Published: January 2026
Organization: Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs)
Advertisement No.: CEN 09/2025
Category: Railway Jobs
Job Type: Central Government Job
RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 Overview
The Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) have officially released the RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 Notification (CEN 09/2025) for 22,195 vacancies under Level-1 of the 7th CPC Pay Matrix. This is one of the biggest railway recruitment drives in India and offers opportunities in various railway zones across the country.
Candidates who have passed the required educational qualification and meet the eligibility criteria can submit their applications online through their chosen Railway Recruitment Board. The recruitment process includes a Computer Based Test (CBT) followed by Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Document Verification, and Medical Examination.
Latest Update
The online application process for RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 will begin on 31 January 2026, while the last date to submit the online application is 02 March 2026. Candidates are advised to complete the registration process well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues. Exam has been scedduled from 3rd Aug to 23rd Aug 2026.
RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 Highlights
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) |
| Notification No. | CEN 09/2025 |
| Recruitment | Group D (Level-1) |
| Total Vacancies | 22,195 |
| Job Location | Across India |
| Salary | ₹18,000 + Allowances |
| Pay Matrix | Level-1 (7th CPC) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Selection Process | CBT → PET → Document Verification → Medical |
| Official Category | Central Government Job |
Important Dates
Candidates should remember these important dates before applying.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | 27 December 2025 |
| Online Application Starts | 31 January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 02 March 2026 |
| Last Date Fee Payment | 04 March 2026 |
| Application Correction Window | 05 March – 14 March 2026 |
| Scribe Details Submission | 15 March – 19 March 2026 |
| CBT Date | 3rd Aug to 23rd Aug 2026 |
These dates have been announced in the official notification and candidates are advised not to wait until the final day for submission.
Vacancy Details
A total of 22,195 vacancies have been announced for various Level-1 posts under Indian Railways.
The vacancies are distributed across different Railway Zones and categories. The Railway Administration also reserves the right to increase or decrease the number of vacancies depending upon administrative requirements.
Vacancy Summary
| Post Level | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Level-1 (Group D) | 22,195 |
Posts Included
Selected candidates may be appointed against various Level-1 posts such as:
- Track Maintainer
- Assistant Pointsman
- Assistant (Electrical)
- Assistant (Mechanical)
- Assistant (Signal & Telecom)
- Assistant (Engineering)
- Assistant (Workshop)
- Assistant (Bridge)
- Assistant (Track Machine)
- Porter
- Helper
- Hospital Assistant
- Other notified Level-1 posts
The exact post parameters, medical standards and railway-wise vacancy distribution are provided in the notification annexures.
Salary
Selected candidates will receive salary under the 7th Central Pay Commission Pay Matrix Level-1.
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial Basic Pay | ₹18,000 |
| Pay Level | Level-1 |
| DA | As Applicable |
| HRA | As Applicable |
| Transport Allowance | Yes |
| Other Railway Benefits | Yes |
Apart from the basic salary, employees are eligible for DA, HRA, Transport Allowance, Pension benefits, Medical facilities, Leave benefits and Railway Pass facilities according to applicable rules.
Why This Recruitment is Important
The RRB Group D examination remains one of India’s largest government recruitment drives because:
- More than 22,000 vacancies have been announced.
- Jobs are available across multiple railway zones.
- Attractive government salary and long-term career growth.
- Promotion opportunities to higher grades.
- Medical facilities and retirement benefits.
- Stable Central Government employment.
Because of these factors, competition is expected to be very high, making early preparation essential.
Quick Information Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment Authority | Railway Recruitment Boards |
| Advertisement | CEN 09/2025 |
| Total Vacancies | 22,195 |
| Starting Salary | ₹18,000 |
| Qualification | As prescribed for notified Level-1 posts |
| Age Limit | 18–33 Years |
| Exam Mode | Computer Based Test |
| Negative Marking | Yes (1/3 mark) |
| PET | Yes |
| Medical Test | Yes |
| Job Type | Permanent Central Government Job |
Why Candidates Should Read the Full Notification
The official notification contains detailed information about:
- Railway-wise vacancy distribution
- Educational qualification
- Medical standards
- Reservation rules
- Examination fee
- PET criteria
- Application process
- Document verification
- Category certificates
- Railway zone preferences
- Important instructions
Candidates are strongly advised to read the complete notification carefully before submitting the online application.
RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 Educational Qualification
Candidates applying for RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 must possess the prescribed educational qualification on or before the closing date of application submission. Candidates awaiting final examination results are not eligible to apply.
Educational Qualification
| Qualification | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Class 10 (Matriculation) | Eligible (as per notified post requirements) |
| ITI from NCVT/SCVT | Eligible for applicable posts |
| NAC (National Apprenticeship Certificate) | Eligible |
| Equivalent Qualification | As specified in the official notification |
Important: Candidates waiting for their final examination result should not apply as their candidature will be rejected during document verification.
RRB Group D Age Limit 2026
The age of the candidate will be calculated as on 01 January 2026.
| Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| 18 Years | 33 Years |
Candidates belonging to reserved categories are eligible for age relaxation according to Government of India rules.
Age Relaxation
The Railway Recruitment Boards provide age relaxation to eligible reserved category candidates.
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC | As per Government Rules |
| ST | As per Government Rules |
| OBC-NCL | As per Government Rules |
| EWS | As per applicable rules |
| Ex-Servicemen | As per Government Rules |
| PwBD | As per Government Rules |
| Railway Apprentices | Applicable where notified |
Candidates should possess valid certificates supporting their claim for reservation or relaxation at the time of document verification.
Nationality
Candidates must satisfy the nationality conditions mentioned in the official notification. Eligible Indian citizens and other categories specified by the Government of India can apply.
Medical Standards
Medical fitness is one of the most important stages of Railway recruitment.
Every shortlisted candidate must pass the prescribed Railway medical examination. Candidates who are declared medically unfit for the opted post will not be considered suitable for that post.
Railway Medical Categories
Different Level-1 posts require different medical standards.
| Medical Standard | Vision Requirement | Fitness |
|---|---|---|
| A-2 | Highest visual standard | Physically fit |
| A-3 | High visual standard | Physically fit |
| B-1 | Moderate visual standard | Physically fit |
| B-2 | As prescribed | Physically fit |
| C-1 | Standard fitness | Physically fit |
| C-2 | Standard fitness | Physically fit |
The exact visual acuity, colour vision and other requirements vary according to the medical category assigned to each post.
Medical Examination Includes
During the Railway medical examination, candidates may be assessed for:
- Eye vision
- Colour vision
- Night vision (where applicable)
- Binocular vision
- Hearing ability
- General physical fitness
- Medical history
- Any condition affecting job performance
The medical category required depends on the specific Level-1 post selected by the candidate.
Important Medical Advice
Before applying, candidates should ensure that they meet the prescribed medical standards.
Some technical and operational posts require strict visual standards. If a candidate is declared medically unfit for the chosen post, appointment cannot be claimed on that post.
Identity & Aadhaar Verification
The notification advises candidates to verify their identity using Aadhaar or DigiLocker during account creation or while filling the online application. This helps streamline verification during later recruitment stages.
One Application Rule
Candidates should remember the following important rules:
- Apply to only one Railway Recruitment Board (RRB).
- Submit only one application for this notification.
- Multiple applications can lead to rejection and debarment from the recruitment process.
Important Instructions Before Applying
Before submitting the online application:
- Read the complete notification carefully.
- Check your educational qualification.
- Confirm your age eligibility.
- Ensure you meet the medical standards for the posts you choose.
- Keep your mobile number and email ID active throughout the recruitment process.
- Prepare your photograph, signature and required certificates in the prescribed format.
Pro Tips for Applicants
- Choose your preferred Railway Zone carefully because it cannot be changed later.
- Apply well before the closing date to avoid heavy website traffic.
- Keep all original documents ready for document verification.
- Ensure that the details entered during account creation are accurate, as some fields cannot be modified later.
RRB Group D Application Fee 2026
Candidates must pay the examination fee online while submitting the application form. The fee can be paid using UPI, Net Banking, Debit Card, Credit Card or other online payment methods available on the official RRB portal. The application is considered complete only after successful fee payment.
Application Fee
| Category | Examination Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹500 |
| SC / ST | ₹250 |
| PwBD | ₹250 |
| Ex-Servicemen | ₹250 |
| Female Candidates | ₹250 |
| Transgender | ₹250 |
| Minority Candidates | ₹250 |
| Economically Backward Class (EBC) | ₹250 |
Fee Refund Policy
One of the best features of RRB recruitment is its fee refund system.
After appearing in the Computer Based Test (CBT), eligible candidates receive a refund of the examination fee (after deducting applicable bank charges), subject to the conditions mentioned in the notification.
Selection Process
Candidates will be selected through the following stages:
Stage 1
Computer Based Test (CBT)
↓
Stage 2
Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
↓
Stage 3
Document Verification (DV)
↓
Stage 4
Medical Examination
↓
Final Merit List
Only candidates qualifying each stage will be considered for the next stage.
Computer Based Test (CBT)
The CBT is the first stage of recruitment.
CBT Pattern
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Online |
| Type | Objective |
| Questions | 100 |
| Duration | 90 Minutes |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Language | English, Hindi & 13 Regional Languages |
The examination is conducted in multiple languages, allowing candidates to choose their preferred language while applying.
Subject-wise Exam Pattern
| Subject | Questions |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 25 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 30 |
| General Science | 25 |
| General Awareness & Current Affairs | 20 |
| Total | 100 |
Negative Marking
Candidates should answer carefully.
- +1 mark for every correct answer.
- 1/3 mark deducted for every incorrect answer.
- No deduction for unanswered questions.
This makes accuracy just as important as speed during the examination.
Normalization of Marks
Since the CBT may be conducted in multiple shifts, the Railway Recruitment Boards use a normalization process to ensure fairness among candidates appearing in different sessions.
Minimum Qualifying Marks
Candidates must secure the minimum qualifying marks prescribed by the Railway Recruitment Boards.
| Category | Minimum Qualifying Marks |
|---|---|
| UR / EWS | 40% |
| OBC (NCL) | 30% |
| SC | 30% |
| ST | 30% |
The RRB may relax these marks for PwBD candidates where applicable under the notification.
Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
Candidates shortlisted based on CBT performance will be called for the Physical Efficiency Test (PET).
The PET is qualifying in nature. No separate marks are awarded.
PET for Male Candidates
Male candidates must:
- Carry 35 kg weight for 100 metres in 2 minutes without putting it down.
- Run 1000 metres in 4 minutes 15 seconds in one attempt.
PET for Female Candidates
Female candidates must:
- Carry 20 kg weight for 100 metres in 2 minutes without putting it down.
- Run 1000 metres in 5 minutes 40 seconds in one attempt.
PET Exemptions
The notification provides exemptions for certain categories:
- Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) are exempt from PET but must meet the prescribed medical standards.
- Course Completed Act Apprentices (CCAA) are exempt from PET.
- Ex-Servicemen are exempt from PET but must satisfy the required written, physical (where applicable), and medical standards.
Medical Examination
Candidates who qualify the PET must undergo a Railway medical examination according to the medical category prescribed for the allotted post.
The examination assesses:
- Vision
- Colour vision
- Hearing
- Physical fitness
- Overall medical suitability
Failure to meet the required medical standards may result in disqualification for the allotted post.
Document Verification
Shortlisted candidates must produce original documents, including:
- Class 10 Certificate
- Educational Qualification Certificates
- Caste / EWS Certificate (if applicable)
- Aadhaar or other identity proof
- Passport-size photographs
- Signature
- Other certificates required by the notification
All documents will be verified before the final appointment.
Important Points
✅ Submit only one application. Multiple applications will result in rejection and possible debarment.
✅ Choose your RRB and Railway Zone preferences carefully, as some choices cannot be changed later.
✅ The application modification window is available from 05 March 2026 to 14 March 2026 on payment of the prescribed modification fee, but details entered during account creation and the chosen RRB cannot be changed.
How to Apply Online for RRB Group D Recruitment 2026
Candidates must submit their applications online only through the official Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) websites listed in the notification. Before applying, candidates should review the post parameters (Annexure A) and railway-wise vacancy details (Annexure B) to confirm their eligibility.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1
Visit the official RRB website of the Railway Zone you wish to apply for.
Step 2
Create an account using your:
- Mobile Number
- Email ID
- Aadhaar (recommended for smoother verification)
If you already created an account for RRB notifications issued in 2024/2025, use the same login credentials.
Step 3
Complete the registration carefully.
Important: After account creation, details such as your mobile number, email ID, and chosen RRB/Railway Zone cannot be changed.
Step 4
Fill in:
- Personal Details
- Educational Qualification
- Category
- Address
- Post Preferences
- Railway Zone Preferences
Step 5
Upload:
- Passport-size Photograph
- Signature
- Other required documents in the prescribed format
Failure to follow the prescribed image requirements can lead to rejection of the application.
Step 6
Pay the examination fee online.
Step 7
Review the application carefully.
Step 8
Submit the application and download the confirmation page for future reference.
Documents Required
Keep these documents ready before filling out the application:
| Document | Required |
|---|---|
| Class 10 Certificate | ✅ |
| Educational Qualification Certificate | ✅ |
| Aadhaar Card / Valid ID | ✅ |
| Passport-size Photograph | ✅ |
| Signature | ✅ |
| Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS) | If applicable |
| PwBD Certificate | If applicable |
| Ex-Serviceman Certificate | If applicable |
| Active Mobile Number | ✅ |
| Active Email ID | ✅ |
The notification also includes prescribed certificate formats for SC/ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, EBC, PwBD, Ex-Servicemen, minority fee waiver, and other special categories in its annexures.
Application Modification Window
If you need to correct details after submitting your application:
- Modification Window: 05 March 2026 to 14 March 2026
- Modification Fee: ₹250 per modification
- You may modify eligible fields multiple times by paying the fee each time.
However, the following cannot be changed:
- Chosen RRB/Railway Zone
- Mobile Number
- Email ID
- Details entered during account creation
Common Mistakes That Can Lead to Rejection
Avoid these errors:
❌ Submitting multiple applications (all applications may be rejected and the candidate may be debarred).
❌ Uploading an incorrect or non-compliant photograph.
❌ Uploading an invalid signature.
❌ Entering incorrect personal details.
❌ Choosing the wrong Railway Zone.
❌ Waiting until the last day to apply, when heavy website traffic may cause problems.
Important Instructions
- Apply to only one RRB/Railway Zone.
- Read the complete notification before filling the form.
- Ensure you meet the educational, age, and medical eligibility criteria.
- Keep all original certificates ready for document verification.
- Submit your application well before the closing date.
Important Links
| Description | Status |
|---|---|
| Official Notification | Available |
| Apply Online | Available |
| Official RRB Websites | Available |
| CBT Admit Card | To be Released |
| Answer Key | To be Released |
| Result | To be Released |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many vacancies are available?
A total of 22,195 vacancies have been announced under RRB Group D Recruitment 2026.
2. What is the last date to apply?
The last date to submit the online application is 02 March 2026.
3. What is the starting salary?
The initial basic pay is ₹18,000 per month under Level-1 of the 7th CPC Pay Matrix.
4. Is there negative marking?
Yes. One-third (1/3) of the marks assigned to a question are deducted for each incorrect answer in the CBT.
5. Can I apply to more than one RRB?
No. Only one application to one RRB/Railway Zone is permitted. Multiple applications can result in rejection of all applications and debarment.
6. Can I edit my application after submission?
Yes, during the notified modification window, except for account creation details and the selected RRB/Railway Zone. A modification fee applies.
Prepare Every Document Before You Apply Online
Resize your photograph, compress images, create passport-size photos, crop signatures and prepare handwritten declarations for government job applications.
- ✓No software installation required
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- ✓Fast and simple document preparation
- ✓Useful for Railway, SSC, banking and state forms
Helpful Tools for Online Applications
Choose a tool, prepare the file and upload it on the official recruitment portal.
Photo & Signature Resizer
Resize photographs and signatures to the required dimensions and file size.
Open tool →Image Compressor
Reduce image size while keeping the document clear for online submission.
Compress image →Passport Photo Maker
Create a neat passport-style photo with clean framing and background.
Create photo →Signature Cropper
Remove extra blank space and prepare a clean signature image.
Crop signature →Declaration Resizer
Resize handwritten declarations to suit recruitment portal requirements.
Resize declaration →Required dimensions, background, format and file-size limits differ between recruitments.