What a quota is
Every reserved train sets aside berths for different groups of passengers. These groups are called quotas. Each quota has its own pool of berths and, when it fills up, its own waiting list. The quota appears as a code at the end of your booking status, for example CNF/S6/50/GN.
Common quota codes
| Code | Quota | Who it is for |
|---|---|---|
| GN | General | The default for most passengers and the largest pool of berths |
| LD | Ladies | Female passengers, including women travelling alone or with young children |
| SS | Lower berth / senior citizen | Lower berths for senior citizens and some women, subject to age rules and availability |
| HP | Divyang | Passengers with disabilities |
| TQ | Tatkal | Last-minute bookings, opening one day before the journey, with an extra charge |
| PT | Premium Tatkal | Tatkal with higher, demand-based pricing |
| FT | Foreign tourist | Foreign tourists travelling in India |
| DF | Defence | Defence personnel |
| HO | Headquarters | Official use by railway headquarters |
| PH, DP | Parliament House, Duty Pass | Passes and special entitlements for officials |
Not every train has every quota, and the number of berths in each is set by the railway. Rules for who qualifies change from time to time, so check IRCTC for the current conditions.
Quotas for stations along the route
Separate from the groups above, a train reserves some berths for passengers who board at stations other than the first. Remote location (RL), pooled quota (PQ) and roadside station (RS) quotas serve these passengers. Their waiting lists, RLWL, PQWL and RSWL, are explained in our guide to waiting list types.
How quotas affect your chances
- A full quota means a waiting list in that quota only. The general quota can still have space while a special quota is full, and the other way round.
- Unused berths in special quotas are generally released to the general pool closer to departure, which is one reason availability can improve late.
- Special quotas require you to be eligible. Booking one without qualifying can lead to penalties.
Choosing a quota when you book
On IRCTC you choose the quota when you book. Use General unless you qualify for another. If you are a senior citizen or travelling with one, ask for the lower berth option. If a woman is travelling alone, the Ladies quota may improve her chances. Tatkal is a separate booking window and not a normal quota to choose casually.
Frequently asked questions
What does GN at the end of my booking status mean?
It means the ticket is in the General quota, the default for most passengers.
Can anyone book the Ladies quota?
No. It is meant for female passengers, including women travelling alone or with young children. Check IRCTC for the current eligibility rules.
Why did my waitlist number not match someone else's?
Because you can be in different quotas. Each quota has its own waiting list and moves at its own pace.
Official sources
Rules change, so confirm the current details with the official sources.
Related guides
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