The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has officially released the Centralized Employment Notice (CEN) No. 01/2026 for the recruitment of Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) with a massive 11,127 vacancies across all Indian Railways. The online application process begins on 15 May 2026 and closes on 14 June 2026. This is a golden opportunity for candidates with ITI, Diploma, or Degree in Engineering disciplines to join the Indian Railways at Pay Level-2 (₹19,900) with additional allowances. The selection process includes CBT-1, CBT-2, CBAT, Document Verification, and Medical Examination. Candidates born between 02 July 1996 and 01 July 2008 (relaxation as per rules) are eligible to apply. Read the complete notification details, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and direct apply link below.

📝 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Online for RRB ALP 2026

1. Visit any official RRB website (list given in Important Links section below).
2. Click on “CEN 01/2026 – Assistant Loco Pilot Recruitment” link.
3. Create an Account with your active mobile number and email ID (cannot be changed later).
4. If you already have an account from previous CENs (2024/2025), use the same credentials.
5. Authenticate your identity using DigiLocker or Aadhaar (recommended for smoother verification).
6. Fill the online application form carefully with personal, educational, and contact details.
7. Select your preferred RRB (only one RRB – choice is final and cannot be changed).
8. Capture Live Photograph using webcam or mobile front camera (no pre-existing photo upload).
9. Upload scanned signature in running handwriting (JPG/JPEG, 30-49 KB).
10. Pay application fee online via Internet Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or UPI.
11. Submit the application and download the confirmation page.
12. Modification window (17-26 June 2026) available with ₹250 fee per correction (except Account details & chosen RRB).

• Stage 1: CBT-1 (Screening Exam) – 75 questions, 60 minutes, 75 marks. Negative marking: 1/3rd mark per wrong answer. Qualifying marks: UR/EWS-40%, OBC-30%, SC-30%, ST-25%. Marks NOT counted in final merit.
• Stage 2: CBT-2 (Main Exam) – 175 questions, 150 minutes. Part-A (100 questions, 90 mins) counted for merit; Part-B (75 questions, 60 mins) qualifying only (35% required). Negative marking: 1/3rd mark.
• Stage 3: CBAT (Computer Based Aptitude Test) – Only for candidates shortlisted from CBT-2. Mandatory to score minimum T-score of 42 in each test battery. No negative marking.
• Stage 4: Document Verification + Medical Examination – Final merit based on: 50% weightage of CBT-2 (Part-A) + 50% weightage of CBAT scores.

🎯 Preparation Tips for RRB ALP 2026 (Green Box)

• Focus on Basics: 10th-level Mathematics and Science are the foundation. Practice NCERT books thoroughly.
• Trade-Specific Preparation: For CBT-2 Part-B, revise your ITI trade syllabus from DGT website or your engineering core subjects.
• Mock Tests: Take at least 30-40 full-length mock tests for CBT-1 and CBT-2 to improve speed and accuracy.
• Negative Marking Strategy: With 1/3rd negative marking, avoid guesswork. Attempt only those questions you are confident about.
• Aptitude Practice: For CBAT, practice online memory and reaction-based tests. Visit RDSO psychology portal for sample tests.
• Medical Preparation: Get your eyesight checked before applying. LASIK candidates should NOT apply.

⚠️ Crucial Warnings: Read Before Applying (Red Box)

🚫 LASIK Surgery Strictly Not Allowed: Candidates who have undergone LASIK or any corrective eye surgery are NOT eligible for ALP post. False declaration will lead to disqualification and debarment.

🚫 Multiple Applications: Applying to more than one RRB or submitting multiple applications to same RRB will lead to summary rejection + lifetime debarment from all RRB/RRC exams.

🚫 Banned Items in Exam Hall: Mobile phones, watches, earphones, Bluetooth devices, calculators, pens, paper, belts, caps, water bottles – NOT ALLOWED. Pen will be provided at center.

🚫 Impersonation & Unfair Means: Strict action under “The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024”. Lifetime debarment + legal prosecution.

🚫 Account Details Cannot Be Changed: Name, father’s name, mother’s name, date of birth, mobile number, email ID, and chosen RRB – once submitted, cannot be modified ever.

• Pay Scale: Level-2 of 7th CPC Pay Matrix – ₹19,900 per month (initial pay)
• Gross Salary: Approximately ₹35,000 – ₹45,000 per month (including DA, HRA, TA, and other allowances)
• Perks: Railway quarter (subject to availability), free medical facilities for self & family, LTC, travel passes, pension benefits under NPS
• Career Growth: Promotions up to Senior Loco Pilot, Chief Loco Pilot, and further managerial positions
• Training Stipend: Paid during training period as per Railway rules

The RRB ALP CEN 01/2026 is one of the largest technical recruitment drives by Indian Railways with 11,127 vacancies. Candidates must act quickly as the application window opens on 15 May 2026 and closes on 14 June 2026. Before applying, verify your eligibility – especially medical standards (no LASIK) and educational qualifications (ITI/Diploma/Degree in relevant trades). Prepare strategically for CBT-1 (screening) and CBT-2 (merit-based), keeping in mind the negative marking. The final selection combines CBT-2 and CBAT scores in a 50:50 ratio. For those who do not qualify this time, keep preparing for upcoming RRB NTPC and SSC exams. Sarkari Papers wishes all aspirants the very best for this prestigious railway career opportunity!