How to Become a Referee

The Cal South Referee Program's goal is to create and grow a qualified and well-trained group of referees. These referees will be instructed at and held to the highest standards with the intent of maintaining a safe and enjoyable playing environment for Cal South members of all ages and skill levels. Cal South referees will thoroughly understand and appropriately apply the Laws of the Game. The Cal South Referee Program strives to actively recruit, develop, certify and advance referees for all levels of play.

To become a certified referee with the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF), you will need to complete a 16-hour Grade 8 entry-level clinic. A Grade 8 allows you to referee all youth games both competitive and recreational, and to serve as an assistant referee in comparable games. There is no minimum age requirement to become a referee or prior referee experience needed. The Grade 8 entry-level clinic lasts two days, normally on a Saturday and Sunday, for 8 hours each day. Materials are included, and at the end of the course, a written examination is given, with 75% being the minimum score for a Grade 8. Upon completion of this course, you will become eligible to be assigned to affiliated competitive games played under Cal South's jurisdiction.

To find and register for an entry-level clinic, please click here.

Also, please click here to download and read the Information for New Referees document. This will help you with any other questions you may have.

Most of our clinics are held during the summer, but we do have a few more in the winter months, if needed.

After the completion of your entry-level clinic it will take approximately 6 weeks (sometimes longer) to get your registration processed and approved, and for you to receive your packet by mail from U.S. Soccer. The packet will include your referee registration card that will list your USSF I.D. number, your State Association (in this case, Cal South), your USSF grade level and certificate of insurance. Your I.D. card is good from January to December of each year.

Once approved, your name will appear on our Registered Officials List and this is where your local assignor will look to assign you to games. To find an assignor in your area, you will need to go through your local league or referee association. A list of referee associations and the Registered Officials List (and all other referee-specific areas) are located on the drop-down list on CalSouth.com under the tab "Referees." If after 8 weeks you have not received your packet, please contact the USSF at 312.808.1300, and ask for the Referee Department.

For questions and concerns, please contact any of the Cal South Committee Members. They are here to assist you.