Civil & Uniformed Services · State

Tehsildar (Revenue)

⚠ Estimate — needs validation · as of 2025

A Tehsildar is a senior state revenue officer who handles land records, revenue collection, certificates, and local administration. It is a respected government career reached through state public service exams, usually after graduation and a strong understanding of law, administration, and local governance.

Who it's for: Best for students who like administration, public service, law, field work, and decision-making, and who are comfortable preparing for competitive exams in their own state.

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At a glance

Entry mode: Government Exam
Exam shape: state-wise
Key exam: State
Min qualification: UG + State
Duration: 5-6 yr
Starting salary: 6-12 LPA (approx, as of 2025; varies by state pay level, allowances, and posting)
Sector: Govt
Category: Civil & Uniformed Services

Subjects / Stream

Political ScienceHistoryEconomicsPublic AdministrationLawAny UG stream

Step-by-step path

  1. Complete Class 12 in any recognised stream, preferably with good basics in civics, history, and current affairs.
  2. Earn a graduation degree from a recognised university; most state exams require a UG qualification.
  3. Prepare for the state civil services/revenue exam with focus on state GK, polity, history, economy, and reasoning.
  4. Apply for the state PSC or revenue service exam when notifications are released and clear prelims, mains, and interview if applicable.
  5. Join the state revenue service after final selection and complete training/induction as prescribed by the state.
  6. Gain field experience in revenue, land administration, and magistracy-related work before becoming eligible for Tehsildar-level posting.

Key exams

State PSC: selectionPrelims: screeningMains: meritInterview: personalityState-level GK: knowledgeReasoning: aptitude

Top institutes / boards

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)State Public Service Commissions (e.g., UPPSC, MPSC, TNPSC, KPSC, RPSC)National Law UniversitiesUniversity Grants Commission-recognised universitiesState universitiesIGNOU

Similar careers

Deputy TehsildarNaib TehsildarState Civil Services OfficerRevenue InspectorSub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM)
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Frequently asked questions

What is the eligibility for Tehsildar in India?
Usually a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university is required. The exact eligibility, age limit, and domicile rules depend on the state PSC or revenue service notification.
Which exam is needed to become a Tehsildar?
Most states recruit through state public service commission exams or state revenue service exams. The exact exam name and process vary by state.
Can I become a Tehsildar after 12th?
No, not directly in most states. A graduation degree is generally needed before applying for the state exam that leads to revenue service posts.
Which stream is best for Tehsildar preparation?
Arts/Humanities is often helpful because of polity, history, and public administration, but students from Science, Commerce, or any stream can apply after graduation.
Is there any age limit for Tehsildar exams?
Yes, most state exams have minimum and maximum age limits, often with relaxations for reserved categories. Check the specific state notification for the exact range.
What subjects should I study for Tehsildar exam?
Focus on Indian polity, state GK, history, geography, economy, current affairs, reasoning, and basic law or administration topics as per the state syllabus.
How many years does it take to become job-ready?
Typically about 5 to 6 years after Class 12, including graduation and competitive exam preparation. It can be shorter or longer depending on the state and preparation level.
What is the salary of a Tehsildar in India?
Starting pay is roughly in the 6-12 LPA range as of 2025, including allowances in many states. Actual in-hand salary depends on state pay rules, posting, and deductions.
Is Tehsildar a gazetted officer?
In many states, Tehsildar is a gazetted revenue officer post. Exact classification can vary by state rules and service structure.
What work does a Tehsildar do?
A Tehsildar handles land and revenue records, certificates, mutation-related work, local revenue administration, and field-level coordination with the district administration.
Is this job good for girls and women?
Yes. It is open to women in the same way as men, subject to state eligibility rules. Many women serve successfully in revenue and civil administration roles.
Are reservations applicable in Tehsildar recruitment?
Yes, reservation policies usually apply as per state and central rules, including categories such as SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and others where notified.
What is the exam pattern for Tehsildar selection?
Most states use prelims, mains, and interview or personality test. Some states may have additional qualifying papers or service-specific stages.
How much does Tehsildar exam preparation cost?
It can range from low-cost self-study to higher coaching expenses. Fees vary widely by coaching centre, test series, books, and whether you study online or offline.
Is coaching necessary for Tehsildar exam?
No, coaching is not mandatory. Many candidates prepare through self-study, standard books, previous papers, and state current affairs, though coaching can help with structure.
What is the scope of a Tehsildar career?
The scope is strong in state administration, land governance, and revenue management. With experience, officers may move into higher administrative or revenue posts depending on state service rules.
Can a private job holder prepare for Tehsildar exam?
Yes. Many aspirants prepare while working. A disciplined schedule, current affairs practice, and regular revision are important.
Is local language important for Tehsildar?
Yes, very important. Since the job involves public dealing and land records, knowledge of the state language and local administration is usually essential.
What are the top institutes for this career?
There is no single institute for Tehsildar. Preparation is mainly through state PSCs, recognised universities, and optional coaching or online platforms for state civil services.
Is Tehsildar the right career for me?
It may suit you if you want a respected government role, enjoy administration and public service, and are ready for competitive exam preparation and field responsibilities.

Figures are indicative and source-stamped with an "as of" year (2025). Confirm on the official exam authority website before deciding.

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