  Becoming a USSF Referee Training - Becoming a referee is a fairly simple process - you take a test, you pass the test, you buy a uniform and you do your first game. Sounds easy. But of course nothing is that easy, but we can help you get started. Here is what's involved in becoming a referee: In order to become a Referee or an Assistant Referee, it is necessary to attend a clinic given by a specially trained and registered instructor. Our standard Entry Level Referee Clinic (a Grade 8 referee) is a seventeen-hour clinic with five classroom sessions and a field session. During the fifth classroom session, you are required to pass a one-hundred question test. Candidates are apprised of their test results before they depart the classroom, and can become registered with the United States Soccer Federation by completing the necessary application form and paying the appropriate fee. Candidates must then attend the outdoor clinic and badges will be distributed at that time. The cost is $40.00 per person, for the clinic and USSF registration. If you wish to join DASOA, the Dayton Area Soccer Officials Association, there will be an additional fee of $25.00 per person. You must become a member of DASOA in order to be assigned games by the association. The registration is good for a year or part thereof, and should be renewed annually.
What to bring with you :
pen, social security number, notepaper, registration/clinic fee.
Provided: Law Book, Referee Handbook, Guide to Procedures
Keep in mind that referee training is not a “one-time” thing, in terms of either money or time. USSF referees are required to attend recertification clinics each year, where law changes for the following year are discussed, as well as ways in which one can become a better referee. The Uniform and Equipment - Now that you've passed the test and have registered with USSF it's time to go out and buy your first uniform. The basic uniform for referees is a yellow shirt, black referee shorts, black socks with three stripes and shoes. There are no particular shoes that we recommend only that you get a pair that are primarily black and won't cause blisters when you run and are comfortable. In addition to a uniform, you will need a watch, preferably one that counts down time. You'll need a whistle, a small book to keep score, a flipping coin, red and yellow cards and a set of flags. Now you ask yourself where do I get all this stuff. Not to worry, most of the local soccer shops sell everything that you may need. In addition, check the 'links' page for online providers. Getting Games - Now that you've passed the test, bought your uniform and all the stuff, you'll need to fill out an availability sheet for the league assignor. The forms are available on the 'Game Assignments' page, as well as instructions and the address to send the completed forms. You will also need a 'CID#' and password to access the online schedule. Once you have your number and password, you can access your schedule and add or drop games as needed. Your First Year - Well you've been out on the fields for a year now and you've learned how to issue cards, deal with coaches and parents and suffered through the heat and cold. Now what. Every year you will be required to take a re-certification test and attend five hours of training. The training part you can usually get through clinics available throughout the year. Check the calendar for dates and times. Want to Advance
So you've been doing well and are ready for more challenging games. How do you get these games? Again you'll have to work with your local assignor who will get hold of your local assessor. The assessor will come to the field and evaluate your game and give you pointers on how to improve your game. The assessor is there to help you and take their feedback as constructive criticism. If you pass the physical, pass the written test and the referee committee approves, then you are a grade 7 referee. Congratulations! Now are you're ready to try and advance to grade 6, State referee? The process is pretty much the same but more intense and the referee committee will work with you to get you to the next level.
That's what it takes to be a referee in a nutshell. Of course, the more games you do the more your confidence improves and games will seem easier. One thing to remember is that we all have a bad game from time to time so don't despair. With assessors and assignors helping you, these will be few and far between. Remember that if you have any questions, contact your local area administrator.
Entry Level USSF Clinics All officials must attend 15 hours of classroom and two hours of outdoor training to become a USSF Referee.
Please visit the
Calendar page
for the updated Clinic Schedule.
Any questions, please contact: Roberto Van de
Wyngard - District Director of Instruction | 
