RRB ALP Eligibility Criteria 2026 – Complete Detailed Guide
Overview
The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) conducts the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) examination to recruit candidates for operating and assisting in train locomotive operations under Indian Railways. RRB ALP is a technical post that offers stable government employment, railway benefits, and long-term career growth.
Before applying for RRB ALP 2026, candidates must clearly understand the eligibility criteria related to age limit, educational qualification, medical standards, and category-based relaxation rules.
This article explains the complete RRB ALP 2026 eligibility criteria in a structured and detailed manner.
Important Dates
The RRB ALP 2026 notification is expected to be released between January and March 2026.
Tentative schedule:
Notification Release: January–March 2026
Online Application Start Date: January–March 2026
CBT 1 Exam: Mid 2026
CBT 2 Exam: Late 2026
Computer-Based Aptitude Test: After CBT 2
Final Result: Expected 2027
Candidates should regularly check the official RRB websites for confirmed dates.
Eligibility
To apply for RRB ALP 2026, candidates must meet the following eligibility conditions.
The minimum educational qualification required is either:
Matriculation (10th) with ITI from a recognized institution in relevant trades such as Fitter, Electrician, Mechanic, or
Diploma in Engineering in relevant disciplines from a recognized institution.
Candidates must ensure that their technical qualification is from an institution recognized by NCVT or SCVT.
The minimum age limit is generally 18 years.
The maximum age limit is usually 30 years for General category candidates.
Age relaxation is provided as per government norms.
OBC candidates receive 3 years upper age relaxation.
SC and ST candidates receive 5 years upper age relaxation.
PwBD candidates receive additional relaxation as per rules.
Candidates must meet medical standards prescribed for the ALP post. The ALP position requires strict visual standards, including specific requirements for distant vision and color vision.
Nationality must be Indian as per recruitment rules.
Application Process
The RRB ALP 2026 application process is conducted online through the official regional RRB websites.
Candidates must register by providing personal details, educational qualifications, and selecting their preferred railway zone.
Applicants are required to upload scanned copies of photograph and signature according to RRB specifications.
Application fees vary depending on category.
After successful submission, candidates should download and keep the application confirmation for future reference.
Selection Process
The RRB ALP selection process consists of multiple stages.
The first stage is CBT 1 (Computer-Based Test 1), which includes questions from Mathematics, General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Science, and General Awareness and Current Affairs.
Candidates who qualify in CBT 1 appear for CBT 2.
CBT 2 consists of two parts. Part A includes subjects similar to CBT 1 but at a higher difficulty level. Part B tests technical knowledge based on the candidate’s trade or qualification.
Candidates who qualify in CBT 2 must appear for the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT). The aptitude test is qualifying in nature and is mandatory for ALP posts.
Candidates who clear all stages are called for Document Verification and Medical Examination.
Final selection is based on performance in CBT 2 and CBAT, subject to medical fitness.
Salary
RRB ALP posts fall under Pay Level 2 of the 7th Pay Commission.
The starting basic pay is ₹19,900 per month.
In addition to basic pay, employees receive Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, Transport Allowance, and running allowances as applicable.
The approximate in-hand salary ranges between ₹30,000 to ₹40,000 per month depending on location and allowances.
Employees also receive railway benefits such as travel concessions, medical facilities, and pension benefits under government rules.
With promotions and departmental exams, ALPs can advance to higher positions such as Senior Assistant Loco Pilot or Loco Pilot.
Direct Official Link
Candidates must refer only to the official Railway Recruitment Board websites for accurate and updated information regarding RRB ALP 2026 eligibility criteria:
Always verify eligibility conditions and medical standards from the official notification before applying.