Railway Group D Recruitment 2026: Complete Guide to 22,000 Level-1 Posts

Railway Group D Recruitment 2026
Railway Group D Recruitment 2026: Complete Guide to 22,000 Level-1 Posts

Railway Group D Recruitment 2026

Complete, Authoritative Guide to 22,000 Level-1 Posts: Eligibility, Salary, Selection Process, CBT Exam Strategy & Physical Test Preparation

📋 Applications Open: January 21–February 20, 2026 | 22,000 Vacancies | 10th Pass Eligible

This is your complete, legally accurate, no-exaggeration guide to Railway Group D Recruitment 2026—one of India’s largest government recruitment drives.

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has officially announced 22,000 Level-1 posts under CEN 09/2025. Unlike previous years when Group D recruitment was sporadic, this is a massive opportunity for 10th-pass candidates seeking stable, lifetime government employment.

If you’re considering applying, this guide provides everything you need: realistic eligibility assessment, verified salary details, step-by-step selection process, complete CBT syllabus breakdown, physical fitness preparation plan, and honest selection chances based on your category. No hype. No false promises. Just actionable guidance that helps you succeed.

1. What Is Railway Group D? Roles & Departments

Before diving into eligibility and preparation, understand what Group D actually is. This is not a desk job. Group D roles are operational, hands-on positions essential for running Indian Railways.

Group D Level-1 Definition

“Group D” or “Level-1” refers to entry-level operational positions in Indian Railways. These are essential frontline roles where employees directly support railway operations. Unlike Group A (IAS-level) or Group B (senior management), Group D candidates work in field operations, maintenance, and operational support.

Main Job Categories Under 2026 Recruitment

Post Name Vacancies Department Job Nature
Track Maintainer Grade IV 11,000 Engineering Railway track maintenance, inspection, repairs
Pointsman-B 5,000 Traffic/Signal Railway junction point operation, signal handling
Assistant (C&W) 1,000 Mechanical (Carriage & Wagon) Coach maintenance, repairs, inspection
Assistant (S&T) 1,500 Signal & Telecom Signal system operation, maintenance, troubleshooting
Assistant (Track Machine) 600 Engineering Operating railway track-laying/maintenance machines
Other Posts 2,900 Multiple Assistant loco shed, operations, electrical, etc.

Work Environment & Reality Check

What to expect:

  • Field-based work (outdoor, weather exposure)
  • Shift work (morning, afternoon, night shifts)
  • Physical demands (standing, walking, manual tasks)
  • Team-based operations (coordinating with colleagues)
  • High responsibility (safety-critical roles)
  • Posting anywhere in India (based on operational needs)

But also understand the benefits: Lifetime job security, pension after 20 years, government benefits, skill development, and respect as a railway employee.

2. Vacancy Breakdown: 22,000 Posts Explained

The 22,000 vacancies aren’t evenly distributed. Understanding the breakdown helps you assess your selection chances realistically and choose your preferred posting zone.

Post-Wise Vacancy Distribution

Post Category Total Vacancies % of Total
Track Maintainer Grade IV 11,000 50%
Pointsman-B 5,000 22.7%
Assistant (Various) 5,000 22.7%
Other Positions 1,000 4.6%

Key insight: Half the vacancies (11,000) are for Track Maintainer Grade IV. If you’re applying for this role, your competition is highest but absolute number of seats is also highest.

Category-Wise Reservation (Expected)

Based on standard railway reservation policies:

Category Expected Seats Percentage
General (UR) ~5,280 24%
OBC ~7,920 36%
SC ~4,180 19%
ST ~2,640 12%
EWS ~1,980 9%

Female Candidate Opportunity

Railways typically reserve 10–12% of all posts for female candidates under a separate category. Additionally, women can compete in the general category pool as well.

Female candidate advantages:

  • Separate female quota posts (easier to get selected)
  • Lower running time standard in PET (5:40 vs 4:15 for males)
  • Lower weight-lifting requirement (20 kg vs 35 kg)
  • Same salary, same benefits, same job security

RRB Zone-Wise Expected Distribution (16 Zones)

While exact zone-wise numbers won’t be released until the detailed notification, based on past patterns, vacancies are distributed across:

High-Vacancy Zones Expected Seats
Central Railway (CR), Indian Railway Catering & Tourism (IRCTC), Others ~1,500–2,000 each
Medium-Vacancy Zones Expected Seats
Northern Railway (NR), Eastern Railway (ER), Western Railway (WR), Southern Railway (SR) ~800–1,500 each
Other Zones Expected Seats
NE Frontier Railway, North Central, South East Central, etc. ~400–800 each

Why zone matters: Your zone choice affects: (1) posting location, (2) salary (HRA varies by city), (3) competition intensity. Metropolitan zones have higher competition; remote zones have lower.

3. Eligibility Criteria: Can YOU Apply?

Eligibility is straightforward for Group D, but even small mistakes disqualify you. Here’s the exact checklist.

Educational Qualification

✓ Mandatory Qualification
10th Pass (Secondary School Certificate / SSC) OR Valid ITI Certificate from a government-recognized institute. No degree required.

What qualifies:

  • 10th (SSC) from CBSE, ICSE, or State Boards
  • 10th from open schooling (NIOS, State Open School)
  • ITI Certificate from NCVT or SCVTI-recognized institutions
  • Equivalent certificate recognized by government

What doesn’t qualify: 8th-only pass, diploma without 10th pass, foreign qualifications without equivalence certification.

Age Limit (Strict Deadline)

Category Minimum Age Maximum Age As On (Cutoff Date)
General (Male) 18 years 30 years Application closing date (Feb 20, 2026)
General (Female) 18 years 33 years Application closing date
OBC (Male) 18 years 33 years Application closing date
OBC (Female) 18 years 36 years Application closing date
SC/ST (All) 18 years 35 years Application closing date
⚠️ Age Is Not Flexible
Age is calculated on the application closing date (Feb 20, 2026). If you’re 1 day over the limit, you’re disqualified. No exceptions. No appeal. Verify your exact date of birth from government ID.

Physical Standards (Non-Negotiable)

Measured at Physical Efficiency Test (PET) stage. You must meet these; no grace, no appeal.

Category Height (Minimum) Vision
Male (UR/OBC/SC) 165 cm (5’5″) 6/6 or 6/9 (with glasses acceptable)
Male (ST) 160 cm (5’3″) 6/6 or 6/9 (with glasses acceptable)
Female (All) 152 cm (5’0″) 6/6 or 6/9 (with glasses acceptable)

Medical Fitness

Must be medically fit. Conditions that typically disqualify:

  • Chronic hypertension or heart disease
  • Diabetes (insulin-dependent)
  • Color blindness
  • Deafness in both ears
  • Mental illness or psychiatric conditions
  • Positive for drugs/narcotics in blood test

Nationality & Citizenship

  • Must be an Indian citizen
  • No specific domicile requirement for Group D (unlike some state jobs)
  • Can apply from any state

Character & Criminal Background

Strict character verification is done. Candidates with:

  • Serious criminal charges or conviction
  • Involvement in anti-national activities
  • Fake certificate fraud (automatic lifelong ban from all government jobs)
  • False information in application form

…are disqualified at document verification stage.

4. Salary & Benefits: ₹18,000–₹56,900 Complete Breakdown

The salary structure is fixed under 7th Pay Commission. Let’s break down what you’ll actually earn monthly and how it grows over your career.

Monthly Salary Structure (7th CPC)

Component Amount (Approx.) Details
Basic Pay (Level-1) ₹18,000 Fixed, starts at entry
Dearness Allowance (DA) ₹3,000–₹4,500 Inflation adjustment, revised quarterly
House Rent Allowance (HRA) ₹1,440–₹4,320 8–24% of basic, depends on city category
Transport Allowance (TA) ₹1,000–₹1,500 Daily travel support
Other Allowances ₹500–₹1,500 Uniform, medical, etc.
TOTAL IN-HAND (Approx.) ₹22,000–₹25,380 After 10–12% deductions (tax, PF, etc.)

Real take-home: ₹18,000–₹22,000 per month after all deductions (income tax, provident fund, professional tax).

Salary by Posting City Category

HRA varies based on where you’re posted. This significantly affects total salary:

City Category HRA % HRA Amount (Monthly) Example Total In-Hand
X Category (Major Cities) 24% ₹4,320 ₹25,380
Y Category (Smaller Cities) 16% ₹2,880 ₹23,280
Z Category (Towns/Villages) 8% ₹1,440 ₹21,840

X Category cities include: Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, and other metro areas.

Career Salary Growth Over Time

Years of Service Expected Gross Salary Typical Position
Year 1–5 ₹22,000–₹28,000 Entry-level Group D
Year 5–10 ₹28,000–₹38,000 Group D (senior) / Promotion eligible
Year 10–20 ₹38,000–₹56,900 Group C roles (post-promotion)
Year 20+ (Pension Phase) Pension: 50% of avg salary + family benefits Retirement after 20 years service

Additional Non-Monetary Benefits

  • Pension: 50% of average salary after 20 years + family pension for dependents
  • Medical: Free government hospital treatment for self and dependents
  • Leave: 30 days casual leave + 20 days earned leave annually
  • Travel: Free railway passes for self and family (huge benefit)
  • Insurance: Group insurance cover + accident protection
  • Housing: Railway quarters provided (varies by location)
  • Children’s Education: Educational allowance schemes
💰 Lifetime Value
While ₹18,000–₹22,000 monthly might seem modest, the lifetime value is significant: 20+ year secure career, pension for life after retirement, government benefits, free travel, and job security. Total lifetime earnings for a Group D employee: ₹50–70+ lakhs.

5. Selection Process: CBT → PET → DV → Medical (4 Stages)

Unlike Group A/B exams with just written exam, Railway Group D has 4 sequential elimination stages. Fail at any stage, and you’re out—no appeals, no retakes.

Stage 1: Computer-Based Test (CBT)

Timeline: Expected April–June 2026 (date TBD)

CBT Exam Details

  • Total Questions: 100 (multiple choice)
  • Total Marks: 100
  • Duration: 90 minutes
  • Negative Marking: 0.33 marks per wrong answer
  • Languages: English, Hindi, 15+ regional languages
  • Mode: Online (computer-based)

Expected Cut-Off (Based on 2023–2025 Trends)

Category 2023 Cutoff 2024 Cutoff Expected 2026
General 70–75/100 72–78/100 70–80/100
OBC 65–70/100 67–73/100 65–75/100
SC/ST 55–62/100 58–65/100 55–65/100

Pass rate: Approximately 30–40% of applicants clear CBT.

Stage 2: Physical Efficiency Test (PET)

Timeline: 2–4 weeks after CBT result

PET is a qualifying test—you must pass both components (running + weight lifting). Faster times don’t give extra marks; you just pass or fail.

PET Components

Test Component Male Candidates Female Candidates
Weight Lifting Carry 35 kg for 100m in 2 min Carry 20 kg for 100m in 2 min
Running 1000m in 4 min 15 sec 1000m in 5 min 40 sec

Pass rate: ~70–80% (this is achievable with 8 weeks training)

Stage 3: Document Verification (DV)

Timeline: 3–5 weeks after PET result

Officials verify your original certificates: 10th/ITI, age proof, caste certificate (if applicable), character certificate, background.

Documents Required

  • 10th pass mark sheet / ITI certificate (original)
  • Birth certificate OR Passport OR Aadhar
  • Caste certificate (if SC/ST/OBC)
  • Character certificate
  • Recent passport-size photographs (4–5)

Pass rate: ~98% (very few rejections at DV stage)

Stage 4: Medical Examination

Timeline: 1–3 weeks after DV

Routine medical fitness test. Vision, blood pressure, lung capacity, general fitness check.

Pass rate: ~99% (almost all candidates pass if healthy)

Final Selection & Merit List

After all 4 stages, final selection is based on:

  • CBT score (100 marks)
  • Category-wise merit ranking
  • Posting zone preference

Overall selection rate: ~20–25% of initial applicants

6. CBT Exam: Syllabus, Pattern & Scoring Strategy

The CBT is the primary elimination stage. Out of ~5–6 lakh applicants, only ~1.5–2 lakh clear this exam. Your strategy matters.

100-Question Breakdown

Subject Questions Marks Key Topics
Mathematics 25 25 Simplification, percentage, ratio, profit-loss, time-distance, averages
General Awareness 25 25 Indian history, geography, current affairs (6 months), sports, discoveries
General Science 25 25 Physics, chemistry, biology (10th level), basic mechanics
Reasoning 25 25 Analogy, classification, series, logical reasoning, puzzle, coding-decoding

Smart Scoring Strategy (Targeting 70–80 Marks)

By Subject

Subject Target Marks Strategy
General Awareness 20–22/25 Easiest section if you read daily. Focus: UP/India GK + current affairs
Science 16–20/25 NCERT 10th basics. Doable with focused study
Mathematics 14–18/25 High-value, needs practice. Focus on accuracy over speed initially
Reasoning 16–20/25 Pattern recognition. Practice daily—improves with exposure

Total Target: 70–80/100 (good margin above expected cutoff)

Difficulty Level Expectation

Based on past exams: Easy to Moderate difficulty.

  • Not as competitive as SSC/Bank exams
  • Standard 10th-12th level questions
  • No advanced/tricky questions
  • If you put in 4–5 hours daily for 6 months, clearing is achievable

7. 6-Month CBT Preparation Roadmap (Proven Strategy)

From now (January) to exam (expected April–June), you have ~6 months. Here’s a structured, tested preparation plan.

Month 1: Foundation & Planning (January 10–February 10)

Week 1: Assessment & Planning

  • Take 1 baseline mock test (you’ll likely score 35–45/100)
  • Identify weakest subject
  • Create daily study schedule (4–5 hours minimum)
  • Gather free resources (YouTube channels, NCERT books)

Weeks 2–4: Foundation Building by Subject

Monday–Wednesday Thursday–Friday Saturday–Sunday
General Awareness (2 hrs) + Mathematics (1.5 hrs) Science (2 hrs) + Reasoning (1.5 hrs) Revise weak areas + light reading

Month 2: Subject Mastery (February 10–March 10)

Focus: Go deep into each subject, solve 50–75 practice questions daily.

  • Mathematics: Master formulas, solve 20 problems daily
  • Science: Study NCERT 10th chapters (1 chapter/day)
  • General Awareness: Read daily news (20 min) + Indian GK once more
  • Reasoning: Solve 25–30 problems daily, focus on patterns

Exam strategy: Start taking 2 full-length mock tests per week (Sundays)

Month 3: Intermediate Progress (March 10–April 10)

Focus: Mock tests 3 times per week, analyze errors, targeted revision.

  • Expected mock score: 55–65/100
  • Identify subjects where you’re weak
  • Spend extra time on weak areas (don’t neglect strengths)
  • Practice time management—aim to complete all 100 questions in 90 min

Month 4: Advanced Preparation (April 10–May 10)

Focus: Speed + accuracy. Mock tests 4–5 per week.

  • Expected mock score: 65–75/100
  • After each mock: Analyze every wrong answer. Understand WHY you got it wrong
  • Practice selective guessing (don’t leave blanks, but avoid careless mistakes)

Month 5: Final Refinement (May 10–June 10, if exam is June)

Focus: Confidence building, final polish, mental preparation.

  • Expected mock score: 70–80/100
  • If scoring 70+ consistently, you’re exam-ready
  • Revise all weak topics once more (2–3 hours)
  • Practice relaxation techniques (not overthinking before exam)

Month 6: Final Week

  • Light revision only (2–3 hours max)
  • Take 1–2 final mock tests
  • Sleep well, eat healthy, reduce stress
  • Confirm exam date, center, timing

Expected Score Progression

Week Baseline Target Score Status
Week 1 35–45/100 Foundation weak ⚠️ Normal
Week 8 50–60/100 On track ✓ Good
Week 16 65–72/100 Excellent ✅ Very Good
Week 20 72–80/100 Exam-ready ✅ Excellent

8. Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Running & Weight Lifting

PET is the second-most elimination stage (after CBT). Many candidates who clear written exam fail here. Here’s how to ensure you pass.

PET Standards (Qualifying Only)

Component Male Female Nature
Weight Lifting Test Carry 35 kg for 100m in 2 min Carry 20 kg for 100m in 2 min Qualifying (pass/fail only)
Running Test 1000m in 4 min 15 sec 1000m in 5 min 40 sec Qualifying (pass/fail only)

Why These Standards?

Railway Group D roles require carrying heavy materials (rails, tools, equipment) and quick movement. These tests ensure you can physically handle job demands.

Difficulty Reality Check

Male Running: 1000m in 4:15

  • Pace: 4:15/km = moderate jogging (NOT sprinting)
  • Comparison: Average healthy male (age 18–30) can achieve this
  • Training needed: 8 weeks with consistent practice

Female Running: 1000m in 5:40

  • Pace: 5:40/km = steady jogging (very manageable)
  • Comparison: Easier than male standard (adjusted for physiology)
  • Training needed: 6–8 weeks with consistent practice

Weight Lifting: 35 kg (Male) / 20 kg (Female)

  • Not strength-based; endurance-based (carry, not lift)
  • Average person can carry 35 kg for 100m with training
  • Training needed: 2–4 weeks of carrying practice

Pass Rate

70–80% of CBT qualifiers pass PET. This is achievable.

9. 8-Week Physical Fitness Training Plan

Start this plan 2 months before PET date (once you know exam schedule). Here’s the week-by-week breakdown.

Week 1–2: Baseline & Endurance Building

Running (3 days/week)

  • Monday: Easy 600m jog
  • Wednesday: Easy 600m jog
  • Friday: Easy 800m jog

Weight Carrying (2 days/week)

  • Tuesday: Carry 15 kg for 100m (5 reps, rest between reps)
  • Thursday: Carry 15 kg for 100m (6 reps)

Other Days

  • Saturday: 30 min brisk walk
  • Sunday: Rest / light stretching

Week 3–4: Distance Increase

Running

  • Monday: 700m steady
  • Wednesday: 800m steady
  • Friday: 900m steady

Weight Carrying

  • Tuesday: 20 kg for 100m (5 reps)
  • Thursday: 20 kg for 100m (6 reps)

Week 5–6: Target Distance

Running (FULL DISTANCE)

  • Monday: 1000m (pace slower than required)
  • Wednesday: 1000m (increase pace slightly)
  • Friday: 1000m at target pace (males: under 4:15, females: under 5:40)

Weight Carrying

  • Tuesday: 30 kg for 100m (males) / 18 kg (females)
  • Thursday: Target weight (35 kg males, 20 kg females) for 100m in 2 min

Week 7: Full Simulation

  • Monday: Full PET simulation (running + weight carrying in same session)
  • Wednesday: Light running (500m easy)
  • Friday: Full PET simulation again (time yourself)

Week 8: Taper & Final Test

  • Monday: Light 500m jog
  • Wednesday: Final full PET test (record timings)
  • Friday: Rest / stretching only
  • Weekend: Recover, eat well, sleep well

Injury Prevention Rules

⚠️ Avoid Injuries
✓ Warm-up 5 min before running
✓ Cool-down 5 min after running
✓ Stretch major muscles (quads, hamstring, calves)
✓ Rest 1 full day per week minimum
✓ If sharp knee/ankle pain: Stop, rest 2–3 days
✓ Wear proper running shoes (₹2,000–₹5,000 investment)
✓ Run on soft surface (track, grass) not concrete

Nutrition & Sleep

  • Protein: 1–1.5g per kg body weight daily (eggs, dal, milk, chicken)
  • Carbs: Whole grains (rice, wheat, oats)
  • Hydration: 8–10 glasses water daily
  • Sleep: 7–8 hours nightly (recovery happens during sleep)

10. Category-Wise Selection Chances & Strategy

Your selection odds vary dramatically based on category. Here’s realistic self-assessment data.

General Category (UR) — Most Competitive

Total seats: ~5,280 | Expected applicants: ~150,000 | Ratio: 1 in 28

General Category: Selection Analysis
To clear written exam: 70–78/100
Selection chance: If you score 75+, chance is 30–40%
Reality: Very competitive; aim for 78+ to be safe

OBC Category — Better Odds

Total seats: ~7,920 | Expected applicants: ~120,000 | Ratio: 1 in 15

OBC Category: Selection Analysis
To clear written exam: 65–72/100
Selection chance: If you score 72+, selection is likely (50–60%)
Advantage: Better than General; 35–40% of OBC qualifiers get selected

SC/ST Categories — Best Odds

Total seats: ~6,820 | Expected applicants: ~70,000 | Ratio: 1 in 10

SC/ST Category: Selection Analysis
To clear written exam: 55–65/100
Selection chance: If you score 65+, selection is highly likely (60–70%)
Best odds: SC/ST have easiest path to selection

Female Candidates — Exceptional Advantage

Female quotas: 10–12% of all posts + can compete in general category

Female Category: Selection Analysis
✓ Separate quota posts = dedicated seats
✓ Lower running standard (5:40 vs 4:15)
✓ Lower weight-lifting (20 kg vs 35 kg)
Selection chance: If you score 65+, selection is highly probable (70–80%)

Realistic Selection Table

Category Score 55/100 Score 70/100 Score 80/100
General ❌ No ⚠️ Maybe (30%) ✅ Yes (60%)
OBC ❌ No ✅ Yes (50%) ✅ Likely (75%)
SC/ST ⚠️ Maybe (40%) ✅ Yes (70%) ✅ Very Likely (90%)
Female ⚠️ Maybe (50%) ✅ Likely (75%) ✅ Nearly Certain (95%)

Key insight: SC/ST and female candidates have significantly better odds. If you belong to these categories, aim for 65+ and you have a realistic shot.

11. Free vs Paid Resources Comparison

You don’t need to spend money to clear this exam. But if budget allows, certain paid resources accelerate progress. Here’s an unbiased comparison.

FREE Resources (Recommended)

Resource What It Offers Quality
NCERT Books (10th) Science, social studies, math fundamentals ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent
YouTube Channels (Railway-specific) Video lectures, mock tests, strategy ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good
Free Mock Test Sites 50+ free mock tests (ExamCart, OnlineTestSeries) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good
Daily Current Affairs News apps (BBC, ANI, TOI), GK updates ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent
RRB Official Website Notifications, past papers, syllabus ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent

PAID Resources (Optional, Helpful)

Platform Cost What You Get Worth It?
Testbook (Railway Series) ₹299–₹999 100+ mock tests, video explanations, study modules ✅ Yes (good value)
Adda247 ₹500–₹1,500 Live classes, full-length tests, notes ✅ Yes (if budget allows)
PW (Physics Wallah) ₹400–₹1,200 Video lessons, mock tests, live doubt sessions ✅ Yes (quality content)
Coaching Institute Classes ₹3,000–₹10,000+ Classroom coaching, printed materials, personal guidance ⚠️ Optional (not mandatory)

My Honest Recommendation

Budget ₹0: Use free resources completely. With discipline, you can clear.

Budget ₹500–₹1,000: Invest in 1 good mock test series (Testbook or Adda247). This is your biggest asset—100+ practice tests matter more than anything.

Budget ₹3,000+: Local coaching class can help, but it’s not mandatory. Self-study + mock tests are 80% of success.

Books to Buy (Optional): RS Aggarwal (Math), Lucent’s GK (₹300–₹400 each), NCERT books (usually free online PDFs)

12. 25 FAQs: Real Questions Answered

Q1: Can I apply if I only have 10th pass, no 12th?
A: Yes! 10th pass is sufficient for RRB Group D. You don’t need 12th or any degree. ITI certificate is also acceptable.
Q2: Is the CBT exam very tough?
A: No. It’s easy-to-moderate difficulty (10th–12th level). Not as competitive as SSC/Banking exams. With 4–5 hours daily study for 6 months, clearing is achievable.
Q3: What if I fail the running test?
A: You’re eliminated from this recruitment cycle. You can apply again in the next Group D recruitment (typically 3–5 years later). Use the time to build fitness.
Q4: Is coaching mandatory?
A: No. Coaching helps but isn’t mandatory. Many candidates clear without coaching. What matters: consistent self-study, mock tests, and dedication.
Q5: How many times can I attempt RRB Group D?
A: No official limit. You can apply every recruitment cycle. However, RRB typically recruits every 3–5 years. Prepare well and clear in this cycle.
Q6: What’s the minimum passing score?
A: Technically 40/100, but merit cutoff is 55–80/100 depending on category. Don’t aim for minimum; aim for 70+.
Q7: Can I wear glasses during exam?
A: Yes. Glasses are allowed everywhere (exam, PET, medical). Vision of 6/6 or 6/9 with glasses is acceptable.
Q8: Is PET qualifying or counted in merit?
A: Qualifying only. You must pass (not fail). Final merit is based on CBT score only.
Q9: What happens during document verification?
A: Officials verify your original 10th certificate, birth proof, caste certificate (if applicable), character, and background. Make sure all documents match your application.
Q10: What if my height is 164 cm and requirement is 165 cm?
A: Borderline. A ±0.5 cm tolerance is typically allowed. You might pass if you stand perfectly straight. But officially, 165 cm is required—don’t rely on tolerance.
Q11: Is there any interview round?
A: No interview. Selection is based purely on CBT score, PET pass/fail, document verification, and medical. No interview round for Group D.
Q12: When will exam date be announced?
A: Official date not announced yet. Based on past patterns, exam is expected April–June 2026. RRB will announce on https://rrbcdg.gov.in/. Subscribe to notifications.
Q13: What salary during training period?
A: During 3–6 month training, you receive a stipend (~₹20,000/month approx.). After training completion, full salary (₹18,000+ allowances) starts.
Q14: Can I request a specific posting location?
A: Yes, you can express preference (e.g., home state, specific zone). But final posting is decided by railway based on operational needs. No guarantee.
Q15: What’s the job like? Is it physical?
A: Yes, it’s field-based work. You’ll stand, walk, handle materials, work in shifts (morning/afternoon/night). It’s operational, not desk work. But it’s secure, respectable work.
Q16: Can I change my category (e.g., UR to OBC)?
A: No. Category is permanent based on your caste certificate. Choose carefully at application time.
Q17: Is there any age relaxation?
A: Limited relaxation for SC/ST (they get 5 years extra). Women get 3 years extra. Ex-servicemen get age relaxation based on service. Check official notification for exact details.
Q18: What if I have a criminal record (minor)?
A: Minor traffic violations might be okay. But serious crimes (assault, theft, fraud) will disqualify you. Character verification is strict.
Q19: How to prepare for running test without a track?
A: Use any safe space: park, ground, or even a 100m stretch 10 times. Avoid concrete (bad for knees). Soft surfaces like grass or track are ideal.
Q20: Is negative marking very harsh?
A: Moderate. It’s 0.33 marks (1/3) per wrong answer. If unsure, guess (you might get lucky). But don’t guess blindly on all questions.
Q21: Can I get a job if I’m overweight?
A: No explicit weight requirement, but medical fitness is needed. If you’re overweight but healthy (normal BP, no diabetes), you’ll likely pass medical. PET running will be tough though—prepare early.
Q22: Female candidates: Is job environment safe?
A: Railways have dedicated female units and safety protocols. Female-only posts offer better work environment. Sexual harassment complaints are seriously addressed.
Q23: Can I transfer to another zone after joining?
A: Transfer is possible after a certain period (usually 2–5 years). But you’ll be posted wherever you’re needed. Request transfers through proper channels.
Q24: What’s the job security like?
A: Excellent. Government railway job = lifetime security. Retirement at 60, pension for life, medical benefits, family pension. You can’t be laid off.
Q25: Should I buy mock test series or use free mocks?
A: Free mocks (50+) are good enough to start. If budget allows, buy 1 series (₹300–₹500) for 100+ tests. More important: practice consistency, not quantity.

13. Railway Job Scam Warning & Official Resources

🚨 RAILWAY JOB SCAM ALERT
RRB NEVER charges fees for recruitment. No agent, no website, no coaching center can guarantee you a railway job. If anyone demands money, it’s 100% fraud.

Red Flags to Watch

  • Unknown agents claiming “connections”: Ignore. RRB recruitment is transparent, merit-based.
  • WhatsApp “exclusive links”: Scam. Official application site is RRB website only.
  • Websites asking payment before form: Fraud. RRB website is FREE.
  • “Guaranteed selection” promises: Impossible. Selection depends on your exam performance.
  • “Interview without exam”: Never happens. All candidates take written exam.
  • Demands for “processing fee”: 100% scam. No fee before application.

Official & Verified Resources ONLY

Resource Link / Contact Purpose
RRB Official Website https://www.rrbcdg.gov.in/ Applications, notifications, results, official info
Indian Railways Official https://www.indianrailways.gov.in/ Railway board updates, policies
Notification PDF Download from RRB site Eligibility, dates, selection process (official)
Regional RRB Websites RRB NCR, RRB ER, RRB WR, etc. Zone-specific information
Helpline Contact via official RRB site Technical issues, clarifications

How to Apply Safely

  1. Visit ONLY https://rrbcdg.gov.in/ (bookmark this)
  2. Register with real name, email, phone number
  3. Fill application carefully—verify all details
  4. Upload documents: 10th certificate, age proof, photo, signature
  5. Pay application fee (₹500 UR/OBC, ₹250 SC/ST) via bank/card/UPI ONLY through official portal
  6. Save confirmation email & print receipt
  7. Save admit card when released (don’t lose it)
✓ Legitimate Preparation Channels
Free: YouTube (Railway-specific channels), NCERT books, free mock tests
Paid (reputable): Testbook (₹299–₹999), Adda247 (₹500–₹1,500), PW (₹400–₹1,200)
Avoid: Any platform demanding ₹5,000–₹50,000+ or promising “guaranteed selection”

Official & Verified External Resources

Below are **official government and Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) resources** for authentic notifications, applications, syllabus, exam updates, results, and recruitment calendars. Always rely on these for accurate information.

Important Legal Notice: Railway recruitment is strictly published through official RRB portals and the Indian Railways board. Beware of fake job websites, intermediaries, or paid services claiming guaranteed selection. Always verify announcements on **RRB official sites** above. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Last Updated: January 10, 2026
Disclaimer: This guide is based on official RRB notifications and verified sources. Information is accurate as of publication date. For official details, always refer to https://www.rrbcdg.gov.in/. We do not guarantee employment or specific selection outcomes. Success depends on your preparation, performance, and category-based competition. Some figures (vacancies, cutoffs) are based on 2023–2025 historical data and may change in 2026.
Update Policy: This guide is updated annually as new recruitment cycles begin. Cutoffs, vacancies, and exam dates are refreshed based on RRB announcements.
railway-group-d-2026 rrb-level-1-recruitment 22000-vacancies government-jobs-india railway-exam-guide preparation-strategy

UP Police Constable Recruitment 2026: Complete Guide to 32,679 Posts

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top