Aloha and congratulations on being considered for promotion in Aikido.  This page will guide you through the process of preparing for and meeting the requirements for promotion.  Please follow the steps below and reach out to testing@hawaii-aikido.org if you need any assistance.

1. Promotion requirements.  Click here to view the specific test requirements for the rank you are applying for.  Note that the Aikido technique requirements do not apply if you are being promoted by recommendation of the HAF Chief Instructor (this is very rare).  If you are being promoted by examination (most common), you are encouraged to start memorizing the required techniques.  Your instructor will allocate time for you to practice them during your normal class time.

2. Promotion fees.  Click here to view the current fees for the rank you are applying for.  These fees support the Hawaii Aikido Federation and, if you choose to become a member, the Aikikai in Japan.  Please read the fee schedule carefully as the amounts vary based on whether you are seeking promotion by examination or recommendation and whether or not you decide to register with the Aikikai.  Aikikai registration is voluntary until the rank of 1st Dan, though it is highly recommended for anyone who is being promoted to 5th Kyu through 1st Kyu.  It does not apply to the children's ranks of 8th through 6th Kyu. Joining the Aikikai shows your support for the organization that founded Aikido and will gain you ranking certificates that come from Japan and are written in Japanese calligraphy. Your instructor will let you know when to pay the fees and who to make your check payable to (some  dojos may consolidate payments to HAF). If you wish to pay by credit or debit card, send an email to promo@hawaii-aikido.org and you will be provided instructions as to how to pay.

3. Promotion registration.  Click here to complete an online form that gathers the required information for processing your promotion. Please register as soon as you are able to so that we have sufficient lead time to prepare the necessary paperwork.