The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has announced a golden opportunity for engineering and technical aspirants across India. The short notification for Centralised Employment Notification (CEN) No. 01/2026 has been released for the recruitment of 11,127 Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) posts in Indian Railways. This is one of the most sought-after government jobs due to its attractive salary, job security, and career growth in the world’s fourth-largest railway network.
If you are a 10th-pass candidate with ITI or diploma qualifications and dream of becoming a loco pilot, this recruitment drive is tailor-made for you. Let’s dive into all the important details.
Key Highlights of RRB ALP Recruitment 2026
- Notification Number: CEN 01/2026
- Post Name: Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP)
- Total Vacancies: 11,127
- Pay Scale: Level-2 of 7th CPC (Initial Pay: ₹19,900 + allowances)
- Application Mode: Online only
- Application Period: 15th May 2026 to 14th June 2026
- Age Limit (as on 01.07.2026): 18 to 30 years
- Official Website: www.rrbapply.gov.in (and respective RRB regional websites)
The detailed notification is expected on or around 14th May 2026, after which candidates can start filling the online form.
Important Dates for RRB ALP 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Short Notification Released | 16th March 2026 |
| Detailed Notification | 14th May 2026 (Tentative) |
| Online Application Start | 15th May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 14th June 2026 (23:59 hrs) |
| Correction Window | As per schedule |
| Exam Date | To be announced |
| Admit Card | To be notified |
Candidates are advised to regularly check the official RRB websites for updates.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Candidates must have passed Matriculation / SSLC (10th class) along with any one of the following:
- ITI certificate from NCVT/SCVT in trades such as Fitter, Electrician, Electronics Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic, Turner, Machinist, Refrigeration & AC Mechanic, etc. (specific list available in detailed notification).
- Diploma in Mechanical / Electrical / Electronics / Automobile Engineering.
- Degree (BE/B.Tech) in relevant engineering disciplines.
Note: Candidates appearing in the final year or waiting for results are not eligible.
Age Limit
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum Age: 30 years (as on 01.07.2026)
Age relaxation will be applicable as per government rules for SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD/Ex-Servicemen candidates. Detailed relaxation will be mentioned in the official notification.
Medical Standard
ALP is a safety-critical post. Candidates must meet the A-1 medical fitness standard prescribed by Indian Railways. Colour vision and other physical requirements are mandatory.
Application Fee
- General / OBC / EWS: ₹500
- SC / ST / PwBD / Female / Ex-Servicemen / Minorities / Economically Backward: ₹250
An amount of ₹400 (for General/OBC/EWS) or ₹250 (for reserved categories) will be refunded after appearing in the Stage I CBT (Computer Based Test).
Payment can be made online through debit/credit card, net banking, etc.
Selection Process for RRB ALP 2026
The recruitment involves a multi-stage selection process:
- CBT Stage 1 (Screening): Qualifying nature. Covers Mathematics, Reasoning, General Science, and General Awareness.
- CBT Stage 2: Main exam with two parts – Part A (Technical + Non-Technical) and Part B (Trade-specific).
- Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT): Qualifying for ALP. Tests psychomotor and cognitive abilities.
- Document Verification and Medical Examination.
Only candidates qualifying all stages will be considered for final appointment.
How to Apply Online for RRB ALP 2026
- Visit the official portal www.rrbapply.gov.in or your chosen RRB’s website.
- Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill the application form carefully with personal, educational, and preference details (choose only one RRB).
- Upload scanned documents: Photo, Signature, and certificates (as per specifications).
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit and take a printout of the confirmation page.
Important Tip: Candidates can apply to only one RRB. Multiple applications will lead to rejection.
Preparation Tips for RRB ALP Exam
- Focus on CBT-1 syllabus: Mathematics (up to 10th level), General Intelligence & Reasoning, Basic Science & Engineering, General Awareness & Current Affairs.
- For CBT-2, strengthen your trade-related technical subjects.
- Practice previous year papers and mock tests regularly.
- Improve speed and accuracy, as there is negative marking (1/3rd mark).
- Prepare for CBAT by practicing aptitude and reasoning tests designed for loco pilots.
