DSSSB Exam 2026: Shift Timings, Admit Card & New Strict Exam Rules
UPDATE (October 23, 2026): The DSSSB has officially activated the admit card download links for the Phase 1 exams scheduled between October 27 and October 31 (including Data Entry Operator and Junior Law Officer). Candidates for November exams (TGT, MTS, PGT) should note that their specific links will remain inactive until 4 to 7 days prior to their exact shift.
The Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board (DSSSB) examinations scheduled from October 27 to December 5, 2026, are rolling out with unprecedented security and strict operational timelines across various TCS iON Digital Zones in Delhi NCR.
Whether you are appearing for TGT Computer Science, Domestic Science Teacher, or administrative posts, 2026 introduces several critical changes to how you attempt the paper. Below is the essential logistics, admit card protocol, and new exam rulebook for all candidates.
Shift Timings & Gate Closing Rules
DSSSB operates a rigid three-shift computer-based test (CBT) structure. Gate closing times are non-negotiable—latecomers are strictly barred from entering the venue under any circumstances.
| Shift | Reporting Time | Gate Closing Time | Exam Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shift 1 (Morning) | 07:30 AM | 08:30 AM | 09:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| Shift 2 (Afternoon) | 11:30 AM | 12:30 PM | 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM |
| Shift 3 (Evening) | 03:30 PM | 04:30 PM | 05:00 PM – 07:00 PM |
The Strict DSSSB Banned Items List
DSSSB enforces one of the strictest anti-malpractice protocols among government recruitment boards. There are no cloakrooms or safe storage facilities at the exam centers. If you bring prohibited items, you will have to leave them outside at your own risk or face disqualification.
What is STRICTLY Prohibited
- Electronics & Gadgets: Smartwatches, mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, earphones, fitness/health bands, calculators, and pen drives are entirely banned.
- Personal Accessories: Wallets, handbags, belts with metal buckles, caps, and sunglasses/goggles are not allowed inside.
- Ornaments & Jewelry: Remove all metallic items before arriving. Rings, earrings, nose-pins, chains, necklaces, pendants, badges, and bracelets will trigger the highly sensitive metal detectors.
- Stationery: Do not bring pens, pencils, erasers, or rough paper. The Board will provide a pen and rough sheets at your computer terminal.
- Food & Drinks: Eatables and water bottles (both packed and opened) are strictly prohibited.
What You MUST Wear (Dress Code)
- Permitted Clothing: Light-colored, half-sleeve shirts, T-shirts, or kurtas only. Buttons must be small.
- Forbidden Footwear: Shoes are strictly banned. Candidates must wear light slippers or low-heeled sandals with open toes.
- Religious Exceptions: If your faith requires specific traditional attire (such as a Kara or Kirpan), you must report to the examination center at least one hour early for thorough manual frisking.
Massive Change for 2026: Section-Wise Navigation Locks
The most impactful operational change for the 2026 cycle is the implementation of strict section-wise electronic locks.
In previous years, candidates could freely hop back and forth between different sections (e.g., jumping from General Awareness to Numerical Ability) to manage their time. This year, you are forced to attempt the paper in a fixed sequence. Once you complete a section and submit it to move to the next one, you cannot re-enter or edit the previous section.
Step-by-Step Admit Card Guide
Admit cards are generally released 4 to 7 days before your specific exam date. You must download it via the DSSSB OARS Portal.
- Visit the Portal: Go to the official DSSSB OARS website.
- Access the Link: Click on the specific link titled “Download E-Admit Card for CBT Scheduled on [Your Exam Date]”.
- Enter Credentials: Input your Application Number and your Date of Birth (formatted strictly as DD/MM/YYYY).
- Print Requirements: Print your e-admit card in color. Ensure you print all pages, including the detailed instructions and the self-declaration form.
- Post Passport Photo: Affix a recent passport-sized photograph in the designated box on the printout, exactly matching the one uploaded during registration.
Delhi NCR Metro & Transit Hacks
Most DSSSB exams are hosted at massive TCS iON Digital Zones. Plan your route to avoid heavy Delhi winter traffic using the Delhi Metro Phase 4 network where applicable:
- Noida Sector 62 Clusters: Take the Blue Line and exit at the Noida Sector 62 Metro Station. Shared auto-rickshaws take roughly 5–10 minutes to reach the industrial exam hubs.
- Mathura Road / Mohan Cooperative Zones: Take the Violet Line and alight at the Mohan Estate Metro Station or Sarita Vihar Metro Station.
- GT Karnal Road / Jahangirpuri Hubs: Take the Yellow Line to Jahangirpuri or Samaypur Badli Metro Station.
Cut-Offs & The New Tie-Breaker Rule
Scoring higher than other candidates is not enough; you must hit a baseline minimum percentage in your paper.
- General / EWS: 40% (Minimum 80 marks out of a 200-mark paper)
- OBC (Delhi): 35% (Minimum 70 marks out of a 200-mark paper)
- SC / ST / PwBD: 30% (Minimum 60 marks out of a 200-mark paper)
New Tie-Breaker: For teaching and technical posts, if two candidates secure the exact same total score, the candidate with the higher score in Section B (the subject-specific section) is automatically given the higher merit rank.
Stay tuned to our Government Exams portal for updates on the SSC Central Exam Calendar and post-exam answer key challenge timelines.
