Indian Railways is one of the largest employers in the world. Apart from its regular recruitment exams, it also offers technical training opportunities for youth under the Apprentices Act, 1961. One such opportunity is through Railway Apprenticeship, which helps ITI-qualified students to gain real-world experience in technical trades and increase their chances of getting permanent jobs in Railways or other government/private sectors.
If you’re wondering what a Railway Apprentice is, what the benefits are, and how to apply, this blog covers everything — from basic details to selection advantages in future Railway recruitments.
What is a Railway Apprentice?
A Railway Apprentice is an ITI-trained candidate selected for hands-on technical training in Railway workshops, depots, or production units. Apprentices are not permanent employees but are selected for skill training to prepare them for future employment.
They work under senior technical staff and learn practical aspects of trades such as Fitter, Electrician, Machinist, Welder, etc. This is an excellent opportunity to work inside India’s vast Railway system and gain experience that is nationally recognized.
Why Should You Do Railway Apprenticeship?
1. Government-Recognized Training
Training is conducted under the Apprentices Act, 1961, and certificates are issued by NCVT/SCVT, which are valid throughout India and required for various technical jobs.
2. Preference in Railway Recruitment (10% Quota)
After completing the apprenticeship, candidates become eligible to apply for Level-1 posts (like Helper, Track Maintainer, Assistant) under a special 10% reservation quota in various RRB/RRC exams.
This gives trained apprentices a clear advantage over general candidates.
3. No Exam During Selection
The selection for apprenticeship training is merit-based, and there is no written test or interview. Selection is based on 10th + ITI marks.
4. Earn While You Learn
Apprentices are paid a monthly stipend during training. It may vary from ₹6,000 to ₹9,000+ depending on trade, region, and Railway zone.
5. Boosts Employment Opportunities
Railway apprentices are preferred not only in Indian Railways but also in PSUs like BHEL, DRDO, ONGC, IOCL, and private industries.
6. Opportunity to Work in Railways
After completing the training, you are well-prepared for RRB Group D, RRC Level-1, or technician posts, and your practical experience gives you an edge in competitive exams.
Eligibility Criteria for Railway Apprenticeship
Here’s what you need to apply for Railway Apprentice positions:
- Educational Qualification: Passed 10th class (Matric) with at least 50% marks from a recognized board.
- Technical Qualification: Must possess an ITI certificate in relevant trade approved by NCVT/SCVT.
- Age Limit: Candidates must be between 15 to 24 years as of the cut-off date.
- Age relaxation:
- OBC: +3 years
- SC/ST: +5 years
- PwBD: +10 years
Eligibility Criteria for Railway Apprenticeship
There is no written test for selecting apprentices. The process is as follows:
Step 1: Online Application
Candidates apply on the respective RRC (Railway Recruitment Cell) zone’s official website.
Step 2: Preparation of Merit List
A merit list is created based on the average of marks in 10th and ITI. There is no exam or interview.
Step 3: Document Verification
Shortlisted candidates are called for DV (Document Verification) to check certificates, caste proof, identity, etc.
Step 4: Medical Examination
A basic medical test is done to ensure candidates are fit for training (vision, hearing, general health).
Trade-Wise Opportunities in Indian Railways
Indian Railways offers apprenticeships in the following common trades:
- Fitter
- Electrician
- Welder (Gas and Electric)
- Machinist
- Turner
- Carpenter
- Plumber
- Painter
- Wireman
- Diesel Mechanic
- Electronics Mechanic
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Apprenticeship Duration
What Happens After Completion of Apprenticeship?
National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC)
On successful completion, candidates receive a NAC certificate from NCVT, which is mandatory for applying in many technical government jobs.
Eligibility for RRB Group D / Level-1 Jobs
Under the Railway Act, apprentices who have completed training are eligible to apply for RRC Group D posts (Track Maintainer, Assistant Pointsman, Helper, etc.) under a 10% direct recruitment quota.
Bonus Point:
This 10% quota is separate from the general vacancy — only trained apprentices can apply under it!
Railway Exams Where Apprentices Get Preference
- RRC Group D / Level-1 (10% posts reserved for apprentices)
- Technician Posts (ITI trades eligible directly)
- ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) – Candidates with relevant ITI trades are eligible
- RPF Constable / Tradesman – Technical trades sometimes given preference
- PSUs (Public Sector Units) – NAC holders are preferred for many posts
How to Apply for Railway Apprenticeship?
You can apply online by visiting the official websites of respective Railway Recruitment Cells:
-
RRC Central Railway (Mumbai) – www.rrccr.com
-
RRC Northern Railway (Delhi) – www.rrcnr.org
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RRC Eastern Railway (Kolkata) – www.rrcer.com
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RRC Western Railway (Mumbai) – www.rrc-wr.com
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RRC North Western Railway (Jaipur) – www.rrcjaipur.in
Keep checking the sites for regular notifications and last dates.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Applying
- Ensure your ITI trade matches with the trade advertised by the Railway zone.
- Keep all documents like 10th marksheet, ITI certificate, caste certificate, Aadhar, etc. ready.
- Upload clear scanned photos and signature.
- Apply only through official websites — don’t fall for fraud portals.
- There is no fee for SC/ST/PwD/Female candidates in most zones.
Conclusion: Is Railway Apprenticeship Worth It?
Absolutely! If you’re an ITI pass student, Railway Apprenticeship is one of the best platforms to kickstart your career. It provides skill-based training, government recognition, and job preference in future recruitment. The best part is that there is no exam or competition during selection — it’s purely based on your marks.
Once you complete the training, your chances of getting a permanent Railway job or placement in other technical departments increase significantly.
So if you have the qualification — don’t miss this golden chance. Keep an eye on the notifications and apply as soon as the RRC opens the applications.