Do you dream of a life on the tracks, commanding the powerful locomotives that are the lifeline of India? For those with a technical mindset and a passion for a challenging and highly respected career, the RRB ALP exam is the ultimate gateway to becoming an Assistant Loco Pilot in the Indian Railways.
But what exactly is RRB ALP? What qualifications do you need? How tough are the medical standards, especially for eyesight? What is the salary of a Loco Pilot, and what is the step-by-step process to get selected?
Welcome to the ultimate master guide by Rojgar Point. This article is your A-to-Z blueprint for the RRB Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) examination. We will cover every single detail you need to know to start your journey in the driver’s cabin. Let’s get on track! 🚂
What is the Full Form of RRB ALP?
First, let’s understand the full form. RRB ALP stands for Railway Recruitment Board – Assistant Loco Pilot.
- RRB (Railway Recruitment Board): The government organization responsible for managing the recruitment process for various posts in the Indian Railways.
- ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot): This is the entry-level post for a train driver. An ALP works under the guidance of a senior Loco Pilot, learning the complex operations of driving a train.
In simple terms, the RRB ALP exam is a national-level competitive test conducted to recruit candidates with technical qualifications for the post of Assistant Loco Pilot and Technician in the Indian Railways.
The Life of an Assistant Loco Pilot: Job Profile & Career Path
The role of an ALP is one of the most responsible jobs in the railways. You are not just operating a machine; you are responsible for the safe and timely transport of thousands of passengers and valuable goods.
Job Profile and Responsibilities:
- Assisting the Loco Pilot: Helping the main driver with all operational duties.
- Monitoring Signals: Continuously watching and calling out signals to the Loco Pilot.
- Checking Locomotive Performance: Monitoring the technical health and performance of the engine during the run.
- Minor Repairs: Attending to minor repairs and troubleshooting issues with the locomotive.
- Learning the Route: Gaining knowledge of different routes, signals, and speed limits.
Career Progression Path:
The career growth for an ALP is well-defined and rewarding.
- Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP)
- Senior Assistant Loco Pilot (Sr. ALP)
- Loco Pilot (Shunting)
- Loco Pilot (Goods)
- Loco Pilot (Passenger)
- Loco Pilot (Mail/Express)
- Loco Supervisor / Crew Controller
RRB ALP Eligibility Criteria (Updated 2025)
To apply for the RRB ALP exam, you must meet the specific criteria for age, education, and medical fitness.
| Criteria | Requirement |
| Nationality | Must be a citizen of India. |
| Age Limit | 18 to 30 years. (The exact cut-off dates are mentioned in the official notification). |
| Educational Qualification | Matriculation (10th Pass) PLUS one of the following: – ITI from recognized institutions (NCVT/SCVT) in specified trades (e.g., Fitter, Electrician, Instrument Mechanic, etc.). – Three years Diploma in Mechanical / Electrical / Electronics / Automobile Engineering. – B.E./B.Tech. Degree in the above engineering streams. |
Age Relaxation
The upper age limit is relaxed for candidates from various categories.
| Category | Age Relaxation |
| SC / ST | 5 years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 3 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | 3 years after deduction of military service |
RRB ALP Medical Standard: The A-1 Category
The medical standard for an ALP is A-1, which is the highest and most stringent in the Indian Railways. This is because the job requires excellent physical and mental fitness, especially sharp eyesight.
| Medical Standard | Requirement |
| General Fitness | Physically fit in all respects. |
| Distant Vision | 6/6, 6/6 without glasses. (No glasses or contact lenses are allowed). |
| Near Vision | Sn 0.6, 0.6 without glasses. |
| Other Tests | Must pass tests for Colour Vision, Binocular Vision, Field of Vision, and Night Vision. Lasik surgery is generally not permitted. |
RRB ALP Exam Pattern & Selection Process
The selection process is a multi-stage journey designed to test your knowledge, skills, and psychological fitness for the job.
- First Stage CBT (CBT-1)
- Second Stage CBT (CBT-2)
- Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
- Document Verification & Medical Examination
First Stage CBT (CBT-1)
This is a common screening test to shortlist candidates for the next stage. It is qualifying in nature.
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
| Mathematics | 20 | 20 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 25 |
| General Science | 20 | 20 |
| General Awareness & Current Affairs | 10 | 10 |
| Total | 75 | 75 |
- Duration: 60 Minutes
- Negative Marking: 1/3rd mark for every wrong answer.
Second Stage CBT (CBT-2)
This stage has two parts, conducted on the same day.
| Part | Subject | No. of Questions | Duration | Nature |
| Part A | Maths, Reasoning, Basic Science & Engineering, General Awareness | 100 | 90 Minutes | Marks are counted for merit |
| Part B | Relevant Trade Syllabus | 75 | 60 Minutes | Qualifying in nature |
- Part A: Your score in this part is crucial for the final merit list.
- Part B: This is a trade test based on your ITI/Diploma qualification. You only need to score the minimum qualifying marks.
Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
This is the final and most critical stage, often called the “Psycho Test.” It is mandatory for all ALP candidates.
- It consists of 5-6 test batteries that measure your memory, concentration, depth perception, and reaction speed.
- You must score a minimum of 42 marks in each test battery to qualify.
- There is no negative marking in the CBAT.
- The final merit list is prepared by giving 70% weightage to marks from CBT-2 (Part A) and 30% weightage to marks from CBAT.
RRB ALP Salary Structure (In-Hand)
The post of an Assistant Loco Pilot falls under Level 2 of the 7th Pay Commission, with an initial basic pay of ₹19,900. However, the in-hand salary is significantly higher due to various allowances.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the approximate monthly salary:
| Salary Component | Approximate Amount (City X) |
| Basic Pay | ₹19,900 |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | ~ ₹9,950 (Currently 50% of Basic) |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | ₹5,970 (30% of Basic) |
| Transport Allowance (TA) | ₹1,800 + DA on TA |
| Running Allowance | ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 (Depends on Kms run per month) |
| Gross Salary (Approx.) | ₹43,000 – ₹48,000 |
| Deductions (NPS, etc.) | ~ ₹3,000 |
| In-Hand Salary (Approx.) | ₹40,000 – ₹45,000 per month |
The Running Allowance, which is paid based on the kilometers a Loco Pilot travels, is a major component of the salary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for RRB ALP if I wear glasses?
Ans: No, for the post of Assistant Loco Pilot, the required medical standard is A-1, which mandates 6/6 vision in both eyes without glasses or any corrective surgery like Lasik.
Q2: I have a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. What trade should I choose for CBT-2 Part B?
Ans: Candidates with a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering can choose from a list of relevant trades like Fitter, Machinist, Heat Engine, etc. You should choose the trade you are most comfortable with.
Q3: Is the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) very difficult?
Ans: The CBAT is not about knowledge but about psychological fitness for the job. It tests your reflexes, memory, and concentration. It is not difficult if you practice with specialized mock tests designed for the railway psycho test.
Q4: Are B.E./B.Tech. graduates eligible for the ALP post?
Ans: Yes, candidates with a B.E./B.Tech. degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, or Automobile Engineering are eligible to apply for the post of Assistant Loco Pilot.
We hope this master guide from Rojgar Point has given you a complete and clear understanding of the RRB ALP exam. It is a challenging but incredibly rewarding career for those who have the right technical skills and a passion for the railways. Start your preparation with dedication, and you could soon be at the helm of an Indian Railways locomotive!
