MTA Conductor Exam: Looking for a stable and rewarding career in the New York transit system, then applying for the MTA conductor exam can be your first step. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) conducts recruitment examinations for conductor posts in its subsidiaries, including the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). MTA Assistant Conductor Trainee, MTA Assistant Conductor, MTA Full Conductor are 3 major roles offered for MTA LIRR Conductor Exam. The MTA LIRR conductor exam application process starts from August 2025. To get regular updated information check it from https://new.mta.info/carers.
The MTA conductor examination is designed to evaluate the ability of a candidate to perform duties related to passenger safety, service coordination, and communication. Conductors are responsible for operating doors, making announcements, checking tickets and handling emergencies. The examination is part of the competitive selection process that helps the MTA to hire qualified and safety-conscious personnel.
This exam usually includes multiple choice questions focused on the following areas:
- Reading comprehension
- Arithmetic arguments
- Customer Service and Status Decisions
- Memory and Information Order
- MTA Rules and Safety Regulations
The examination is usually conducted at a supervised test center or administered online under proctorial supervision. Candidates must score above a certain limit to join the eligible hiring list.
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MTA Conductor Exam Latest Updates and Alert
The MTA periodically issues notices about the upcoming examinations for various roles, including LIR Conductor, NYCT train conductor, and other transit-related posts. By mid 2025, the MTA will issued a hiring alert for the LIRR conductor posts, which is expected to start the application process in August 2025.
Major alert:
- Announcements are made on the MTA Career or MTA Jobs portal. Also, candidates should regularly check https://new.mta.info/carers for updates.
- MTA publishes a monthly examination schedule, including the date, exam dates and job titles.
- Test procedures may include social deformity, mask mandates or distance assessment according to the current MTA health guidelines.
- After examination, successful candidates remain in eligible list for 4 years.
- Pro Tip: Sign up for email information on the MTA website to be informed about the new openings and exam alerts.
LIRR Conductor Salary
MTA LIRR Conductor Job has 3 major positions: LIRR Assistant Conductor Trainee, LIRR Assistant Conductor and LIRR Full Conductor.
| Position | Hourly Base Pay (Approx.) | Annual Base Salary (40 hrs/week) | Potential Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| LIRR Assistant Conductor Trainee | $31 – $33 per hour | $65,000 – $69,000 | Can varies depending on overtime and extra shifts |
| LIRR Assistant Conductor | $47 – $48 per hour | $97,000 – $99,000 | $100,000+ with overtime |
| LIRR Full Conductor | $50 – $53 per hour | $104,000 – $110,000 | $100,000+ with overtime pay |
As per the latest information new hires begin as Assistant Conductor Trainees. Also the trainees are paid during the training period where the hourly salary ranges between $31-$33. For a 40 hour long work week it could be $65,000 to $69,000 per annum. Whereas for Assistant conductor the hourly salary is $47-$48 per hour and for Full conductor it is $50 to $53 per hour.
MTA LIRR Conductor Exam Eligibility
To apply for the MTA LIRR Conductor Examination, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria. Although requirements may vary slightly depending on the year and vacancy details, general terms include:
Basic Eligibility:
- The applicant should be at least 18 years old.
- A high school diploma or GED is required.
- Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- Proficiency is necessary in reading, writing, and speaking English.
- Pass medical and drug screening as per DOT rules.
Preferred Qualification:
- Previous experience in customer service or transportation
- Mechanical qualification
- Flexible innings, weekends, and the ability to work on holidays
Note: Some posts may give preference to military giants or current MTA employees under internal promotion programs.
MTA LIRR Conductor Exam Application Process
The application process for the MTA LIRR Conductor Exam is completely conducted online through the official MTA career portal. Follow these steps to successfully complete your application:
Step-by-step process:
1. Firstly, visit the official MTA website: https://new.mta.info/careers.
2. Look for open conductor posts or scheduled exams (eg, “conductor, LIRR” or “train service supervisor”).
3. Create an account and then sign up using a valid email ID and set your MTA career profile.
4. Fill in personal details, education history, and work experience and submit the online application form
5. The specific fee of $ 68 is payable online through credit/debit card or bank transfer. The fee exemption may be available to eligible candidates.
6. After Submission, print or save the confirmation page for future reference.
7. Keep an eye on the MTA official website as they will inform you about the exam date, location, and preparation material through email or portal messages.
Documents Required
During the application and verification process, you must prepare and submit the following documents:
Mandatory Documents:
- Government-issued Photo ID (Driver’s License, Passport, etc.)
- High School Diploma or GED Certificate
- Proof of U.S. Work Authorization (Social Security Card, Green Card, or relevant Visa documents)
- Payment Receipt for the application fee
- Resume detailing relevant work experience and qualifications
Additional Documents:
- Veteran’s Preference Documentation
- Proof of MTA Internal Employment (if applying through promotional exam)
- Disability Accommodation Request Forms, if applicable
Ensure all documents are uploaded in the correct file format (usually PDF or JPEG) and are legible. Also, incorrect or missing documentation may lead to disqualification.