India Post LDCE PA SA Exam 2026 Notification Out: Check Full Schedule, Eligibility, Syllabus PDF
India Post LDCE 2026 Notification Released – PA & SA Exam Schedule, Eligibility, Pattern and Important Dates
The Department of Posts has started the process for conducting the Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (LDCE) 2026 for promotion to the posts of Postal Assistant (PA) and Sorting Assistant (SA) across various Postal Circles in India.
As per notifications issued by Postal Circles based on Directorate guidelines, the examination for the vacancy year 2026 (01.01.2026 to 31.12.2026) is scheduled to be conducted in June 2026.
LDCE PA/SA Exam 2026 Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Issued | 11 May 2026 |
| Last Date for Submission of Application Forms | 29 May 2026 |
| Last Date for Receipt of Verified Applications at Circle Office | 09 June 2026 |
| Issue of Admit Cards | 16 June 2026 |
| Date of LDCE Examination | 21 June 2026 (Sunday) |
| Exam Timing | 10:00 AM onwards |
Posts Covered Under LDCE 2026
- Postal Assistant (Post Office)
- Sorting Assistant (Railway Mail Service)
Eligibility Criteria
Category A Officials
- Officials in Level-3 with 3 years of regular service
- Officials in Level-2 with 5 years of regular service
- Officials in Level-1 with 5 years of regular service
Category B Officials
Officials in Levels 1, 2 and 3 with combined regular service including eligible Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) service are also eligible subject to prescribed conditions.
Crucial Date for Eligibility: 01 January 2026
LDCE 2026 Examination Pattern
| Paper | Type | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper-I | Objective Type | 120 Minutes | 100 Marks |
| Paper-II | Local Language | 45 Minutes | 50 Marks |
| Paper-III | DEST (Computer Skill Test) | 15 Minutes | Qualifying |
Subjects for Preparation
- Postal Guide
- Postal Manuals
- Products & Services of India Post
- Savings Bank Orders
- General Knowledge & Current Affairs
- Arithmetic
- Reasoning & Analytical Ability
- Local Language Translation
- Letter Writing & Essay Writing
- Computer Typing Practice for DEST
Minimum Qualifying Marks
| Category | Qualifying Marks |
|---|---|
| General / EWS | 40% |
| OBC | 37% |
| SC / ST / PwBD | 33% |
Important Instructions
- Applications should be submitted through the concerned Divisional/Unit Head.
- Candidates should carefully select cadre and division preferences.
- Preferences once exercised are generally final.
- Only verified applications will be accepted for the examination.
- Candidates should preserve a copy of the application form for future reference.
- Admit Cards must be carried to the examination centre along with valid ID proof.
Conclusion
The LDCE 2026 examination is an important promotional opportunity for eligible officials in the Department of Posts. Candidates are advised to complete the application process well before the last date and begin systematic preparation for all papers including the DEST examination.
Circle-wise vacancy details and examination centres will be notified separately by respective Postal Circles.
Best wishes to all aspirants preparing for India Post LDCE 2026.
