So here’s the thing—if you’ve been eyeing a steady government job, this could be it. There’s a massive hiring drive for Assistant Loco Pilots at Indian Railways. We’re talking about 9,970 vacancies across India. Today, May 19, is the final day to apply.

The online application is open at rrbapply.gov.in. Initially, the deadline was May 11, but they extended it to give folks a little more breathing room. Still, no more extensions now. Also, the fee payment deadline is today as well. Double-check that.

What’s Different This Year?

Unlike the 2024 recruitment, this time the upper age relaxation is gone. Last year, candidates got a 3-year age relaxation, but for 2025, there is no such age relaxation.

And about eyesight—RRB’s being strict. If your vision isn’t up to the mark, especially without glasses (6/6 distant and 0.6 near vision), you’re out of luck. It’s a technical job and safety is priority.

Who Can Apply? Check Your Eligibility

You need to be:

10th pass,

An ITI certificate in the related field is required, or

A 3-year engineering diploma. A degree in engineering also works.

The age bracket is set between 18 and 30 years, calculated as of July 1, 2025. For reserved category, there’s age relaxation:

SC/ST – 5 years

OBC – 3 years

What’s the Process? (Selection Stages)

Here’s the route:

1. First Stage CBT

2. Second Stage CBT

3. Aptitude Test (computer-based)

4. Document Verification

5. Medical Test (where your eyesight really matters).

How to Apply:

1. Head to rrbapply.gov.in

2. Hit the ALP recruitment link

3. Enter your details when you log in

4. Upload your papers, pay fee

5. Verify and submit

Bottom Line

This ain’t no job. It’s the Indian Railways—safe, respected and life-changing for so many. If you qualify and haven’t applied yet, run.