RRB Group D Exam Pattern 2026: Selection Process & Notification Details

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has issued the official notification for the RRB Group D Level-1 2026 recruitment, aiming to fill 22,000 vacancies for roles including Track Maintainer Grade-IV, Helper/Assistant, and Assistant Pointsman. To successfully clear the RRB Group D 2026 exam, it is essential to understand the test structure and the comprehensive syllabus of the RRB Group D. Use this guide to streamline your preparation with the latest exam pattern, selection stages, and marking criteria.

RRB Group D Selection Process 2026

The RRB Group D 2026 examination will be conducted as a Computer Based Test (CBT) nationwide. The Railway Administration reserves the authority to hold the exam in either a single or multi-stage format. Candidates who qualify for the CBT will proceed to the Physical Efficiency Test (PET), followed by mandatory Document Verification and a thorough Medical Examination.

The complete recruitment roadmap consists of the following examination phases:

1. Computer Based Test (CBT-1)
2. Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
3. Document Verification and Medical

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RRB Group D Level-1 Exam Pattern 2026 (CBT-1)

Selection for the subsequent PET and Document Verification stages is based on merit performance in the Computer Based Test (CBT). The details regarding exam duration and question structure are provided below:

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Important Guidelines:

1. *The examination duration will be 120 Minutes for eligible PwBD candidates accompanied with Scribe.
2. The section-wise distribution given in the above table is only indicative and there may be some variation in the actual question paper. There will be negative marking and 1/3 marks shall be deducted for each wrong answer.
3. Minimum percentage of marks for eligibility in various categories: UR-40%, EWS-40%, OBC(Non creamy layer)-30%, SC-30%, ST-30%. This percentage of marks for eligibility may be relaxed by 2% for PwBD candidates in case of a shortage of PwBD candidates against vacancies reserved for them.
4. Where a second stage CBT is deemed necessary and held, the Railway Administration reserves the right to treat the first stage CBT as a qualifying test for the purpose of shortlisting a reasonable number of candidates for the second stage.

Physical Efficiency Tests (PET)

Based on CBT performance, candidates numbering three times the total community-wise vacancies will be shortlisted for the Physical Efficiency Test (PET). The Railway Board reserves the right to adjust this ratio to ensure a sufficient candidate pool. Please note that the PET is strictly qualifying in nature, and passing it is mandatory for further consideration. The specific PET criteria are defined by the board.

Document Verification and Empanelling of Candidates

Following the CBT and successful completion of the PET, a number of candidates equal to twice the notified vacancies will be invited for Document Verification, based on their merit standing and post preferences.

These additional candidates are considered for empanelment only if vacancies remain due to candidate non-joining, merit list shortfalls, or specific operational requirements of the Railway Administration.

In the event of a tie in scores, merit will be decided by age (older candidates receive preference). If age is also identical, alphabetical order of the candidate's name will be used to determine the final rank.

Final appointment remains contingent upon passing the medical fitness assessment, successful verification of educational and community certificates, and a clean background/character verification check by the Railway authorities.

Candidates should be aware that participating in the Medical Examination during the Document Verification stage does not guarantee an offer of appointment, particularly for those shortlisted beyond the initially notified vacancy count.

Please note that while RRBs/RRCs manage the shortlisting and recommendation process, the official offer of appointment is issued exclusively by the respective Railway Administrations.