The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) Group D Recruitment 2026 is one of the most anticipated government job opportunities in India, offering stable employment in the Indian Railways. With over 22,000 vacancies announced for Level-1 posts, this recruitment drive under CEN 09/2025 aims to fill essential roles in track maintenance, assistance, and operations. As the Indian Railways expands its network, these positions provide job security, attractive salaries, and growth prospects. This article covers everything you need to know about the RRB Group D 2026 exam, from eligibility criteria to preparation strategies, helping aspirants worldwide gear up for this competitive test. Whether you’re in India or abroad, understanding the process can help you apply seamlessly.
The short notification was released on December 23, 2025, with the detailed one expected soon on official RRB websites like rrbcdg.gov.in or rrbapply.gov.in. Applications open from January 21, 2026, making it crucial to stay updated for quick action.
RRB Group D Vacancy 2026 Details
The recruitment targets approximately 22,000 posts across various railway zones. These Level-1 roles are vital for the smooth functioning of India’s vast railway system, which spans over 68,000 km and serves billions annually. Vacancies are distributed based on zonal requirements, with a focus on operational and maintenance staff.
Here’s a breakdown of key posts and estimated vacancies:
| Post Name | Estimated Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Track Maintainer Grade IV | 11,000 |
| Assistant (Workshop/Bridge/P-Way/TRD) | 1,700 (combined) |
| Pointsman | 2,500 |
| Helper/Assistant in Various Departments | 6,800 |
These figures are tentative and may vary slightly in the detailed notification. Reservations apply as per government norms: 15% for SC, 7.5% for ST, 27% for OBC, 10% for EWS, and provisions for PwBD and ex-servicemen.
Eligibility Criteria for RRB Group D 2026
To apply, candidates must meet specific age, educational, and nationality requirements. The cutoff date for age is typically January 1, 2026.
- Age Limit: Minimum 18 years, maximum 33 years. Relaxations include 5 years for SC/ST, 3 years for OBC (non-creamy layer), 10 years for PwBD (UR), and up to 40 years for ex-servicemen.
- Educational Qualification: Pass in Class 10th (High School) from a recognized board. For technical posts, an ITI certificate from NCVT/SCVT is preferred or required.
- Nationality: Indian citizens, or subjects of Nepal/Bhutan, Tibetan refugees settled before 1962, or persons of Indian origin from specified countries.
- Medical Standards: Candidates must pass A-3 medical fitness tests, including vision and physical checks.
Failing to meet these could lead to disqualification at any stage.
RRB Group D Application Process 2026
Applying for RRB Group D is online-only through the official RRB portal. The process is straightforward but requires careful document uploads.
- Registration: Visit rrbapply.gov.in, select your RRB zone, and register with email/mobile.
- Fill Form: Enter personal, educational, and preference details. Choose exam language (English/Hindi/regional).
- Upload Documents: Photo, signature, SC/ST certificate if applicable (JPEG format, 50-100 KB).
- Pay Fee: General/OBC: Rs. 500 (Rs. 400 refundable on appearing for CBT). SC/ST/PwBD/Women/Ex-SM: Rs. 250 (fully refundable).
- Submit and Print: Review and submit. Modification window: February 25 to March 6, 2026 (tentative).
Important Dates for RRB Group D 2026:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Short Notification Release | December 23, 2025 |
| Online Application Starts | January 21, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | February 20, 2026 |
| Fee Payment Last Date | February 20, 2026 (11:59 PM) |
| Application Modification | February 25 to March 6, 2026 |
| CBT Exam Date | To be announced (likely mid-2026) |
Track updates on official sites to avoid missing deadlines.
RRB Group D Exam Pattern 2026
The selection process includes Computer-Based Test (CBT), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Document Verification (DV), and Medical Examination. The CBT is objective-type with negative marking (1/3 mark deducted for wrong answers).
RRB Group D CBT Exam Pattern:
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks | Topics Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Science | 25 | 25 | Physics, Chemistry, Biology (10th level) |
| Mathematics | 25 | 25 | Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Mensuration |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 30 | 30 | Analogies, Series, Coding-Decoding, Puzzles |
| General Awareness & Current Affairs | 20 | 20 | History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Sports, News |
- Total: 100 questions, 100 marks.
- Duration: 90 minutes (120 for PwBD).
- Qualifying Marks: UR/EWS: 40%, OBC/SC: 30%, ST: 25%.
PET involves tasks like lifting weights (35 kg for males, 20 kg for females) and running (1000m in 4:15 min for males, 5:40 min for females). It’s qualifying in nature.
RRB Group D Syllabus 2026
The syllabus aligns with 10th-standard CBSE/NCERT levels, emphasizing foundational knowledge.
Detailed Subject-Wise Syllabus:
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Number System, BODMAS, Decimals, Fractions, LCM/HCF, Ratio & Proportion, Percentage, Time & Work, Simple & Compound Interest, Profit & Loss, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Mensuration, Statistics, Calendar & Clock |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | Analogies, Alphabetical/Numerical Series, Coding-Decoding, Mathematical Operations, Relationships, Syllogism, Jumbling, Venn Diagram, Data Interpretation, Conclusions & Decision Making, Similarities/Differences, Analytical Reasoning, Classification, Directions, Statement-Arguments/Assumptions |
| General Science | Physics: Motion, Work Energy, Sound, Light, Electricity; Chemistry: Elements, Compounds, Acids/Bases, Metals/Non-Metals; Life Sciences: Human Body, Nutrition, Diseases, Environment, Plants/Animals |
| General Awareness & Current Affairs | Current Events (National/International), History, Polity, Geography, Economy, Science & Technology, Sports, Culture, Personalities, Schemes, Books & Authors |
Focus on NCERT books for science and math, and daily newspapers for current affairs.
RRB Group D Salary and Job Profile 2026
Selected candidates start at Pay Level-1 of the 7th CPC, with a basic pay of Rs. 18,000. In-hand salary ranges from Rs. 22,000 to Rs. 25,000, plus allowances like Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance, and Night Duty Allowance. Total gross pay can reach Rs. 35,000 in metro cities.
Job Profile: Duties include track maintenance, assisting in workshops, signal operations, and gatekeeping. It’s physically demanding but offers promotions to higher grades like Technician or Supervisor after experience and exams.
Preparation Tips for RRB Group D 2026
Cracking RRB Group D requires a structured 6-12 month plan. Start by understanding the syllabus and exam pattern.
- Build Basics: Use NCERT books for math and science. Practice reasoning with puzzles and apps.
- Daily Routine: Dedicate 2 hours to each section. Read newspapers for GA.
- Mock Tests: Attempt weekly mocks on platforms like Testbook or Adda247. Analyze errors.
- Previous Papers: Solve last 5 years’ questions to spot patterns.
- Physical Prep: Train for PET with running and weight-lifting.
- Resources: Books like RS Aggarwal (Math/Reasoning), Lucent GK, and online courses.
- Time Management: Focus on speed and accuracy to beat the 90-minute limit.
- Stay Updated: Join Telegram channels for railway job alerts.
With consistent effort, first-attempt success is achievable. Avoid last-minute cramming; revise regularly.
In conclusion, RRB Group D Recruitment 2026 offers a golden opportunity for entry-level government jobs in railways. With proper preparation, you can secure a rewarding career. Apply early and prepare smartly!
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FAQs on RRB Group D Recruitment 2026
Q1: When will the RRB Group D 2026 notification be released?
The short notice is out, and the detailed notification is expected in late December 2025 or early January 2026.
Q2: What is the age limit for RRB Group D 2026?
Candidates must be 18-33 years old, with relaxations for reserved categories.
Q3: How many vacancies are there in RRB Group D 2026?
Approximately 22,000 vacancies across various Level-1 posts.
Q4: What is the exam pattern for RRB Group D CBT?
It’s a 100-question, 90-minute test covering Math, Reasoning, Science, and GA, with negative marking.
Q5: What is the salary for RRB Group D posts?
Basic pay is Rs. 18,000, with in-hand salary around Rs. 22,000-25,000 plus allowances.
Q6: How to apply for RRB Group D 2026?
Apply online via rrbapply.gov.in from January 21 to February 20, 2026.
Q7: Is there a physical test in RRB Group D?
Yes, PET is mandatory after CBT, involving running and weight-lifting.
Q8: What documents are needed for application?
Photo, signature, 10th certificate, category proof if applicable.
Q9: Can foreign nationals apply?
Only Indian citizens or specified eligible persons from neighboring countries.
Q10: How to prepare for RRB Group D current affairs?
Read daily newspapers, follow apps like Inshorts, and revise monthly compilations.