Attention all aspiring technicians and engineering enthusiasts! The Indian Railways, the nation’s largest employer, has officially opened its doors for recruitment through the Railway Recruitment Cell, Central Railway (RRC CR). The much-anticipated notification for the RRC CR Apprentice Online Form 2025 has been released, inviting online applications for Apprentice posts across various workshops and divisions under the Central Railway zone. This is a golden opportunity for eligible candidates to kickstart a prestigious and secure career in the world’s largest railway network. The application window is now open, and the final date to submit your application is September 11, 2025. Mark this date on your calendar and ensure you complete the process well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical glitches.
Eligibility Criteria for RRC CR Apprentice 2025
Before you begin filling out the application, it is crucial to ensure you meet all the eligibility conditions set by the RRC Central Railway. Failing to meet any criterion will lead to the rejection of your candidature.
Educational Qualifications
Candidates must have passed the 10th class examination or its equivalent (under the 10+2 system) from a recognized Board. Additionally, you must possess a National Trade Certificate in the relevant trade issued by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) / State Council for Vocational Training (SCVT).
Age Limit (as on 11/09/2025)
The minimum age to apply is 15 years, and the maximum age limit is 24 years. However, the upper age limit is relaxable for candidates belonging to reserved categories as per the Government of India rules:
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) Candidates: 3 years relaxation
- SC/ST Candidates: 5 years relaxation
- Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD): 10 years relaxation
Physical Fitness
Selected candidates will be required to meet the prescribed medical standards and physical fitness norms as outlined by the Indian Railways.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online
The application process for the RRC CR Apprentice recruitment is completely online. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth and error-free application.
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official RRC CR portal. (Avoid third-party websites to prevent fraud).
- Registration: Click on the link for “Act Apprentices Recruitment 2025” and proceed with the new registration. You will need to provide basic details like your name, date of birth, mobile number, and email ID. A unique registration number and password will be generated and sent to your mobile and email.
- Login and Fill Application: Use your registration credentials to log in to the portal. Carefully fill in all the required details in the online application form, including personal information, educational qualifications, and communication address.
- Upload Documents: Scan and upload the necessary documents in the prescribed format and size:
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Signature
- 10th Class Marksheet & Certificate
- ITI Certificate
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- PwBD Certificate (if applicable)
- Application Fee Payment: Pay the required application fee online through net banking, credit/debit card, or other available UPI methods. Fee details are usually Rs. 100 for all candidates except for SC/ST/PwBD/Women candidates who are exempted.
- Final Submission: Review your application thoroughly before clicking the final submit button. Once submitted, no changes can be made.
- Print Application: Download and print a copy of the submitted application form for your future reference and the document verification process.
Selection Process and Stipend Details
Understanding the selection methodology will help you prepare effectively.
Selection Process
The selection of candidates for the Apprentice posts will be based solely on the percentage of marks in the matriculation (10th class) examination. For trades where the 10th standard is the minimum qualification, the average of all subjects will be considered. For trades requiring ITI qualifications, the selection will be based on the average marks obtained in the matriculation exam. There will be no written test or interview. A merit list will be prepared separately for each unit and trade, and shortlisted candidates will be called for document verification.
Stipend and Training Period
Selected candidates will undergo apprenticeship training for a period as prescribed by the Apprentices Act, 1961. During this training period, apprentices will be paid a monthly stipend as per the rules of the Railway Board. The stipend is a financial support that helps candidates during their learning phase, making it an excellent opportunity to earn while you learn a valuable skill.
Why Choose a Career as a Railway Apprentice?
Choosing an apprenticeship with the Indian Railways is more than just a job; it’s the first step towards a long and rewarding career. The Central Railway zone offers extensive training in various technical trades, providing hands-on experience with some of the best experts in the field. This training not only enhances your technical skills but also makes you a strong candidate for future permanent positions within the railways. The brand value of having “Indian Railways” on your resume is immense and opens doors to numerous opportunities in both the public and private sectors. It offers job security, a respectable position in society, and a chance to contribute to a vital national infrastructure.
The release of the RRC CR Apprentice Online Form 2025 is a call to action for thousands of young individuals looking to build a solid technical career. With the last date for application submission set for September 11, 2025, time is of the essence. Do not wait until the final hours. Gather all your documents, double-check your eligibility, and complete the online application process at the earliest. This is your chance to board a career path that is both personally fulfilling and professionally secure. Visit the official RRC CR website today and take the first step towards your future with Indian Railways.