RRB Group D Recruitment 2026: Golden Opportunity for 10th Pass Candidates as 22,000 Railway Jobs Open for Applications
The Indian Railways is set to begin the new year with a major employment drive, offering a significant opportunity for candidates who have passed Class 10. The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has released a short notification announcing 22,000 vacancies under Group D posts, making it one of the largest recruitment exercises planned for 2026. The online application process for this recruitment will begin on January 21, 2026, and eligible candidates will be able to apply through the official RRB portal.
This recruitment drive is expected to attract lakhs of aspirants from across the country, as railway jobs are considered among the most secure government positions, offering stable salaries, allowances, and long-term benefits.
RRB Group D Vacancy 2026: Key Highlights
According to the official update, the RRB has issued a brief notice for Group D recruitment, while the detailed notification will be released shortly. The complete advertisement, including post-wise vacancies, eligibility criteria, age limit, and exam pattern, will be made available in PDF format on the official website rrbapply.gov.in.
Once the application window opens on January 21, candidates can submit their forms online. The last date to apply is expected to be February 20, 2026, giving applicants around one month to complete the process.
Track Maintainer Posts Dominate the Vacancies
Among the total 22,000 vacancies, the highest number of posts are for Track Maintainer Grade IV, with nearly 11,000 positions approved. Apart from this, vacancies are also expected for posts such as Pointsman, Assistant (various technical and non-technical roles), and other Level-1 positions under the 7th Pay Commission pay matrix.
These roles are crucial for railway operations and infrastructure, offering long-term career stability and growth opportunities.
Educational Qualification for Group D Recruitment
To be eligible for RRB Group D recruitment, candidates must have passed Class 10 (Matriculation) from a recognized board. As per earlier recruitment norms, candidates with ITI qualifications are also eligible to apply, along with those who have only completed their 10th standard.
However, applicants are strongly advised to wait for the detailed official notification to confirm educational requirements, age criteria, and category-wise relaxations before submitting their applications.
Selection Process: Multiple Stages Involved
The RRB Group D recruitment process will be conducted in several stages to ensure fair and transparent selection:
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Computer-Based Test (CBT):
All candidates must appear for an online CBT. Those who score above the prescribed cutoff marks will qualify for the next round. -
Physical Efficiency Test (PET):
Candidates shortlisted from CBT will be required to clear the PET, which assesses physical fitness based on predefined standards. -
Document Verification:
Applicants who pass PET will be called for verification of educational certificates, identity proof, and other required documents. -
Medical Examination:
A medical fitness test will be conducted to ensure candidates meet the medical standards prescribed by Indian Railways.
After successfully clearing all stages, the final merit list will be released, and selected candidates will be offered appointment letters.
Application Fee Details
Candidates must pay the prescribed application fee while submitting the online form:
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General, OBC, and EWS categories: ₹500
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SC, ST, PwBD, EBC, and all female candidates: ₹250
As per previous recruitment trends, a portion of the fee may be refunded after candidates appear for the CBT, subject to official rules mentioned in the notification.
How to Apply for RRB Group D Recruitment 2026
Candidates can follow these steps to apply once the application link becomes active:
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Visit the official website rrbapply.gov.in
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Click on the link titled “Various Posts in Level 1 of 7th CPC Pay Matrix”
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Select New Registration and complete the registration process
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Enter personal details such as name, date of birth, parents’ names, Aadhaar number, Class 10 marks, email ID, and mobile number
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Log in using the registration number and password
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Fill in the application form carefully and upload the required photograph and signature
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Pay the application fee online
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Submit the form and take a printout for future reference
Why This Recruitment Is Important
RRB Group D recruitment offers a rare chance for 10th pass candidates to secure a central government job with attractive pay, allowances, medical benefits, and pension-related advantages. With a large number of vacancies and a transparent selection process, this drive is expected to be one of the most competitive railway recruitments in recent years.
Candidates are advised to start preparing early and regularly check the official RRB website for updates related to the detailed notification, exam dates, and syllabus.
