Induction into the National Four-String Banjo Hall of Fame is open to any individual (living or deceased), musical group or company whose career accomplishments have made a significant and positive impact on either the art or industry of the four-string banjo.  The Hall of Fame nomination and election process is conducted by the Board of Directors of the American Banjo Museum, a nonprofit organization located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Each year, the Museum Board has the opportunity to make up to four nominations in each of the following five categories:

• Performance/ Contemporary (living)
• Performance/Historical (deceased)
• Instruction & Education
• Design & Manufacture
• Promotion

Suggestions for nomination to the Hall of Fame may be made by anyone at any time.  At its annual May meeting, the ABM Board of Directors reviews suggestions for nomination made throughout the previous year. The Board also reviews suggestions for nomination from previous years as well as previous nominees which had not been elected to the Hall of Fame.  Following discussion, the Board makes its Hall of Fame nominations for the categories listed above.  While there may be up to four nominations in each category, the Board is not obliged to make any nomination in any category.  Nominations are announced immediately following the meeting.

To allow ample time for discussion and consideration, the actual election to the Hall of Fame takes place at the annual September meeting of the ABM Board of Directors.  The voting body consists of the Museum Board as well as the living members of the Hall of Fame and lifetime members of the ABM association.  Following final discussions, voting takes place by secret ballot with those voting in person not being made aware of the results of absentee ballots until the final results are tabulated.  If they so choose, electors have the option of abstaining from a particular vote by selecting the “none of the above” option included along with the nominees in any particular category on the ballot.  As such, the possibility exists of no one being elected to the Hall of Fame in a particular category even though there may be nominees in that category.

Elected Hall of Fame inductees are contacted as soon as possible following the voting. Induction ceremonies are held the following spring in Oklahoma City.

To insure an ample number of worthy candidates in each category for many years to come, by design, the Hall of Fame nomination and election process is a lengthy affair.  Each year the Board is asked to make many difficult decisions which they feel best reflect the mission of the Hall of Fame and American Banjo Museum.  As such, the understanding of the process and patience of those making suggestions for nomination is most appreciated.