The Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) has released the official notification for RRB Recruitment 2026, inviting applications for 22,195 Level-1 posts across various zones. This recruitment is a great opportunity for candidates seeking a secure career in Indian Railways. Eligible candidates can apply online until 02 March 2026.
Here’s a complete guide covering important dates, vacancies, eligibility, application procedure, selection process, and key instructions.
1. Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | 27 December 2025 |
| Online Application Begins | 31 January 2026 (12:00 AM) |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 02 March 2026 (11:59 PM) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 04 March 2026 |
| Application Correction Window | 05 – 14 March 2026 |
| PwBD Scribe Details Submission | 15 – 19 March 2026 |
Dates for CBT, PET, Document Verification, and Medical Examination will be announced later on official RRB websites.
2. Vacancy Details
- Total Vacancies: 22,195
- Post Level: Level-1 (7th CPC)
- Starting Salary: ₹18,000 per month + allowances
- Vacancies are zone-wise and post-specific
- Final numbers may change depending on administrative requirements
3. Eligibility Criteria
Nationality
Candidates must be:
- Indian citizens, OR
- Citizens of Nepal or Bhutan, OR
- Tibetan refugees who arrived in India before 01 Jan 1962, OR
- Persons of Indian origin from specified countries
Non-Indian candidates must possess a Government of India eligibility certificate.
Age Limit (as on 01 January 2026)
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum Age: 33 years
Age Relaxation:
- SC/ST – 5 years
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) – 3 years
- PwBD – Up to 15 years
- Ex-Servicemen – As per rules
- Widowed/divorced women, railway employees, and apprentices – As notified
Educational Qualification
- Candidates must have passed 10th Class / ITI / Act Apprenticeship depending on the post
- Qualification must be completed by 02 March 2026
- Candidates awaiting results are not eligible
4. Medical Standards
- Posts require specific medical categories: A-2, A-3, B-1, or C-1
- Candidates with LASIK or similar eye surgery are not eligible for A-2 and A-3 posts
- Medically unfit candidates will not be considered for alternative posts
5. Application Fees
| Category | Fee | Refund |
|---|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹500 | ₹400 after CBT |
| SC / ST / PwBD / Ex-Servicemen / Female / Minorities / EBC | ₹250 | Full refund after CBT |
Refund is applicable only if the candidate appears in CBT.
6. Selection Process
The recruitment process consists of:
- Computer Based Test (CBT) – Objective type questions with negative marking: 1/3 per wrong answer
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET) – Qualifying in nature
- Document Verification (DV)
- Medical Examination
Final selection will be based on CBT score, PET qualification, medical fitness, and vacancies.
7. How to Apply
- Applications must be submitted online only via official RRB websites
- Candidates can apply for only one Railway Zone
- Multiple applications will result in rejection and debarment
Aadhaar Verification
- Strongly recommended to ensure smooth exam entry, document verification, and fee refunds
8. Reservation
- SC, ST, OBC (NCL), EWS
- Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD)
- Ex-Servicemen
- Railway Apprentices (CCAA)
Submission of false certificates will lead to cancellation, lifetime debarment, and legal action
9. Important Instructions
- Admit cards will be issued online only
- No requests for change of exam centre or date will be accepted
- Electronic devices are strictly prohibited inside exam halls
- Any malpractice will result in lifetime debarment
10. Final Advice
- Read the official notification carefully before applying
- Ensure eligibility for age, education, and medical standards
- Apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues
- Rely only on official RRB websites for updates
Conclusion
The RRB Group D / Level-1 Recruitment 2026 (CEN 09/2025) is a prestigious opportunity for candidates seeking a career in Indian Railways. With 22,195 vacancies, eligible aspirants should complete the application process before 02 March 2026.
Disclaimer
This information is for guidance only. All details are based on official RRB notifications and may change. Candidates are advised to check official RRB websites for the latest updates. The author and publisher are not responsible for any discrepancies or consequences arising from reliance on this information.
