RRB Recruitment Update: Railway exams to shift from CBT to Tablet Based Tests
Union Minister for Railways Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a major change in the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) examination process. During a high-level review meeting on June 12, 2026, the Minister emphasized the need for a more transparent and technology-driven system. As part of this move, Indian Railways will expand the use of Tablet Based Tests (TBT) for its recruitment exams.
What is Tablet Based Test (TBT) and how it works?
In a Tablet Based Test, candidates will not use traditional pen and paper or desktop computers. Instead, they will take the exam digitally on handheld tablets. This system is designed to make the recruitment process more accurate and efficient. The Railway Board had already started implementing this for departmental promotions to ensure fairness and transparency.
Key dates and current status of TBT implementation
The transition to TBT is happening in phases. While the Minister announced the expansion on June 12, 2026, some tests were already conducted in late 2025 and early 2026. However, current large-scale exams like RRB NTPC and Technician exams scheduled from June 13 to June 20, 2026, are still being held in the Computer Based Test (CBT) mode.
| Event/Notification | Date/Period |
|---|---|
| Railway Board Decision on Centralized Exams | March 5, 2025 |
| TBT Exams (Various RRCs) | Nov 2025 to March 2026 |
| RRC Jaipur TBT Call Letters | June 6-7, 2026 |
| Minister’s High-Level Review Meeting | June 12, 2026 |
| RRB NTPC & Technician (Still CBT) | June 13-20, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between CBT and TBT in RRB exams?
CBT uses desktop computers at centers, while TBT allows candidates to take the exam on handheld digital tablets for better flexibility and technology integration.
Are all current RRB exams shifted to TBT?
No, large-scale exams like RRB NTPC and Technician scheduled for June 13-20, 2026, are still being conducted via Computer Based Test (CBT) mode.