THE CHESS REFINERY
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how to become a TD.

Step 1:

Get a copy of the rule book. It's on Amazon. It's also partially available for download via USCF online: 
https://new.uschess.org/tournament-directors
1. Read it. Ask questions if needed.
2. Make sure you are a current USCF member (that's a must before being a TD).
3. Review all other requirements, here's the link: new.uschess.org/sites/default/files/media/documents/tdcertificationrules-june1-2024.pdf
​4. Then fill out the request to become a "club TD". Form found on this page: new.uschess.org/tournament-directors
5. Email USCF the filled out form to ​[email protected]

Step 2:

Familiarize yourself with pairing software. The most commonly used is SwissSys and/or WinTD. 
Here's a couple of links to some videos on how to navigate the software:
1. swisssys.com/videos.html
2. ​https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcB9nEGqXMrAxFDR_ZcqhzQ

Step 3:

Get yourself set up with an account on USCF website to gain access to the TD/Affiliate support area. Link below:
https://secure2.uschess.org/MembersOnly/MO_login.php
Once you have access, here's the link to the TD/Affiliate area: ​https://secure2.uschess.org/TD_Affil/TD_login.php

Step 4:

Find a club affiliate or event organizer and volunteer to be a tournament director (TD) or organize and host your own events. =)

Other Resources:

Here's some PDF pair cards if anyone needs them!
pair_cards_small_5_round.pdf
File Size: 140 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

paircard_12rounds.pdf
File Size: 46 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

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  • Home
  • Upcoming Events
    • Houston Fall Championship 2025
    • Houston Fall Scholastic 10/25 >
      • STANDINGS 10-25-25
    • Texas Norm Super Swiss >
      • Registration Form
      • Norm CC Pmt
    • Casual Chess Meetups
    • Chess Map of Houston
    • King Registration
    • Liptrap's Page
    • Texas Tournaments
  • Player Info
    • Past Event Videos
    • Tournament History
    • Tournament Guidelines >
      • Social Media Opt-Out
    • Helpful Resources >
      • Tournament Newbie
      • Parent Guidelines
      • How to get a FIDE ID
      • Match Rules
      • All About Byes
      • Tiebreaks
      • 7th Edition Rules
      • Blitz Rules Cheatsheet
      • Beginner Scoresheet
      • Setting Chess Clocks
      • Rating Estimator
      • Rating Classes
      • Join USCF
      • USCF Member Search
      • GM/IM Membership Exemption
  • Contact Us
  • About TCR
    • Location & Hours
    • Donate
    • Info for TDs >
      • Tournament Director Policy