How to Become a Soccer Referree

With the proper certification, athletes and soccer fans can become professional referees.

Whether a seasoned soccer player or an avid fan of the sport, many individuals are eager to study, train, and become certified as a soccer referee. Fortunately, the US Soccer and FIFA International Soccer organizations allow for interested individuals to train for careers as soccer referees by acquiring proper certification and experience. Determine the regulations in effect within your State Soccer Association and complete the proper training required, to become a certified, professional soccer referee.

Instructions

1. Contact your local chapter of the US Soccer State Associations. Ask for informational brochures and information regarding referee training and certification courses, as well as state-specific regulation literature.

2. Register for a referee training and certification program in your local area. Expect to train for one intensive week with other aspiring referees, reviewing the rules of soccer and mastering the proper gestures, phrasing, and etiquette while working as a referee.

3. Continue your referee training at home by studying the FIFA "Laws of the Game" manual, published annually.

4. Register for a locally-administered referee exam. Contact your local chapter of the US Soccer State Associations to obtain an updated testing schedule.

5. Take the referee examination, which will most likely include a physical fitness test, a written test on soccer regulations. After passing the exam, obtain proper documentation that validates your mastery as a licensed soccer referee.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that you meet the minimum age requirement: all certified soccer referees must be 13 years of age or older.

• Remember that each year, you must update your certification and pay the $40 referee registration fee. (See Reference 1)

References

• Maryland Soccer Referees: Entry Level Referee Courses
• National Intercollegiate Soccer Officials Association; 2010 NISOA National Referee Program Certification and Recertification; December 18, 2009
• American Youth Soccer Association: Becoming a Referee - Keeping the Game Safe, Fair and Fun

Resources

• US Soccer: State Association Contact Information
• FIFA: Laws of the Game, 2010-2011