Referee recertification is a mandatory annual process for all U.S. Soccer referees in Maryland. The recertification year runs January 1 through December 31 and must be completed every year to maintain an active license.

Recertification consists of online education designed to keep referees current on annual updates to the Laws of the Game, U.S. Soccer policies, and best practices—ensuring officials are prepared to work competitive, small-sided, recreational youth, and amateur adult matches.

Recertification fees support referee education and the ongoing operations of the Maryland State Referee Committee, helping develop and grow refereeing across the state.

Referees who do not recertify will be ineligible to officiate U.S. Soccer–sanctioned matches. If your certification lapses, you may recertify for up to three years without restarting; after that point, you must complete the first-year referee course again to return to active status.

  1. Log in to OMS.
  1. Select the Register for Clinic/Fitness Test link in the Registration dropdown menu.
  1. Update your personal information, if prompted.
  2. Agree to the Maryland Background Check policy, if prompted.
  3. Answer the Legal Question and Submit Request.
  1. Click on Select Clinic next to the Referee Recertification clinic.
  1. Complete all virtual presentations and tests.