PJC Dan

 

Logo PJCPan American Judo ConfederationPan American Dan Grade SystemOfficial continental framework for the validation, registration and international processing of Dan grades, in strict compliance with the International Judo Federation (IJF).Who applies. The National Federation submits the application to the PJC. Here you will find the process, the requirements and the official documents.
The nature of the Dan grade

Dan grades represent the comprehensive progress of the judoka. According to the IJF educational principles, they are based on three pillars:

体TaiBody Reflected in the evaluation of the individual through their efficiency in practice, execution of techniques and sporting results throughout their career.技GiTechnique Represents intellectual work and deep understanding. Evaluated through technical and tactical knowledge, Kata and the historical culture of judo.心ShinSpirit The defining pillar for High Grades. Reflected in social commitment, positive influence and exemplary behavior inside and outside the dojo.
How the validation process works

To ensure traceability and international recognition, the PJC has established a clear process that National Federations must follow.

1National applicationMember National Federations (NF) officially submit the application. The NF President certifies that the candidate meets all technical and administrative requirements.2Mandatory documentationThe IJF Qualification Validation Form (Annex III) is completed and submitted. All documentation and the form are submitted in English.3Continental validationThe PJC receives the application. After verification, it carries out the continental validation and forwards it to the IJF.4Registration and certificationOnce the corresponding fees are paid, the PJC enters the judoka in the Pan American Register and issues the official Dan Certificate with international recognition.

Check the age and minimum time requirements for each grade, and get your PJC Dan in the official store.

Buy PJC DanAge and time requirements (Excel)
Implementation and transition
2026 Implementation International recognition will be strictly mandatory for:All Dan grades awarded from January 1, 2026.Athletes registered in Judobase (senior competitions).IJF referees, judges and coaches.2026–27 Transition To help National Federations adapt, the IJF has established a transition period that includes:Simplified examination procedures and formats.Progressive implementation of the new regulations until September 2026.IJF categories (A, B, C, D) mandatory for applications from 6th Dan.
Official downloads

Forms, regulations and technical programs needed to start the validation process.

PDFPJC Pan American Dan Grade SystemMain document governing the continental framework for the validation, registration and international processing of Dan grades in the Americas.Download PDFDOCMandatoryAnnex III: IJF Validation FormOfficial form to request continental validation and international recognition. Must be completed in English.Download WordPDFAnnex I: IJF Qualifications and Dan RegulationsOfficial IJF regulations. Details levels of authority, the administrative process and the fee structure.Download PDFPDFAnnex II: Rules for awarding gradesTechnical guide defining the study programs, required Katas, minimum ages and time requirements for grades from 1st to 10th Dan.Download PDF
See the judokas with Dan grades registered with the PJC and the IJF, by country.See the PJC - IJF Dan grade list