RRB ALP Exam Date 2026 notice has been officially released, bringing relief and clarity to lakhs of aspiring candidates. Every year, the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) conducts one of India’s most popular and competitive recruitments for the post of Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP). The announcement of the exam dates marks a crucial milestone in the preparation journey for candidates across the country.In this comprehensive article, we’ll provide an SEO‑optimized, in‑depth guide on the RRB ALP Exam Date 2026, the official notice, important timelines, eligibility, preparation tips, and what candidates must do next. Whether you’re a first‑time applicant or a repeat aspirant, this detailed article will help you stay informed and prepared.
What Is RRB ALP?
The Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) is a key position in the Indian Railways responsible for assisting the Loco Pilot in operating and managing locomotives across the extensive railway network. This position also serves as a gateway role for those aiming to become full Loco Pilots. Each year, the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) releases a recruitment notification for ALP, followed by a computer‑based test and subsequent stages of the selection process.
RRB ALP 2025 Recruitment Overview
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Indian Railways, Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) |
| Job Type | Central Government |
| Advertisement No. | CEN 01/2025 |
| Job Name | Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Total Vacancy | 9,970 Posts |
| Pay Scale | Rs. 19,900 – 63,200/- (Level-2) |
| Exam Date | 16–18 February 2026 |
| Official Website | indianrailways.gov.in |
RRB ALP Exam Date 2026 – Official Announcement
The long-awaited RRB ALP Exam Date 2026 has been officially announced by the Railway Recruitment Board. According to the official notice, the ALP Computer Based Test (CBT-1) for the recruitment cycle under CEN 01/2025 is scheduled from 16 February to 18 February 2026. This announcement provides clarity for candidates who have been preparing for months and ensures that exam planning and preparation can now proceed systematically.
Detailed Official Notice & Schedule
The official notice, released on regional RRB websites, includes essential details about exam timings, city intimation slips, and admit card release dates. The ALP CBT-1 exam will be conducted between 16 and 18 February 2026, while the exam city intimation slip will be available approximately ten days before the exam. The admit card will be released about four days prior to the exam on respective regional RRB portals. Candidates must carry the same photo ID used during registration to the exam center, as it is mandatory for verification.
RRB ALP Exam Pattern and Selection Process
The RRB ALP selection process is designed to ensure that only the most capable candidates are selected. It starts with CBT-1, an objective-type test for screening purposes covering Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, and Current Affairs. Candidates who clear CBT-1 are shortlisted for CBT-2, which is more advanced and evaluates candidates’ problem-solving skills. Depending on the trade, some candidates may be required to appear for CBAT (Computer Based Aptitude Test) to assess aptitude and suitability for loco pilot duties. Following these stages, qualified candidates undergo document verification, where original certificates and identity documents are verified, and a medical examination is conducted to ensure fitness for the ALP role.
Important Dates
| Events | Dates |
|---|---|
| Start Date for Apply Online | 12 April 2025 |
| Last Date for Apply Online | 11 May 2025 |
| Last Date for Payment | 13 May 2025 |
| Correction / Edit / Modification | 14 May 2025 – 23 May 2025 |
| RRB ALP Application Status Release | 05 December 2025 |
| Tentative CBT-1 Exam Date | 16–18 February 2026 |
| Tentative CBT-2 Exam Date | To Be Updated Soon |
Eligibility Criteria for RRB ALP
Candidates applying for RRB ALP must meet specific eligibility criteria. Educationally, candidates should have completed Matriculation with ITI certification or a 3-year diploma in engineering disciplines such as Mechanical or Electrical. The age limit typically ranges between 18 and 28 years, with relaxations provided for reserved categories as per government norms. Only Indian citizens or equivalent nationals, as defined in the notification, are eligible to apply. Meeting these requirements is crucial to ensure application acceptance and avoid disqualification.
Exam City Intimation Slip & Admit Card — What to Expect
The exam city intimation slip, released ten days before the exam, provides details of the exam center, city, and shift. The admit card, available four days prior to the exam, is mandatory for entry and must be presented along with the same photo ID used during registration. Candidates should carefully check all details on both the city slip and admit card to avoid any last-minute issues and ensure smooth entry into the examination hall.
Preparation Strategy & Resources
A structured preparation plan is essential for success in the RRB ALP exam. Candidates should first understand the syllabus thoroughly, focusing on Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, and Current Affairs. Regular practice of mock tests is recommended to improve speed and accuracy, while previous year question papers help identify recurring patterns and trends. Time management is critical, so aspirants should set daily study goals and maintain a consistent schedule. A well-planned revision strategy in the last 2-3 months is also essential to consolidate knowledge and boost confidence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To maximize chances of success, candidates should avoid last-minute preparation without a plan, ignoring official notices on regional RRB websites, failing to verify eligibility before applying, and delaying mock test practice. These errors can impact performance and lead to unnecessary stress during the exam process.
How to Check Your RRB ALP Exam Details Online
Candidates can check their exam schedule, city slip, or admit card by visiting the official RRB website or respective regional portals. They need to click on the “ALP Exam Date 2026” link and enter their registration number and date of birth. The exam city intimation slip and admit card can then be downloaded and printed for reference. It is important to rely only on official websites for authentic information to avoid misinformation.
Post-Exam Process: What Happens Next?
After clearing CBT-1, candidates are shortlisted for CBT-2, followed by CBAT for eligible trade candidates. Those who successfully clear these stages undergo document verification and a medical examination. Candidates are advised to stay updated with official notifications regarding further selection steps, cut-offs, and merit lists to ensure they do not miss important deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the RRB ALP recruitment 2025/2026?
RRB ALP recruitment is a central government hiring process conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board to select candidates for the post of Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP). The recruitment for 2025/2026, under CEN 01/2025, has 9,970 vacancies with a pay scale of Rs. 19,900 to 63,200 (Level-2).
When will the RRB ALP CBT-1 exam be conducted?
The RRB ALP CBT-1 exam is tentatively scheduled from 16 to 18 February 2026. Candidates must check their exam city intimation slip and admit card before the exam.
How can I apply for RRB ALP 2025?
Applications were submitted online between 12 April 2025 and 11 May 2025, with the last date to pay fees being 13 May 2025. Corrections or modifications in the application could be done between 14 May and 23 May 2025.
What is the selection process for RRB ALP?
The selection process involves multiple stages, including CBT-1, CBT-2, and, for certain candidates, CBAT (Computer-Based Aptitude Test). Candidates who qualify these stages proceed to document verification and medical examination.
What are the eligibility criteria for RRB ALP 2025?
Candidates must have Matriculation (10th) with ITI or a 3-year diploma in engineering. Age limits are typically 18–28 years, with relaxations for reserved categories as per government norms. Candidates must also be Indian citizens or equivalent nationals.
Conclusion
RRB ALP Exam Date 2026 is a major development for railway job aspirants. With CBT-1 scheduled from 16 to 18 February 2026, candidates now have a clear timeline to focus on their preparation. Monitoring exam city slips, admit cards, and official RRB updates will ensure a smooth examination process. By following a structured study plan and focusing on key subjects, aspirants can confidently approach the exam and maximize their chances of success.
