Free tool
Dan Waiting Time Calculator
Enter your current dan and the date you earned it to see the earliest next test date.
Reviewed by Daniel Reyes, 4th dan Kukkiwon, 18 years teaching | Last checked: October 26, 2026Kukkiwon sets a minimum wait between dan ranks: 1 year from 1st to 2nd Dan, 2 years from 2nd to 3rd, 3 years from 3rd to 4th and 4 years from 4th to 5th. This calculator adds that time to your promotion date. Your examiner confirms age and teaching requirements.
Find your next test date
Pick your rank and date.
The waiting times
| From | To | Minimum wait |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Dan | 2nd Dan | 1 year |
| 2nd Dan | 3rd Dan | 2 years |
| 3rd Dan | 4th Dan | 3 years |
| 4th Dan | 5th Dan | 4 years |
Higher ranks add minimum ages and teaching hours. Read Kukkiwon certification for how the application works and black belt ranks for the full Dan ladder. If you hold a Poom, see the Poom belt guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long between black belt degrees?
One year from 1st to 2nd Dan, two from 2nd to 3rd, three from 3rd to 4th and four from 4th to 5th.
Can I test early?
Not for a Kukkiwon Dan. The minimum wait is set by Kukkiwon.
Does this apply to ITF or ATA?
No. ITF and ATA set their own waiting times.