The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has announced a significant recruitment drive for the post of Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) under Centralised Employment Notification (CEN) No. 01/2026. This recruitment aims to fill a total of 11,127 vacancies across various railway zones in India. Eligible and interested candidates can apply online starting from May 15, 2026, until June 14, 2026.
Notice Alert:
A short notification for CEN 01/2026 has been released, announcing 11,127 vacancies for Assistant Loco Pilots. The detailed notification is expected on May 14, 2026.
Organization Overview: The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) is responsible for conducting this recruitment process on behalf of the Ministry of Railways, Government of India. RRBs operate across various zones to recruit candidates for different railway posts.
Job Description: The Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) is a crucial role in the Indian Railways responsible for operating trains and ensuring the safety and efficiency of rail transportation.
Eligibility Criteria
- Education: Candidates must have completed Matriculation/SSLC (10th Pass) along with an ITI certificate from a recognized institution (NCVT/SCVT) in specific trades such as Fitter, Electrician, Instrument Mechanic, Millwright/Maintenance Mechanic, Mechanic (Radio & TV), Electronics Mechanic, Mechanic (Motor Vehicle), Wireman, Tractor Mechanic, Armature & Coil Winder, Mechanic (Diesel), Heat Engine, Turner, Machinist, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Mechanic. Alternatively, a 3-year Diploma in Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, or Automobile Engineering, or a B.E./B.Tech Degree in relevant engineering disciplines is also accepted. A Course Completed Act Apprenticeship in the relevant trades is also considered.
- Experience: Freshers are eligible to apply, as no specific work experience is mandated.
- Age Range: Candidates should be between 18 and 30 years of age as of July 1, 2026. Age relaxation will be provided for reserved categories as per government norms.
Technical Skills
- (Optional: This section can be filled by the candidate based on their specific trade or skills relevant to the ALP role, e.g., Electrical Systems, Mechanical Aptitude, Troubleshooting, etc.)
Selection Process
The RRB ALP selection process is rigorous and consists of multiple stages:
- First Stage Computer-Based Test (CBT-1): A screening test to assess basic knowledge in Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, and General Awareness.
- Second Stage Computer-Based Test (CBT-2): This stage comprises Part A (used for merit) and Part B (trade-related, qualifying).
- Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT): Also known as the “Psycho Test,” this evaluates candidates’ aptitude for the role. A minimum T-score of 42 is required in each test battery.
- Document Verification (DV): Verification of original educational and other relevant certificates.
- Medical Examination (ME): Candidates must meet stringent medical and physical fitness standards, including A-1 Medical Standard and specific vision requirements (6/6 vision without glasses). Candidates who have undergone LASIK surgery are not eligible for A-1 medical standard posts.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Short Notification Release | March 16, 2026 |
| Detailed Notification | May 14, 2026 |
| Application Start Date | May 15, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | June 14, 2026 |
| CBT 1 Exam Date | To be announced (Expected Q3 2026) |