Kamal Ghorui
The Western Railway has published a common notification for online applications for the engagement of Act Apprentices for the year 2025-26.Under Notification No. RRC/WR/04/2025 Apprentice dated February 18, 2026, a total of 5,349 training posts have been advertised by different Divisions and Workshops under the Western Railway jurisdiction. The recruitment is being done under the Apprentices Act, 1961.The Railway Recruitment Cell (RRC), Western Railway, has been made the nodal agency for receiving online applications.However, there is a significant long-term benefit. Candidates who complete apprenticeship training in Railway establishments and obtain a National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) will be given preference for up to 20% of vacancies in Level-1 posts (₹18,000–₹56,900 pay scale) in future direct recruitment, subject to eligibility conditions prescribed by RRB/RRC.The application process will be conducted strictly online. The application process will open on February 21 and will close on March 23, 2026.Candidates are strongly advised to submit their applications well before the closing date to avoid last-minute website congestion.
Western Railways recruitment 2026: Eligibility criteria
The age eligibility for the apprenticeship engagement will be determined as of March 23, 2026, which is the closing date for applications. Applicants must be 15 years of age and must not have attained 24 years as of that date. However, age relaxations have been provided for reserved categories. SC and ST candidates are eligible for a relaxation of five years in the upper age limit, while OBC candidates are entitled to a three-year relaxation. Persons with Disabilities (PwBD) can avail a relaxation of 10 years. Ex-servicemen are eligible for an upper age relaxation of 10 years, in addition to the length of military service rendered and a further three years, provided they have completed at least six months of continuous service in the Defence Forces. The notification also specifies eligibility under certain categories for children of deceased or disabled ex-servicemen and children of serving Jawans and officers, as well as ex-servicemen themselves.
Western Railways 2026: Application fees
The application fee for the apprenticeship engagement is ₹100, which is non-refundable. However, the application fee is exempted for candidates belonging to the SC, ST, PwBD categories, as well as women candidates. The application fee can be paid online using the integrated payment gateway through Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI, Internet Banking, or other online payment options. Candidates are advised to check their payment status carefully after making the payment. In case of any failure or interruption in the payment process, they can use the “Verify Payment” option or log in again to make the payment successfully.
Western Railways recruitment 2026: Steps to apply
Candidates can follow the steps elucidated here to apply for the Western Railways recruitment 2026:
- Move to the official RRC-WR website at www.rrc-wr.com.
- Read the official notification carefully to confirm your eligibility.
- Complete the online registration using your personal and Aadhaar details.
- Fill in the application form with accurate information on trade, marks, and Division/Workshop choice.
- Upload the required documents, including photograph and signature.
- Pay the ₹100 application fee online, if applicable.
- Verify the payment status and ensure the transaction is successful.
- Submit the form and download a copy of the final application for reference.
Candidates are advised to stay tuned to the official website to get complete details of the Railway RRC Apprentice recruitment 2026.
