Become a Referee –
For the Love of theGame

Whether you’re a teen looking for a summer job or a parent passionate about supporting youth soccer, becoming a certified referee is a rewarding way to give back to the sport and earn income.

Who Can Become a Referee?

Minimum Age: In Florida, youth can typically become referees starting at age 13 or 14.

Adults Welcome: Many parents also become referees to help out and stay active.


How to Get Certified:

  • Register through U.S. Soccer’s Learning Center www.flsoccerrefs.org
  • Complete an online Grassroots Referee Course.
  • Attend an in-person field session (list upcoming local options).
  • Pay a fee (approx. $75–$115, depending on state and course).



Refereeing Opportunities:

  • Clubs: Many local clubs hire referees for rec and competitive games.
  • Tournaments: Referees are needed at weekend tournaments and travel events.
  • Summer Leagues: Great time for teens to get experience and make extra money.


How to Get Assigned to Games

  • Once certified, you’ll be added to a referee assignment pool.
  • Create an account with assignors in your region (list links or contacts).
  • You’ll receive game offers by email or app (e.g., GameOfficials, ArbiterSports).


Income & Commitment

  • Pay per game: $25–$60+ depending on age group and game level.
  • Flexible scheduling.
  • Build leadership and decision-making skills.


Local Contacts / Links

  • List of assignors or referee coordinators in South Florida (club or league-based).
  • Links to local referee associations (e.g., SFRA, FYSA).


Referee Uniform & Equipment




Bonus for Parents and Teens

  • Family Involvement Tip: “Why not make it a family thing?”
    A parent and teen can both become referees and cover games together.


How to Become a Soccer Referee in Florida

1      Register with the Florida State Referee Committee (FLSRC)

 The FLSRC oversees the certification and development of soccer referees in Florida. They offer comprehensive information and resources for new referees.


  • Website: 
  • New Referee Registration: 


 

2   Complete the U.S. Soccer Grassroots Referee Course

This course is the entry-level certification required to officiate youth and amateur matches. It includes online modules and a field training component.


  • Eligibility: Minimum age is 13 years old. 
  • Course Details and Registration: 


3   Understand the Certification Requirements

After completing the online modules, you’ll need to attend a field training event, which may be virtual or in-person. Additionally, referees aged 18 and older must complete SafeSport training and a background check. 

4  Opportunities After Certification


 Once certified, you can officiate various matches, including:


  • Youth recreational and competitive games 
  • Local tournaments
  • High school matches 

Assignments are typically managed by local referee assignors or through platforms like GameOfficials or ArbiterSports.


 

5   Benefits of Becoming a Referee

  • Flexible Scheduling: Choose games that fit your availability.
  • Earn Money: Referees can earn between $20 to $60 per game, depending on the level.
  • Stay Active: Great way to stay involved in soccer and maintain physical fitness.
  • Develop Skills: Enhance leadership, decision-making, and communication abilities.



If you need assistance with the registration process or have further questions, feel free to ask!

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