The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has unveiled an exciting opportunity for job seekers with the release of the short notification for Group D Level-1 posts under CEN 09/2025. This recruitment drive aims to fill over 22,000 vacancies across various departments in Indian Railways, offering stable government jobs to eligible candidates. The online application window is set to open tentatively on January 21, 2026, and will close on February 20, 2026. Aspiring applicants can submit their forms through the official portal at rrbapply.gov.in or respective regional RRB websites. This is a golden chance for 10th-pass individuals to join one of India’s largest employers, contributing to the nation’s railway network while enjoying competitive pay and benefits.
Indian Railways, managed by the Ministry of Railways, conducts this recruitment through 21 regional RRBs to ensure fair and transparent selection. Whether you’re aiming for roles like track maintenance or assistant positions, this guide covers all essential aspects to help you prepare effectively.
Important Dates for RRB Group D Recruitment 2026
Stay updated with the key timelines to avoid missing deadlines:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Short Notification Release | December 23, 2025 |
| Detailed Notification Release | January 20, 2026 (Tentative) |
| Online Application Starts | January 21, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | February 20, 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | February 20, 2026 |
| Application Correction Window | February 21 to 28, 2026 (Tentative) |
| Admit Card Download | To be announced |
| CBT Exam Date | To be announced |
| Result Declaration | To be announced |
Application Fee
- General/OBC/EWS Candidates: Rs. 500/- (Rs. 400/- refunded after appearing in CBT)
- SC/ST/PwBD/Female/Transgender/Ex-Servicemen/Minorities/Economically Backward: Rs. 250/- (Fully refunded after CBT appearance)
- Payment Mode: Online via Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI
Age Limit
Candidates must be between 18 and 33 years as of July 1, 2026. Age relaxations apply:
- OBC: 3 years
- SC/ST: 5 years
- PwBD: 10 years (additional for reserved categories)
- Ex-Servicemen: Up to 3 years plus service period
RRB Group D Eligibility & Vacancy Details 2026
A total of approximately 22,000 vacancies are expected across Level-1 posts. Eligibility requires a minimum of Class 10th pass from a recognized board or ITI from institutions recognized by NCVT/SCVT, or National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) granted by NCVT.
| Post Name | Total Vacancies (Approx.) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Track Maintainer Grade-IV | 10,000+ | 10th Pass or ITI/Equivalent/NAC |
| Helper/Assistant (Various Departments) | 5,000+ | 10th Pass or ITI/Equivalent/NAC |
| Assistant Pointsman | 3,000+ | 10th Pass or ITI/Equivalent/NAC |
| Assistant Loco Shed | 2,000+ | 10th Pass or ITI/Equivalent/NAC |
| Assistant Operations/TL & AC | 2,000+ | 10th Pass or ITI/Equivalent/NAC |
| Total | 22,000+ | – |
Vacancies may vary by region; check the detailed notification for zone-wise distribution.
RRB Group D Salary 2026
Selected candidates will receive a competitive salary under the 7th CPC Pay Matrix at Level-1:
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Basic Pay | Rs. 18,000/- |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | As per rules (currently 50%) |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | 8-24% based on city |
| Transport Allowance | Rs. 3,600/- + DA |
| Other Allowances | Varies |
| Gross Salary (Approx.) | Rs. 22,000 – 25,000/- per month |
Additional perks include medical facilities, pension, provident fund, and job security.
RRB Group D Selection Process 2026
The selection involves multiple stages to assess candidates’ suitability:
- Computer-Based Test (CBT-1): Objective-type exam covering Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, and General Awareness (100 questions, 90 minutes).
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Qualifying physical tasks like lifting weights and running (mandatory for shortlisted candidates).
- Document Verification (DV): Verification of original documents.
- Medical Examination: Fitness check as per railway standards.
How to Apply for RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 Online
Follow these steps for a smooth application:
- Read the official notification PDF thoroughly on the RRB website.
- Visit rrbapply.gov.in or your regional RRB site.
- Register with a valid email and mobile number.
- Fill in personal, educational, and other details accurately.
- Upload scanned photo, signature, and required documents (in specified formats).
- Pay the application fee online.
- Review and submit the form; download/print the confirmation page for records.
FAQs
Q1: What is RRB Group D Recruitment 2026?
It is a recruitment drive by Railway Recruitment Boards for over 22,000 Level-1 posts in Indian Railways, including track maintainers and assistants.
Q2: Who releases the RRB Group D Notification?
The notification is released by the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) under the Ministry of Railways.
Q3: How many vacancies are there in RRB Group D 2026?
Approximately 22,000 vacancies across various Level-1 positions.
Q4: When does the RRB Group D application form start?
Online applications begin on January 21, 2026.
Q5: What is the last date to apply for RRB Group D 2026?
February 20, 2026.
Q6: What is the educational qualification for RRB Group D?
Minimum 10th pass or ITI from NCVT/SCVT or equivalent NAC.
Q7: What is the age limit for RRB Group D Recruitment?
18 to 33 years, with relaxations for reserved categories.
Q8: How can I apply for RRB Group D 2026?
Apply online through the official website rrbapply.gov.in.
Q9: Is RRB Group D a government job?
Yes, it offers permanent government employment in Indian Railways.
Q10: What are the benefits of RRB Group D jobs?
Competitive salary, allowances, job security, medical benefits, pension, and growth opportunities.