Railway Group D Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 22,000+ Level-1 Posts - Complete Guide for 10th Pass
🚂 Big Opportunity for 10th Pass! Indian Railways is hiring 22,000+ Group D Level-1 employees across India. This includes posts like Track Maintainer, Pointsman, Assistant posts and more. Online applications open from 31st January to 2nd March 2026. Starting salary ₹18,000 + allowances!
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Railway Recruitment Boards (RRB), Ministry of Railways, Government of India |
| Recruitment Name | RRB Group D CEN 09/2025 |
| Total Posts | Approximately 22,000 |
| Post Level | Level-1 (Entry Level) |
| Age Limit | 18 to 33 years (as on 1st January 2026) |
| Qualification | 10th Pass OR ITI from NCVT/SCVT OR NAC |
| Starting Salary | ₹18,000 per month + DA, HRA & other allowances |
| Application Fee | ₹500 (General/OBC) - ₹400 Refundable ₹250 (Others) - Fully Refundable |
| Selection Process | CBT (Computer Based Test) + PET (Physical Test) + Document Verification + Medical |
| Application Mode | Online Only |
| Registration Starts | 31st January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 2nd March 2026 (11:59 PM) |
| Official Website | www.rrbapply.gov.in |
| Sr. No. | Post Name | What They Do |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Track Maintainer Grade-IV | Maintain and repair railway tracks, ensure safety |
| 2 | Pointsman-B | Operate railway signals and points, control train movement |
| 3 | Assistant Workshop | Help in railway workshops, maintenance work |
| 4 | Assistant Loco Shed | Assist in locomotive maintenance and cleaning |
| 5 | Assistant Bridge | Help in bridge maintenance and inspection |
| 6 | Assistant Carriage & Wagon | Maintain railway coaches and wagons |
| 7 | Assistant P.Way (Permanent Way) | Track construction and maintenance work |
| 8 | Assistant TL & AC | Transmission Line and AC system maintenance |
| 9 | Assistant Track Machine | Operate track maintenance machines |
| 10 | Assistant TRD (Track Recording Division) | Track quality monitoring and recording |
| 11 | Assistant Operations | Help in railway station operations |
📌 Note: All these posts fall under Level-1 pay scale. You will be assigned to specific posts based on your exam performance, physical test, and availability of vacancies in your chosen zone.
Age Limit and Relaxation Basic Age Requirements:
| Category | Age Limit | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved | 18 to 33 years | No relaxation |
| OBC-NCL (Other Backward Classes) | 18 to 36 years | 3 years extra |
| SC / ST (Scheduled Castes/Tribes) | 18 to 38 years | 5 years extra |
| PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disability) | 18 to 43 years | 10 years extra |
| Ex-Servicemen | As per rules | Service period + 3 years |
⚠️ Important: Your age will be calculated as on 1st January 2026. For example, if you were born on 15th March 1993, you will be considered 32 years old for this recruitment.
Additional Age Relaxation:
- Cumulative Relaxation: If you belong to multiple categories (for example, SC + PwBD), you may get cumulative relaxation
- Widows/Divorced Women: As per government rules
- Upper Age Limit: Can be relaxed in special circumstances Educational Qualification: What You Need
Railway Group D has simple and clear education requirements: Option 1: 10th Pass (Most Common)
What You Need: - Passed 10th standard (Matriculation)
- From any recognized Board in India
- Must have passing marks
- No minimum percentage required
- Certificate must be from a recognized board Examples of Recognized Boards: - CBSE (Central Board)
- State Boards (UP Board, Bihar Board, Maharashtra Board, etc.)
- ICSE / ISC
- NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling)
Option 2: ITI Certificate
What You Need: - ITI (Industrial Training Institute) certificate
- From NCVT (National Council of Vocational Training) recognized institute
- OR from SCVT (State Council of Vocational Training) recognized institute
- In any trade Common ITI Trades: - Electrician
- Fitter
- Welder
- Mechanic
- Carpenter
- Plumber
- Any NCVT/SCVT approved trade
Option 3: National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC)
What You Need: - NAC granted by NCVT
- After completing apprenticeship training
- In any recognized trade
Important Points:
- ✅ You need only one of the above qualifications
- ✅ No minimum percentage required in 10th
- ❌ Awaiting results? Sorry, you cannot apply
- ✅ Passed 10th many years ago? No problem, you can still apply
- ❌ 12th pass or graduate? Good, but you only need 10th for this job
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Basic Pay (Level-1, 7th CPC) | ₹18,000 per month |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | Approx. ₹7,200 (40% of basic, varies) |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | ₹1,800 - ₹5,400 (depends on city) |
| Transport Allowance | As applicable |
| Other Allowances | Various allowances as applicable |
| Total In-Hand Salary (Approx.) | ₹27,000 - ₹32,000 per month |
🎁 What Else You Get: 1. Free Railway Passes: - Free train travel for you and family
- Reduced fare on all trains
- AC class travel benefits after certain years
2. Medical Benefits: - Free medical treatment for self
- Medical facilities for family members
- Reimbursement for medical expenses
3. Pension: - Retirement pension after service
- Family pension for dependents
4. Leave Travel Concession (LTC): - Paid leave with travel allowance
- Once in 2 years
5. Quarters/Accommodation: - Railway quarters available (subject to availability)
- Or HRA if quarters not provided
6. Festival Advance: - Interest-free advance during festivals
7. Promotion Opportunities: - Regular promotions to higher levels
- Can reach supervisory positions
8. Job Security: - Government job = lifelong security
- No fear of sudden job loss
Exam Pattern: Computer Based Test (CBT)
The selection process starts with a Computer Based Test (CBT). Here's what you need to know: Complete Exam Pattern:
| Subject | Number of Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 25 | 25 | 90 Minutes (1.5 Hours) |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 30 | 30 | |
| General Science | 25 | 25 | |
| General Awareness & Current Affairs | 20 | 20 | |
| TOTAL | 100 | 100 | 90 Minutes |
🔴 Negative Marking: - Yes, there is negative marking! - For every wrong answer: -0.33 marks (minus one-third)
- For example: If you answer 5 questions wrong, you lose 1.67 marks
- Tip: Don't guess wildly. Answer only if you're reasonably sure. 📝 Exam Type: - Computer-based (online test)
- Multiple choice questions (MCQs)
- 4 options for each question
- Only one correct answer 🌐 Exam Language: - Available in 15 languages
- Including English and Hindi
- And regional languages ♿ Extra Time: - PwBD candidates get extra 20 minutes
- Total 110 minutes for them
Selection Process: Complete Steps
The selection for Railway Group D happens in multiple stages: Stage 1: Computer Based Test (CBT)
What Happens: - 100 multiple choice questions
- 90 minutes duration
- Conducted at various exam centers across India
- Based on your performance and preference, you'll be shortlisted Passing Marks: - General: 40% (40 marks out of 100)
- OBC: 30% (30 marks out of 100)
- SC/ST: 30% (30 marks out of 100)
Stage 2: Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
What You Need to Do: For Male Candidates: - Lift and carry 35 kg weight for 100 meters in 2 minutes
- OR
- Walk 1000 meters in 15 minutes For Female Candidates: - Lift and carry 20 kg weight for 100 meters in 2 minutes
- OR
- Walk 1000 meters in 20 minutes Important: - This is qualifying in nature (pass/fail only)
- No marks given
- But you must pass to continue
Stage 3: Document Verification
What You Need: - Original certificates of education
- Date of birth proof
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Photo ID proof
- Address proof
- Recent photographs What Happens: - Officials verify all your documents
- Check if you meet all eligibility criteria
- Any fake document = immediate disqualification
Stage 4: Medical Examination
What's Checked: - General physical fitness
- Eyesight (vision test)
- Hearing ability
- Any serious health issues
- Overall fitness for railway work Medical Standards: - Must be physically fit
- No serious diseases
- Good vision (glasses allowed in most cases)
- Able to perform physical duties
Final Merit List
Based on your CBT marks, a final merit list is prepared. Top scorers get their preferred zone and post. Application Fee
| Category | Application Fee | Refund Details |
|---|---|---|
| General / UR | ₹500 | ₹400 refunded after appearing in CBT |
| OBC-NCL | ₹500 | ₹400 refunded after appearing in CBT |
| SC / ST | ₹250 | Fully refunded after appearing in CBT |
| Female (All Categories) | ₹250 | Fully refunded after appearing in CBT |
| PwBD (Persons with Disability) | ₹250 | Fully refunded after appearing in CBT |
| Ex-Servicemen | ₹250 | Fully refunded after appearing in CBT |
| Minorities / EBC / Transgender | ₹250 | Fully refunded after appearing in CBT |
💡 Good News: The refund is automatic! Once you appear for the CBT exam, the refundable amount will be credited back to your account within 4-6 weeks.
Important Dates: Mark Your Calendar
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Indicative Notice Published | 27th December 2025 |
| Detailed Notification Release | January 2026 |
| Online Registration Starts | 31st January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 2nd March 2026 (11:59 PM) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 2nd March 2026 |
| Correction Window | To be announced |
| Admit Card Release | Before exam (4 days prior) |
| CBT Exam Date | To be notified later (expected: May-June 2026) |
| CBT Result | To be announced |
| PET / Document Verification | After CBT result |
🚨 Don't Miss the Deadline! The online application window closes on 2nd March 2026 at 11:59 PM. Apply at least 2-3 days before to avoid last-minute rush and technical problems.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to complete your Railway Group D application: Before You Start - Collect These Documents:
- 📱 Active mobile number (for OTP)
- 📧 Active email ID (for OTP and communication)
- 🆔 Aadhaar card
- 📜 10th mark sheet and certificate
- 📜 ITI certificate (if applicable)
- 📜 Caste certificate (if applicable)
- 📜 PwBD certificate (if applicable)
- 📷 Recent color photograph (JPEG, less than 50 KB)
- ✍️ Scanned signature (JPEG, less than 20 KB)
- 💳 Debit/Credit card or net banking for payment
If you're a new user: 1. Visit: www.rrbapply.gov.in 2. Click on "New Registration" or "One-Time Registration"
3. Fill in:
- Basic details (Name, Father's Name, Mother's Name)
- Date of Birth
- Mobile Number (OTP will be sent)
- Email ID (OTP will be sent)
- Aadhaar Number
4. Verify mobile and email through OTP
5. Create a strong password
6. Note down your Registration Number - Very Important! If you already have RRB registration: - Use your existing Registration Number and Password
- No need to register again
Step 2: Login and Start Application
1. Login using Registration Number and Password
2. Look for "CEN 09/2025" or "Group D Level-1 Recruitment" 3. Click on "Apply" 4. Read instructions carefully
5. Click "I Agree" to terms and conditions
Step 3: Fill Application Form
Fill Carefully: Personal Details: - Name (as per 10th certificate)
- Father's/Mother's Name
- Date of Birth
- Gender
- Category (General/OBC/SC/ST/EWS)
- PwBD status (if applicable)
- Religion, Nationality Contact Details: - Complete postal address
- Mobile number
- Email ID
- Communication address Educational Qualification: - 10th Pass details:
- Board name
- Year of passing
- Roll number
- Percentage/CGPA
- ITI details (if applicable) RRB/Zone Preference: - Choose your preferred RRB zones
- Select up to 3-4 preferences
- Priority given to first choice
Step 4: Upload Documents
Upload These Files: 1. Photograph: - Recent color photo
- JPEG format
- Size: 20 KB to 50 KB
- Clear face, light background
2. Signature: - Sign on white paper with black pen
- Scan and upload
- JPEG format
- Size: 10 KB to 20 KB
3. Certificates (if required):
- 10th mark sheet
- Caste certificate
- PwBD certificate
- Ex-servicemen certificate
Step 5: Preview and Correct
1. Preview your complete application
2. Check every detail carefully
3. Ensure:
- Name spelling is correct
- Date of birth is correct
- Educational details match certificates
- Photo and signature are clear
4. Make corrections if needed Step 6: Pay Application Fee
1. Click on "Payment" 2. Choose payment mode:
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- Net Banking
- UPI
3. Enter payment details
4. Complete the transaction
5. Save payment receipt - Take screenshot
Step 7: Final Submission
1. After successful payment, click "Final Submit" 2. A confirmation message will appear
3. Download the application form
4. Take printout of:
- Filled application form
- Payment receipt
5. Keep them safe for future reference
✅ Congratulations! Your Railway Group D application is complete. Keep checking the official website for admit card and exam updates.
Important Links
| Purpose | Link |
|---|---|
| Official RRB Portal (Apply Online) | www.rrbapply.gov.in |
| Download Notification PDF | Click Here |
| Corrigendum Notice | View Corrigendum |
| Previous Year Notification (Reference) | Previous Notification |
| RRB Official Websites | Check your zone's RRB website |
❓ Q1: What is the minimum qualification for Railway Group D?
✅ Answer: You need 10th pass (Matriculation) from any recognized board OR ITI from NCVT/SCVT recognized institute OR NAC (National Apprenticeship Certificate). No minimum percentage required in 10th.
❓ Q2: I'm 12th pass. Can I apply for Group D?
✅ Answer: Yes, absolutely! If you have passed 12th, graduation, or even post-graduation, you can still apply for Group D. The minimum qualification is 10th pass. However, you will NOT get extra marks for higher education - everyone is judged only on 10th qualification.
❓ Q3: Is there negative marking in the exam?
⚠️ Answer: Yes! There is negative marking of 1/3rd mark (0.33) for each wrong answer. So if you answer 3 questions wrong, you lose 1 full mark. Strategy: Don't guess randomly. Answer only if you're reasonably confident.
❓ Q4: How much is the salary for Railway Group D?
✅ Answer: The starting basic pay is ₹18,000 per month. With allowances like DA (Dearness Allowance), HRA (House Rent Allowance), and other benefits, your total in-hand salary will be approximately ₹27,000 to ₹32,000 per month initially. Plus you get free railway passes, medical benefits, and pension.
❓ Q5: Can I apply for multiple RRB zones?
✅ Answer: Yes, you can select multiple RRB zones as your preference during application. However, you can submit only ONE application. Based on your CBT performance and preferences, you'll be allotted to an RRB zone.
❓ Q6: Is the application fee refundable?
✅ Answer: Yes!
• General/OBC: Pay ₹500, get ₹400 back after appearing in exam
• SC/ST/Female/PwBD/Ex-SM: Pay ₹250, get full amount back after appearing in exam
The refund is automatic and credited to your account within 4-6 weeks.
❓ Q7: What is the Physical Efficiency Test (PET)?
✅ Answer: PET is a simple physical fitness test:
• Male: Lift 35 kg for 100m in 2 minutes OR Walk 1000m in 15 minutes
• Female: Lift 20 kg for 100m in 2 minutes OR Walk 1000m in 20 minutes
This is qualifying only (pass/fail). No marks given. But you must pass.
❓ Q8: I passed 10th from NIOS (Open School). Can I apply?
✅ Answer: Yes! NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling) is a recognized board by the Government of India. You can definitely apply for Railway Group D with an NIOS 10th certificate.
❓ Q9: When will the exam be conducted?
📅 Answer: The exact exam date is not announced yet. Based on previous patterns, the CBT exam is expected to be held around May-June 2026. The official dates will be announced after the application process closes. Admit cards will be released 4-5 days before the exam.
❓ Q10: Is this a permanent government job?
✅ Answer: Yes! Railway Group D jobs are permanent government jobs with full job security, pension benefits, and all perks of a central government employee. You will be a regular railway employee, not contractual.
📌 Application Tips: 1. ✅ Apply Early - Don't wait for the last date
2. ✅ Double-Check Details - Name, DOB, educational details must match certificates exactly
3. ✅ Save Everything - Take screenshots and printouts
4. ✅ Choose RRB Wisely - Select zones where you can comfortably work
5. ✅ Keep Originals Safe - You'll need them for document verification 📚 Exam Preparation Tips: 1. 📖 Know the Syllabus - Focus on what's asked
2. ⏰ Time Management - Practice solving 100 questions in 90 minutes
3. 🎯 Accuracy Over Speed - Negative marking is there, so be careful
4. 📝 Previous Papers - Solve last 5 years' question papers
5. 💻 Mock Tests - Take online mock tests regularly
6. 📰 Current Affairs - Read newspapers daily
7. 🧮 Mathematics Practice - Solve daily math problems
8. 🔬 General Science - Focus on 10th level Physics, Chemistry, Biology 💪 Physical Test Preparation: 1. 🏃 Start Walking - Practice walking 1-2 km daily
2. 🏋️ Build Strength - Practice lifting weights
3. 🥗 Eat Healthy - Maintain good fitness
4. 💧 Stay Hydrated - Drink plenty of water
Conclusion
Railway Group D Recruitment 2026 is one of the biggest opportunities for 10th pass candidates to get a prestigious central government job with excellent salary and benefits. With approximately 22,000 vacancies, your chances are good if you prepare well. Remember: - Applications open: 31st January 2026
- Last date: 2nd March 2026
- Don't delay, apply early!Also Know: India Post GDS Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 28,636 Posts - No Exam, No Interview Required
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. While we have made every effort to provide accurate information based on the official notification, please verify all details from the official RRB website (www.rrbapply.gov.in) before applying. Recruitment details, dates, and processes may change. Always refer to the official notification for the most current and accurate information. Last Updated: January 2026
🚂 Quick Access Information
Official Website: www.rrbapply.gov.in
Total Posts: 22,000+
Application Period: 31 Jan - 2 March 2026
Starting Salary: ₹18,000 + Allowances
Best of Luck to All Candidates! 🎉
