Govt ALP Jobs 2026: Assistant Loco Pilot Vacancies & Career Guide
The Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) is a critical operational role within the Indian Railways, responsible for assisting the Loco Pilot in driving trains. With the 2026 recruitment season approaching, aspiring candidates can anticipate numerous vacancies. This guide provides comprehensive details on the job profile, eligibility, selection process, and salary specifically for ALP positions.
Key Highlights of ALP Recruitment 2026
| Role Name/Category |
Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) |
|---|
| Recruiting Bodies |
Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) on behalf of Indian Railways |
|---|
| Usual Age Limit |
18-30 years (Relaxable for reserved categories) |
|---|
| Salary Range |
Pay Level-4 (Rs. 25,500 - Rs. 81,100) plus allowances |
|---|
Job Profile & Responsibilities
An Assistant Loco Pilot's primary duty is to assist the Loco Pilot in the safe operation of trains. This involves:
- Operating train controls under the supervision of the Loco Pilot.
- Monitoring train performance, speed, and engine parameters.
- Conducting pre-departure checks of the locomotive and signaling equipment.
- Adhering strictly to all safety rules and regulations.
- Communicating with station masters and guards regarding train movement.
- Troubleshooting minor technical issues during the journey.
- Learning the intricacies of train operation to eventually become a Loco Pilot.
Eligibility Criteria for ALP (2026)
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Qualification: Typically requires a Matriculation (10th pass) along with an ITI (Industrial Training Institute) certificate in specific trades recognized by NCVT/SCVT (like Electrician, Fitter, Diesel Mechanic, etc.), OR a Diploma in Mechanical/Electrical/Electronics/Automobile Engineering, OR a Degree in the relevant engineering disciplines.
- Age Limit: Generally between 18 to 30 years. Age relaxations are provided for SC/ST/OBC/Ex-Servicemen candidates as per government rules.
- Medical Standards: Candidates must meet stringent physical and medical fitness standards, including visual acuity (e.g., minimum distant vision 6/6 without glasses, passing tests for colour blindness, binocular vision, etc.).
Selection Process & Exam Pattern
The selection process typically involves multiple stages:
- First Stage Computer Based Test (CBT-1): A screening test focusing on Mathematics, Reasoning, General Science, and General Awareness.
- Second Stage Computer Based Test (CBT-2): Consists of two parts:
- Part A: Common for all ALP candidates, covering Mathematics, Reasoning, Basic Science & Engineering, and General Awareness.
- Part B: A qualifying test based on the ITI trade syllabus chosen by the candidate.
- Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT): For candidates who qualify CBT-2. It assesses different cognitive abilities like memory, concentration, reaction time, etc.
- Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates undergo verification of their original documents.
- Medical Examination: Final assessment of medical fitness based on Indian Railways' standards.
Key Topics for CBT: Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry), Reasoning (Analogies, Syllogisms), General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), Basic Science & Engineering (Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Electrical Engineering principles), General Awareness (Current Affairs, Indian Railways knowledge).
Salary Structure & Allowances
Selected candidates are appointed as Assistant Loco Pilots in Pay Level-4, with a starting basic pay of Rs. 25,500 per month. In addition to the basic pay, ALPs receive various allowances, including:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Transport Allowance (TA)
- Running Allowance (based on kilometers run)
- Overtime Allowance (OTA)
- Risk and Hardship Allowance
This makes the total monthly in-hand salary significantly higher than the basic pay.
How to Apply for ALP Vacancies
Recruitment for Assistant Loco Pilots is conducted by the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) across various zones. Interested candidates must:
- Regularly monitor the official websites of the respective RRBs (e.g., RRB Mumbai, RRB Chennai, RRB Kolkata, etc.) for the release of the official notification for 2026.
- Ensure they meet all the eligibility criteria mentioned in the notification.
- Register online through the designated link provided on the RRB website during the application period.
- Fill in the application form accurately, upload required documents (photograph, signature, certificates), and pay the application fee online.
- Keep a printout of the submitted application form for future reference.