Career as Loco Pilot

Last Updated By Diksha Sharma on 28 Jul, 2023

How to Become a Loco Pilot

About Loco Pilot

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. 

Who is Loco Pilot

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.

Types of 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.

Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP)

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.

Senior Assistant Loco-Pilots

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)

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.

Power Controller / Crew Controller / Loco Fireman (Loco Supervisor)

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.

Eligibility to become Loco Pilot

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.

Educational Qualification of Loco Pilot

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.

  • Candidate must have passed Class 10th / High School / Matriculation / SSC examinations or equivalent from a recognized board.
  • Candidate must have completed any of the following courses:
    • ITI course from an institute recognized by NCVT or SCVT.
    • Diploma in Engineering in any of the Electrical / Electronics / Mechanical / Automobile Engineering streams from an AICTE-recognized institute.
    • Act Apprentenship course

Age Limit for Assistant Loco Pilot

  • The candidate must be between 18 and 28 years of age to be eligible for the Assistant Loco Pilot post.
  • Age relaxation is provided to reserved category candidates (SC / ST / OBC / PwD / Ex-Servicemen etc.) as per the norms issued by the Government.

Nationality for Assistant Loco Pilot

A candidate applying for the post of Assistant Loco Pilot can be of the following nationalities.

  • A citizen of India.
  • A subject of Nepal.
  • A subject of Bhutan.
  • A Tibetan refugee who arrived in India before 1st January 1962 to permanently settle in India.
  • A person of Indian origin who migrated from selected countries to permanently settle in India.

   Physical Requirements for Loco Pilot

  • Medical verification is conducted of all candidates who qualify for the CBAT.
  • Candidates must be physically fit and have good vision as specified under the different medical standards of RRB ALP.

How to Become Loco Pilot in India

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. 

Exam required to become Loco Pilot in India

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). 

Skills required to become Loco Pilot in India

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.

  • Technical Knowledge of locomotive systems and controls.
  • Problem-Solving Skills.
  • Decision-Making Skills
  • Stress Management.
  • Alertness and Attention to Detail.
  • Communication Skills.
  • Knowledge of Safety Protocols.
  • Good Physical Fitness.
  • Team player

How to Become Loco Pilot in Abroad

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. 

Exam required to become Loco Pilot in Abroad

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. 

Skills required to become Loco Pilot in Abroad

Following are the skills needed to become loco pilot in abroad:

  • Language speaking skills of a particular country
  • Communication skills
  • Decision-making skills
  • Leadership
  • Team leading
  • Particular knowledge about rules and regulations of that country
  • Attention to detail
  • Adaptability 

How to Become Loco Pilot after 12th

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.  

Exam required to become Loco Pilot after 12th

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:

  • JEECUP
  • TS POLYCET
  • JEXPO
  • Assam PAT
  • Delhi CET
  • CUET, etc

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. 

Skills required to become Loco Pilot After 12th

Following are the skills needed to become loco pilot after 12th:

  • Language speaking skills of a particular country
  • Communication skills
  • Decision-making skills
  • Leadership
  • Team leading
  • Particular knowledge about rules and regulations of that country
  • Attention to detail
  • Adaptability 

 How to Become Loco Pilot after Graduation

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. 

  • Matriculation / SSLC plus ITI from NCVT/SCVT accredited institutes (OR)
  • Act Apprenticeship Matriculation / SSLC + Course Completion

(OR)

  • 3-year diploma in Mechanical/Electrical/Electronics/Automotive Engineering

(OR)

  • In place of ITI, a combination of several streams of these Engineering disciplines from a recognized institution.

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.

Exam required to become Loco Pilot After graduation

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. 

Skills required to become Loco Pilot After graduation

Following are the skills needed to become loco pilot after graduation:

  • Language speaking skills of a particular country
  • Communication skills
  • Decision-making skills
  • Leadership
  • Team leading
  • Particular knowledge about rules and regulations of that country
  • Attention to detail
  • Adaptability 

Salary of Loco Pilot

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.  

Salary of Loco Pilot

Job Profile

Average Annual Salary

Loco Pilot Salary

INR 9.9 LPA

Senior Assistant Loco Pilot Salary

Job Profile

Average Annual Salary

Senior Assistant Loco Pilot Salary

INR 5.77 LPA

Assistant Loco Pilot Salary

Job Profile

Average Annual Salary

Assistant Loco Pilot Salary

INR 3. 5 LPA

Loco Supervisor Salary

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.            

Courses to Become Loco Pilot

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

Civil Services Exam

Special Class Railway Apprentices Examination

Diploma in Railway Engineering

Combined Engineering Services Examination (CES)

List of Colleges which provides Courses to Become Loco Pilot

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

Types of Job Roles 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.

Job Roles for Loco Pilot

  • Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP)
  • Senior Assistant Loco Pilo (Sr. ALP)

  • Loco Pilot (LP)

  • Power Controller / Crew Controller / Loco Fireman (Loco Supervisor)

Planning to choose Loco Pilot as your career?

Pay Scale/Salary of Loco Pilot

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

Books & Study Material to Become Loco Pilot

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

Pros of becoming a Loco Pilot

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.

  • Financial stability: As a government job, it provides financial and professional stability. The average Loco Pilot salary in India is Rs 6.6 Lakhs per annum for experience between 2 years to 21 years. The loco pilots are also entitled to several benefits such as PF, HRA, Gratuity, medical claim, etc
  • Sedentary lifestyle: A stagnant lifestyle is not noticed, due to the job's field-based nature as sometimes loco pilots have to stay in trains for 3 days
  • Professional Stability: Loco pilots work in Indian railways or metro, which are central government organizations. It provides financial as well as professional stability and even after retirement a loco pilot is authorized for various other benefits
  • Traveling to new places: Travelling is part of the loco pilot job, which can be exciting for some people

Cons of becoming a Loco Pilot

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.

  • Personal life invasion- Travelling can also be tiring for some loco pilots, and it will take their time away from their friends and families.
  • Hectic Lifestyle- Loco pilots deal with shifts that extend for as long as 3 days. Therefore their lifestyle becomes hectic and stressful sometimes.

Do you think this is the right career choice for you?

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FAQs about Loco Pilot

What is the role of Loco Pilots?

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.

Can the 12th pass become a loco pilot?

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

Is the ALP exam tough?

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.

Is loco pilot group B or C ?

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.

Is loco pilot a good career?

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.

How to become loco pilot after graduation?

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.

How to become loco pilot after 12th?

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.

How to apply for Railway Loco Pilot?

The recruitment notice of the railway loco pilot is released online. Candidates must visit the official website and fill the application form.

What is the salary of a loco pilot?

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.

What is the qualification for loco pilot?

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).

What is the age limit to be a Loco Pilot?

To be a Loco Pilot, the candidate should be between 18-28.

What are some of the cons of becoming a Loco Pilot?

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.

What are some of the pros of becoming a Loco Pilot?

Some of the pros of becoming a Loco Pilot are good salary and growth prospects, respectable job and excellent job security.

What are some of the books that I can refer to for knowing more about Loco Pilot?

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.

What are the skills required to become a Loco Pilot?

Some of the skills required to become a Loco Pilot are Technical skills, Critical Thinking and Physical Strength.

What is the salary of a Loco Pilot?

The salary of a Loco Pilot ranges between 20,000-85,000

What is the selection criteria for pursuing a career as a Loco Pilot?

The selection is based on the performance of the written test (Loco Pilot Aptitude Test) and the fitness and strength test.

If I have studied Commerce and wish to be a Loco Pilot, can I do so?

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.

What course do I need to puruse to become a Loco Pilot?

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.

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