Overview
The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has announced the First Stage Computer Based Test (CBT 1) exam dates for the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) Recruitment 2026 under CEN No. 01/2026. As per the official exam schedule notice released on 21 September 2026, the CBT 1 examination will be conducted on 3rd, 4th, and 5th November 2026 across multiple shifts and centers. This recruitment drive covers a total of 11,127 Assistant Loco Pilot vacancies across 31 railway zones and production units, and the board has confirmed that 8,40,944 candidates are registered for this stage.
Key Details at a Glance
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs), Ministry of Railways |
| CEN Number | CEN 01/2026 |
| Post Name | Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) |
| Total Vacancies | 11,127 |
| Registered Candidates | 8,40,944 |
| Exam Stage | First Stage Computer Based Test (CBT 1) |
| Exam Schedule Notice Released | 21 September 2026 |
| CBT 1 Exam Dates | 3, 4, and 5 November 2026 |
City Intimation Slip and E-Call Letter Schedule
| Exam Date | City Intimation Slip Release | E-Call Letter (Admit Card) Release |
|---|---|---|
| 3 November 2026 | 25 October 2026 | 31 October 2026 |
| 4 November 2026 | 26 October 2026 | 1 November 2026 |
| 5 November 2026 | 27 October 2026 | 2 November 2026 |
Candidates must download their city intimation slip first to know their allotted exam city, followed by the e-call letter closer to their specific exam date, which carries the exact center address, reporting time, and shift details.
CBT 1 Exam Pattern
| Section | Number of Questions |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 20 |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 |
| General Science | 30 |
| Total | 75 |
The CBT 1 exam carries 75 marks for 75 objective-type questions, to be completed within a duration of 60 minutes. One-third of a mark is deducted for every incorrect answer, so candidates are advised to attempt questions carefully. Notably, this exam cycle has removed General Awareness from the CBT 1 syllabus compared to earlier ALP recruitment cycles, so candidates preparing from older material should adjust accordingly.
Important Instructions for Candidates
Candidates appearing for the CBT 1 exam must complete Aadhaar-based biometric authentication in advance through the official portal, as this is now a mandatory requirement for exam entry. The board has also clarified that no request for change of exam centre, date, or shift will be entertained once allotted. Candidates should carry a valid original photo ID along with the e-call letter to the exam center.
Selection Process After CBT 1
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| CBT 1 | Qualifying stage, screens candidates for CBT 2 |
| CBT 2 | Part A (General subjects) and Part B (Trade-specific), weighted 50 percent |
| CBAT (Computer Based Aptitude Test) | Weighted 50 percent along with CBT 2 Part A |
| Document Verification | For candidates shortlisted after CBAT |
| Medical Examination | Final stage before appointment |
This cycle has revised the weightage formula to 50 percent CBT 2 Part A and 50 percent CBAT, compared to the earlier 70:30 weightage used in previous ALP recruitment cycles.
Important Links
| Purpose | Link |
|---|---|
| Download CBT 1 Exam Date Notice PDF | Click Here |
| Check Application Status / Login Portal | Click Here |
| RRB Official Website | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- When will the RRB ALP CBT 1 exam be conducted?
The CBT 1 exam under CEN 01/2026 will be held on 3rd, 4th, and 5th November 2026. - When will the city intimation slip be released?
The city intimation slip will be released in a staggered manner, starting 25 October 2026 for the 3 November exam date, up to 27 October 2026 for the 5 November exam date. - How many candidates have registered for this exam?
As per the official notice, 8,40,944 candidates are registered for the RRB ALP CBT 1 exam. - What is the exam pattern for RRB ALP CBT 1?
CBT 1 consists of 75 objective questions worth 75 marks, covering Mathematics, General Intelligence and Reasoning, and General Science, to be completed in 60 minutes. - Is Aadhaar authentication mandatory for this exam?
Yes, candidates must complete Aadhaar-based biometric authentication in advance through the official portal before appearing for the exam. - Can candidates request a change in exam center, date, or shift?
No, the board has clearly stated that no change of centre, date, or shift will be permitted once allotted. - What is the total number of vacancies in this recruitment?
This recruitment cycle under CEN 01/2026 covers a total of 11,127 Assistant Loco Pilot vacancies. - What is the weightage formula used for final selection after CBT 1?
Final merit is based on 50 percent weightage to CBT 2 Part A and 50 percent weightage to the Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT). - When will the e-call letter be available for download?
The e-call letter will be released a few days before each exam date, between 31 October and 2 November 2026 depending on the candidate’s allotted exam day.
Disclaimer: JobShouter.com is not affiliated with Railway Recruitment Board. Shared for informational purposes only, please verify details on the official website.
