In our system, we go in the following order: White, Yellow, Orange, Green, Blue, Red/Brown, then Black. The kids earn their 1st Gup (Black/Red), until they are of age to convert to 1st Dan. We also require Red/Brown belts to teach others before promotion to Black Belt. My instructor does not believe in little tape stripes, so promotions tend to be slower. Having earned prior Black Belts, it took me 3 years to navigate from Yellow to 1st Degree. This is with constant training. Black Belt is not something one attains by belonging to a gym, but for training, training, training. I have taught Black Belts from other systems, and find for the most part, our system is more stringent in their promotions. Even though I have competed and won in Sports TKD competitions, I consider myself a Traditional Tae Kwon Do practitioner. Sport has it's place, but you need to master the Martial Art to be a true Black Belt. I encourage practitioners to visit other schools, improve your training, and study to improve yourself - particularly in your weak areas. You should also have a basic understanding of the History of your Art, and the culture it comes from.