How to Become a USSF Certified Soccer Referee

Being a soccer referee can be both rewarding and fulfilling. To become a US Soccer Federation (USSF) Referee you are required to attend an Entry Level Clinic given by a specially trained and certified (by USSF, certified by WASRC) instructor. There is no exception even if you were a player or coach. One New Referee Grade is offered in Washington:

Grassroots Referee: The purpose of the Grassroots Referee Course is to prepare officials for competitive and recreational youth games. Based on the level of training provided, U.S. Soccer recommends that these officials be assigned accordingly to best service the game. (As of July 2019, it is required that you be at least 13 years old at the time of registration. The recommended minimum age is 14 at time of registration)

Note: Please check with your local Referee Chapter as some Clubs, Referee Chapters or Leagues may have specific minimum age as a local requirement, based on their needs and experiences.

Step 1 - Register with the WASRC Website and then Sign Up for the Online PreClinic

You must create your Member Registration on this website and then register for the New Referee (PreClinic Lessons). When registering, read the registration instructions carefully and check the appropriate options. You will then be added to the PreClinic roster.

  • The registration fee is $85.00 (USSF registration fee $65+$20 Clinic Fee) to be paid online during the registration process.
  • If you are 18+ years old, there is an addition $3.50 fee to cover a background check.

Step 2 - Complete the PreClinic Lessons

The Online lesson in the PreClinic cover the Rules of the Game. If you are 18+ years old, it also covers SafeSports training. To start the lessons, log onto the wareferees.org website, scroll down and click on the “Online Lessons” button. Read and follow the instructions.

Step 3 - Choose an In-Person Clinic

Once the online lessons are completed, you then select the in-person clinic that works for you. Return to your member page and you will see the "Online Lessons" button now reads "Pick a Clinic". Pick one from the list and once completed (you will receive email instructions regarding details of the event) you will receive your referee badge. This certification will allow you to be assigned to youth matches as determined by the assigning chapter.

  • Your registration is good for one year and must be renewed annually. To be more specific,
    • If the date of your New Referee clinic is between Jan 1 and June 30, your registration is good until Dec 31 of the current year.
    • If the date of your New Referee clinic is between July 1 and Dec 31, your registration is good until Dec 31 of the next year.

Click here to begin your registration process WASRC Registration.