How to Get a USCF Chess Rating (Even If You’re a Total Beginner)

So you’ve been playing online. You’ve beaten your friends. And now you’re asking: How do I get a real chess rating in the United States?
Not an online number. A real one. A USCF rating.

Here’s how to do it, step by step. No stress. No confusion. Let’s go.

Step 1: Join the USCF

To get a USCF rating, you need to be a member of the United States Chess Federation.

Go to this link: new.uschess.org/join-us-chess

Choose the membership that fits you:

• Youth (if you’re under 19)
• Adult
• Family (discounts if more than one person in your family plays)

You’ll get a USCF ID number. That’s the number used to track your rating.

Step 2: Find a Rated Tournament

Next, you need to play in a rated over-the-board tournament.
These are real games, in person, with clocks and scoresheets.

Where do you find them?

• Visit new.uschess.org/upcoming-tournaments
• Ask your local chess club
• Check your state chess federation’s website (like CalChess, Texas Chess, etc.)

Look for tournaments marked “USCF-rated.”
You must play in one of those. Otherwise, your rating won’t be calculated.

Step 3: Play and Get Rated

Now comes the fun part. You play.

You don’t need to win. Just show up and play your games.
After your first few games, you’ll be given a provisional rating.

Provisional means: your rating isn’t fully stable yet. It changes fast.
Usually after 4 games, your rating starts to settle.

Let’s say you beat a player rated 1200. You might get a high rating right away.
Lose all your games? No problem. You’ll still get a rating. It might be around 300 to 600 depending on your opponents.

The USCF rating system just needs a few games to figure out your level.

Step 4: Check Your Rating Online

After the tournament, go to: uschess.org/msa

Type in your USCF ID or name. You’ll see:

• Your current rating
• Your tournament history
• Your win-loss-draw record

It usually takes a few days for the results to show up. Be patient.

What to Expect at First

• Your rating will jump up and down in the beginning. That’s normal.
• After 25 games, your rating becomes established and changes more slowly.
• A “good” starting rating? Anywhere between 600 and 1200 is common.
• Some strong kids start at 1600. That’s okay too.
• Don’t compare. Focus on your own journey.

Tips for Your First Tournament

• Bring a pen, a chess clock (if you have one), and snacks.
• Don’t worry about winning. Just learn from each game.
• Ask the tournament director if you’re unsure about anything.
• Stay calm. Everyone was new once.

If you want to learn more about how USCF ratings work, check out this article: USCF Chess Ratings Explained: How to Gain (or Lose) Points in Every Game

Good luck on your chess journey.