RRB Group D Exam 2026: Your Essential Guide to Notification, Eligibility & Physical Criteria
Aspiring to join the Indian Railways? The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has announced the much-anticipated RRB Group D Exam 2026, offering a golden opportunity for candidates seeking Level 1 posts. With approximately 22,000 vacancies across various railway zones, this recruitment drive (CEN 09/2025) is a significant event for job seekers.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the latest updates on the notification, crucial eligibility requirements, the selection process, and the physical criteria you need to meet to secure a position in the Indian Railways.
Key Dates for RRB Group D 2026
The detailed notification for RRB Group D recruitment 2026 is scheduled for release on **January 30, 2026**. Candidates should note the revised application dates to ensure they don't miss this opportunity.
| Event | Revised Dates |
|---|---|
| Detailed Notification Release | January 30, 2026 |
| Online Application Starts | January 31, 2026 |
| Online Application Last Date | March 02, 2026 |
| Application Fee Payment Last Date | To be announced |
| RRB Group D CBT Exam Date | Expected in March 2026 (after application process) |
📢 **Important Note:** The application process for RRB Group D recruitment 2026 has been postponed, and the online registration will now begin on January 31, 2026, instead of the earlier announced January 21, 2026.
RRB Group D 2026 Vacancy Details
The Railway Recruitment Board has officially announced a total of **22,000 vacancies** for Level 1 posts under CEN 09/2025. These positions include vital roles such as Pointsman, Track Maintainer, Assistant Loco Shed, Assistant Operations, Assistant, and Assistant TL & AC across various departments.
Eligibility Criteria: Are You Qualified?
Meeting the eligibility criteria is the first step towards your railway career. The RRB Group D 2026 eligibility is based on nationality, age limit, educational qualifications, and medical standards.
✅ A citizen of India.
✅ A subject of Nepal or Bhutan.
✅ A Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, to permanently settle.
✅ A person of Indian origin who has migrated from specific countries (Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, or Vietnam) with the intention of permanently settling in India.
Candidates must be between **18 to 33 years** of age.
Age relaxations are provided for reserved categories as per government rules:
- OBC candidates: 3 years relaxation
- SC/ST candidates: 5 years relaxation
✅ Passed 10th grade (Matriculation) from a recognized board.
✅ OR Possess an ITI certificate or equivalent qualification.
✅ OR Hold a National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) granted by NCVT.
Note: Diploma/Degree in Engineering or a Graduate Act Apprenticeship will generally not be accepted in lieu of ITI/NAC for Level-1 posts unless specified.
The RRB Group D Selection Process 2026
The selection process for RRB Group D involves multiple stages designed to assess candidates thoroughly.
Physical Efficiency Test (PET) Criteria
The PET assesses your physical capabilities and differs for male and female candidates.
✅ Male Candidates PET Requirements
👉 Should be able to lift and carry 35 kg of weight for a distance of 100 meters in 2 minutes, in one chance, without dropping the weight.
👉 Should be able to run 1000 meters (1 km) in 4 minutes and 15 seconds, in one chance.
✅ Female Candidates PET Requirements
👉 Should be able to lift and carry 20 kg of weight for a distance of 100 meters in 2 minutes, in one chance, without dropping the weight.
👉 Should be able to run 1000 meters (1 km) in 5 minutes and 40 seconds, in one chance.
Application Fee Structure
Candidates applying for the RRB Group D 2026 recruitment will need to pay an application fee.
| Category | Application Fee | Refundable Amount (upon appearing for CBT) |
|---|---|---|
| General/OBC/EWS | INR 500 | INR 400 (after deducting bank charges) |
| SC/ST/PwD/Women/Ex-Servicemen/Transgender/Minorities/Economically Backward Candidates | INR 250 | INR 250 (full refund after deducting bank charges) |
The fee can be paid online using debit cards, credit cards, or net banking.
How to Apply for RRB Group D 2026
The application process will be entirely online.
1. Visit the official regional website of the Railway Recruitment Board from which you wish to apply.
2. Look for the link related to Advertisement No. CEN 09/2025 for RRB Group D recruitment.
3. Click on 'New Registration' and provide your basic details.
4. Complete the online application form with accurate information.
5. Upload required documents in the specified format and dimensions.
6. Pay the application fee online.
7. Finally, print the application form for your records.
CRITICAL: Ensure your Aadhaar details (name and date of birth) exactly match your Class 10 certificate.
The RRB Group D Exam 2026 presents a significant opportunity for individuals looking to build a career in the Indian Railways. With the detailed notification and application dates revised, now is the time to intensify your preparation. Carefully review all eligibility criteria, understand the selection process, and start preparing for both the Computer-Based Test and the Physical Efficiency Test. Good luck!
