Hello, In our system, All Instructors can promote everyone up to brown belt. Everyone has to complete a list of things in each level to accomplish. All their records are sent in to the Professor and must get his approval before rewarding those students belts.
For Black Belt testing: Done twice a year, In Las Vegas at the Annual Seminar in June and in Oahu-Hawaii , August,up above Pearl City,(It is a hike and test in the forest clearing). I did it for my Ist Degree.
All testing is done in front of the Professor and his many Chief Instructors.
Usually about 4 hours long. Not always the same....our Professor sometimes make changes as we are testing. (Always be prepare for the unexpected.) If you pass your Black Belt it is awarded at the very end of the testing.
Testing at the Seminar: We have training for three days. For those who are testing in the evening. (4 hours) usually finish by mid-night.....Aloha