RRB ALP Exam Pattern 2026: The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) conducts the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) exam to hire candidates responsible for driving trains and ensuring smooth railway operations. ALPs manage technical issues, maintain locomotive performance, and ensure passenger safety apart from driving.
Thousands of candidates apply for the RRB ALP exam due to its job stability, attractive allowances, and chance to work in a core technical role in Indian Railways. Understanding the RRB ALP exam pattern is essential for effective preparation and scoring well in the selection process.
RRB ALP Exam Pattern 2026
The Railway Recruitment Board conducts the RRB Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) exam to select candidates for operating and assisting locomotive engines in Indian Railways. This is a highly responsible technical role that ensures the safe and smooth running of trains across the country.
Understanding the RRB ALP Exam Pattern is very important for effective exam preparation. A clear idea of the exam structure helps candidates plan their studies better and focus on the right topics. The RRB ALP selection process is conducted in three stages: CBT 1, CBT 2, and CBAT, and each stage plays a key role in the final selection.
Also Check:
RRB ALP Salary
RRB ALP Previous Year Cutoff
RRB ALP Syllabus 2026
RRB ALP Exam Pattern 2026 Overview
Candidates appearing for the RRB ALP 2026 examination must be aware of the key exam highlights to prepare in a structured way. Check the overview of the exam mode, marks distribution, and marking scheme for the Assistant Loco Pilot recruitment.
| Exam Component | Details |
| Conducting Authority | Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) |
| Post Name | Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) |
| Total Vacancies | 9,970 |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Question Type | Objective (Multiple Choice Questions) |
| Total Marks – CBT Stage 1 | 75 Marks |
| Total Marks – CBT Stage 2 | 175 Marks |
| Marking Scheme | 1 Mark for Each Correct Answer |
| Negative Marking | 1/3 Mark Deducted for Each Wrong Answer |
RRB ALP Exam Pattern 2026 for CBT 1
The Computer-Based Test (CBT) 1 is the first stage of the RRB Assistant Loco Pilot selection process. This online exam checks a candidate’s basic knowledge and aptitude across four subjects: Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, and General Awareness.
Each question carries 1 mark, and 0.33 marks are deducted for every wrong answer. The question paper is available in English, Hindi, and regional languages. This allows candidates to choose their preferred language. Check the table below for detailed RRB ALP Exam Pattern for CBT 1:
| Subjects | Total Questions | Marks | Duration |
| Mathematics | 20 | 20 | 60 Minutes |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 | 25 | |
| General Awareness | 10 | 10 | |
| General Science | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 75 | 75 |
RRB ALP Exam Pattern for CBT 2
Candidates who qualify for CBT 1 are shortlisted for CBT 2, which is the second and most important stage of the selection process. CBT 2 is divided into Part A and Part B, and both parts are conducted online.
RRB ALP CBT 2 Part A Exam Pattern
Part A plays a major role in the final selection as it contributes 70% weightage to the final merit list. This section includes questions from Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, and Basic Science & Engineering.
Candidates must answer 100 questions within 90 minutes, and accuracy is crucial due to negative marking.
RRB ALP CBT 2 Part B Exam Pattern
Part B focuses on trade-specific knowledge based on the trade chosen by the candidate during the application process. This section is qualifying in nature and does not affect the merit list.
Candidates must score the minimum qualifying marks to clear this section. Although the marks are not added to the final score, clearing Part B is mandatory to move ahead in the recruitment process.
Check the detailed RRB ALP Exam Pattern for CBT 2 in the table below:
| Paper | Subjects | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
| Paper 1 (Part A) | Mathematics | 100 | 100 | 90 Minutes |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | ||||
| Basic Science and Engineering | ||||
| Paper 2 (Part B) | Relevant Trade | 75 | 75 | 60 Minutes |
| Total | — | 175 | 175 | 150 Minutes |
RRB ALP Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
Candidates applying for the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) post are required to appear for the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT). This stage is conducted to assess a candidate’s aptitude and suitability for operating locomotives safely and efficiently.
Candidates must score at least 42 marks in each test battery to qualify for CBAT. There is no relaxation in the minimum qualifying marks, and only candidates who clear CBAT are considered for the RRB ALP final merit list.
RRB ALP Final Merit List Calculation
The final merit list for the Assistant Loco Pilot post is prepared by combining scores from the following stages:
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70% weightage from marks obtained in CBT 2 Part A
-
30% weightage from CBAT scores
Candidates should note that CBAT has no negative marking, making accuracy and speed equally important in this stage.
RRB ALP Marking Scheme 2026
The RRB ALP exam includes negative marking to ensure accuracy. In CBT 1 and CBT 2 (Part A), 1/3rd mark is deducted for every incorrect answer. However, there is no negative marking in the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT).
Candidates are advised to avoid random guessing and attempt questions carefully to maximize their overall score.
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