For every young dreamer in India aiming for a secure Sarkari Naukri (government job), the Indian Railways has just announced the most anticipated technical recruitment of the year. The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has officially approved the RRB ALP Recruitment 2026-27, rolling out a massive 11,127 vacancies for the post of Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP).
If you have completed your 10th standard and hold an ITI certificate or a Diploma/Degree in Engineering, this is your ultimate chance to build a high-paying, prestigious career operating the lifelines of the nation.
In this comprehensive job listing guide, we cover every crucial detail you need to secure this position—from the zone-wise vacancy breakdown and exact salary structure to the official RRB ALP syllabus and the online application process.
RRB ALP Recruitment 2026: Quick Overview
Before diving into the detailed syllabus and selection process, here is a quick snapshot of the Centralised Employment Notification (CEN 2026) for Assistant Loco Pilots.
| Recruitment Detail | Information |
| Organization | Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) |
| Post Name | Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) |
| Total Vacancies | 11,127 Posts |
| Pay Level | Level-2 (7th CPC) |
| Application Mode | Online Only |
| Notification Status | Approved (Detailed Notification in March 2026) |
| Online Application Dates | March 2026 to April 2026 (Expected) |
| Selection Process | CBT 1, CBT 2, CBAT (Psycho Test), DV & Medical |
| Official Portal | rrbapply.gov.in (and regional RRB websites) |
Why Apply for RRB ALP? (Salary & Allowances)
One of the biggest reasons candidates flock to the Assistant Loco Pilot role is the incredibly lucrative salary structure. While the initial basic pay is ₹19,900 (Pay Level 2), the actual in-hand salary is much higher.
ALPs are entitled to a Running Allowance—calculated based on the number of kilometers they pilot the train. With this allowance, combined with Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and Transport Allowance, the starting in-hand salary easily touches ₹35,000 to ₹40,000 per month. Additionally, railway employees and their families enjoy free railway passes and world-class medical facilities.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
To avoid application rejection, ensure you meet the strict eligibility parameters set by the Ministry of Railways.
1. Educational & Technical Qualifications
A simple 12th-pass certificate is not enough. You must possess:
- Matriculation (10th Pass) from a recognized board, PLUS
- ITI Certificate (NCVT/SCVT) in specific trades (Electrician, Fitter, Mechanic Diesel, Wireman, Turner, etc.), OR
- Diploma / Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, or Automobile Engineering).
2. Age Limit (As of 2026 Cut-off Date)
- Minimum Age: 18 Years
- Maximum Age: 30 Years
- Age Relaxations: 3 years for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) and 5 years for SC/ST candidates.
3. Medical Standards (A-1 Category)
Because driving a train is a highly safety-critical job, candidates must pass the rigorous A-1 Medical Standard.
- Vision: Distant vision must be 6/6 without glasses in both eyes.
- Color Vision: You must pass the color vision test (Ishihara chart). Any form of color blindness will lead to immediate disqualification.
Zone-Wise Vacancy Breakdown (Top Zones)
The 11,127 vacancies are distributed across 17 Railway Zones and Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW). Strategic zone selection is crucial when filling out your application. Here are the zones with the highest number of approved vacancies:
- East Coast Railway: 1,625 Posts
- South Eastern Railway: 1,531 Posts
- Central Railway: 1,400 Posts
- Northeast Frontier Railway: 1,276 Posts
- Northern Railway: 740 Posts
- East Central Railway: 700 Posts
RRB ALP Selection Process 2026
The journey to the locomotive cabin involves multiple screening stages to ensure only the best candidates make the cut.
Phase 1: First Stage CBT (CBT 1)
- Format: 75 Objective Questions | 60 Minutes.
- Subjects: Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, and General Awareness.
- Purpose: A screening test to shortlist candidates for CBT 2. There is a negative marking of 1/3rd for wrong answers.
Phase 2: Second Stage CBT (CBT 2)
- Part A (100 Questions | 90 Mins): Mathematics, Reasoning, and Basic Science & Engineering (Engineering Drawing, Levers, IT Literacy). The score here dictates your final merit.
- Part B (75 Questions | 60 Mins): Trade-Specific Knowledge (e.g., Electrician or Fitter syllabus). This is strictly qualifying in nature (minimum 35% required).
Phase 3: Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT / Psycho Test)
- Only candidates who clear CBT 2 are called for the CBAT.
- It consists of 5 test batteries assessing memory, depth perception, observation, and perceptual speed. You must score a minimum T-Score of 42 in each battery. There is no negative marking in this stage.
Phase 4: Document Verification (DV) & Medical Examination
- Final merit is based on a 70% weightage from CBT 2 (Part A) and a 30% weightage from the CBAT score.
How to Apply Online for RRB ALP 2026
The official application link will go live on the regional RRB portals in March 2026. Follow these steps to submit a flawless application:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to
rrbapply.gov.inor your preferred regional RRB website (e.g., RRB Chandigarh, RRB Mumbai). - Register: Create an account using your active mobile number, email ID, and Aadhaar card.
- Fill the Form: Enter your basic details, educational background, and technical trade. Carefully select your preferred Railway Zone.
- Upload Documents: Upload clear, scanned copies of your passport-sized photograph, signature, and category certificate (if applicable).
- Pay the Fee: Complete the online fee payment via UPI, Net Banking, or Debit/Credit card.
- Print Confirmation: Submit the form and download the final PDF for future reference.
Pro Tip: Do not wait for the final week to apply, as heavy server loads frequently cause payment failures.