RRB Group D 2026 Recruitment Begins: Applications Open for Over 22,000 Level-1 Posts
Aspirants, get ready! The Indian Railways has officially launched one of the most anticipated recruitment drives of the year.
The Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) have set the ball rolling for the RRB Group D 2026 recruitment process. In a major announcement, the RRBs have invited online applications for a staggering 22,195 vacancies for Level-1 posts across various zones of the Indian Railways. This is a golden opportunity for candidates seeking a stable and prestigious career in the government sector.
Key Details at a Glance:
- Notification Number: CEN 02/2026
- Post Name: Level-1 (erstwhile Group D)
- Total Vacancies: 22,195 (Includes backlog vacancies)
- Application Mode: Online Only
- Official Website: www.indianrailways.gov.in (Candidates must apply via the official RRB regional websites)
- Job Profile: Includes roles like Track Maintainer, Helper, Porter, Gateman, and other ground staff crucial for railway operations.
Application Timeline: Mark Your Calendars
- Start Date for Online Applications: March 15, 2026
- Last Date to Apply: April 14, 2026 (till 23:59 HRS)
- Last Date for Payment of Fee: April 14, 2026
- Correction Window: April 20-22, 2026
- Computer Based Test (CBT) Tentative Dates: August-September 2026
Eligibility Criteria
- Age Limit (as on 01.07.2026): 18 to 33 years. Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories as per government norms.
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed 10th class (SSLC) OR have an ITI certificate from a recognized institution. Specific trade requirements, if any, will be mentioned in the zone-wise vacancy notification.
Application Fee
- General/OBC: ₹500/-
- SC/ST/PWD/Women/Ex-Servicemen: ₹250/-
- Note: 99% of the fee is refundable after appearing in the CBT.
How to Apply for RRB Group D 2026
- Visit the official RRB website of your preferred region.
- Click on the link for “CEN 02/2026 – Level-1 Posts.”
- Register with a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in the detailed application form with personal, educational, and other details.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and required documents as per specifications.
- Pay the application fee online.
- Submit the form and download/print the confirmation page for future reference.
Selection Process: A Two-Stage Process
The selection for RRB Group D posts will be based on:
- Computer Based Test (CBT): The first stage will be a single online exam. The question paper will consist of 100 questions from Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, and General Awareness & Current Affairs. The test will be of 90 minutes duration.
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Candidates who qualify in the CBT will have to undergo a PET (which is qualifying in nature). The standards are different for male and female candidates.
- Document Verification & Medical Examination: The final step involves verification of original certificates and a thorough medical exam to ensure fitness for the post.
Why is this Recruitment Significant?
This massive recruitment drive aims to fill critical operational positions in the world’s largest railway network. With a 7th CPC Pay Level of 1 and additional allowances as per railway rules, these posts offer a attractive starting salary along with job security, medical benefits, pension, and other perks of a central government job.
FAQs
Q1. Is the application process centralized?
A1. No. While the notification is common (CEN 02/2026), candidates must apply through the RRB website of the specific railway zone for which they wish to apply.
Q2. Can I apply for more than one zone?
A2. Yes, but you must submit separate applications and pay fees for each RRB zone, provided you meet the eligibility criteria for each.
Q3. What is the syllabus for the CBT?
A3. The syllabus covers basics of 10th standard Mathematics, Science, Logical Reasoning, and Current Affairs. Detailed syllabi are available in the official notification.
Q4. Are there any reservations?
A4. Yes, reservations for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and PWD candidates are applicable as per Government of India rules.
Important Links & Action Plan:
- Step 1: Read the official CEN 02/2026 notification PDF thoroughly from the RRB website.
- Step 2: Gather all educational, caste, and identity documents in digital format.
- Step 3: Apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical glitches.
- Step 4: Start your preparation immediately. Utilize previous years’ papers and focus on speed and accuracy.
Disclaimer: The details provided here are based on the official notification. Candidates are strongly advised to refer to the official RRB websites for the most accurate and updated information.
