Rules:

1. Kyu ranks are not required for to pass scriptures before promotion. If the kyu rank recites the scripture, they receive a promotion certificate and the promotion is recorded. 
2. A kyu  student has a minimum two years requirement in brown belt before they’re eligible for Shodan testing.
3. Scriptures are required prior to black belt testing. A third black stripe will be placed upon the candidates belt when this is accomplished.
4. Foot washing ceremony is mandatory.
5. A black stone placed in the receptacle, during the secret ballot during the balck belt testing for Shodan test, signifies that the member of the balck belt testing panel passes the Shodan candidate.
6. A white stone placed in the receptacle, during the secret ballot during the balck belt testing for Shodan test, signifies that the member of the balck belt testing panel fails the Shodan candidate.
7. The highest ranking member of the panel counts the stones and is checked by a second.
8. If the student has less that 50% black stones he/she fails the exam.
9. The black belt testing panel will meet and decide if the candidate will be given temporary status and a list of things that must be corrected. The panel may also fail the candidate without temporary status. 
10. If the black belt candidate performs the list of corrected items he/she may be promoted to the rank of Shodan at the completion of said tasks. This should occur within one year of testing . After one year, the student will be dropped back to brown belt. This may be appealed by the student if there are special circumstances the impede this requirement.