Becoming a referee is fairly simple – You first have to attend a clinic, take a test, buy a uniform and do your first game.

Becoming a United Sates Soccer Federation (USSF) referee grade 9 and 8 – Please note, this is not a school grade, but a classification grade: A person must attend a 15 hour entry level referee clinic/course. At the end of the clinic, the candidate must pass a written test by scoring a minimum of 75%. The candidate is then registered as a Grade 9 or 8 official and is given the USSF badge. The clinics are scheduled by leagues, local referee associations or clubs.

To find out when and where the next referee courses are review the list of Entry Level clinics (click on “Entry Level”. Select the one that fits your schedule and is close to you, register, and you are on your way!

The Uniform and Equipment

Now that you’ve passed the test and have registered with USSF it’s time to go out and buy your first uniform. The basic uniform for referees is a yellow shirt, black referee shorts, black socks with three stripes and shoes. Though there are several places to buy uniforms, USSF is officially sponsored by Official Sports Inc., (view website). In addition to a uniform, you will need a watch with a timer. You’ll need a whistle, a small book to keep score, a flipping coin, red and yellow cards and a set of flags. Now you ask yourself where do I get all this stuff. During the clinic your instructor will tell you where you can buy all this equipment.

Getting Games

You will need to register with an assignor, who can assign you games. You do this through GotSoccer. If you are unsure how to use GotSoccer, please go to New Referee Information.

Your First Year

Now that you have been on the field as a referee, gained valuable experience, learned how to blow the whistle properly, understand the importance of good positioning, communication, and applying the laws, now what. Every year you will be required to take a re-certification test and attend five hours of training. The training part you can usually get in your local referee association.

Referee Recertification

Every year you will be required to take a re-certification test and attend five hours of training. At the end of the clinic, the candidate must pass a written test by scoring a minimum of 75%.

To find out when and where the next referee courses are review the list of Recertification Referee Classes. Select the one that fits your schedule and is close to you, register.