Approved Electronic Notation Devices for Chess Tournaments

The Short Answer

Both USCF and FIDE allow electronic notation devices as an alternative to paper scoresheets, but the device must be approved by the tournament director and meet specific conditions. The most commonly approved approach is a dedicated chess scorekeeper device or app on a phone/tablet — used only for move recording, with all other functions disabled. Approval varies by event.

Official source note: Rules on electronic notation devices are updated periodically by both USCF and FIDE. Always check with the specific tournament director before using any device. Verify current policy at uschess.org and fide.com.

Why This Matters for Parents

Young players — especially those new to tournament chess — often struggle to write moves quickly and accurately in algebraic notation while also managing their clock and thinking about the position. This is a real skill that takes practice.

If a child is making consistent notation errors, an approved electronic device can reduce the burden while they develop the skill. However, approval from the tournament director is always required first.

What USCF Says

USCF rules permit the use of electronic scoresheet devices when approved by the tournament director. The TD has discretion to allow or disallow specific devices. General conditions that typically apply:

• The device must be used only for recording moves
• No communication functions active (no texting, calls, or internet)
• The device may not be used to receive assistance or look up positions
• The TD must approve the specific device before the round

Some USCF events have house rules that prohibit all electronic devices. Check the tournament announcement and ask the TD at registration.

What FIDE Says

FIDE allows electronic notation devices in certain categories of events, subject to arbiter approval. At major FIDE-rated events, the regulations are stricter — standard paper scoresheets are often required, particularly in classical time controls.

At most club-level FIDE-rated events, the arbiter has discretion. As with USCF, always ask before using any device.

Dedicated Chess Scorekeeper Devices

Some devices are purpose-built for chess scorekeeping:

DGT Boards: The DGT electronic board (used at professional events) records moves automatically as pieces are moved on the board’s sensors. These are used at elite tournaments and are not practical for most club players. They are FIDE-approved for use in official events.

Livechess and DGT software: DGT produces software that works with their electronic boards to record games. These are typically used by organizers, not individual players.

Chess scorekeeper apps: Several apps exist for tablets and smartphones (e.g., dedicated chess notation apps). Whether these are permitted depends entirely on the TD’s discretion. If the TD allows, the phone must be in airplane mode or have all non-notation functions disabled.

Practical Guidance for Parents

Ask the TD before the first round. Don’t assume a device is permitted. Approach the registration table, explain the situation, and ask if an electronic notation device is allowed and what the conditions are.

Bring paper scoresheets as a backup. Even if a device is approved, battery issues, software crashes, or a TD change mid-tournament can leave your child without a tool. Paper is always reliable.

Practice notation at home. The best long-term solution is to develop the skill. Spend a few practice sessions at home with a clock and scoresheet, writing moves while playing casual games. The mechanical skill becomes natural within a few weeks of consistent practice.

Notation errors are not catastrophic for beginners. In most scholastic events, minor notation errors are noted but don’t result in forfeit. The TD will typically warn a player before any penalty. Work on improving notation, but don’t let anxiety about it overshadow the game itself.

What Counts as an Error

Common notation mistakes that are correctable:

• Writing the wrong move (caught during a dispute, can be reconstructed)
• Missing a move (leaving a blank row)
• Writing moves in the wrong column

A player who falls more than 5 moves behind in notation may be warned by the TD. In serious cases (deliberately not keeping score), more significant penalties can apply. In practice, beginners are given guidance rather than penalties.

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Also see: How to Write Chess Notation | Free Printable Chess Scoresheet | What Is a Tournament Director?

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find the official USCF rulebook?

The official USCF rulebook is available at uschess.org. The current edition is the 7th Edition of Official Rules of Chess. For the most current rules, always check the USCF website directly.

Where can I find the official FIDE laws of chess?

The FIDE Laws of Chess are published at fide.com. FIDE updates the Laws periodically. The current version includes both the standard Laws and additional rules for specific time controls (rapid, blitz).

Do USCF and FIDE rules differ?

Yes, in several areas. The most common differences relate to touch-move interpretation, illegal move penalties, and clock-related rules. If you play in both USCF and FIDE-rated events, familiarize yourself with both sets of rules. This site notes which federation's rules apply where relevant.