Are you dreaming of a secure government job in Indian Railways? The wait is finally over. 2026 is set to be a historic year for railway aspirants. According to internal reports and ministry sources, the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) is gearing up to release a massive notification for over 2.5 Lakh Vacancies.
Whether you are a 10th pass student, an ITI holder, or a Graduate, there is a post for you. From RRB NTPC to Group D and ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot), this guide covers everything you need to know to crack the exam.
Table of Contents:
RRB Recruitment 2026: Key Highlights
Before diving into the details, here is a quick overview of the upcoming recruitment drive.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Indian Railways (Railway Recruitment Board) |
| Recruitment Year | 2026-2027 |
| Total Vacancies | 2,50,000+ (Expected) |
| Major Posts | NTPC (Station Master/Clerk), Group D (Trackman), ALP, Technician |
| Job Location | All India (21 RRB Zones) |
| Official Website | indianrailways.gov.in |
🔥 Also Read: Top 5 Govt Jobs for 10th Pass Students in 2025 (Apply Now)
Post-Wise Vacancy Breakdown (Expected)
The 2.5 Lakh vacancies will be distributed across various departments. Here is what you can expect:
- RRB NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories): Includes Station Master, Goods Guard, Commercial Apprentice, and Junior Clerk. Best for 12th pass and Graduates.
- RRB Group D (Level 1): Includes Track Maintainer, Pointsman, and Helpers in various departments. Largest number of vacancies (approx 1 Lakh).
- RRB ALP & Technician: Technical posts for ITI and Diploma holders. Assistant Loco Pilots drive the trains.
- RPF Constable & SI: Police jobs within the railways for security.
Eligibility Criteria for Railway Jobs 2026
To ensure your application is not rejected, you must meet the following criteria as of the notification date.
1. Educational Qualification
- For Group D: 10th Pass OR ITI from NCVT/SCVT.
- For NTPC (Undergraduate): 12th Pass (Minimum 50% marks).
- For NTPC (Graduate): Any Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university.
- For ALP/Technician: 10th + ITI / Diploma / B.Tech in Engineering.
2. Age Limit (with Relaxations)
The general age limit is 18 to 33 years. However, due to the delay in recruitment, the government often provides age relaxation:
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 Years Relaxation
- SC / ST: 5 Years Relaxation
- PwD / Ex-Servicemen: As per government rules.
Railway Salary Structure (7th Pay Commission)
One of the biggest reasons to join Indian Railways is the salary and perks (Free Train Travel, Medical, Quarters). Here is the in-hand salary estimate:
| Post Name | Basic Pay | Gross Salary (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Group D (Level 1) | ₹18,000 | ₹26,000 - ₹30,000 |
| ALP / Technician | ₹19,900 | ₹35,000 - ₹45,000 (with Mileage) |
| Station Master | ₹35,400 | ₹55,000 - ₹65,000 |
💡 Preparation Tip: Want to crack the exam in first attempt? Check our Self Study Strategy for Govt Exams.
Selection Process
The selection usually involves 3 to 4 stages depending on the post:
- CBT 1 (Computer Based Test): Common for all. Subjects include Maths, Reasoning, and General Awareness.
- CBT 2: For NTPC and ALP candidates.
- Skill Test: Typing Test for Clerks / Psycho Test for Station Masters & ALP.
- PET (Physical Efficiency Test): Running and weight lifting for Group D.
- Document Verification & Medical Exam.
How to Apply for RRB 2026?
Follow these steps carefully to avoid rejection:
- Visit the official website of your regional RRB (e.g., RRB Chandigarh, RRB Patna, RRB Mumbai).
- Look for the notification "CEN 01/2026".
- Click on "New Registration".
- Fill in your name, father's name, and DOB exactly as per your 10th Marksheet.
- Upload scanned Photo (20-50kb) and Signature.
- Pay the application fee:
- Gen/OBC/EWS: ₹500 (₹400 refundable after exam).
- SC/ST/Female: ₹250 (Full refund after exam).
- Submit and print the application form.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When will the Railway 2026 notification come?
Ans: The official Exam Calendar is expected in December 2025, while detailed notifications for ALP, NTPC, and Group D will follow from January to March 2026.
Q2: Can final year students apply?
Ans: Yes, if you complete your degree before the document verification date.
Q3: Is there an interview in Railway exams?
Ans: No, there is no interview for Group C and Group D posts. Selection is based on written exams and skill tests.
Disclaimer: This article is based on expected notifications and previous years' data. Please visit the official Indian Railways website for authentic updates.
