From white to black: how long it takes and what changes at each belt
Minimum time for each rank, required age and why the journey usually takes more than eight years.
The question every white belt asks: how long until black? The short answer is that it depends on consistency, but there are minimum times set by the IBJJF for adults.
Minimum time per belt
- Blue: minimum of 2 years before moving up to purple
- Purple: minimum of 1 and a half years
- Brown: minimum of 1 year
- Black: minimum age of 19
In practice, most athletes take between 8 and 12 years of regular training to reach black belt.
The stripes
Each belt has up to four stripes, the white bands on the rank bar. They mark progress within the same color and serve as a gauge for both the student and the instructor.
What really changes
At blue belt you learn to survive. At purple you start building your game. At brown you refine it and teach. At black, the learning starts over.
Read also
IBJJF scoring: the quick guide to not losing a match on the details
Takedown, sweep, pass, mount and back. How much each position is worth and what the referee needs to see.
How to choose your first gi without throwing money away
Fabric weight, weave, size and the sizing mistake almost every beginner makes.
Tournament week: what to eat and what to avoid
Simple food, good hydration and no trying new foods the day before your match.