The short answer is no, two people cannot have the same exact ticket on Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster’s system is designed to ensure each ticket has a unique barcode or QR code associated with it that can only be scanned once at the event. So while two people may accidentally buy tickets for the same seat, only the first person to arrive and scan their ticket will be allowed entry.
How Ticketmaster’s system prevents duplicate tickets
Ticketmaster utilizes a variety of technologies and processes to prevent duplicate or counterfeit tickets from being issued and used. Here are some of the key ways they ensure each ticket is unique:
- Each ticket has its own barcode or QR code assigned – This unique code is tied to that specific ticket and locks it to one user.
- Barcodes can only be scanned once – The barcode becomes invalid after it is scanned for entry, preventing multiple people from using the same code.
- Tickets are non-transferable – Ticketmaster tickets cannot be resold or transferred to another user without Ticketmaster’s consent.
- ID verification – In many cases, Ticketmaster tickets require the buyer’s ID or credit card to match the name on the ticket for entry.
- Technical safeguards – Ticketmaster uses bot-prevention, cybersecurity measures and fraud monitoring to catch duplicate tickets.
With all these protections in place, it’s nearly impossible for two people to possess the exact same valid ticket. There are situations where two people may buy tickets for the same seat, but only the first person to arrive and scan their unique barcode will be let inside the venue.
Common causes of accidental duplicate ticket purchases
Despite Ticketmaster’s safeguards, there are still some scenarios where multiple people can end up with tickets for the same seat. This is almost always due to user error rather than any failing of Ticketmaster’s systems. Some common causes include:
- Couples or groups purchasing tickets together – Members accidentally buy the same seat as their companion.
- Fans vying for hot tickets – In a rush for the best seats, some may double purchase the same seats.
- Computer glitches – Technical issues during high traffic sales cause duplicate orders.
- User error – Buyers accidentally purchase the same tickets twice.
- Miscommunication – Friends buy each other tickets without coordinating first.
When these accidents happen, typically the first ticket buyer to arrive at the event and scan their barcode successfully will gain entry. The other ticket holder(s) will be denied and have to seek a refund or exchange for another seat if any are still available.
What to do if you have a duplicate ticket issue
If you discover that you and another person somehow purchased the same ticket, don’t panic. Contact Ticketmaster as soon as possible to resolve the issue. Here are some tips:
- Call or chat Ticketmaster customer service – Explain the situation and they’ll check system records.
- Verify both parties’ proof of purchase – Confirm both tickets came from Ticketmaster.
- Try to determine who purchased first – The first buyer likely holds the valid ticket.
- Agree to meet at venue on event day – Determine then who can enter with their ticket.
- Request a refund/exchange if necessary – Unused tickets can be returned in most cases.
- Split the cost if neither can attend – Sometimes this is the fairest resolution.
Ticketmaster reps have experience handling these cases and will work to reach a satisfactory resolution for all parties involved. Keep your confirmation handy and remain patient and courteous.
Tips to avoid buying duplicate tickets
To prevent landing in a duplicate ticket predicament, buyers should remember these tips when purchasing tickets:
- Coordinate ticket buying – Confirm seat selections with companions ahead of time.
- Stick to your plan – Once you have a strategy, don’t make last-minute changes or purchases without re-confirming.
- Slow down – Carefully review all order details before submitting – don’t rush.
- Check purchase history – Log into your Ticketmaster account and look for existing orders.
- Use one payment method – This makes confirming legitimate tickets easier.
- Beware automatically reloading pages – This can cause inadvertent duplicate orders.
Following these simple guidelines will help protect you from winding up with tickets for seats you can’t actually use. Remember, patience and coordination with your group are key to avoiding issues.
Should ticket transfers be allowed?
The issue of duplicated tickets has sparked debate around Ticketmaster’s strict policy prohibiting ticket transfers or resales. Some fans argue that transferring should be allowed if both parties consent.
However, Ticketmaster maintains that non-transferrable tickets are vital to combat scalping and ensure fairness in ticketing. They argue that without this rule:
- Scalpers could easily redistribute tickets using unofficial channels.
- It would become difficult to trace the ownership and validity of tickets.
- Tickets could be massively oversold beyond venue capacity limits.
- High-demand tickets would always flow to highest bidders rather than fans.
Yet critics counter that buyers should have the freedom to use tickets how they see fit, including transferring to friends or family. It’s a contentious debate with reasonable arguments on both sides. There are merits to enforcing rules that keep ticket supply and pricing ethical. But inflexible policies also come with drawbacks for well-meaning fans. It’s an ongoing dialogue.
Using Ticketmaster safely and effectively
Despite the occasional customer headache, Ticketmaster still offers a quick and convenient way for most fans to purchase tickets. By better understanding its systems and rules, buyers can avoid issues and have peace of mind that their tickets will be valid.
Some final tips for smooth Ticketmaster experiences:
- Create an account to store purchase history and payment info.
- Understand all policies related to transfers, refunds, etc.
- Use pre-sales, presales codes and loyalty programs when possible.
- Stick to official site – avoid 3rd party resellers.
- Opt-in for purchase email confirmations.
- Save confirmation barcodes in your smartphone.
- Know your rights under state ticket buyer protection laws.
While the online ticketing process has its challenges, customers who educate themselves and act carefully can avoid major mishaps. With smart preparation, fans can focus on enjoying the live experiences that Ticketmaster’s services help provide access to.
