RRB ALP
Railway Recruitment Board — Assistant Loco Pilot
RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) & Technicians Exam
The RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) & Technicians examination is conducted by the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) under the Ministry of Railways, Government of India. A Loco Pilot drives passenger and freight trains, while Technicians maintain rolling stock, signals, telecommunications and other technical systems. It is a Group C (Level 2) government job offering a good pay scale, job security, railway passes and allowances.
Recruitment is carried out through a Centralised Employment Notice (CEN) released on the official RRB website. The most recent notification was CEN 03/2024 (ALP & Technicians) with roughly 18,799 vacancies. New cycles are announced as vacancies are approved by the Railway Board. Applications are submitted online only; all exam stages are computer-based except document verification and medical examination.
Overview / Key Highlights
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs), Ministry of Railways |
| Exam Name | RRB ALP & Technicians (CEN ALP) |
| Exam Level | Matriculation / National Level (Group C) |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer Based Test) for CBT 1, CBT 2 and CBAT |
| Exam Medium | English, Hindi, and other recognised regional languages |
| Selection Stages | CBT 1, CBT 2 (Part A + Part B), CBAT (ALP only), DV, Medical |
| Negative Marking | Yes – 1/3rd of marks deducted per wrong answer |
| Post Pay Level | Level 2 (7th CPC), approx. in-hand Rs. 25,000–35,000 |
| Official Website | https://indianrailways.gov.in (RRB portal: https://rrb.indianrailways.gov.in) |
Selection Process
Selection is strictly merit-based at each stage. The stages are:
- Stage 1 – CBT 1 (First Stage): A qualifying, objective Computer Based Test for all candidates. CBT 1 marks are not added to the final merit.
- Stage 2 – CBT 2 (Second Stage): Objective test in two parts – Part A (technical subjects, marks counted for merit) and Part B (psycho-aptitude and technical test, qualifying in nature).
- Stage 3 – CBAT (Computer Based Aptitude Test): Conducted only for ALP posts. Qualifying in nature; Technicians do not appear for CBAT.
- Document Verification (DV): Shortlisted candidates are called for verification of original certificates and documents.
- Medical Examination: Mandatory medical fitness check; for ALP the standard is AVI.
Exam Pattern
The exam is conducted in multiple stages. The pattern below is based on the previous recruitment cycle (CEN 03/2024) and may vary in a new cycle – always refer to the latest official notification.
Stage 1: CBT 1 (First Stage)
| Section | Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Mathematics | 20 | 20 |
| B | General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 25 |
| C | General Science | 20 | 20 |
| D | General Awareness & Current Affairs | 10 | 10 |
| Total | 75 | 75 | |
- Duration: 60 minutes (80 minutes for PwBD candidates with scribe).
- CBT 1 is qualifying – it does not count towards final merit; it only shortlists candidates for CBT 2.
- Minimum qualifying percentage (as per CEN 03/2024): UR/EWS/OBC – 40%, SC – 30%, ST – 25%.
Stage 2: CBT 2 (Second Stage)
| Part | Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | Technical subjects (as per the trade / post applied) | 100 | 100 | 90 minutes |
| B | General knowledge on Psycho Aptitude Tests & Technical Test (relevant trade) | 75 | 75 | 60 minutes |
- Part A is counted for merit and is used to prepare the final selection list.
- Part B is qualifying in nature; candidates must simply pass it.
- Part A questions are based on the syllabus of the trade chosen at application (e.g., Fitter, Electrician, Electronics Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic).
- Negative marking (1/3rd per wrong answer) applies in both parts.
CBAT (only for ALP)
- Conducted only for candidates who opted for the Assistant Loco Pilot post.
- Qualifying in nature – CBAT marks are NOT added to the merit list.
- Duration: approx. 60 minutes (based on the previous cycle).
- Tests memory, concentration, observation, decision-making and reaction time.
Detailed Syllabus
Mathematics (CBT 1)
- Number system, decimals, fractions, LCM, HCF
- Percentages, profit & loss
- Ratio and proportion
- Simple and compound interest
- Time & work, pipes & cisterns
- Time, speed & distance (trains & boats)
- Mensuration (2D & 3D figures)
- Algebra (identities, linear & quadratic equations)
- Statistics (mean, median, mode, basic probability)
- Geometry (lines, angles, triangles, circles, polygons)
- Problems on ages and partnership
- Data interpretation (tables, bar and pie charts)
General Intelligence & Reasoning (CBT 1)
- Analogies and similarities
- Number, letter and alpha-numeric series
- Classification (odd one out)
- Coding and decoding
- Blood relations
- Direction and distance sense test
- Venn diagrams and syllogism
- Order and ranking, seating arrangements
- Mathematical and logical operations
- Non-verbal reasoning (mirror images, paper folding, figure series)
- Statement and conclusion / argument
- Clock and calendar problems
General Science (CBT 1)
- Physics: motion, force, work & energy, electricity, magnetism, optics, heat, sound
- Chemistry: matter & its states, atoms & molecules, chemical reactions, acids bases & salts, metals & non-metals
- Biology: cell structure, nutrition, human body systems, plant physiology, diseases & immunity
- Everyday science and applications in daily life
- Environment, pollution and ecosystem basics
- Units and measurements, scientific instruments
General Awareness & Current Affairs (CBT 1)
- Important national and international events
- Indian Railways: zones, traction systems, important trains and projects
- Constitution of India and basic governance
- Sports, awards, books and authors
- Science & technology developments
- Economy and budget basics
- Geography of India and the world
- Environment, population and census facts
Technical Subjects (CBT 2 Part A – per trade)
The syllabus for CBT 2 Part A depends on the trade chosen. Expected topics for common trades (tentative, based on the previous cycle):
- Electrical / Electrician: basics of electricity, wiring, motors, transformers, batteries, safety
- Electronics / Electronics Mechanic: semiconductors, amplifiers, oscillators, digital electronics, communication basics
- Mechanical / Fitter: measurement, fitting, turning, welding, machine tools, basic thermodynamics
- Diesel / Diesel Mechanic: diesel engine systems, fuel & lubrication, cooling, transmission and braking
- Auto / Automobile: engine components, clutch, gearbox, steering, suspension, electricals
- Signal & Telecom (S&T): signalling principles, relays, interlocking, communication circuits
General Knowledge on Psycho Aptitude & Technical Test (CBT 2 Part B)
- Time and distance judgement, speed & accuracy
- Memory and observation tests
- Basic engineering aptitude and general safety rules of the relevant trade
Marking Scheme
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Marks per question | 1 mark for each correct answer in CBT 1 and CBT 2 (Parts A & B) |
| Negative marking | 1/3rd (0.33) mark deducted for every incorrect answer |
| Unattempted questions | No marks deducted for leaving a question unanswered |
| Qualifying criteria | CBT 1 and CBT 2 Part B are qualifying; CBT 2 Part A decides merit |
| Minimum qualifying % (approx.) | UR/EWS/OBC 40%, SC 30%, ST 25% (per previous cycle; relaxations apply as notified) |
| Final merit | Based on CBT 2 Part A marks; CBAT (ALP) is only qualifying |
Note: Exact cut-offs vary every cycle depending on vacancies, difficulty level and the number of candidates who appear. Cut-offs are released by the RRBs in PDF form after results.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Minimum: Matriculation / Class 10 pass (as per the last notification).
- For technician posts, a relevant ITI certificate in the trade applied for, or a diploma in the relevant engineering branch, is required.
- For ALP, the prescribed qualification plus the trade certificate relevant to the post (e.g., ITI in Diesel Mechanic, Electrician, etc.).
- Results must be declared as on the cut-off date mentioned in the notification; final-year students are not eligible.
Age Limit
| Category | Upper Age Limit (18–30 years as per notification) |
|---|---|
| UR / EWS | 30 years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 33 years (3 years relaxation) |
| SC / ST | 35 years (5 years relaxation) |
| PwBD | Up to 40 years (as per rules, plus category relaxation) |
| Ex-Servicemen / other categories | Relaxation as per Government of India rules |
Minimum age: 18 years for all candidates, calculated as on the cut-off date in the notification.
Number of Attempts
- There is no restriction on the number of attempts as long as the candidate is within the upper age limit.
Application Process & Fees
Applications are submitted online only through the RRB application portal:
- Register on the official RRB website / application portal with a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in the online application form with personal, educational and choice-of-preference details.
- Upload scanned photograph, signature and (if applicable) category/certificate documents in the prescribed format and size.
- Pay the application fee online via net banking, debit/credit card or UPI (offline challan facility where available).
- Take a printout of the final submitted application and keep the registration number safe.
| Category | Application Fee (approx., as per CEN 03/2024) |
|---|---|
| UR / EWS / OBC (Male) | Rs. 500 |
| SC / ST / PwBD / Female / Transgender / Ex-Servicemen / Minorities / Economically Backward | Rs. 250 |
Note: Fee is non-refundable. In the previous cycle a fee refund was given to candidates who actually appeared in CBT 1 (approx. Rs. 400 to General and Rs. 250 to reserved categories) – confirm the same in the new notification.
Salary / Pay Scale
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Pay Level | Level 2 in the 7th CPC Pay Matrix (Grade Pay Rs. 1,900 in pre-7th CPC terms) |
| Basic Pay (approx.) | Rs. 19,900 per month (Level 2 starting basic) |
| Approx. In-hand Salary | Rs. 25,000–35,000 per month including allowances |
| Allowances | DA, TA, HRA, Night Duty Allowance (for ALP), running allowance (for crew) and other railway perks |
| Other Benefits | Railway passes for self and dependants, medical facilities, pension under NPS, job security |
Note: Figures are approximate and based on the 7th CPC pay matrix. Final salary depends on the station of posting, allowances admissible and deductions.
Official Links & PDFs
- Official RRB Website: https://indianrailways.gov.in
- New RRB Portal: https://rrb.indianrailways.gov.in (regional RRB sites redirect here)
- Application Portal (CEN 03/2024): https://rrbapply.gov.in (a new portal may be announced for the next cycle)
- Official Notification & Syllabus PDF: downloadable from the official websites above under the “CEN ALP” or “Notifications” section. It is the authoritative source for vacancies, dates, syllabus and eligibility.
Important: Always verify details from the official notification PDF on the RRB website. No third-party portal can replace the official document for application rules.
Preparation Tips & Strategy
- Know the pattern first: CBT 1 is only qualifying – clear the cut-off without over-investing, but do not neglect it because CBT 2 is tougher.
- Score high in CBT 2 Part A: Your entire merit depends on Part A. Master the syllabus of your chosen trade with numerical practice.
- Practise speed with accuracy: With 60 minutes for 75 questions in CBT 1, practise timed mocks and learn to skip uncertain questions (negative marking is 1/3 mark per wrong answer).
- Revise Mathematics and General Science: These carry the most weight in CBT 1. Solve past years’ RRB questions.
- Build railway GK: Zones, headquarters, important trains and recent railway news are frequently asked.
- Train for CBAT (ALP aspirants): Practise observation, memory and quick decision-making exercises.
- Take full-length mocks: Attempt at least one every week and analyse mistakes section-wise.
- Keep documents ready: Class 10, ITI/diploma, category and ID certificates in original for DV.
FAQ
Q: Who conducts the RRB ALP & Technicians exam?
It is conducted by the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) under the Ministry of Railways through a common Centralised Employment Notice (CEN).
Q: Is CBT 1 marks counted in the final merit?
No. CBT 1 is qualifying in nature and only shortlists candidates for CBT 2. The final merit for Technicians is based on CBT 2 Part A; for ALP, candidates must also qualify in CBAT.
Q: What is the negative marking in RRB ALP?
For every wrong answer, one-third (1/3) of the marks allotted to that question is deducted. Unattempted questions carry no penalty.
Q: Is CBAT compulsory for all candidates?
No. CBAT is conducted only for the Assistant Loco Pilot post. Candidates applying only for Technician posts do not sit for CBAT.
Q: What medical standard is required for ALP?
ALP candidates must meet the AVI medical standard, which includes strict vision, hearing and general fitness requirements.
Q: Are final-year students eligible to apply?
No. Candidates must have completed the required educational qualification and declared results as on the cut-off date mentioned in the notification.
Keep checking the official RRB website (indianrailways.gov.in) and regional RRB portals for the latest CEN, syllabus, dates and cut-offs. Subscribe to notification alerts so you do not miss the application window of the next RRB ALP & Technicians cycle.