RRB Group D 2026 Notification: Vacancies, Exam Pattern & Selection Process

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRBs) has officially released the short notification for RRB Group D 2026, opening up 22,000 vacancies across Indian Railways. Aspiring candidates looking to secure a career in the railway sector must understand the recruitment stages, eligibility criteria, and examination guidelines.

Target posts under this recruitment drive include key operational and maintenance roles such as Track Maintainer Grade-IV, Helper/Assistant, Assistant Pointsman, and various other Level-I posts in Indian Railways.

RRB Group D Selection Process Stages

The comprehensive recruitment procedure is structured into multiple sequential phases to evaluate candidates thoroughly:

• Computer Based Test (CBT-1)
• Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
• Document Verification and Medical

Please note that Railway Administration reserves the right to conduct the Computer Based Test in either single or multi-stage mode. Additionally, Railway Administration holds the authority to treat the first stage CBT as a qualifying test strictly for shortlisting candidates for a second stage CBT if deemed necessary.

RRB Group D Exam Pattern & Structure

Candidates preparing for the examination should review the official syllabus of the RRB Group D to master each topic. The standard duration of the CBT-1 exam is 90 minutes. However, eligible PwBD candidates accompanied by a Scribe are allotted an extended duration of 120 minutes.

The CBT-1 features 100 objective-type questions carrying a total of 100 marks. A strict negative marking scheme applies where 1/3 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer.

Minimum Percentage of Marks for Eligibility by Category

To qualify past the written assessment stage, candidates must achieve the minimum qualifying percentage specified for their respective categories:

• UR: 40%
• EWS: 40%
• OBC (Non creamy layer): 30%
• SC: 30%
• ST: 30%

Additionally, eligibility marks percentages may be relaxed by 2% specifically for PwBD candidates in the event of a shortage of PwBD candidates against reserved vacancies.

Physical Efficiency Test (PET) Criteria

Candidates called for the Physical Efficiency Test will be three times the community-wise total vacancy of the posts notified against respective RRBs/RRCs, subject to necessary adjustments by Railways. Passing the PET is mandatory, and it is strictly qualifying in nature.

Document Verification and Empanelling Procedures

Candidates totaling twice the number of vacancies will be summoned for Document Verification based on their performance in the CBT and successful qualification in the PET.

In the event of a tie in marks, the merit position is resolved by age consideration (the older candidate is placed higher). If ages are identical, alphabetical order (A to Z) of the candidates' names is utilized.

Candidates should note that clearing Medical Examinations as an additional candidate called beyond the notified number of vacancies provides no legal right or guarantee to be considered for appointment. RRBs/RRCs only perform the role of recommending names of empanelled candidates, while final appointments are offered exclusively by respective Railway Administrations.

As you prepare for the upcoming examination phases, ensure you regularly check for updates and review the RRB Group D Admit Card 2026 Out- Click to Download to secure your hall ticket on time, plan your travel arrangements well in advance, and report to your assigned examination center punctually.