The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) is set to conduct NTPC Stage 2 (CBT 2) in 2025, and for many aspirants, tomorrow is the big day. It’s absolutely crucial to know your exam timings, what you should wear, and which documents to bring to avoid last-minute stress. Below is a complete guide.

Table of Contents
Shift-Wise Exam Timings & Reporting Schedule
While RRB has not always publicly published separate shift schedules for every region, past exams and exam-day guidelines provide a solid reference. For example, for NTPC (UG) exams, two shifts are commonly used.
Here’s a typical shift schedule:
| Shift | Reporting Time | Gate Closing Time | Exam Start Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shift 1 | 8:30 AM | 10:00 AM | 10:30 AM |
| Shift 2 | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM | 3:30 PM |
Important: You must reach the centre well before the reporting time to complete biometric checks, photo capture, document verification, seating, etc. Late arrivals are usually not allowed after gate closing time.
Also note that each region might have slight variations. Always check your admit card, which will carry your exact shift, date, and centre.
Dress Code for RRB NTPC Exam
RRB enforces a dress code to streamline security checks and minimize delays. The gist of the dress code is: simple, metal-free, minimal accessories.
What to Wear (Allowed / Recommended)
Plain shirt / t-shirt / kurta / salwar-kameez / light clothes without heavy embroidery or major metallic elements
Footwear: slippers or sandals — avoid shoes, especially those with thick soles or metal parts
Hair accessories: use plain bands / ties (no metallic clips)
Religious garments (hijab / headgear) may be allowed provided they are declared / allowed by the RRB in your region (you may undergo extra frisking)
What to Avoid / Prohibited Items
Clothing with large buttons, zippers, buckles, badges, or other metallic parts
Jewelry / accessories: rings, bracelets, chains, earrings, etc. are discouraged or may be disallowed
Belts with metallic buckles
Shoes with metal or thick soles
Any items that may trigger security suspicion
The idea is to wear something that won’t slow you down at frisking or cause re-checks.
Documents & Items to Carry
Carrying the correct documents is non-negotiable. Missing even one item can result in being barred from taking the exam.
Must-Have Documents
Printed Admit Card / e-Call Letter (original, as downloaded)
Valid Photo ID Proof (original) — choose one from the permitted list: Aadhar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License, PAN, etc.
Passport-size Photograph (same as one used in the application, if asked)
Items You Must Not Carry
Mobile phones, smartphones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, earphones, calculators, or electronic gadgets
Bags, wallets, purses, printed matter, notes, books, scratch paper
Pens, pencils, erasers, rulers (stationery is provided at the centre)
Metallic accessories, hairpins/clips, belts with metal buckles, jewelry, etc.
Henna / Mehndi on hands or feet (biometric fingerprint capture may get blocked)
Exam Day Guidelines: Do’s & Don’ts
Do’s
Reach the exam centre well before reporting time
Keep your admit card & ID ready for verification
Follow mask / health / COVID guidelines if any are in place
Cooperate with biometric / photograph / signature checking
Use the washroom and settle in early — no breaks once exam begins
Follow the instructions printed on admit card and those given by invigilators
Don’ts
Don’t carry any banned item — risk dismissal
Don’t arrive late — gates close strictly at closing time
Don’t tamper with admit card or ID
Don’t try to enter after gate closing
Don’t wear complex clothing / accessories that may cause delays in frisking
Final Tips Before You Leave Home
Double-check your shift, exam centre, and address
Carry spare copies of your admit card & ID (if possible)
Wear light, comfortable clothing to avoid heat or discomfort
Avoid heavy jewelry or anything that can slow you down
Do a final check of pockets (no mobile, no wallet etc.)
Stay calm and composed — a clear mind helps in performance

