RRB Group D Exam

RRB Group D Exam Pattern

The RRB Group D exam pattern is designed to evaluate candidates’ knowledge, reasoning ability, quantitative skills, and general awareness, helping the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) shortlist the most suitable candidates for Level-1 posts in Indian Railways. The recruitment process begins with the Computer-Based Test (CBT), which serves as the primary screening stage. The CBT is followed by the Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Document Verification (DV), and Medical Examination.

The CBT consists of 100 objective-type questions covering four major sections: Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, and General Awareness & Current Affairs. Each question carries 1 mark, and there is a negative marking of 1/3rd mark for every wrong answer. Candidates are given 90 minutes to complete the exam (120 minutes for PwD candidates using a scribe).

RRB Group D Exam Pattern (CBT)

The Computer-Based Test (CBT) is the first stage of the RRB Group D selection process. It is an objective-type exam that assesses candidates’ reasoning ability, quantitative skills, general science knowledge, and awareness of current events. The marking scheme awards 1 mark for each correct answer, while 1/3rd of a mark is deducted for each incorrect response.

RRB Group D Marking Scheme

The RRB Group D marking scheme applies to the Computer-Based Test (CBT), which is the primary screening stage for Level-1 posts. The exam consists of objective-type questions covering Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, and General Awareness & Current Affairs.

For each correct answer, candidates are awarded 1 mark, while 1/3rd of a mark is deducted for every incorrect answer. There is no negative marking for unattempted questions. The total marks for the CBT are 100.

Normalization of RRB Group D CBT Marks

1. Shortlisting of Candidates for the DV shall be based on the marks obtained by them in the CBT.
2. If multiple sessions of CBT is conducted then the marks will be normalized.
3. In such a scenario shortlisting of candidates for the DV shall be based on the normalized marks.

RRB Group D PET Exam Pattern

The Physical Efficiency Test (PET) is the second stage of the RRB Group D selection process and is qualifying in nature. It is conducted to assess the physical fitness and endurance of candidates, as many Level-1 posts involve strenuous fieldwork and manual tasks.

RRB Group D Document Verification (DV)

The Document Verification (DV) is a crucial stage in the RRB Group D selection process, conducted after candidates successfully qualify in the Computer-Based Test (CBT) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET). During this stage, candidates are required to present original documents and certificates to verify their eligibility for the applied post.

• Matriculation / Class 10th Pass: Candidates must have passed Class 10th (Matriculation) or its equivalent from a recognized board. This is the minimum educational requirement for most Group D posts.
• Verification of category certificates for candidates claiming reservation benefits (SC, ST, OBC, EWS, PwD).
• ITI Certificate (Optional but Preferred): Candidates who have completed an Industrial Training Institute (ITI) course in a trade recognized by NCVT (National Council for Vocational Training) or SCVT (State Council for Vocational Training) are also eligible. Possessing an ITI certificate may be advantageous for technical posts within Group D.
• National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC): Candidates who have completed the NAC program awarded by NCVT are considered equivalent to ITI for eligibility purposes.

RRB Group D Medical Test

The Medical Examination is the final stage of the RRB Group D selection process and is conducted to ensure that candidates are medically fit to perform the duties associated with Level-1 posts in Indian Railways. This stage comes after the Computer-Based Test (CBT), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), and Document Verification (DV).

The medical test assesses both general health and specific physical standards, which are essential for performing the field-oriented and technically demanding tasks of Group D posts. Candidates must undergo a thorough checkup by authorized railway medical boards.

Key Parameters of the Medical Test:

• Vision Standards: Candidates must meet the required eyesight criteria, including distant and near vision. Some posts have specific vision categories such as A, B, or C. Color vision and night vision may also be tested. Corrective measures like glasses may be permitted depending on the post.
• Hearing and Speech: Normal hearing and speech are mandatory to ensure effective communication during railway operations.
• Physical Fitness: The medical exam evaluates overall physical health, including cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neurological fitness, to confirm that candidates can handle lifting, manual labor, and prolonged physical activity.
• Height and Weight: Appropriate height and weight ratios are checked to ensure physical suitability for fieldwork.
• General Health: Screening for chronic illnesses, infectious diseases, and other medical conditions that may interfere with job performance is conducted.
• Other Tests: Depending on the post, additional tests such as blood pressure, heart function, chest X-ray, and lab investigations may be carried out to ensure overall fitness.

Candidates who pass the medical examination are considered fit for appointment. Those who fail are disqualified from the recruitment process, as meeting the medical standards is mandatory to maintain safety, efficiency, and operational reliability in railway operations.

RRB Group D Visual Standards

The visual standards for RRB Group D are prescribed by the Railway Recruitment Board to ensure that candidates are medically fit to carry out duties in safety-sensitive and field-based roles. These standards are categorized into different medical classes, each specifying requirements for distant vision, near vision, and color vision.

Common Visual Categories in Railways:

• A-1 & A-2: Strictest standards, generally for safety-critical posts like Loco Pilots and Guards.
• B-1 & B-2: Moderate standards, applied to technical and operational posts.
• C-1 & C-2: Relaxed standards, usually for non-technical or less safety-sensitive posts, which includes most Group D positions.

Typical Requirements for Group D Posts (C-1 / C-2 Categories):

• Distant Vision:
  • C-1: 6/12, 6/18 with or without glasses (Snellen).
  • C-2: 6/12, Nil with or without glasses.
• Near Vision:
  • C-1: Sn: 0.6, 0.6 with or without glasses (must be able to read and write).
  • C-2: Sn: 0.6 combined with or without glasses.

Key Points:

• Candidates may use corrective lenses (glasses) if required, as long as their vision meets the prescribed limits.
• Severe color blindness, squint, or progressive eye diseases may lead to disqualification.

RRB Visual Standards for Medical Categories

RRB Group D Syllabus

The RRB Group D syllabus is designed to evaluate the knowledge, reasoning skills, awareness and scientific aptitude of the candidates to ensure that they are suitable for various Level-1 posts in the Indian Railways. The exam is conducted as a computer-based test (CBT) consisting of 100 objective type questions from Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, and General Awareness & Current Affairs. Each question carries 1 mark, and there is negative marking of 1/3 marks for each wrong answer. The total duration of the exam is 90 minutes.

RRB Group D CBT Syllabus

The RRB Group D CBT syllabus consists of four sections: Mathematics, covering arithmetic and numerical ability; General Intelligence & Reasoning, focusing on logical and analytical skills; General Science, based on Class 10th Physics, Chemistry, and Biology; and General Awareness & Current Affairs, assessing knowledge of current events, history, polity, geography, economy, and sports. This syllabus ensures candidates are tested on reasoning, quantitative aptitude, general knowledge, and scientific understanding.

RRB Group D Mathematics Syllabus

The Mathematics syllabus for RRB Group D focuses on testing the candidates' knowledge of Number System, Decimals, Fractions, Ratio & Proportion, Percentages, Mensuration, Time & Work, Time & Distance, Simple Interest, Compound Interest, Profit & Loss, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry Basics, Statistics, and Data Interpretation. In the CBT exam, the Mathematics section consists of 25 questions carrying a total of 25 marks.

RRB Group D Syllabus for General Intelligence & Reasoning

The General Intelligence & Reasoning section evaluates the candidate’s logical thinking, problem-solving ability, and analytical skills. The topics covered under this section include Analogies & Classification, Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations & Direction Sense Test, Number & Alphabet Series, Syllogisms & Logical Venn Diagrams, Order & Ranking, Seating Arrangement & Puzzles, Statement & Conclusion, Mathematical Operations, and Mirror & Water Images. This section of the CBT consists of 30 questions for a total of 30 marks, making it one of the most important areas to secure high scores.

RRB Group D Syllabus for General Awareness

The General Awareness section in RRB Group D focuses on evaluating candidates’ knowledge of current events and static GK. The syllabus includes National & International Current Affairs, Indian History (Ancient, Medieval, Modern), Indian Geography (Physical & Political), Indian Economy covering Budget, Economic Terms, and Government Schemes, and Indian Polity including the Constitution, Governance, and Important Laws. Additionally, it features Science & Technology with emphasis on recent innovations and space programs, along with Awards, Sports, and Important Days & Events. This section consists of 20 questions carrying 20 marks, making it essential for candidates to stay updated with both contemporary and historical developments.

RRB Group D Syllabus for General Science

The General Science section in RRB Group D is designed to test candidates’ basic understanding of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology at the Class 10 level. In Physics, the topics include Motion, Force, Work & Energy, Gravitation, Electricity, Sound, and Light. In Chemistry, candidates must prepare Acids & Bases, Metals & Non-Metals, Chemical Reactions, and Environmental Chemistry. In Biology, the syllabus covers the Human Body, Nutrition, Diseases, Ecosystem, and Cell Structure. This section carries 25 questions for 25 marks, playing a crucial role in evaluating scientific knowledge and application skills.

RRB Group D Question Weightage

RRB Group D exam asks 25 questions from the General Science section. The expected Weightage for the Group D syllabus for the Science section is.

• For Physics: 7-8
• For Chemistry: 9-10
• For Life Science: 6-7

Key Points to Remember:
Based on Class 10th NCERT syllabus.
No complex formulas—focus on fundamental concepts.
Weightage: Around 25 questions in CBT.
Best way to prepare: Revise NCERT science textbooks and attempt previous year papers.

All the best for your exam preparation! 

RRB Group D Salary

The RRB Group D salary is structured as per the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) and offers candidates a stable and rewarding pay scale along with various allowances and benefits. The basic pay of Group D employees under Level-1 of the Pay Matrix is ₹18,000 per month. In addition to the basic pay, employees are entitled to several allowances such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance, and Night Duty Allowance, which significantly increase the in-hand salary. The gross monthly salary generally ranges between ₹22,000 and ₹25,000, depending on the posting location and applicable allowances.

Apart from monetary benefits, Group D employees enjoy job security, pension schemes under the National Pension System (NPS), medical facilities for self and family, and other perks provided by Indian Railways. Over time, salary increases with annual increments and promotions to higher positions, making the job financially secure and growth-oriented.

RRB Group D In-Hand Salary 2025

The in-hand salary of RRB Group D employees in 2025 is the net amount received by candidates after deductions like Provident Fund (PF), National Pension Scheme (NPS), and Professional Tax. While the basic pay under Level-1 of the 7th CPC is ₹18,000 per month, the addition of allowances such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance, and Night Duty Allowance increases the overall pay. After all applicable deductions, the average in-hand salary of RRB Group D employees generally falls between ₹22,000 and ₹28,000 per month, depending on the posting city (X, Y, or Z category) and eligibility for allowances. This competitive in-hand salary makes the Group D post financially stable and attractive for aspirants.

RRB Group D Salary – House Rent Allowance (HRA)

House Rent Allowance (HRA) is provided to RRB Group D employees based on the city of posting, as per the 7th Pay Commission guidelines. Cities are categorized into three classes: X, Y, and Z. Employees posted in X-class cities receive 24% of basic pay as HRA, those in Y-class cities receive 16%, and those in Z-class cities receive 8%. If employees are allotted railway quarters, they may not be eligible for HRA. This allowance plays a key role in covering accommodation expenses and significantly impacts the overall in-hand salary of Group D staff.

RRB Group D Salary- Perks & Allowances

Below is the list of allowances and facilities given to RRB Group D employees by Indian Railways. These allowances not only increase the overall salary but also ensure long-term financial security and well-being for employees and their families.

1. Dearness Allowance (DA)
2. House Rent Allowance (HRA)
3. Transport Allowance (TA)
4. Allowance for Night Duty
5. Overtime Allowance (OTA)
6. Travel Allowance (distance covered beyond 8 km)
7. Compensation in case of Holidays
8. Fixed Conveyance Allowance
9. Conveyance Allowance (for Railway Doctors)
10. Special Compensatory Allowances (to employees from Tribal and Scheduled Area)
11. Special Allowance to Railway School Teachers
12. Special Allowance for employees’ child care
13. Allowance for women with disabilities
14. Medical Benefits
15. Pension Scheme

RRB Group D Job Profile 

The job profile of RRB Group D employees includes track maintenance, assisting in railway signals and operations, supporting mechanical and electrical tasks, handling goods, helping passengers with queries and safety, and maintaining cleanliness and overall safety in railway premises.

• Track Maintenance – Ensuring proper upkeep and safety of railway tracks.
• Signal & Operations Assistance – Supporting in the operation of railway signals and equipment.
• Mechanical & Electrical Work – Assisting in repair, maintenance, and technical support.
• Goods Handling – Loading and unloading parcels, goods, and luggage.
• Passenger Assistance – Helping passengers with queries, safety, and smooth travel.
• Cleanliness & Safety – Maintaining hygiene in railway premises and ensuring safety standards.

RRB Group D Promotion

Employees in RRB Group D are promoted to Group C posts through departmental examinations conducted at regular intervals. Candidates become eligible to appear for these exams after completing three years of continuous service. Those who do not qualify on their first attempt are permitted to reappear in subsequent examinations. The Indian Railways has a well-defined post-wise promotion structure that allows employees to progress in their careers with consistent effort, performance, and experience. The detailed post-wise promotion hierarchy is given below.

RRB Group D Eligibility

To apply for the RRB Group D exam, candidates must fulfill the eligibility requirements prescribed by the Railway Recruitment Board. The applicant must be an Indian citizen. The minimum age limit is 18 years and the maximum is 33 years, with relaxations in the upper age limit granted to candidates belonging to reserved categories such as SC, ST, OBC, Persons with Disabilities, and ex-servicemen. In terms of educational qualification, candidates are required to have passed Class 10th (Matriculation) or hold an ITI certificate from an NCVT/SCVT-recognized institution, or possess an equivalent qualification approved by the Government of India. Additionally, all applicants must satisfy the prescribed medical standards for Level-1 posts, as physical fitness is essential for performing railway duties effectively.

RRB Group D Nationality

Candidates applying for RRB Group D must fulfill one of the following nationality conditions:

• Citizen of India
• Subject of Nepal
• Subject of Bhutan
• Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanent settlement
• Person of Indian origin who migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia), and Vietnam with the intention of permanent settle in India.

RRB Group D Age Limit (as on 01/01/2026)

To apply for the RRB Group D examination, candidates must meet the prescribed age criteria mentioned in the official notification. The Railway Recruitment Board has clearly defined an age range to ensure fair eligibility for all applicants. As per the latest guidelines, candidates should be at least 18 years old and not more than 33 years of age as of 1st January 2026. Only those who fall within this age bracket will be considered eligible to apply for RRB Group D posts. Age relaxation is applicable for candidates belonging to reserved categories as per government rules.

RRB Group D Age Relaxation

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) provides age relaxation to candidates belonging to reserved categories as per government guidelines. OBC (non-creamy layer) candidates are given a 3-year age relaxation, while SC and ST candidates are given a 5-year age relaxation. Persons with Disabilities (PWD) are given a 10-year age relaxation for the general category, 13 years for the OBC category, and 15 years for the SC/ST category. Ex-servicemen are also eligible for relaxation based on their military service period.

RRB Group D Educational Qualification

To be eligible for RRB Group D posts, candidates must have completed Class 10th (Matriculation) from a recognized board or ITI (Industrial Training Institute) certificate from an NCVT/SCVT-recognized institution. Equivalent qualifications approved by the Government of India are also accepted. Meeting the educational criteria is mandatory, as it ensures candidates possess the basic knowledge and skills required for Level-1 posts in Indian Railways.

Railway Group D Medical Test Details

The RRB Group D medical test ensures candidates are physically and medically fit for railway duties. It primarily checks vision standards, hearing ability, and overall health, with classifications like A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 based on job requirements. Candidates must meet these standards to qualify for final selection.

RRB Group D Physical Efficiency Test

The Physical Efficiency Test (PET) for RRB Group D evaluates the physical fitness of candidates for Level-1 railway posts. Male candidates are required to lift and carry 35 kg for 100 meters within 2 minutes and run 1000 meters in 4 minutes 15 seconds. Female candidates must lift and carry 20 kg for 100 meters within 2 minutes and run 1000 meters in 5 minutes 40 seconds. This test ensures candidates are physically capable of performing the demanding duties of railway operations.

Candidates with PwD (Persons with Disabilities) are generally exempted from the Physical Efficiency Test, depending on the nature and extent of disability. However, they must meet the prescribed medical and functional fitness standards for their category to ensure they can perform the essential responsibilities of RRB Group D posts efficiently and safely. 

RRB Group D Vacancy

The Railway Recruitment Board has released the Railway RRB Group D Vacancy 2026 Zone Wise details along with the official notification. This zone-wise breakup helps candidates see how vacancies are distributed across different railway zones for Level-1 posts. For 2026, a total of 22,195 vacancies have been announced for roles like Pointsman, Track Maintainer, Assistant, Assistant Loco Shed, Assistant Operations, and Assistant TL & AC. The zone-wise vacancy table below gives a clear picture of available posts in each railway zone, making it easier for candidates to choose their preferences.

Railway RRB Group D Vacancy 2025

Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has announced Group D Recruitment 2025, with 32,438 vacancies in various Level 1 posts. These posts include Pointsman, Track Maintainer Grade IV, Assistant (in various departments like Operations, Signal and Telecommunication, Electrical and Mechanical). The application process was started on January 23, 2025 and has been extended till March 1, 2025. Candidates can pay the application fee till March 3, 2025 and make corrections in their application between March 4 and March 13, 2025. Applicants must be between 18 and 36 years of age and must have at least 10th class education or equivalent.

Railway RRB Group D Vacancy 2025 (Railway/PU wise Distribution)

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has announced 32,438 vacancies for the Group D Recruitment 2025, distribute across various Railway zones and Production Units (PUs). Below is a detailed breakdown of the vacancies.