Referee advancement is about growth — in skill, knowledge, and leadership. Whether you’re just starting as a Grassroots referee or aiming for the highest levels of the game, this page will guide you through the steps, requirements, and opportunities available in the Maryland Soccer Referee Program.
Every referee’s journey is unique, but the pathway is clear. From Grassroots to Regional, and for some, to National and FIFA levels — each step builds on experience, performance, and continued education.
Knowing the requirements is only the first step — understanding the process helps you plan your next move. Here’s how to start and complete your upgrade.
The whistle is in your hands — take the next step. Maryland referees have gone on to officiate at national championships, professional matches, and even the World Cup. Your path starts here.
- Age: 18+
- Game Experience: 25 games as a referee and 15 as an assistant referee at the Adult Amateur level
- License History: Held a Grassroots License within the past 3 registration years
- Compliance: SafeSport trained, Safe and Healthy Playing Environments, background check
- Training: Complete Regional Referee Course and in-person field session
- Test: Pass the National Laws of the Game test (online)
- Fitness: Pass sprint/interval test (FIFA Women’s Referee Test – Category 1 for men, Category 3 for women)
- Practical Evaluation: 3 passing evaluations — 2 at Adult Amateur level, 1 at highest youth level (U18/U19), all from different referee coaches
- Enrollment: Must be selected by the U.S. Soccer National Referee Selection Committee.
- Training: Attend and successfully complete National Camp.
- Certification History: Held a Regional License for the past two registration years.
- Practical Evaluations: 3 passing National Evaluations (as Referee or AR) from 3 different National Referee Coaches.
- Game Experience: 65 adult amateur matches
- 40 as Referee and 25 as Assistant Referee.
- Safety & Compliance: SafeSport trained, Safe & Healthy Playing Environments, and a national background check.
- Laws of the Game Test: Pass the online national test.
- Fitness Test: Pass the FIFA fitness test (Referee or AR, gender-specific, Category 1).