Rank is a privilege, not a right, and is earned through hard work. These are the minimum requirements for each rank/grade. Quality of waza (technique) and gamanku (hip power) should also increase, and be commensurate with the grade. Yakusoku kimite (prearranged sparring drills) are also required after Shodan, but are not listed here. To be eligible for promotion a student must be a member in good standing with the U.S. Headquarters.
Gokyu (white belt) - Beginner
Yonkyu (white belt) - Mézato no Tekko, 6 months at Gokyu
Sankyu (green belt) - Chikin Shitahaku no Sai, 6 months at Yonkyu
Nikyu (brown belt) - Shushi no Kon Sho, 6 months at Sankyu
Ikkyu/Shodan-Ho (brown belt) - Mézato no Nunchaku, 6 months at Nikyu
Shodan (black belt) - Sakugawa no Kon Sho, 2 previous kata, Bo Tai Sai Kumite, 1 year at Ikkyu
Nidan - Hamahiga no Tonfa, Shushi no Kon Dai, Chatan Yara no Sai, 2 years at Shodan
Sandan - Kanegawa no Tinbe, Sakugawa no Kon Dai, Hamahiga no Sai, 3 years at Nidan
Yondan - Kanegawa no Nichogama, Yuniga no Kon, Kugushiku no Sai, 4 years at Sandan
Godan - Chikin Sunakake no Kon (Ekku), Shirotaru no Kon, Tawada no Sai, 5 years at Yondan