Licensing Information

Step-by-Step on how to become a licensed official within Karate Ontario.

Karate Ontario holds Official Clinics throughout the year, providing Ontario officials and everyone who seeks to become one with an opportunity to learn and advance the knowledge of the Karate competition rules for Kata and Kumite.

Twice per year testing for Kata and Kumite licensing occurs at the end of the clinic session.

Each of the tests (separate for Kata and Kumite) consists of two parts:

• The theory and practice test
• The theory test is an online test and is based on the official WKF examination questions, which can be found HERE.

A minimum of 90% on the Theory test is required for obtaining any of the Kata Judge qualifications; a minimum of 80% on the Theory test is required or Kumite Judge B and a minimum of 90% for Kumite Referee B or A.

Once the candidate passes the Theory test, their practical skills are tested either at the clinic with elite athletes participating or at a tournament following the completion of the clinic. The practical test results are reviewed by the Official Committee, which gives final approval of the candidate’s new qualification.

Karate Ontario holds Official Clinics throughout the year, providing Ontario officials and everyone who seeks to become one with an opportunity to learn and advance the knowledge of the Karate competition rules for Kata and Kumite. Twice per year testing for Kata and Kumite licensing occurs at the end of the clinic session.

As a prerequisite to becoming a licensed official in the province of Ontario, candidates must be members of the Karate Ontario, as well as:

• Be at least 16 years old and have a minimum rank of brown belt (1stKyu) in karate to qualify for Kumite Judge B

or

• Be at least 17 years old and hold a minimum rank of Sho-dan in karate for Kata Judge B.

Progressing to the next level(s) of qualifications in Kumite will require a minimum rank of Sho-dan.

Once obtained, an Official must renewed their license every two years by attending an Official Clinic and taking a Theory test.

Internationally licensed Officials with active and valid licenses are exempt from confirmatory Theory examinations when renewing their KO license.

Have a question?

Contact our Officials Committee for more information.