IRCTC during booking.

2. Children Aged 5 to Under 12 Years

This is where parents get confused the most.

✔ If Berth/Seat Is Required

• Full adult fare is charged.
• Child gets a reserved berth or seat.

✔ If Berth/Seat Is NOT Needed (NOSB – No Seat/No Berth)

• Only half of adult fare is charged.
• Child will not receive a berth.
• Allowed in sleeper & AC reserved classes, but:
  • Not permitted in CC, EC, 2S.

3. Children Aged 12 Years Or Above

• Treated as adult passengers.
• Full fare and full berth apply.
• No child concessions.

🧾 Step-by-Step Guide to Book Child Berth in IRCTC

Booking a child ticket becomes easy once you understand the rules. Follow these steps:

1. Log in to your IRCTC account

Ensure your account is verified and Aadhaar-linked if required.

2. Search for your train and choose travel class

Enter journey date, train number, quota etc.

3. Add Passenger Details

When adding the child:

• Below 5 years
  • Choose “Child (No berth/seat)” if no berth needed.
  • Choose “Berth/Seat Required” ONLY if you want to pay full fare.
• 5–12 years
  • Choose Child (Berth Required) → full fare
  • Choose Child (No Seat/No Berth) → half fare

4. Verify Age Carefully

Age must match the date of travel.

5. Review Fare Before Payment

Check if the correct fare (full or half) is applied.

6. Complete Payment & Download Ticket

Carry ID proof for the child if needed.

🎒 Travel Tips When Journeying With Children

• Carry a light blanket, water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit.
• Book lower berths for safety and convenience.
• If traveling with infants, avoid opting for extra berths unnecessarily.
• Carry age proof if the child appears younger or older than declared.

⭐ Advantages & Disadvantages of Taking a Child Berth in IRCTC

✔ Advantages

• Child gets separate space to sleep
• More comfortable long journeys
• Easier overnight travel

✘ Disadvantages

• You pay full adult fare
• Limited availability during peak seasons
• For kids below 5, it’s often unnecessary

❓ FAQ: Child Berth in IRCTC (Most Searched Questions)

1. What is child berth in IRCTC?

Child berth refers to a reserved seat or sleeping berth allotted to a child passenger when you select “Berth/Seat Required” in IRCTC.

2. Is child berth free in IRCTC?

No. Child berth is never free.
If you select a berth for a child (any age), full adult fare applies.

3. Do children under 5 years need a ticket?

No ticket is required if you do not ask for a berth.
If berth is booked → full adult fare.

4. How much is child fare for kids aged 5–12 in IRCTC?

• With berth → Full fare
• No berth (NOSB) → Half fare

5. Can a child travel without berth in reserved train?

Yes. IRCTC provides Child (No Seat/No Berth) option.

6. Can a child under 5 get a berth in train?

Yes, but you must pay full adult fare.

7. Is ID proof required for child passengers?

Not mandatory always, but TTE may request age proof if needed.

8. Does IRCTC allow child ticket concession?

General child concessions have been withdrawn, except for specific categories like Divyangjan children.

✔ Final Thoughts

Understanding child berth in IRCTC ensures you choose the right fare, avoid extra costs, and enjoy a stress-free journey. Whether your child needs a berth or not depends on age, travel duration, and comfort preference.