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Judging Levels

At Innovative Martial Arts Systems, we believe that exceptional judges create exceptional experiences. Our mission is to empower our judges to grow, lead, and stand as the gold standard in the martial arts world. We’re committed to providing the training, support, and community needed to sharpen your eye, elevate your confidence, and help you make every ring you step into fair, focused, and professional. Together, we’re raising the bar—because great judges don’t just watch the action… they shape the future of competition.

Requirements for Ring Assistant

  • Rank requirement: NO Rank Requirement 

  • Minimum age requirement: 12

  • Have attended 1 Zoom and 1 Live Meeting

Requirements for Level 1 Judge

  • Rank requirement: NO Rank Requirement 

  • Minimum age requirement: 12

  • Have attended: 1 Zoom and 1 Live Meeting

  • Complete the Level 1 Judges Exam

  • Judges 18 and older are not required to start as ring assistants 

Requirements for Level 2 Judge

  • Rank requirement: Black Belt and Above

  • Minimum age requirement: 14

  • Have attended: 2 Zoom and 2 Live Meetings as a Level 1 Judge

  • Have participated 2 IMAS events as a Level 1 Judge

  • Complete the Level 2 Judges Exam

Requirements for Level 3 Judge

  • Rank requirement: 2nd Degree Black Belt and Above 

  • Minimum age requirement: 16

  • Have attended 3 Zoom and 3 Live Meetings as a level 2 Judge

  • Have participated in 3 Events as a Level 2 Judge

  • Complete the Level 3 Judges Exam

Requirements for Level 4 Judge

  • New level to be introduced at IMAS 2026 Spring Nationals

  • Rank requirement: 3rd Degree and Above 

  • Age requirement: 21+

  • Have attended 6 Zoom and 6 Live Meetings

  • Have participated in 6 Events as a Level 3 Judge

  • Complete the Level 4 Judges Exam

  • Special class for level 4 prior to exam

  • Nomination by Judges Certification Committee 

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