United State Chess Federation Membership
In order to play in rated chess tournaments, you must become a member of the United States Chess Federation (USCF). This membership gives you the right to earn a chess rating in the official national rating system. The chess rating system is used to calculate the approximate ability of the player, based on his or her performance against other players. When you win games at a tournament, your rating will go up. When you lose games at a tournament, your rating will go down. This rating stays with you throughout your life, regardless if you keep your USCF membership current.