RRB Level 1 Recruitment 2026: 22,000 Vacancies | Apply Online for CEN 09/2025

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has announced a massive nationwide recruitment drive under CEN No. 09/2025 to fill approximately 22,000 Level-1 entry-level posts in Indian Railways, offering a starting basic pay of ₹18,000 plus allowances under the 7th Pay Commission, with applications open online from 21 January to 20 February 2026 for candidates aged 18–33 years (with applicable relaxations).

Open primarily to 10th-pass, ITI, or NAC-qualified candidates, the recruitment spans multiple technical and non-technical roles across all railway zones in India and follows a transparent, merit-based selection process involving a Computer-Based Test (CBT), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), document verification, and medical examination. Aadhaar verification matching 10th-class records is mandatory, and selected candidates will enjoy strong job security, medical benefits, travel concessions, pension provisions, and long-term career growth within Indian Railways.

RRB Level-1 Recruitment 2026: Complete Guide to Indian Railways’ Massive CEN 09/2025 Drive

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB), under India’s Ministry of Railways, has announced one of the largest recruitment drives for entry-level positions through Centralised Employment Notice (CEN) No. 09/2025.

With approximately 22,000 vacancies across various Level-1 posts in the 7th CPC Pay Matrix, this represents a golden opportunity for job seekers throughout India. The recruitment encompasses multiple railway zones and represents a significant expansion in the Indian Railways workforce.

Key Recruitment Details at a Glance

Understanding the Positions

What Are Level-1 Posts?

Level-1 positions represent entry-level posts within the Indian Railways’ organizational structure under the 7th Pay Commission framework. These roles form the foundation of the railway workforce and include various technical and non-technical positions essential for railway operations.

Typical Level-1 Job Profiles Include:

• Track Maintainer – Responsible for maintaining railway tracks and ensuring safe operations
• Assistant Pointsman – Manages railway junction points and track switches
• Helper/Assistant – Provides support to senior railway personnel in various departments
• Peon – Administrative support roles in railway offices
• Assistant Loco Shed Staff – Support personnel in locomotive maintenance facilities
• Assistant Operations – Assists in railway operations and coordination
• Other Technical/Non-Technical Posts – Various positions across railway departments

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

Educational Qualifications

The specific educational requirements vary by post and are detailed in the complete CEN No. 09/2025 notification. However, general eligibility typically includes:

• 10th Pass (Secondary School Certificate): Basic eligibility for most Level-1 positions
• ITI Certificate: Industrial Training Institute certification from recognized institutions
• National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC): From NCVT (National Council for Vocational Training)

Candidates must ensure that their qualifications are from a recognized university or institute as on the closing date of application submission (20 February 2026).

Age Limit Requirements

• Minimum Age: 18 years
• Maximum Age: 33 years
• Age as on: 01 January 2026

Important Note on Age Relaxation: The Government of India provides age relaxation for certain categories:

• SC/ST candidates: 5 years additional
• OBC candidates: 3 years additional
• Ex-servicemen and other categories: As per government rules

Nationality Requirements

Candidates must be:

• Indian citizens, OR
• Citizens of Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, or other countries with a valid Certificate of Eligibility issued by the Government of India

Medical Standards

All candidates must meet the prescribed medical standards outlined in the detailed CEN No. 09/2025. Medical examination is a mandatory part of the selection process.

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Pre-Application Preparation

Before applying, ensure you have:

1. Aadhaar Verification: Verify your primary details using Aadhaar during the online application. This is crucial as your name and date of birth in Aadhaar must match your 10th-class pass certificate.
2. Aadhaar Update: If discrepancies exist between your Aadhaar data and your 10th-class certificate, update your Aadhaar with latest photo and biometrics (Fingerprint & Iris) before filing the application.
3. Required Documents Ready:

• Valid photo ID (Aadhaar, voter ID, passport, etc.)
• 10th-class pass certificate or equivalent
• ITI/NAC certificate (if applicable)
• Caste certificate (if applicable for SC/ST/OBC candidates)
• Medical fitness certificate (if required)

Online Application Steps

1. Visit the official RRB website: www.rrbapply.gov.in
2. Click on the link for CEN No. 09/2025
3. Fill in personal details with accurate information
4. Select your preferred Railway zone/RRB
5. Choose posts for which you meet eligibility criteria
6. Upload required documents in specified formats
7. Review all details thoroughly for accuracy
8. Submit the application
9. Save and download the confirmation

Important Application Guidelines

• Railway Selection: Once you select a specific Railway zone, this choice is final and cannot be changed
• Aadhar Accuracy: Ensure 100% accuracy between Aadhaar details and your 10th-class certificate. Name and date of birth must match exactly
• Single Application: Only one application is required per selected RRB for all posts and railways under that RRB
• Application Fee: Check the official notification for applicable fees and exemption categories
• Modification Window: You can modify application details (except Railway choice) within the specified correction window

Salary and Benefits Structure

Initial Pay Scale

Selected candidates for Level-1 posts receive compensation as per 7th Pay Commission:

*DA rates subject to periodic revision
**Varies by city category and location

HRA Breakdown by City Category

• X Category Cities (Metropolitan areas): 24% = ₹4,320
• Y Category Cities (Tier-II cities): 16% = ₹2,880
• Z Category Cities (Smaller towns): 8% = ₹1,440

Additional Benefits and Perks

Beyond salary, Level-1 railway employees enjoy:

• Medical Benefits: Comprehensive health coverage for employee and family
• Railway Concessions: Free or heavily subsidized railway travel
• Job Security: Permanent employment with pension benefits
• Leave Benefits: Casual leave, earned leave, and special leaves
• Gratuity: Payable on retirement
• Promotion Opportunities: Career growth and advancement within the organization
• Provident Fund: Employer contribution to GPF

Salary Growth

Over a 5-year career span, Level-1 salaries typically increase by 15-20% in basic pay, combined with the impact of DA adjustments and periodic pay commission revisions.

Selection Process: What to Expect

The Railway Recruitment Board follows a multi-stage selection process to identify the most suitable candidates:

Stage 1: Application Screening

• RRBs thoroughly scrutinize all submitted applications
• Eligibility verification against criteria in CEN 09/2025
• Rejection of incomplete or non-eligible applications
• Details of eligible and ineligible candidates published on RRB website (minimum 1 week before written exam)

Stage 2: Computer-Based Test (CBT)

Format and Structure:

• Multiple-choice questions (MCQ)
• Online examination platform
• Specific duration per question paper

Subject Coverage:

• General Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology basics relevant to railway operations
• Mathematics: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry at 10th-standard level
• General Intelligence & Reasoning: Logical reasoning, problem-solving
• General Awareness: Current affairs, history, geography, Indian polity

Shortlisting for PET:

• Candidates shortlisted for Physical Efficiency Test (PET) at rate of 3x vacancies
• Merit-based shortlisting from CBT scores
• PET qualifies selected candidates for further stages

Stage 3: Physical Efficiency Test (PET)

Physical tests assess fitness and capability for field operations:

• Running: Candidates must complete specified distance within time limit
• Other physical assessments as per post requirements

Stage 4: Document Verification

• Successful candidates called for verification of documents
• Original certificates verified against submitted copies
• Identity verification conducted
• Caste certificates verified (if applicable)

Stage 5: Medical Examination

• Comprehensive medical fitness assessment
• Candidates must meet prescribed medical standards
• Medical report determines fitness for posting

Stage 6: Final Selection and Empanelment

• Panel of names recommended to respective Zonal Railways
• Selection limited to number of advertised vacancies
• Appointment letters issued subject to medical fitness and all eligibility criteria satisfaction

Selection Timeline:

• City Intimation: Uploaded 10 days before CBT
• Admit Card: Uploaded 4 days before CBT
• Results: Published after each stage with updates on official websites

Railway Recruitment Boards: Find Your Nearest RRB

The following RRBs are participating in CEN 09/2025:

Applying Process: You must apply to your chosen RRB through its official website. Select the railway zone closest to your residence or preferred posting location.

Critical Application Notes and Warnings

Aadhaar Verification Requirement

The most critical aspect of the application process is Aadhaar verification:

1. Your primary details must match Aadhaar during application filing
2. Full name and date of birth in Aadhaar must be 100% accurate
3. If discrepancies exist, update your Aadhaar immediately with latest photo and biometrics (Fingerprint & Iris)
4. Applications with Aadhaar mismatches face rejection during detailed scrutiny

Document Accuracy

• Submit documents in prescribed formats and sizes
• Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and recent
• Self-attested documents must match originals exactly
• Missing or defective documents result in outright rejection

Caste Certificate Requirements

• SC/ST/OBC candidates must submit valid caste certificates in prescribed format
• Certificate must be from competent authority
• Invalid or missing caste certificates result in loss of reservation benefits

Important Warnings

The Ministry of Railways specifically warns candidates to:

“BEWARE OF TOUTS, BROKERS AND JOB RACKETEERS”

• RRB does not charge any fee for job applications or interviews
• No coaching institute or agent can guarantee employment
• Avoid fraudulent consultants claiming inside access to RRBs
• All communication from RRB is through official websites only
• Be wary of unsolicited job offers or advance payment demands

Timeline and Key Dates

FAQs: Common Questions Answered

Q1: Can I apply for multiple RRBs?

A: Yes, you can apply to different RRBs separately. However, you need to submit a separate application for each RRB with the corresponding application fee.

Q2: Is there an application fee?

A: Yes, application fees apply (amount specified in the detailed CEN). Fee exemption is available for candidates belonging to SC/ST/PwD categories.

Q3: Can I change my Railway zone after submission?

A: No. Once you select a Railway zone during application, this choice is final and cannot be modified.

Q4: What is the importance of Aadhaar verification?

A: Aadhaar verification ensures the elimination of duplicate applications and prevents fraudulent entries. Your name and DOB must match 100% with your 10th-class certificate.

Q5: How many attempts can I give?

A: There is no specified limit on attempts. However, age limit restrictions apply. Ensure you apply before reaching the maximum age of 33 years.

Q6: What if I don’t have Aadhaar?

A: Aadhaar enrollment is highly recommended. If you don’t have it, register immediately through UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) centers.

Q7: Is there a cutoff mark for passing the CBT?

A: Yes, RRBs announce minimum qualifying marks. These marks are based on overall performance and vacancy requirements and vary by category.

Q8: What happens if I fail the medical examination?

A: Candidates failing medical examination are not eligible for appointment. Appeal procedures (if applicable) are specified in the CEN.

Q9: Can current government employees apply?

A: Yes, but they must inform their employer and produce a No Objection Certificate (NOC) at the time of document verification.

Q10: What documents are required during document verification?

A: Original 10th-class pass certificate, valid ID proof, Aadhaar, caste certificate (if applicable), and any other documents specified in the CEN.

Success Strategy: How to Prepare and Apply Effectively

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility Early

• Check if you meet all educational qualifications
• Confirm your age falls within 18-33 years as on 01.01.2026
• Verify your nationality status

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents in Advance

• Download your 10th-class pass certificate
• Obtain caste certificate if applicable
• Prepare valid photo ID documents
• Get recent photographs (as per specifications)

Step 3: Update Aadhaar if Needed

• Visit nearest UIDAI center
• Update photo, name, date of birth if discrepancies exist
• Ensure biometric enrollment (Fingerprint & Iris)
• Get Aadhaar printed/updated

Step 4: Choose Your Railway Zone Strategically

• Consider your home state and preferred posting location
• Research recruitment trends of specific zones
• Select the zone most aligned with your aspirations

Step 5: Apply Before the Deadline

• Submit application well before 20 February 2026 deadline
• Don’t wait until the last moment (server issues may occur)
• Keep application reference number safe
• Download and save confirmation documents

Step 6: Prepare for Selection Stages

• For CBT: Solve previous year question papers, focus on basic concepts, improve speed and accuracy
• For PET: Start physical fitness training immediately, practice running and flexibility exercises
• For DV: Keep all original documents organized and accessible

Why Apply for Railway Level-1 Posts?

Advantages of Railway Employment

1. Job Security: Permanent government employment with minimal retrenchment risk
2. Pension Benefits: Defined benefit pension after retirement
3. Medical Coverage: Comprehensive health benefits for employee and family
4. Work-Life Balance: Reasonable working hours with leave benefits
5. Career Growth: Opportunities for promotion and skill development
6. Travel Concessions: Significant railway travel discounts
7. Professional Development: Training and upskilling programs
8. Social Status: Respect and recognition as government employee

Who Should Apply?

This recruitment is ideal for:

• 10th-pass candidates seeking stable government employment
• ITI-qualified individuals looking for technical roles
• Job seekers above 18 years but below 33 years of age
• Candidates willing to work in field operations
• Individuals seeking job security and pension benefits

Final Reminders and Conclusion

The RRB Level-1 Recruitment 2026 (CEN 09/2025) represents a significant opportunity for approximately 22,000 individuals to secure stable, government employment with the Indian Railways. The process, while competitive, is merit-based and transparent, ensuring fair selection of qualified candidates.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Application Opens: 21 January 2026
✅ Application Closes: 20 February 2026
✅ Total Vacancies: 22,000 (Approx.)
✅ Apply Online Only: www.rrbapply.gov.in
✅ Starting Salary: ₹18,000 + Benefits
✅ Age Limit: 18-33 years (01.01.2026)

Before You Apply, Ensure:

• ✓ Your Aadhaar details match 10th-class certificate exactly
• ✓ You meet educational and age eligibility criteria
• ✓ You have all required documents ready
• ✓ You apply through official RRB website only
• ✓ You apply well before the deadline

With proper preparation, accurate application submission, and dedicated exam preparation, candidates can successfully secure one of these coveted Level-1 positions in Indian Railways.