IJF Dan Rank Validation Requirement

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by Bill Kellick

The International Judo Federation (IJF) has issued new worldwide Dan rank requirements designed to establish a consistent ranking system across all member nations.

One of the most significant changes is that all athletes, coaches, and referees who are registered in Judobase, or who intend to compete or participate in any IJF event, must have their rank validated by the IJF no later than December 31, 2026.

Please note that the attached IJF document references a September 2026 deadline. However, USA Judo has received official notification from the IJF that this deadline has been extended to December 31, 2026.

Failure to obtain IJF rank validation by this date will make you ineligible to participate in IJF events.

Please also be aware that:

  • IJF rank validation is separate from USA Judo rank recognition or validation.
  • The IJF charges a separate validation fee, which is paid in addition to any USA Judo fees.
  • The application must be completed by the athlete, coach, or referee and submitted to USA Judo.
  • After USA Judo reviews the application and verifies the appropriate fees have been received, it will be forwarded to the Panamerican Judo Confederation (PJC).
  • The PJC will review and approve the application before forwarding it to the IJF for final validation.
What This Means for You
If you are an athlete, coach, or referee and plan to participate in any IJF event after December 31, 2026, you must have your Dan rank validated by the IJF before that date.

USA Judo encourages everyone who requires IJF validation to begin the process as early as possible to avoid delays and ensure eligibility for future international events.

If you currently hold a verified USA Judo dan rank, please use the following link to submit your IJF Rank application and fee. Application for IJF Rank Recognition.

If you do not currently hold a verified USA Judo dan rank certificate, you must go through the USA Judo rank process to receive a USA Judo rank.  Once the dan is verified, you can submit your IJF application form and fee using the link: Application for IJF Rank Recognition.

Cost:

1st and 2nd dan grade: $150
From 3rd to 5th dan grade: $200
6th dan grade: $250
7th dan grade: $300
8th and 9th dan grade: $350
10th dan grade: no financial contribution

Application for IJF Rank Recognition