All Beginners start out with a white belt. As you become more proficient, you will earn up to 4 stripes on your belt. At the time you would earn a 5th stripe, instead you are presented with the next color of belt in the progression. Stripes are awarded as the instructor feels they have been earned.
Adults progress from white to blue, purple, brown, and then black belt.
Children progress from white to yellow, orange, and then green. Once a young person graduates to the adult class, depending on their skill, they may qualify for a blue belt.