IRCTC Auto Upgradation

Train travel in India is packed with surprises — and one of the best ones is getting upgraded to a higher class without paying a single rupee extra. Yes, we’re talking about the IRCTC Auto Upgradation system.

Many passengers suddenly find themselves shifting from Sleeper to 3AC or from 3AC to 2AC — all automatically. But how does it actually work? Why do some people get upgraded and others don’t? And more importantly, how can you increase your chances of getting auto upgraded in IRCTC?

Let’s break it all down.

What is Auto Upgradation in IRCTC?

IRCTC Auto Upgradation is a free feature of Indian Railways where your ticket is automatically upgraded to a higher class if seats are vacant.

✔ No extra charges
✔ Same PNR
✔ New coach & berth assigned
✔ Done automatically during chart preparation

Indian Railways launched this smart system to ensure no AC berths go empty while passengers benefit with a more comfortable journey.

What Does Auto Upgradation in IRCTC Mean?

It simply means:

A passenger who booked a lower class ticket gets shifted to a higher class automatically at no additional cost.

Example:
SL → 3AC
3AC → 2AC
2AC → 1AC

(Up to two levels only, as per 2025 guidelines.)

What Is “Consider for Auto Upgradation” in IRCTC?

While booking, IRCTC shows a checkbox:
👉 Consider for Auto Upgradation

If you select Yes, your booking becomes eligible for free upgradation.

If you leave it blank, IRCTC still treats it as Yes by default.

If you select No, you won’t be upgraded.

How Does Auto Upgradation Work in IRCTC?

Here’s the behind-the-scenes process:

1. During chart preparation (usually 3–4 hours before departure), PRS checks:
   • Vacant higher-class seats
   • Eligible lower-class passengers
   • Availability of at least 6 free seats in upper class
2. The system randomly selects passengers who opted in.
3. Entire ticket (all passengers in PNR) is upgraded together.
4. Your PNR stays the same — only coach & berth change.
5. Upgrade is limited to:
   • Max two levels above
   • Within same category (seating-to-seating, sleeper-to-sleeper)

How to Get Auto Upgradation in IRCTC (Tips to Increase Chances)

Want to boost your chances? Do this:

1. Always choose “Yes” for Auto Upgradation

This is the most crucial step.

2. Travel alone or in a small group

Solo or 2–3 passenger PNRs have higher chances.

3. Avoid crowd-heavy trains

Weekday trains & non-festival routes work best.

4. Avoid concessions

Concessional or free pass tickets are not eligible.

5. Book in Sleeper or 3AC when higher classes are lightly booked

Higher availability means more chances of an upgrade.

How to Check Auto Upgradation in IRCTC?

After charting:

1. Visit any PNR status checker (IRCTC, NTES, RailYatri, RailMitra, etc.)
2. Enter your PNR
3. If upgraded, you’ll see:
   • New coach (e.g., B2 → A3)
   • New berth number
   • Class change indicator

Your PNR does not change.

Upgrade Hierarchy in IRCTC (2025 Updated)

Sleeping Classes

Seating Classes

Note: Only 2AC passengers can be upgraded to 1AC. Sleeper & 3AC passengers cannot jump straight to 1AC.

Who Is Not Eligible for IRCTC Auto Upgradation?

❌ Senior citizen concession tickets
❌ Any concessional tickets (medical, student, handicapped, etc.)
❌ Railway pass holders
❌ Passengers who select “No” for auto upgrade

Will My PNR Change After Auto Upgradation?

No.
Your PNR remains exactly the same. Only coach & berth details change.

Benefits of Auto Upgradation

• Free AC travel
• Cleaner coaches
• Comfortable sleep
• Better security
• No extra paperwork

Honestly, who wouldn’t want that?

FAQ on IRCTC Auto Upgradation

1. What is auto upgradation in IRCTC?

It is a free system where passengers are upgraded to a higher class automatically if seats are available.

2. What is “consider for auto upgradation” in IRCTC?

It’s the opt-in option shown during booking. Selecting it makes you eligible for upgrade.

3. How does auto upgradation work in IRCTC?

The PRS system upgrades eligible passengers during chart preparation, based on availability.

4. How to check auto upgradation in IRCTC?

Check your PNR status after chart preparation. New class & berth = upgraded.

5. Who gets upgraded first?

Solo passengers, full-fare tickets, and opt-in PNRs with a valid seat.

6. Can waitlisted passengers be upgraded?

Yes — if their WL clears and higher classes have vacancy.

7. Does auto upgradation guarantee a lower berth?

No. You may or may not get a lower berth in the upgraded class.

8. Can I refuse the upgrade?

Only if you select No during booking.

Conclusion

The IRCTC Auto Upgradation system is one of the smartest and most passenger-friendly features of Indian Railways. With just one click during booking, you could enjoy AC travel at Sleeper price — literally the best deal ever.

So next time you book a train ticket, make sure you opt in for auto upgradation. You might just find yourself relaxing in a premium coach… for free.