Complete RRB Railway Protection Force (RPF) Exam Guide
Your comprehensive resource for RRB RPF Constable and Sub-Inspector exams. Get complete information on eligibility, exam pattern, syllabus, preparation strategy, cut-off trends, and application process.
10,000+ Vacancies
Expected in upcoming recruitment
₹35,000-45,000
Starting salary for RPF personnel
3 Stages
Computer Based Test, PET/PST, Document Verification
4 Subjects
Arithmetic, General Intelligence, General Awareness, General Science
RRB RPF Exam Overview
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) exam is conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) to recruit personnel for the security of railway properties, passenger areas, and passengers. The recruitment is done for two positions: Constable and Sub-Inspector (SI).
RPF Constable
Entry Level PositionResponsible for protection and security of railway property, passenger area and passengers. Duties include patrolling, access control, and responding to security incidents.
RPF Sub-Inspector
Supervisory RoleSupervisory role with responsibilities including team management, investigation of offenses, and ensuring security protocols are followed. Acts as first-level supervisor for constables.
Selection Process
Multi-stage ProcessThe selection process includes Computer Based Test (CBT), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Physical Measurement Test (PMT), and Document Verification.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for RPF Constable and Sub-Inspector positions include age limit, educational qualification, and physical standards. Here are the detailed requirements:
Age Eligibility (As on January 1st of the recruitment year)
RPF Constable
Minimum Age: 18 years
Maximum Age: 25 years
Age Relaxation: Applicable as per government rules for reserved categories
RPF Sub-Inspector
Minimum Age: 20 years
Maximum Age: 25 years
Age Relaxation: Applicable as per government rules for reserved categories
Age Relaxation
SC/ST: 5 years
OBC: 3 years
Ex-Servicemen: Up to additional 5 years after deduction of service period
Other Categories: As per government norms
Educational Qualification
RPF Constable
Candidate must have passed 10th standard (Matriculation) or equivalent from a recognized board or university.
RPF Sub-Inspector
Candidate must be a Graduate from any recognized university.
Additional Requirements
All educational qualifications should be from recognized boards/universities. Candidates appearing in the final year of their graduation can also apply for SI posts, provided they submit proof of passing before the document verification stage.
Physical Standards
Height Requirements
For Male Candidates
UR/OBC: 165 cm
SC/ST: 160 cm
Hillmen: 163 cm
For Female Candidates
UR/OBC: 157 cm
SC/ST: 155 cm
Hillmen: 155 cm
Chest Measurements (Male Candidates Only)
UR/OBC: 80 cm (unexpanded), 85 cm (expanded)
SC/ST: 76.2 cm (unexpanded), 81.2 cm (expanded)
Hillmen: 78 cm (unexpanded), 83 cm (expanded)
Medical Standards
Visual Standards
Distant Vision: 6/6, 6/6 without glasses (cannot be improved)
Near Vision: Sn: 0.6, 0.6 without glasses
Color Vision: Must pass ISHIHARA test
General Health
Candidates must be free from any physical deformities, chronic diseases, or mental conditions that may interfere with the efficient performance of duties. They should have a well-developed chest, robust constitution, and sound health.
Disqualifying Conditions
Knock knees, pigeon chest, flat foot, varicose veins, squint eyes, any obvious physical deformity, and conditions like hernia, hemorrhoids, and hydrocele will lead to disqualification.
Exam Pattern & Selection Process
The RRB RPF selection process consists of multiple stages designed to test candidates’ knowledge, physical capabilities, and overall suitability for the role.
Stage 1: Computer Based Test (CBT)
The first stage is a computer-based test with multiple-choice questions. The exam duration is 90 minutes and consists of 120 questions.
Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answer, -0.25 for incorrect answer
Stage 2: Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
Candidates who qualify CBT are called for PET which includes running, long jump, and high jump.
For Male: 1600m in 5 min 30 sec, 14 ft long jump, 4 ft high jump
For Female: 800m in 3 min 10 sec, 10 ft long jump, 3 ft high jump
Stage 3: Physical Measurement Test (PMT)
Candidates who qualify PET undergo height and chest measurement verification.
Measurements must meet the prescribed standards for the category.
Stage 4: Document Verification
Final stage where original documents are verified for eligibility and category claims.
Required documents: Educational certificates, caste certificate, age proof, etc.
Computer Based Test Pattern
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 | 90 Minutes |
| Arithmetic | 35 | 35 | |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 35 | 35 | |
| Total | 120 | 120 |
Detailed Syllabus
The RRB RPF syllabus covers four main subjects. Here’s a detailed breakdown of topics to help you prepare effectively.
General Awareness Syllabus
Arithmetic Syllabus
General Intelligence & Reasoning Syllabus
General Science Syllabus
Preparation Strategy & Tips
Effective preparation requires a strategic approach. Here are expert tips to help you crack the RRB RPF exam.
Effective Study Plan
30-Day Intensive Plan
Week 1-2: Focus on fundamental concepts of all subjects
Week 3: Practice previous year papers and mock tests
Week 4: Revision and weak area improvement
60-Day Comprehensive Plan
Month 1: Complete syllabus coverage with conceptual clarity
Month 2: Practice, mock tests, and revision
Daily: 2 hours for new topics, 1 hour for revision, 1 hour for practice
90-Day Mastery Plan
Phase 1 (30 days): Complete syllabus with detailed study
Phase 2 (30 days): Topic-wise practice and short notes preparation
Phase 3 (30 days): Full-length mock tests and revision
Pro Tip: Allocate time based on your strengths and weaknesses. Spend more time on difficult topics but don’t ignore your strong areas where you can score maximum marks.
Recommended Books & Study Material
General Awareness
Lucent’s General Knowledge – Comprehensive coverage of all topics
Manorama Yearbook – Current affairs and general knowledge
Pratiyogita Darpan – Monthly magazine for current affairs
Arithmetic
Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal – Comprehensive practice
Fast Track Objective Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma – Quick learning
Quantum CAT by Sarvesh Kumar Verma – Advanced practice
General Intelligence & Reasoning
A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
Analytical Reasoning by M.K. Pandey
Logical and Analytical Reasoning by A.K. Gupta
General Science
Lucent’s General Science – Comprehensive coverage
NCERT Science Books (6th to 10th) – Basic concepts
Science & Technology by Ashok Singh – Advanced topics
Online Resources & Learning Platforms
Official Resources
RRB Official Website: For notifications, syllabus, and updates
Indian Railways Portal: For railway-specific information
Government Exam Portals: For official patterns and previous papers
Learning Platforms
Unacademy: Comprehensive courses for RPF preparation
Byju’s: Structured learning programs
Gradeup: Mock tests and practice questions
Testbook: Topic-wise tests and analysis
Mobile Apps
Adda247: Daily quizzes and current affairs
Amazon Academy: Free mock tests and study material
TopRankers: Practice tests and performance analysis
Pro Tip: Use a combination of online and offline resources. While online platforms offer convenience and updated content, books provide in-depth knowledge and better retention.
Last Minute Preparation Tips
One Week Before Exam
Revise Short Notes: Focus on formulas, important facts, and shortcuts
Practice Mock Tests: Simulate exam environment with timed tests
Analyze Weak Areas: Identify and improve weak topics
Stay Updated: Check for any last-minute notifications or changes
Day Before Exam
Light Revision: Glance through important formulas and facts
Check Documents: Keep admit card and ID proof ready
Visit Exam Center: Familiarize yourself with the location
Relax: Avoid studying new topics, stay calm and confident
During Exam
Time Management: Allocate time wisely to all sections
Attempt Easy Questions First: Build confidence and save time
Avoid Guesswork: Remember negative marking for wrong answers
Review Answers: If time permits, review your answers
Cut-off Trends & Analysis
Understanding previous year cut-off trends helps you set a target score and gauge the competition level.
RPF Constable Previous Year Cut-off (Approximate)
| Category | 2018 Cut-off | 2019 Cut-off | Expected Cut-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| UR | 75-80 | 78-83 | 80-85 |
| OBC | 70-75 | 73-78 | 75-80 |
| SC | 65-70 | 68-73 | 70-75 |
| ST | 60-65 | 63-68 | 65-70 |
RPF Sub-Inspector Previous Year Cut-off (Approximate)
| Category | 2018 Cut-off | 2019 Cut-off | Expected Cut-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| UR | 80-85 | 83-88 | 85-90 |
| OBC | 75-80 | 78-83 | 80-85 |
| SC | 70-75 | 73-78 | 75-80 |
| ST | 65-70 | 68-73 | 70-75 |
Note: Cut-off marks vary each year based on factors like difficulty level, number of vacancies, and number of applicants. The above figures are approximate and for reference only. Always aim to score higher than the previous year’s cut-off to ensure selection.
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Start Your RPF Preparation Today!
With comprehensive information and expert guidance, you’re now equipped to begin your journey toward a rewarding career in Railway Protection Force.