Getting Started

Newly Updated with Grassroots referee certification process

Requirements:

  • Age: Candidates must be 13 years old or older.

  • Playing Experience: Playing experience is not required, but is helpful in giving a candidate basic understanding of the laws of the game.

Steps to Becoming a Grassroots Referee:

Step 1: Register
Registration is a simple process completed online through US Soccer’s Learning Center. Begin by creating a profile in the Learning Center. Please note that there are fees associated with the required coursework, so ensure you have a credit or debit card available during registration.

  • Candidates must be 13 years or older to create a profile and register as a Grassroots Referee.

  • To start your registration, visit the US Soccer Learning Center and click the “SIGN UP” button.

Step 2: Background Screening (For candidates aged 18 and older only)
If you are 18 or older, you must complete a background screening before registering for a course.

  • The screening fee is $30 and is valid for two years.

  • To initiate your background check, log into your profile created in Step 1 and click “Initiate Background Screening”.
    Important Note: Completion of the US Soccer NCSI Background Check is mandatory for all candidates aged 18 and older.

Minors under 18 can skip to Step 3.

Step 3: Learn Online/In-Person
The Grassroots Referee course combines engaging online videos, learning modules, and practical on-field exercises. These are designed to:

  • Provide a safe, fun, and realistic learning experience.

  • Reinforce key concepts and knowledge covered in the online portion of the course.

  • Prepare you to confidently officiate your first game.

The course fee is $55, which includes registration with the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) through December 31, 2025.Description of New Grassroots Referee - Online Course

Register for a Course

The Grassroots experience includes online coursework to include:

  • Online Video Instruction

  • Safe Sport Training (if 18 years old or older – required by Federal Law)

  • Introduction to Safe and Healthy Playing Environments


    The Grassroots experience also includes an in-person field training session. 

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Next Steps

  1. Go to the SRABR Membership page and pay your necessary dues in order to get put into the assigning system

  2. Familiarize yourself with the Information For New Referees page to understand what you will need to know when you first become certified

  3. Use the Referee Grade Explanation page to understand what the details of your current grade are and to learn of what is needed to progress in grade level