DRDO Technician A (Standard) Eligibility Criteria
Updated 2026Candidates must possess a 10th-standard qualification (or equivalent) along with an ITI certificate in the relevant trade from a recognized institution. Acceptable certifications include a National Trade Certificate (NTC) or a National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC). In trades where ITI certificates are not specifically awarded, a minimum one-year certificate from a recognized institution in that discipline is acceptable. Key trades include Automobile, Book Binder, Carpenter, CNC Operator, COPA, Draughtsman (Mechanical), DTP Operator, Electrician, Electronics, Fitter, Grinder, Machinist, Mechanic (Diesel), Mill Wright Mechanic, Motor Mechanic, Painter, Photographer, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Sheet Metal Worker, Turner, and Welder. All applicants must ensure their certificates are valid and verified before applying.
The minimum age for applicants is 18 years, and the maximum age limit is 28 years. This age bracket is standard across the specified trades for the Technician 'A' post. Eligibility is calculated based on the cutoff date as mentioned in the official notification. Candidates must ensure they fall within these limits on the critical date, as age verification is a mandatory part of the application scrutiny process.
The selection process for the DRDO Technician 'A' recruitment consists of two mandatory stages:
1. Phase I (Computer-Based Test): This is the initial objective-based examination. It consists of 120 questions carrying a total of 120 marks. The duration is 90 minutes. Candidates are shortlisted for the next stage based on their scores here, typically in a ratio of 1:8.
2. Phase II (Trade Test): This is a practical, trade-specific examination designed to test the technical skills of the candidate. It is mandatory for candidates to qualify in this stage for final consideration. The duration ranges from 60 to 120 minutes depending on the specific trade requirements.
- SC / ST: 5 years
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 years
- PwD (Persons with Disabilities): 10 years
- Widows, Divorced Women & Women judicially separated and not remarried: Up to 35 years (General), 38 years (OBC), 40 years (SC/ST)
- Central Government Employees & DRDO Departmental Candidates: Up to 40 years
