International Isshin-Ryu Karate Association IIKA Rank Requirements Listed below are the IIKA's Rank Requirements (minimum promotion standards) for our membership once a Karate-Ka reaches the Black Belt level. We firmly believe our new system of rank award will strengthen our association as it further prepares up and coming Karate-Ka for leadership roles within our association as well as in the Isshinryu community. Enhancing the standards of proficiency is a positive step forward and further serves to position our organization among other well respected and revered martial arts associations worldwide. Please take time to familiarize yourself with these standards. Instructors should also note when considering promotions that unless the minimum standards are followed as presented below, the IIKA will not issue an association certificate of rank until such time as is governed under the new guidelines. Rank Requirements Sho-Dan 3 years minimum Ni-Dan 2 years minimum San-Dan 3 years minimum Yo-Dan 3 years minimum Go-Dan 3 years minimum Roku-Dan 5 years (minimum age 35) Shichi-Dan 5 years minimum Hachi-Dan 5 years minimum Ku-Dan Board approval (minimum age 55) Ju-Dan Board approval