How to Become A New Referee

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Referee Path

Three Steps to Becoming a Referee:

Step 1:

Create an account on the US Soccer Learning Center website: https://learning.ussoccer.com/referee
If you are over 18 years old, you will also need to complete a background check BEFORE you can register for any referee courses (the cost is usually around $30 and the background check is good for 2 years). It is recommended that people for whom this applies begin the process at least 2 to 3 weeks BEFORE the course date. US Soccer policy states that NO ONE can attend any in-person session unless the background check has cleared.

Step 2:

Register for any New Referee class, complete the Online Modules
You’ll need to finish the online training modules before attending the in-person class. You can do the modules at your own pace, and you can stop/start as often as you’d like. The modules usually take about 4 hours total to complete.

Step 3:

Attend an in-person session.
Each New Referee class has an in-person session where you will learn the basics of signals, positioning, how to use a whistle, and other referee-related skills. You will be asked to bring your whistle and a flag to the in-person clinic. Once the in-person clinic is completed and you’ve finished the online modules, you become a registered referee.
As of July 1, 2019, US Soccer has instituted a ruling that certified referees (those working Competitive games) must be 13 years old. There are no age restrictions for individuals who wish to officiate Recreational games. Rhode Island (in conjunction with US Soccer) offers an entry-level program for individuals interested in becoming a referee. No prior experience is required, however, you will have a better chance of successful completion with a basic understanding of the game. Entry-level referees will start as a Grassroots Referee and will be taught a basic understanding of the Laws of Games adequate for officiating at the recreational and low-level competitve matches.
Things to Note:1) The New Referee Course consists of online modules – that is part of the US Soccer Learning Center system, and the last module will be a field session. It is very helpful to have all Learning Center modules completed before the Field Session - in this way when you complete the field session, you'll walk away with your referee badge!!! 2) All interested participants aged 18 and older will need to complete the background check BEFORE you can register for this course. Be advised that background checks normally take 7-10 business days to complete. 3) if for any reason a participant decides to withdraw from the course after paying for the registration, RISRC will typically refund $40. 4) As far as referee unform goes, you could purchase your referee uniform from Official Sports (officialsports.com). We suggest that you buy a YELLOW shirt (long sleeve or short sleeve is up to you). You do not need your uniform for the Field Session (although it does help) but you DEFINITELY NEED A WHISTLE!!! If you wish to buy a second referee shirt (as an alternate) we suggest Black or Red. Please let us know if you have any questions!
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