Western Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 5,349 ITI Apprentice Posts | Eligibility, Dates & Selection Process

Western Railway, through the Railway Recruitment Cell (RRC), Mumbai, has announced 5,349 Act Apprentice training slots for 2025–26 under the Apprentices Act, 1961, offering ITI-qualified candidates a valuable skill-development opportunity rather than a direct government job.

Applications are open online from 21 February to 23 March 2026 via the official RRC-WR website, with selection based purely on merit calculated from equal weightage of 10th and ITI marks—no exam or interview. Eligible applicants must be 15–24 years old (with category relaxations), have passed 10th with at least 50% marks and possess an NCVT-affiliated ITI certificate in relevant trades such as Fitter, Electrician, Welder, COPA, Diesel Mechanic and others.

The one-year apprenticeship provides stipend as per Railway rules, medical coverage for training injuries, and practical technical experience across multiple Western Railway divisions and workshops, though it does not guarantee employment; however, successful apprentices gain certification and may receive preference in future railway Level-1 recruitments.

Candidates must apply carefully with valid documents, pay a ₹100 fee (exemptions for SC/ST/PwBD/women), and ensure accurate details to avoid rejection, as selection strictly follows merit and Government of India reservation norms.

Western Railway Apprentice 2026

Western Railway has released a large Act Apprentice recruitment notification for 5,349 training slots in various trades under the Apprentices Act 1961, which is a valuable opportunity for ITI-passed job seekers aiming to build a long-term railway or technical career.

This is not a regular government job, but a skill-building opportunity that significantly improves chances in future Level‑1 railway recruitment and other technical posts.

Eligibility Criteria for Job Seekers

Age Limit (as on 23.03.2026)

• Minimum age: 15 years.
• Maximum age: 24 years.

Upper age relaxation:

• SC/ST: +5 years.
• OBC (NCL): +3 years.
• Persons with Disabilities (PwBD): +10 years.
• Ex‑Servicemen: Relaxation up to 10 years plus length of service, plus 3 more years (with at least 6 months continuous defence service).

The notification also provides detailed date‑of‑birth ranges for each category to quickly verify if you fall within the permissible age bracket.

Educational Qualification

You must have already passed the required exams on or before 18.02.2026.

1. Academic Qualification
   • 10th (Matriculation) under 10+2 system from a recognized board.
   • Minimum 50% aggregate marks in 10th.
2. Technical Qualification (ITI)
   • ITI certificate in the relevant trade, affiliated to NCVT, is mandatory for most trades.
   • Candidates with pending/awaited SSC or ITI results are not eligible.
   • Candidates who failed in ITI are not eligible; if engaged by mistake, their apprenticeship will be terminated immediately.
   • Engineering graduates and diploma holders are not eligible under this notification; they fall under a separate apprenticeship scheme.

Major ITI trades accepted include: Fitter, Welder, Turner, Machinist, Carpenter, Painter General, Diesel Mechanic, Mechanic Motor Vehicle, Computer Operator & Programming Assistant (for PASSA), Electrician, Electronics Mechanic, Wireman, Mechanic Refrigeration & AC, Pipe Fitter, Plumber, Draftsman Civil, Stenographer (English) and others clearly listed in the notification.

Trade-wise and Division-wise Vacancy Highlights

Western Railway is offering apprenticeship slots in multiple divisions and workshops such as Mumbai (BCT), Vadodara (BRC), Ahmedabad (ADI), Ratlam (RTM), Rajkot (RJT), Bhavnagar (BVP), Pratapnagar, Dahod, Sabarmati, Lower Parel, Mahalaxmi, and others.

Some key trade totals across Western Railway:

Category reservation is applied for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, Ex‑Servicemen and PwBD within these totals, not in addition to them.

Reservation Policy for Different Categories

Western Railway strictly follows Government of India reservation rules for this apprentice engagement:

• SC, ST, OBC (NCL), EWS reservation as per central norms.
• 4% slots reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) and 3% for Ex‑servicemen, included within the overall 5,349 slots.

Important reservation notes:

• If sufficient SC candidates are not available, SC slots can be filled by ST candidates and vice versa; remaining unfilled slots then go to UR.
• Unfilled OBC and EWS seats are also transferred to UR candidates as per rules.
• SC/ST/OBC/EWS candidates must upload valid certificates in prescribed central formats (Annexure B for SC/ST, Annexure C & D for OBC‑NCL, Annexure H for EWS).
• OBC candidates must have a current non‑creamy layer certificate valid for 2025–26, issued on or after 01.04.2025.

PwBD candidates must fall within trade‑wise permissible disability limits (for locomotor, visual, hearing, and multiple disabilities) and upload disability certificates as per Annexure E & F.

Application Fee and Payment Process

• Application Fee: Rs. 100 (non‑refundable).
• No fee for: SC, ST, PwBD and women candidates.

Payment mode:

• Online only via integrated payment gateway on the application portal.
• Accepts Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI, Net Banking etc.
• Transaction charges will be borne by the applicant.

After successful payment, you will be redirected to the RRC‑WR site to download your application form. If money is deducted but form not generated, you can use the “Verify Payment” button.

Medical Fitness Requirements

Shortlisted candidates must submit a medical fitness certificate in the prescribed format (Annexure G), issued by a government‑authorized doctor (Gazetted, not below Assistant Surgeon rank) from a Central or State Government Hospital.

Key physical standards:

• Minimum height: 137 cm.
• Minimum weight: 25.4 kg.
• Chest expansion: At least 3.8 cm.
• No contagious or infectious disease, no active or healed tuberculosis.
• Hearing must be good in both ears; no hearing aid permitted.
• Vision standards are defined, with special restrictions for certain trades and low vision candidates.

PwBD candidates must also satisfy trade‑wise maximum disability limits (for example, partial lower limb damage acceptable in some trades like Fitter, Electrician, Diesel Mechanic, etc.).

Selection Process: How Merit List is Prepared

There is no written exam or interview for this apprentice engagement.

Selection is purely on merit, based on the average of:

• Percentage of marks in 10th (Matriculation)
• Percentage of marks in ITI (for the relevant trade)

Both are given equal weightage.

Important calculation rules:

• For SSC/10th: Percentage must be calculated using total marks of all subjects mentioned in the marksheet, not “best of five”.
• For ITI: Average marks from all semesters as per consolidated statement or Provisional National Trade Certificate from NCVT.
• Candidates with CGPA must convert it to actual percentage and enter correct equivalent marks.
• Any mismatch between online marks and original documents at document verification will lead to cancellation of candidature.

Tie‑breaking:

• If two or more candidates have the same marks, preference is given to the older candidate.
• If date of birth is also the same, the candidate who passed Matriculation earlier gets priority.

Division/workshop‑wise merit lists are prepared, and candidates can be redistributed to other units if there is a shortfall in any trade.

How to Apply Online (Step‑by‑Step)

You must apply online only; no offline or postal submissions are accepted.

1. Visit the RRC‑WR official website: www.rrc-wr.com.
2. Register with your name, mobile number, email ID, and Aadhaar number (12‑digit Aadhaar or 28‑digit Enrolment ID if card not yet issued).
3. Carefully fill personal details, trade, division/workshop preference, SSC and ITI marks/CGPA, category, PwBD/Ex‑SM status etc.
4. Choose only one division/workshop; the option once selected is final.
5. Upload required scanned documents (self‑attested, clear and legible):
   • 10th marksheet and 10th certificate (for date of birth proof).
   • Consolidated ITI marksheet for all semesters and National Trade Certificate / Provisional National Trade Certificate (NCVT).
   • Caste certificate (SC/ST/OBC) in prescribed format.
   • Non‑creamy layer + self declaration for OBC‑NCL.
   • EWS certificate for EWS candidates.
   • Disability certificate (PwBD) in prescribed format.
   • Discharge/serving certificate (for Ex‑servicemen / Armed Forces children quota).
   • Recent colour passport photograph (3.5 cm × 3.5 cm, 100 DPI, 20–70 KB, no cap/sunglasses).
   • Signature image (3.5 cm × 3.5 cm, 100 DPI, 20–30 KB).
6. Pay the application fee online (if applicable) and confirm payment.
7. Download and print the final application form and keep it safely for future document verification.

Multiple applications for the same trade using different details (name, father’s name, category, etc.) will be rejected.

Mandatory Documents at Document Verification

When you are called for document verification, you must bring:

1. Original SSC (10th) marksheet and certificate.
2. Original ITI consolidated marksheet and NCVT certificate.
3. Original caste certificate (SC/ST/OBC) in central format.
4. Original non‑creamy layer certificate + OBC declaration (Annexure D) for OBC‑NCL.
5. Original EWS income & assets certificate (Annexure H) if claiming EWS.
6. Original PwBD certificate (Annexure E/F) if applicable.
7. Original Ex‑servicemen / Serving Certificate / children of Armed Forces proof as applicable.
8. Medical Fitness Certificate in Annexure G format, signed by competent medical officer.
9. Two self‑attested photocopies of all documents.
10. Two extra copies of the same recent photograph used in the online form.

Applications without proper uploaded documents or failure to produce originals at DV will be rejected.

Training Conditions, Stipend and Job Prospects

• Training Period: 1 year of apprenticeship in designated trade.
• Stipend: Paid as per existing Railway Board rules and Apprentices Act norms during training.
• Free medical treatment is provided in case of personal injury due to accidents during the course of training.
• No hostel accommodation; candidates must arrange their own stay.

Very important for job seekers:

• Apprenticeship does not guarantee a job in Railways after completion.
• Railway Administration is not obliged to offer employment, and apprentices cannot claim automatic regular appointment.
• However, candidates who complete apprenticeships (CCAA) in Railway establishments and obtain NAC get preference up to 20% of vacancies in future Level‑1 direct recruitment, subject to eligibility conditions.

On successful completion, a Trade Apprentice receives a Certificate of Proficiency after passing NCVT’s trade test, which is highly valuable for future job applications in government and private sector.

Common Reasons for Application Rejection

Your application can be rejected at any stage for:

• No photo or signature, or unclear/old photograph.
• Missing or invalid 10th / ITI qualification as on the notification date.
• Invalid or absent proof for age, category, or relaxation claims.
• Over‑age or under‑age candidates.
• Incorrect, incomplete, or inconsistent details in online form.
• Multiple applications for same trade with minor changes in details.
• Non‑payment or partial payment of application fee where applicable.
• Missing mandatory annexures at upload or document verification.

Important Safety & Legal Instructions

• Selection is purely merit‑based; no agents or intermediaries are authorised.
• Do not pay money to touts or job racketeers; such promises are fake.
• Impersonation, forged certificates, obscene image uploads, or any attempt to manipulate the system can lead to disqualification and even criminal prosecution.
• Any legal disputes related to this notification fall under the jurisdiction of CAT, Mumbai.

This Western Railway apprentice notification is a strong career step for ITI‑qualified candidates who want hands‑on technical training and better chances in future railway and industrial jobs; ensure you carefully match eligibility, prepare correct documents, and submit an error‑free online application before the last date.

FAQs about Western Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026

What is the Western Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026?
It is an apprenticeship training program announced by Railway Recruitment Cell (RRC), Western Railway for 5,349 ITI-qualified candidates under the Apprentices Act, 1961 to provide technical training, not direct employment.

How many apprentice vacancies are available?
A total of 5,349 Act Apprentice training slots are available across various divisions and workshops of Western Railway.

Is this a permanent railway job?
No, this is only apprenticeship training and does not guarantee a permanent government job after completion.

Who is conducting this recruitment?
The recruitment is conducted by the Railway Recruitment Cell (RRC), Western Railway, Mumbai.

What is the notification number for this recruitment?
The notification number is RRC/WR/04/2025.

What is the application start date?
Online applications started on 21 February 2026 at 11:00 hrs.

What is the last date to apply online?
The last date to submit the online application is 23 March 2026 at 17:00 hrs.

What is the age limit for applicants?
Candidates must be between 15 and 24 years of age as on 23 March 2026.

Is age relaxation available?
Yes, SC/ST candidates get 5 years, OBC (NCL) 3 years, PwBD 10 years, and Ex-Servicemen relaxation as per government rules.

What educational qualification is required?
Candidates must have passed 10th class with at least 50% marks and possess an NCVT-affiliated ITI certificate in the relevant trade.

Can candidates with pending ITI results apply?
No, candidates must have passed ITI on or before the notification date.

Are diploma or engineering graduates eligible?
No, engineering graduates and diploma holders are not eligible under this notification.

Is there any minimum percentage required in 10th class?
Yes, at least 50% aggregate marks in the 10th standard are required.

Which ITI trades are eligible?
Trades include Fitter, Electrician, Welder, Turner, Machinist, COPA, Painter, Carpenter, Diesel Mechanic, Electronics Mechanic, Wireman, Plumber and several others listed in the notification.

What is the selection process?
Selection is purely merit-based using equal weightage of 10th marks and ITI marks without any written exam or interview.

Is there any written examination?
No, there is no written test or interview for this apprenticeship.

How is the merit list prepared?
The merit list is prepared based on the average percentage of marks obtained in 10th and ITI examinations.

What happens if two candidates have the same marks?
Preference is given to the older candidate, and if the date of birth is also the same, the candidate who passed matriculation earlier is preferred.

What is the application fee?
The application fee is ₹100.

Who is exempted from paying the application fee?
SC, ST, PwBD and all women candidates are exempted from paying the fee.

What is the mode of fee payment?
Payment can be made online through debit card, credit card, UPI or net banking.

Can I apply offline?
No, applications are accepted only through online mode.

Can I apply for more than one division or trade?
No, candidates can select only one division or workshop, and the choice cannot be changed later.

Is Aadhaar required for registration?
Yes, Aadhaar number or enrolment ID is required during registration.

What documents need to be uploaded during application?
10th marksheet, ITI certificate, caste certificate (if applicable), photograph, signature and other relevant certificates.

What photo specifications are required?
A recent color passport-size photograph without cap or sunglasses in the prescribed size and format must be uploaded.

What happens if incorrect information is entered in the application?
Incorrect or mismatched information may lead to rejection of candidature at any stage.

Is reservation applicable in this recruitment?
Yes, reservation for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, PwBD and Ex-Servicemen is provided as per Government of India rules.

Do OBC candidates need a non-creamy layer certificate?
Yes, OBC candidates must submit a valid non-creamy layer certificate issued on or after 01 April 2025.

Is EWS certificate required for EWS candidates?
Yes, a valid Income and Asset Certificate in the prescribed format is mandatory.

Are PwBD candidates eligible?
Yes, PwBD candidates can apply if they meet trade-wise disability criteria and provide valid certificates.

What is the training duration?
The apprenticeship training duration is one year.

Will apprentices receive a stipend?
Yes, apprentices will receive stipend as per Railway Board and Apprentices Act rules.

Is hostel accommodation provided during training?
No, candidates must arrange their own accommodation.

Is medical fitness required?
Yes, shortlisted candidates must submit a medical fitness certificate issued by an authorized government doctor.

What are the minimum physical standards?
Minimum height is 137 cm, weight 25.4 kg, and chest expansion at least 3.8 cm along with general medical fitness.

Will apprentices get railway job preference later?
Yes, completed apprentices may receive preference up to 20% in future Level-1 railway recruitments subject to eligibility.

What certificate is awarded after completion?
Candidates receive a Certificate of Proficiency after passing the NCVT trade test.

Can applications be rejected after submission?
Yes, applications may be rejected for incomplete details, invalid documents, incorrect eligibility or multiple submissions.

Is multiple application allowed?
No, multiple applications with altered details will be rejected.

What documents are required during document verification?
Original 10th certificate, ITI certificate, caste certificates, medical certificate and other supporting documents must be produced.

Is there any interview after merit list?
No interview is conducted; only document verification and medical fitness are required.

What happens if documents do not match application details?
The candidature will be cancelled immediately.

Are agents or middlemen authorized for recruitment?
No, selection is purely merit-based and no agents are authorized.

What is the official website to apply?
Applications must be submitted only through www.rrc-wr.com.

Can candidates change details after final submission?
No, once submitted, most details cannot be edited.

What if payment is deducted but application is not generated?
Candidates can use the “Verify Payment” option on the portal to confirm payment status.

Can candidates from any state apply?
Yes, eligible candidates from across India can apply.

Will travel allowance be provided for document verification?
No travel allowance is mentioned for document verification.

What is the main benefit of this apprenticeship?
It provides practical technical training, industry-recognized certification and improved chances in future railway and technical jobs.

Under which law is this apprenticeship conducted?
It is conducted under the Apprentices Act, 1961.

Where will training be conducted?
Training will take place in various Western Railway divisions and workshops such as Mumbai, Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Ratlam, Rajkot and others.

Can apprenticeship be terminated?
Yes, apprenticeship may be terminated if eligibility conditions or document authenticity issues are found later.

Is medical treatment provided during training accidents?
Yes, free medical treatment is provided for injuries occurring during training.

What should applicants do before applying?
Applicants should ensure eligibility, prepare scanned documents and apply early to avoid website traffic issues.