How to Be a Certified Racket Stringer

To become a certified racket stringer with the United States Racquet Stringers Association, you must be a competent stringer and pass an exam. The test not only covers the skills necessary to string a racket, it also tests your product knowledge. Having this certification shows employers and consumers that you have the expertise to provide a quality stringing service.

Things You'll Need

  • Stringing machine with clamps
  • Stringing tools
  • Racket string
  • Replacement grips
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Instructions

    • 1

      Contact a certified USRSA master racket technician who is willing to give private stringing lessons. The USRSA website lists MRTs who are willing to provide lessons. Plan on taking several lessons to learn the basic principles and techniques of racket stringing. Also learn how to install grommets, change the size of a grip, and customize a racket's balance and weight. These topics are covered on the certification exam.

    • 2

      Buy a stringing machine, the necessary tools, several packages of racket string and several replacement grips. The cost for stringing machines range from $100 to well over $6,000. A cost estimate for getting started with a good machine is between $800 and $1,200 depending on how many supplies you purchase. Practice stringing many different types of rackets and installing new replacement grips on the handles.

    • 3

      Sign up, register and pay the necessary fees for the certification exam. The testing fee is $250 if you are not a USRSA member or $150 for members. The fee to become a member is $119 per year. This can be done through the USRSA website. Read all the information in the USRSA's study guide, also found on the site. Become familiar with the different manufacturers and the various technologies used to make tennis rackets. Understand the format of the test and what is required in each section.

    • 4

      Take a strung racket with you to the test site. The racket must be in good condition and less than 3 years old. It must accommodate a two-piece stringing procedure. You must also take a new replacement bumper and grommet strip for the racket.

    • 5

      Adhere to the time limitations for each section of the test. You are given 90 minutes for the written section; 20 minutes to cut out the strings, and remove and replace the grommets and bumper guard; 60 minutes to string the racket; and 20 minutes to change the handle size and install a new grip.

    • 6

      Score a minimum grade of 84 percent each on the written, racket evaluation and stringing sections. A score of 14 out of 17 is required on the section involving string removal, grommet removal and the installation of the new grommets. No errors are allowed on the handle resizing and regripping section of the test.

    • 7

      Wait for your results. This may take up to four weeks from the date of your test.