How does one become a FIDE Arbiter?
Becoming a chess arbiter typically involves obtaining certification from a recognized chess organization or federation, such as FIDE (the World Chess Federation) or US Chess (the United States Chess Federation).
The specific requirements and process for becoming a chess arbiter can vary depending on the organization or country. However, in general, here are some steps you can take to become a chess arbiter:
Learn the rules of chess: A good understanding of the rules of chess is essential for a chess arbiter. Study the rules thoroughly and practice applying them in real games.
Gain tournament experience: To become a chess arbiter, you need to have experience in organizing and running chess tournaments. Start by participating in local tournaments as a player or volunteer.
Attend a chess arbiter training course: Many chess organizations offer training courses for prospective arbiters. These courses cover the rules and regulations of chess, as well as the duties and responsibilities of an arbiter.
Pass an exam: After completing the training course, you will typically need to pass an exam to become certified as an arbiter.
Gain practical experience: Once you are certified, gain practical experience by working as an arbiter at local and regional tournaments. This will help you develop your skills and gain confidence in your abilities.
Maintain your certification: To maintain your certification as a chess arbiter, you will need to keep up to date with changes in the rules and regulations of chess and participate in continuing education courses and training programs.
The FIDE (World Chess Federation) has specific criteria for becoming a FIDE Arbiter, which include the following:
Age: A candidate for FIDE Arbiter must be at least 18 years old.
Chess knowledge: The candidate must have a thorough knowledge of the laws of chess, as well as the tournament regulations and FIDE rating system.
Experience: The candidate must have experience as an arbiter in at least three tournaments that comply with FIDE regulations.
Recommendation: The candidate must be recommended by his or her national chess federation or by a FIDE licensed arbiter.
Training: The candidate must successfully complete a FIDE Arbiter Seminar, which covers the laws of chess, the role of the arbiter, tournament organization, and other relevant topics.
Examination: After completing the seminar, the candidate must pass a written examination to demonstrate his or her knowledge of the laws of chess and other relevant regulations.
Language: The candidate must have a good knowledge of English or French, as these are the official languages of FIDE.
Ethics: The candidate must have a good reputation and adhere to the principles of fair play, sportsmanship, and integrity.
Once these criteria are met, the candidate can apply to FIDE for the title of FIDE Arbiter. Upon approval, the candidate will receive a FIDE Arbiter's title and can work as an arbiter in FIDE-rated tournaments.
To become a FIDE Arbiter, a candidate must earn a certain number of points from arbitrating tournaments. The required number of points varies depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications. The current FIDE regulations for earning the title of FIDE Arbiter are as follows:
Candidate Arbiter (CA): A Candidate Arbiter is an arbiter who has completed a FIDE Arbiter Seminar and passed the written examination, but has not yet earned any arbiting experience points. To become a FIDE Arbiter, a CA must earn at least 20 experience points from arbiting at FIDE-rated or approved tournaments.
National Arbiter (NA): A National Arbiter is an arbiter who has earned at least 20 experience points and has been certified by his or her national chess federation. To become a FIDE Arbiter, an NA must earn at least 40 additional experience points, for a total of 60.
FIDE Arbiter (FA): A FIDE Arbiter is an arbiter who has earned at least 60 experience points and has been certified by FIDE. To become an International Arbiter (IA), an FA must earn at least 100 additional experience points, for a total of 160.
International Arbiter (IA): An International Arbiter is an arbiter who has earned at least 160 experience points and has been certified by FIDE.
Experience points are awarded based on the type and level of tournament arbitrated, with higher-level tournaments earning more points. For example, a Category 1 tournament earns 1 point per round, while a Category 17 tournament earns 6 points per round. In addition, bonus points may be awarded for arbiting at international tournaments, for working as a chief arbiter or deputy chief arbiter, or for participating in FIDE Arbiter Seminars or other training programs.
Overall, becoming a chess arbiter requires a combination of knowledge, experience, and dedication. It can be a rewarding and challenging career for those who love chess and are passionate about promoting fair play and sportsmanship in the game.