RRB Group D Recruitment 2026: A Great Opportunity for 10th Pass Candidates
The Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) have released a short indicative notification (CEN No. 09/2025) announcing a massive recruitment drive for Level-1 (Group D) posts. This is a golden chance for candidates looking for stable government employment in the Indian Railways. With approximately 22,000 vacancies announced across various Railway zones, this recruitment promises to be one of the biggest opportunities of the year. The official application window opens on 21st January 2026, offering a secure career path with a starting basic pay of ₹18,000 plus attractive allowances. Read this comprehensive guide to understand the eligibility, salary structure, selection process, and step-by-step application procedure.
Key Highlights of RRB Group D Notification 2026
- Recruiting Organisation: Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs)
- Post Name: Various Posts in Level-1 (Group D)
- Advertisement No: CEN No. 09/2025
- Total Vacancies: 22,000 (Approx.)
- Pay Scale: Level-1 of 7th CPC Pay Matrix (Initial Pay ₹18,000/-)
- Job Location: All India (Various Railway Zones)
- Application Mode: Online
- Application Start Date: 21 January 2026
- Last Date to Apply: 20 February 2026
The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) conducts this exam to select candidates for various technical and non-technical posts in Level 1. Known for its job security and benefits, the Group D post is highly sought after by millions of aspirants. The selection is generally based on a Computer Based Test (CBT) followed by a Physical Efficiency Test (PET), ensuring a fair and transparent recruitment process.
RRB Group D Vacancy Breakdown 2026
The indicative notice mentions an approximate total count of vacancies. The detailed zone-wise and post-wise distribution will be available in the detailed CEN.
| Post Name | Pay Level | Tentative Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| Various Posts in Level-1 | Level-1 (7th CPC) | 22,000 (Approx.) |
Eligibility Criteria for RRB Group D Recruitment
Candidates must ensure they meet the specific eligibility standards set by the RRBs.
Educational Qualification
- As per the indicative notice, the specific educational qualifications will be detailed in the full CEN No. 09/2025.
- Generally: Candidates are required to have passed 10th Class (Matriculation) from a recognized board OR ITI from a recognized institution (NCVT/SCVT) OR NAC (National Apprenticeship Certificate) granted by NCVT.
- Note: Please refer to the detailed notification once released for post-specific requirements.
Age Limit (As on 01.01.2026)
- Minimum Age: 18 Years
- Maximum Age: 33 Years
- Age relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/PwBD/Ex-Servicemen candidates will be applicable as per government rules.
Medical Standards
- Candidates must be medically fit for the duties connected with the post.
- Specific medical standards (like A2, B1, C1) will be mentioned in the detailed notification. Visual acuity is a critical factor for railway jobs.
RRB Group D Salary and Benefits 2026
The financial package offered to Group D employees is excellent, especially considering the qualification requirements. The posts fall under Level-1 of the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) Pay Matrix.
- Basic Pay: ₹18,000/- per month.
- Gross Salary: The in-hand salary is significantly higher due to various allowances.
- Dearness Allowance (DA): Revised periodically to offset inflation.
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): Depends on the classification of the city (X, Y, or Z class) where you are posted. It can range from 9% to 27% of Basic Pay.
- Transport Allowance (TA): To cover commuting expenses.
- Other Benefits:
- Medical Facilities: Comprehensive healthcare for self and family at Railway Hospitals.
- Railway Pass: Free/discounted train travel for self and family.
- Pension Scheme: Covered under the National Pension System (NPS).
- Night Duty Allowance: Additional pay for working night shifts.
- Overtime Allowance: Compensation for extra working hours.
Overall, a newly joined Group D employee can expect a gross monthly salary ranging between ₹28,000 to ₹35,000, depending on the posting location and applicable allowances.
Selection Process Explained
The recruitment process for RRB Group D is rigorous and designed to select the best candidates. It typically involves the following stages [Download Detailed RRB Group D Syllabus]:
Tier 1: Computer Based Test (CBT)
This is the primary screening stage. The exam usually consists of objective-type multiple-choice questions.
- Subjects: General Science, Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, and General Awareness/Current Affairs.
- Duration: 90 Minutes.
- Negative Marking: There is typically a negative marking of 1/3rd mark for every incorrect answer.
- Normalization: Marks will be normalized since the exam is conducted in multiple shifts.
Tier 2: Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
Candidates who clear the CBT are called for PET. This test is qualifying in nature.
- For Male Candidates: Should be able to lift and carry 35 kg of weight for a distance of 100 metres in 2 minutes in one chance without putting the weight down AND run for a distance of 1000 metres in 4 minutes and 15 seconds in one chance.
- For Female Candidates: Should be able to lift and carry 20 kg of weight for a distance of 100 metres in 2 minutes in one chance without putting the weight down AND run for a distance of 1000 metres in 5 minutes and 40 seconds in one chance.
Document Verification (DV) & Medical Examination
Candidates who qualify in PET are called for Document Verification based on their performance in CBT. Verification is followed by a detailed Medical Examination at Railway Hospitals to ensure the candidate meets the medical standards required for the specific post.
How to Apply Online: Step-by-Step Guide
The application process is strictly online. Follow these steps carefully to avoid rejection:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official website of your respective RRB (links provided below) or use the direct “Apply Online” link.
- Register: Click on “New Registration.” Enter your basic details like Name, Date of Birth, and Aadhar Number.
- Important: Ensure your Name and Date of Birth match exactly with your 10th Class Certificate and Aadhar Card to ensure successful verification.
- Fill Application Form: Log in with your registration details and complete the application form with educational and personal details.
- Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your recent passport-size photograph, signature, and SC/ST certificate (if applicable) as per the specified dimensions.
- Pay Application Fee: Pay the requisite fee through online payment modes (Net Banking/Credit Card/Debit Card/UPI).
- Submit and Print: Review the application form carefully. Submit it and take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.
Important Dates
Keep track of these dates to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 27 December 2025 |
| Online Application Start Date | 21 January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 20 February 2026 (23:59 hrs) |
| Exam Date | To be Notified |
Application Fees
Note: The fee structure below is based on standard RRB notifications. Confirm with the detailed CEN.
| Category | Application Fee | Refundable Amount (on appearing in CBT) |
|---|---|---|
| General / OBC | ₹500/- | ₹400/- |
| SC / ST / Ex-Servicemen / PwBD / Female / Transgender / Minorities / EBC | ₹250/- | ₹250/- |
Essential Links
Use the links below to access the official documents and application portal.
| Link Name | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification PDF | Download Notification |
| Download RRB Group D Syllabus | RRB Group D Syllabus (English / Hindi) |
| Online Application Link | Apply Online |
| Official Website Link | Visit Website |
| WhatsApp Channel for Government Jobs | Join Channel |
| Telegram Channel for Government Jobs | Join Telegram |
| Follow us on Our Indian App Arattai | Follow on Arattai |
Start Your Railway Career Journey Today
The RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 is a monumental opportunity for aspirants seeking a secure and respectable government job. With 22,000 vacancies, the chances of selection are significant if you prepare well. Don’t wait for the last date; gather your documents, ensure your Aadhar details are updated, and apply as soon as the window opens on 21st January 2026. Stay tuned to our website for the latest updates on the syllabus, exam dates, and admit cards. Best of luck with your preparation!