Testing and ranking in Karate-do is like a mirror that reflects the individual’s past and present level of achievement. It is a tool of guidance used to gauge and evaluate not only what has been learned but what will be learned. The goals in karate are high and development of the practitioner is an ongoing process. Ranking does not signal the end of learning but, rather it is a step taken on the way toward the refinement and more complete development of karate skills and abilities. 

At ranking examination time, you must exhibit a posture of assurance and optimum appearance and must be prepared physically and mentally to show your best.  Further, testing and ranking is a cultivation of human values of conduct, sportsmanship, etiquette, character and is not simply an evaluation of technique.  On one hand, you should not be discouraged by temporary setback on your progress and on the other hand you should not be excessively thrilled by a particular ranking level. There is always time to perfect each ranking level before the next is challenged.  This will lead into developing an attitude that encourages strengthening of technique at each level making examination secondary.

Each member testing must have either a JKA American Federation membership card or passport.  Brown and black belts must have a JKA passport.  All other kyu ranks may have either a card or a passport.  Members who lose or allow their passports to expire will have to purchase a new passport.

​KYU – TESTING will take place four times a year during the second week of FEBRUARY – MAY – AUGUST- NOVEMBER
​DAN – TESTING will take place twice a year JUNE – AUGUST

What examiners look for during testing.
10-7 kyu–Examiners look for correct basic form.
​6-4 Kyu–Examiners look for correct basic form, correct pivoting of the hips during renzoku-waza, and clear grasp of the hand techniques.
3-1 kyu. Examiners look for correct basic form, correct pivoting of the hips during renzoku-waza, clear grasp of the hand techniques, ease and naturalness of execution, speed, powerful kime, smooth transition and instantaneous dynamic elasticity of delivery.
​1st- Dan.Examiners look for correct basic form, correct pivoting of the hips during renzoku-waza, clear grasp of the hand techniques, ease and naturalness of execution, speed, powerful kime, smooth transition and instantaneous dynamic elasticity of delivery, basic understanding and functional ability in foundation techniques of karate.
​2nd-Dan. Examiners look for correct basic form, correct pivoting of the hips during renzoku-waza, clear grasp of the hand techniques, ease and naturalness of execution, speed, powerful kime, smooth transition and instantaneous dynamic elasticity of delivery, basic understanding and functional ability in foundation techniques of karate.
3-4th Dan. Examiners look for correct basic form, correct pivoting of the hips during renzoku-waza, clear grasp of the hand techniques, ease and naturalness of execution, speed, powerful kime, smooth transition and instantaneous dynamic elasticity of delivery, understanding and mastery of all karate techniques, understanding and philosophy of karate, ability to apply fundamentals and functional aspects in practice and ability to instruct.  Also examiners look for high level of mastery of karate techniques and ability to apply technique in one’s unique way.
​​5-6th-Dan. Examiners look for correct basic form, correct pivoting of the hips during renzoku-waza, clear grasp of the hand techniques, ease and naturalness of execution, speed, powerful kime, smooth transition and instantaneous dynamic elasticity of delivery, understanding and mastery of all karate techniques, understanding and philosophy of karate, ability to apply fundamentals and functional aspects in practice and ability to instruct. Click for JKA Kyu and Dan Rank Testing Requirements and Certification System