Referee Resources

How To Become A Referee

Registration for the Course

To get started, visit the U.S. Soccer Learning Center and follow these steps:

  1. Click the Referee Program tab.
  2. Select Register for a Course.
  3. On the left panel, choose First-Time Referees.
  4. Click Go to Course List.
  5. Use the Location or Host dropdown to select your state.
  6. Browse the list and find a course near you.
  7. Enroll and pay the course fee.

Once registered, you can begin the online course at your own pace.

Important: If you are 18 years or older, you are also required to complete the SafeSport Training modules and a Background Check. These cover abuse awareness and prevention and are a mandatory part of the certification process.

After The Course

Once you’ve successfully completed the online referee course, you may be required to attend an in-person session to finalize your certification. This hands-on class typically covers field mechanics, positioning, and practical applications of the rules you’ve learned. After completing both the online and in-person components, your registration will be finalized and you’ll receive your official referee badge. At this point, you’re ready to begin officiating matches.

Signing up for Stack Officials

Once you’re certified, you’ll need to create an account on StackOfficials.com, the platform used for game assignments and communication.

  1. Go to stackofficials.com and click ‘Sign Up.’
  2. Fill out your personal information and create a username and password.
  3. Complete your referee profile and contact info.

After registering, reach out to your local assignor to let them know you’re ready to officiate. They’ll connect you with upcoming games and guide you through the assignment process.

Recertification

Referees must recertify each year to stay eligible for assignments. Recertification courses are offered through the U.S. Soccer Learning Center.

To recertify:

  1. Log in to your Learning Center account.
  2. Go to the ‘Referee Program’ tab and select ‘Register for a Course’.
  3. Choose ‘Recertifying Referee’ from the left menu.
  4. Find your state and select a course.

Complete the course and any additional requirements to maintain your badge for the next season.

Important: If you are 18 years or older, you are also required to complete the SafeSport Training modules. These cover abuse awareness and prevention and are a mandatory part of the certification process.

Junior Referee Program

Our Junior Referee Program, also known as Next Generation Referees, supported by U.S. Soccer and GA Soccer, provides young children under 13 with the opportunity to start officiating at an early age. Junior refs begin with small-sided or recreational games and are guided by mentors to build confidence and game knowledge.

While not yet USSF-certified, they gain valuable experience and can easily transition into full certification at age 13. It’s a great way to stay involved in the sport, develop leadership skills, and earn extra income.

Contact us to learn more or get started!

Referee Mentors

Referee Mentors play a vital role in helping new and developing officials succeed. They offer on-field guidance, post-game feedback, and ongoing support to build referee confidence, knowledge, and professionalism.

Mentors attend matches, observe performance, and help referees improve positioning, communication, and decision-making — all while creating a positive, encouraging environment.

If you’re an experienced referee interested in giving back to the community, we’d love to have you involved.

Contact us to learn more about becoming a mentor.

Uniforms

All referees are required to wear an official U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) uniform. Full kits can be purchased from reputable retailers such as Official Sports or Amazon.

Minimum Required Items:

  • USSF Referee Bedage (From completing certification through the U.S. Soccer Learning Center)
  • USSF Yellow Jersey
  • USSF Black Socks
  • USSF Black Shorts
  • Primarily Black Athletic Shoes
  • Whistle
  • Red & Yellow Cards
  • Stopwatch
  • Assistant Referee Flags
  • Coin (for coin toss)
  • Pen or Pencil (for match notes)

Additional items to have:

  • Alternate jersey colors (see below)
  • Extra Pen/Pencil

IMPORTANT:

Referees must have multiple jersey colors available in case of conflict with the playing teams. Jersey colors in order of preference are

  • Yellow
  • Green
  • Black
  • Blue
  • Red

All referees assigned to a game must wear the same color jersey.

    Professionalism matters.

    From the moment you arrive at the field, you are on duty. Our referees are expected to conduct themselves professionally at all times.

    Introducing TravelRef

    We’re excited to introduce TravelRef — a new platform built to make it easier for referees to discover and get accepted to tournaments across the country. TravelRef has officially launched, and we invite you to join and take full advantage of this valuable resource.

    Sign up today at TravelRef to start receiving tournament applications tailored to you. Feel free to share the site with fellow referees in your network — and we look forward to seeing you out on the field soon!

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Ask A Question
    • How do I become a certified referee?

    Start by registering for a Grassroots Referee Course on the U.S. Soccer Learning Center. You’ll complete online modules and may be required to attend an in-person session. After completion, you’ll receive your official USSF badge.

    • What equipment or uniform do I need?

    Referees are required to wear the official USSF uniform, including a yellow jersey, black shorts and socks, whistle, cards, and badge. It’s recommended to have multiple jersey colors in case of color conflicts.

    • Who do I contact for questions about assignments or availability?

    You should contact your local assignor. MARA works with multiple clubs and assignors, so make sure you’re connected to the right one based on your area or club.

    • Do I need to recertify every year?

    Yes. U.S. Soccer requires referees to complete an annual recertification course to remain active. This can be done through the U.S. Soccer Learning Center.

    • Can I referee for multiple leagues or assignors?

    Yes! Many referees work across multiple leagues and events. Just make sure your availability is kept up-to-date on Stack Officials, and communicate clearly with each assignor.

    • What is the minimum age requirement to referee?

    You must be at least 13 years old to become a certified Grassroots Referee under U.S. Soccer guidelines.

    • How do I get assigned to games?

    Once certified, you’ll create a profile on StackOfficials and notify your local assignor. Assignments will be sent through the platform, and you can update your availability there.

    • How do I get paid?

    Payments are processed directly through the assigning platform or cash—depending on the league or assignor. You’ll be informed before the season begins.

    • What happens if I’m injured or unavailable after accepting a game?

    Notify your assignor as soon as possible. Giving advance notice helps us cover the game and maintain professionalism.

    Dont see your question? Ask us here

    Want to Join the MARA Team?

    Whether you’re a league looking for reliable referee coverage or an official ready to get on the field, we’re here to support you.


    We assign certified referees across Metro Atlanta and help ensure every match is played with fairness and professionalism.

    🔗 Contact Us to get started—as a league or a referee.

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