Overview

FIDE certifies arbiters at two official levels: FIDE Arbiter (FA) and International Arbiter (IA). These are non-playing titles — they recognize expertise in administering chess tournaments under FIDE rules, not playing strength. Both titles are awarded by FIDE and listed on a person’s FIDE profile alongside any playing titles they may hold.

Official source note: FIDE arbiter title requirements are published in the FIDE Handbook (section on Titles, Ratings, and Regulations — Arbiter Titles). Requirements are updated periodically. See fide.com for current authoritative information.

FIDE Arbiter (FA)

The FA title is the entry-level FIDE arbiter certification. It recognizes that a person has:

• Passed a FIDE-approved arbiter seminar and examination
• Demonstrated foundational knowledge of FIDE Laws of Chess and tournament procedure
• Met the initial experience requirements

What an FA can do:

• Serve as arbiter at FIDE-rated open tournaments
• Serve as assistant arbiter at higher-level events
• Officiate at events that do not require an IA as chief arbiter

What an FA cannot do (without upgrade):

• Serve as chief arbiter at norm events (events where players can earn IM or GM norms) — these require an IA
• Serve as chief arbiter at FIDE championship events

The FA title is achievable for experienced club players, coaches, and organizers with a solid understanding of FIDE rules and tournament management.

International Arbiter (IA)

The IA is the highest FIDE arbiter title. It is required at the most significant events in international chess.

What an IA can do:

• Serve as chief arbiter at any FIDE-rated event
• Serve as chief arbiter at norm tournaments (where IM/GM norms are at stake)
• Serve as chief arbiter at FIDE championship events, including zonal tournaments and World Cup qualifiers
• Be assigned by FIDE to major international events

Requirements for IA (general):

• Hold the FA title
• Direct or assist at a significant number of FIDE-rated events, including events at a higher category level
• Meet FIDE’s documented experience criteria
• Apply through the national federation with supporting evidence of experience

Earning the IA title requires years of active arbiting experience at progressively higher-level events. It is a significant credential in the international chess community.

Comparison

Feature	FIDE Arbiter (FA)	International Arbiter (IA)
Entry level	Yes	No (requires FA first)
Can direct open FIDE events	Yes	Yes
Can direct norm events (as chief)	No	Yes
Can direct championships	Limited	Yes
Required for World Championship events	No	Yes
Typical path	Seminar + exam + basic experience	Years of experience + FA title

Where Arbiters Are Listed

FIDE maintains a publicly searchable database of all certified arbiters at fide.com. You can search by name or country to find certified arbiters in your region.

In the US, USCF also maintains information about FIDE-certified arbiters among its members.

Are These the Only FIDE Official Titles?

No — FIDE also awards titles for organizers and trainers:

• International Organizer (IO): For experienced tournament organizers
• FIDE Trainer (FT) and other trainer titles: For chess coaches at various levels

These follow separate certification paths distinct from arbiter titles. See fide.com for full details.

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Also see: How to Become a FIDE Arbiter | How to Become a USCF Tournament Director | USCF Tournament Director Certification Levels