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Be Part of the Journey

Give something back to the game you love or remain involved in the game after injury or retirement. Play a vital role in ensuring players enjoy the game and increase participation in the sport. Make new and lasting friends whilst keeping fit and healthy. Refereeing can be a potential career for those who wish to progress to the top.

To become a referee there are certain qualifications and requirements you’ll need to complete first. This being at least 14 years old, completing online Laws of the Game module and safeguarding qualification.

To get started, enrol on a course with your local County Football Association.

Your Journey as a Referee

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What does the course entail?

The FA Referee Course is designed to equip new referees with the key skills and knowledge they will need to be able to referee grassroots football matches safely and effectively. It is for people aged 14 and over who want to referee mini soccer, 9 v 9 and/or 11 v 11 football. The course comprises online learning on the Laws of the Game and face to face training. You must complete the online learning before attending the face to face training. You will also need to complete online safeguarding training before attending the face to face training.

PGMOL

The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) is the organisation responsible for managing and training professional match officials in the top tier competitions in England, from the Premier League to National League, Barclays Womens Super League and Championship.

Referee during youth football match

Reporting Discrimination

Report discrimination in football: Speak up, take action and make a difference

Find out more
Respect the Ref

Respect the Referee

Show Respect, Support the Referee: A key to a fair and enjoyable game for all.

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Referee Recognition Awards 2023

The Referee Recognition Awards 2023

Nominate a referee who’s impressed you this season, and they could carry home one of 12 national awards in the first ever national Referee Recognition Awards!

NOMINATE HERE
Referee Sam Allison leads his team out

Rules & Regulations

Stay Informed, Follow the Rules: Essential for a safe and fair game for all players.

Contact your local CFA
Referee Strategy image

FA Refereeing Strategy: 2023-26

The FA has launched an ambitious new strategy for grassroots refereeing in England, providing a clear direction for the future of officiating over the next three years and beyond.

FIND OUT MORE HERE

Get Started as a Referee - Find a Course

To get started on your journey to be a referee, select your local County Football Association for the list below to view course availability.

Frequently Asked Questions