The Referee course consists of both online training and an in-person field session with a Referee Coach/Mentor to prepare beginners for the recreational and competitive, youth and adult game. The online course must be completed prior to the in-person field session. Field sessions are typically scheduled for early fall and late winter/early spring prior to the main soccer seasons.
U.S. Soccer requires that all referees must be 13-years-old at the time of registration, no exceptions.
Those 18 and over must complete SafeSport and submit/pass a background check.
Total cost is $50 plus background check and transaction fees, and covers registration with U.S. Soccer, Badge and Liability Insurance.
Contact your local club and ask them to host a field session if you don't see one yet.
If you wish to get certified and can't make any available dates, check out the Digital Referee course that is fully online.