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Last Updated By Diksha Sharma on 28 Jul, 2023
A loco Pilot functions on a particular train under the guidance of the Train Manager. Loco pilots in India perpetrate a critical part in the Indian railway system by embarking on the task of sustaining and managing train engines. The basic task of a loco pilot is to take care of the entire journey and serve as the management head ensuring that they are properly maintained throughout the whole journey. Assistant loco pilots assist senior loco pilots in performing their duties. They typically work in teams with train and station managers.
Getting a chance as a loco pilot is done through merit as well as entrance exams. The minimum loco pilot qualification requires a candidate to have passed class 12 with 50% marks from a recognized institute with science and mathematics subjects as the main subjects. The entrance exam that the candidates have to appear for is RRB (Railway Recruitment Board).
Since the railway system in India falls under the central government of India, the loco pilot salary in India is greater compared to the other sectors. Some of the loco pilot job roles include Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP), Senior Assistant Loco Pilot (Sr. ALP), Loco Pilot (LP), Power Controller / Crew Controller / Loco Fireman (Loco Supervisor), etc. The junior or immediate level loco pilot salary ranges from INR 20,000 to INR 50,000 per month whereas the senior level loco pilot salary in India ranges from INR 40, 000 to INR 70,000 per month.
Loco Pilots are skilled professionals with a working knowledge of railway engines and machine learning. The protection and safety of people aboard trains is within the purview of loco pilots as well. The Indian Railways, which are overseen by the nation's Ministry of Railways, all employ loco pilots. The person required to operate the locomotives and ensure efficient train surveillance while in motion is known as a loco pilot.
An Assistant Loco Pilot may be promoted to senior positions in the Indian Railways after gaining certain years of experience. Given below are the job profiles of an ALP in increasing order of seniority.
In the Indian Railways, the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) plays a key role in helping the Loco Pilot (Train Driver) operate and maintain locomotives when trains are in motion. ALPs are essential to the effective and safe functioning of trains. An Assistant Loco Pilot's main duty is to support the Loco Pilot in driving trains.
An assistant loco pilot is promoted to the position of senior assistant loco pilot after 6 to 8 years of experience. A senior ALP drives the train from one city to the next and is also in command of freight and local trains.
Loco Pilot (LP) is an essential job in Indian Railways that is in charge of running and controlling locomotives during train travels. Loco Pilots are responsible for the safety of the train's passengers, crew, and cargo.
A Loco Supervisor's major role is to understand the duties of the Loco Pilot. They should have excellent driving abilities as well as knowledge of technical and safety issues.
Candidates who are applying to become Assistant Loco Pilot must keep themselves updated with the recruitment notification issued by the Railway Recruitment Board. Candidates must also ensure that they satisfy the eligibility criteria before applying for the recruitment exam for Loco iilots. The details regarding eligibility have been provided below.
The academic loco pilot qualifications required by the candidates have been listed below. Apart from the educational loco pilot qualifications, candidates are required to qualify for the entrance exam conducted by RRB to qualify for the post of Assistant Loco Pilot. The loco pilot qualifications and other details regarding eligibility have been provided below.
A candidate applying for the post of Assistant Loco Pilot can be of the following nationalities.
To become a Loco Pilot in India, you need to follow a specific educational and training path. Here's a step-by-step guide to becoming a Loco Pilot in India:
Check Your Eligibility:
The very first aspect of becoming a loco pilot in India is to make sure you fulfill the eligibility requirements in terms of educational qualification, physician health, age criteria, etc.
Acquire Relevant Engineering Degree:
The basic requirement to become a loco pilot in India is that candidate must have passed class 10+2 and also acquires a diploma in engineering.
Physical Fitness:
A career as a Loco Pilot demands good physical health and fitness. Candidates will need to undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet the required health standards to become a loco pilot
Appear in Recruitment Exams:
The Indian Railways conducts various recruitment exams for the position of Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) or Loco Pilot. The most common exam is conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) for Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) positions. You must fill the application form of RRB before the last date and register yourself.
Exam Preparation:
Qualifying for the recruitment exam in India is not a cakewalk. Lakhs of students participate in the government recruitment exam to secure government jobs which are highly respected in India. In order to pass at such a competitive level, you need to have a thorough preparation for the exam.
Clear the Selection Process:
The selection process of becoming a loco pilot in India usually consists of a written exam followed by a medical examination and a psychological/aptitude test. Candidates who clear all stages successfully will be considered for the position of Loco Pilot in India.
Do the Training:
Selected applicants go through a rigorous training program at divisional or zonal training facilities after passing the selection procedure. Both academic lectures and hands-on instruction in running locomotives will be included in the program.
Joining as a Loco Pilot:
Depending on the openings and requirements, individuals who successfully complete training will be appointed as Assistant Loco Pilots or Loco Pilots in various divisions or zones of Indian Railways. After working as a assistant loco pilot they are promoted to the position of loco pilot.
For the purpose of hiring Assistant Loco Pilots and Technicians for various railway zones across the nation, the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) administers the RRB ALP & Technician exam. The RRB ALP exam is conducted at the national level, and thousands of people take it. For ALP and Technician, the RRB ALP selection procedure consists of two phases (first stage CBT and second-stage CBT). Additionally, applicants who choose ALP and pass CBT 2 must take the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT).
There are certain important skills that a candidate must possess to stand out from other candidates in order to become a successful loco pilot in India. Check the list of skills required to become loco pilot in India given below.
Many foreign institutions provide training programs to students so that they can become loco pilots. Candidates who wish to become a loco pilot in abroad must go through the guidelines given below.
Step 1: Finish Class 12th
Candidates must have completed Class 12th.
Step 2: Meet Educational Qualification Requirements
Candidates must ensure that they meet the minimum educational requirements, which typically include a class 10+ 2 certificate or equivalent. Some countries may require additional technical or engineering qualifications like a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, automotive engineering, or a closely related discipline. Additionally, the candidate must have secure ITI certification.
Step 3: Clear Language Test
The applicants must succeed on one of the English language competence exams, such as the TOEFL or IELTS. IELTS requires a minimum score of 6.5 for the applicant.
Training Programs: Enroll in a train driver training program offered by railway authorities or private institutions in the country. These programs cover theoretical knowledge and practical training related to locomotive operations and safety protocols.
Step 4: Acquire Necessary Certifications
The respective country may have its own certification and license programme conducted by the railway body that you must enroll in. Complete any required certifications or licenses necessary for train operation, such as a locomotive pilot license or specific medical fitness certificates.
Step 5: Gain Experience:
In many countries, becoming a loco pilot requires relevant work experience, which might be obtained through entry-level positions or apprenticeships within the railway industry.
Step 6: Apply for a Licence in Abroad
To become a Loco Pilot in abroad, the applicant must submit a license application in that particular country.
**Note- The process of becoming a loco pilot in abroad varies as each country may have its own criteria and entrance exams.
The specific exams required to become a Loco Pilot (Train Driver) abroad can vary depending on the country's railway regulations and the organization responsible for train operations. However, in general, candidates must have the locomotive operation exam, physical exam, medical examination, license test, etc to become loco pilots abroad.
Following are the skills needed to become loco pilot in abroad:
Candidates who have passed class 12th and are planning to become a loco pilot must go through the career guide given below on how to become a loco pilot.
Step 1: Acquire Diploma In Engineering
Finishing class 12th is not enough to become a loco pilot. It is mandatory that a candidate complete a diploma in engineering after Class 10th or Class 12th. This will help the applicant comprehend the fundamental duties and rules of the position. Students have the option of pursuing an engineering diploma or an NCVT or SCVT-approved ITI (industrial training institute) program.
Step 2: Apply for the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) Recruitment Exam
After completing the diploma in engineering, the candidate must apply for the ALP exam. The Indian Railways holds recruiting tests for the job of Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP), which is the first step toward becoming a Loco Pilot. The ALP post is often selected through a written examination, a physical examination, and a psychological/aptitude test. Candidates who successfully complete all levels are considered for the role of Assistant Loco Pilot.
Step 3: Finish the Training
Candidates who passed the recruitment exam also have to go through the training. A variety of institutions, including government-established Industrial Training Institutes, provide appropriate training for aspiring Loco Pilots. After training, the candidate becomes eligible for the loco pilot jobs.
There are two types of exams required to become a Loco pilot after 12th. Firstly, candidates have to study diploma in engineering. To get admission into a diploma in engineering course, candidates have to pass the entrance exam like:
Following the acquiring diploma in engineering, candidates need to apply for RRB ALP exam.
The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) is in charge of holding the RRB ALP Exam in order to hire applicants for the positions of Assistant Loco Pilots and Technicians. Candidates between the ages of 18 and 28 years old with Matriculation / SSLC pass certifications are eligible to apply for RRB ALP & Technician Recruitment.
Following are the skills needed to become loco pilot after 12th:
Candidates who have a bachelor’s degree and want to work as a loco pilot can go through the detailed points on how to become a loco pilot after graduation given below.
Step 1: Study Diploma in Engineering
To be eligible for becoming loco pilot, it is mandatory to appear in RRB ALP recruitment. However, the eligibility criteria of RRB ALP states that a candidate must fulfill the following educational qualification requirement.
(OR)
(OR)
The educational qualification requires a diploma even if you have completed a bachelor’s degree. So, you have to study diploma in engineering.
Step 2: Participate in the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) Recruitment Exam
The Railway Recruiting Board is a government organization that administers the Railway Recruitment Board Assistant Loco Pilot and recruiting process for various positions in the railway industry. The RRB ALP and Technician exams are held to select candidates for the positions of Assistant Loco Pilot and Technician. The announcement of the examination is made online on the official website. Candidates should fill the application form and appear for the exam.
Step 3: Complete the Training
After passing the recruitment selection process candidates have to finish the training. If you are chosen as an Assistant Loco Pilot, you will get training in a zonal or divisional training facility. The training includes both theoretical and practical instruction on how to operate locomotives, safety regulations, and other important parts of the profession.
Step 4: From Assistant Loco Pilot to Loco Pilot
A candidate doesn't become a loco pilot directly. Firstly, candidates have to serve as an assistant loco pilot and then they will become eligible to become loco pilot. After working as an Assistant Loco Pilot for a set amount of time and based on your performance, you can be promoted to the position of Loco Pilot.
Candidates need to clear the diploma in the engineering entrance exam. Following securing a diploma in engineering, candidates need to qualify the RRB ALP exam.
Following are the skills needed to become loco pilot after graduation:
Standard Indian Railway Loco Pilot salary compensation package is Rs. 55,500 per month. Loco Pilot salary in India range between Rs. 20,000-85,000 per month. Given below is the structure of loco pilot salary in India.
Job Profile | Average Annual Salary |
Loco Pilot Salary | INR 9.9 LPA |
Job Profile | Average Annual Salary |
Senior Assistant Loco Pilot Salary | INR 5.77 LPA |
Job Profile | Average Annual Salary |
Assistant Loco Pilot Salary | INR 3. 5 LPA |
Job Profile | Average Annual Salary |
Loco Supervisor Salary | INR 8.20 LPA |
**Note- The loco pilot salary mentioned above is just a tentative figure. The salary might vary as per the candidate’s skills, education, experience, etc.
Loco Pilots need to qualify for the ITI course from an institute approved by the National Council for Vocational Training or the State Council of Vocational Training. They can also pursue engineering diplomas in electrical, electronic, mechanical, or automotive engineering from an All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE)-recognized institute.
Courses and Certification
Special Class Railway Apprentices Examination | |
Diploma in Railway Engineering | Combined Engineering Services Examination (CES) |
There are various colleges in India that provide courses to become loco pilot in India. Given below are some of the popular colleges in which you can take admission to become a loco pilot.
College Name | Course Fees (Average) |
Jamia Millia Islamia University | INR 7500 |
PES University | INR 40000 |
Dr. Radhakrishnan Institute of Technology | INR 21,490 |
Sanskriti University | INR 1.26 Lakhs |
Chandigarh University | INR 19,400 |
DayalBagh Educational Institute | INR 8664 |
Integral University | INR 1.35 Lakhs |
Aryabhatta Knowledge University | INR 42000 |
Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute | INR 12,679 |
Lovely Professional University (LPU) | INR 1.77 Lakhs |
An Assistant Loco Pilot may be promoted to senior positions in the Indian Railways after gaining certain years of experience. Given below are the job profiles of an ALP in increasing order of seniority.
Senior Assistant Loco Pilo (Sr. ALP)
Loco Pilot (LP)
Power Controller / Crew Controller / Loco Fireman (Loco Supervisor)
Standard Indian Railway Loco Pilot salary compensation package is Rs. 55,500 per month. Loco Pilot salary in India range between Rs. 20,000-85,000 per month. Given below is the structure of loco pilot salary in India.
Assistant Loco Pilot Salary
Junior level salary - 20,000
Senior-level salary - 50,000
Average salary - 30,000
Senior Assistant Loco Pilot Salary
Junior level salary - 40,000
Senior level salary - 70,000
Average salary - 50,000
Book | Author / Writer | Publisher |
Railway Assistant Loco Pilot and Technician | Arihant Experts | Arihant Publications |
Lucent's General Knowledge | Dr. Binay Kamra | Lucent Publications |
General Science for RRB Junior Engineer, NTPC, ALP & Group D Exams | Disha Experts | Disha Publications |
Lucent's General Science | Ravi Bhushan | Lucent Publications |
A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning | R S Aggarwal | S Chand Publishing |
A career as a loco pilot has a good scope in India. There are several advantages or pros that are enjoyed by the candidates qualifying for loco pilot. Some of the advantages have been discussed in the points below.
Other than the sweet sides of a loco pilot career, there are other cons that are faced by the candidates, these have been listed in the following pointers.
Take our test and find out if it suits your strengths.
No, having a class 12th certificate doesn't make you eligible to become a loco pilot in India. You need to have a diploma in engineering and also
The difficulty of any recruitment exam depends upon the applicants' dedication and hard work. If you study well and are focused on your career goals it won't be tough for you to clear the exam. However, ALP is a national-level exam that has high competition so you must prepare well for the exam and dedicate more hours.
ALP RRB is Another Group C category examination that recruits loco pilots, loco foremen, and senior assistant loco pilots is the RRB assistant loco pilot (ALP). These Group C personnel are entitled to HRA, DA, transportation allowance, and running allowance.
Yes, being a Loco Pilot is an excellent career choice for people who appreciate working in a dynamic atmosphere and emphasize safety. It provides employment security, competitive pay, and prospects for promotion within the railway industry.
After finishing your graduation, if you don't have a diploma in engineering earlier, you must first secure a diploma in engineering as it is mandatory to become a loco pilot in India. Following that you must apply for Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) recruitment exam conducted by the Indian Railways and clear the selection process, followed by training.
After Class 12th, you can become a loco pilot by applying for the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) recruitment exam conducted by the Indian Railways and clearing the selection process.
The recruitment notice of the railway loco pilot is released online. Candidates must visit the official website and fill the application form.
In India, loco pilot salary range from INR 19,900 to 1.04 LPA. Annual pay for ALPs (Assistant Loco Pilots) and LPs (Local Pilots) are INR 30,000 and INR 50,000, respectively. An Assistant Loco Pilot's starting pay is INR 3 LPA. A loco pilot's annual salary might approach INR 40 LPA.
In India, ITI or a diploma in engineering qualifies persons to become loco pilots. To become a Loco Pilot in the Indian Railways, a candidate must pass the RRB ALC competitive examination, which is run by the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB).
Loco Pilots operate passenger trains, engines and commuter trains. Loco Pilots give railway instructions and supervise the functioning of the Detectors and metres in the brake pads and primary underground aquifers for pace, power output, circuit and temperature analysis.
Some of the cons of being a Loco Pikot are that there is a lot of travelling involved, it will require a lot of stamina as work can last for 2-3 days and since it will be an off-field job, it will require you to stay away from home.
Some of the pros of becoming a Loco Pilot are good salary and growth prospects, respectable job and excellent job security.
Some of the books that you can refer to for knowing more about Loco Pilot are Railway Assistant Loco Pilot and Technician by Arihant Experts, General Science for RRB Junior Engineer, NTPC, ALP & Group D Exams by Disha Experts and Lucent's General Science by Ravi Bhushan.
Some of the skills required to become a Loco Pilot are Technical skills, Critical Thinking and Physical Strength.
The salary of a Loco Pilot ranges between 20,000-85,000
The selection is based on the performance of the written test (Loco Pilot Aptitude Test) and the fitness and strength test.
If you have studied Commerce, you would not be able to qualify for the Loco Pilot Aptitude test. You must have at least a 12th degree with PCM or an engineering degree to meet the criteria.
In order to become a Loco Pilot, studebnts should have an internship or ITI or a Diploma in Mechanical/Electrical/Electronics/Automobile Engineering from any institution recognised by AICTE.
To be a Loco Pilot, the candidate should be between 18-28.
