Question - How do I become a soccer referee?
Answer - In order to become a soccer referee you will need to attend an entry level referee clinic. Click here for a complete listing of upcoming clinics.

Question - I am already a referee, when do I need to recertify so I can ref next year?
Answer - Recertification clinics for the next calendar year actually begin in July of the preceding year. For example, if you were registered for 2003, you must attend a 2004 recertification clinic between July of 2003 and February of 2004 in order to recertify for 2004.

Question - I just became a referee earlier this year, do I really need to attend a recertification clinic already?
Answer - That depends on the year listed on your registration card and badge. Depending on the timing of the entry level clinic, you technically may not be registered until the begining on the year. If you attend an entry level clinic in March, then yes, you will need to attend a recertification this year for next year's registration.

Question - I failed to attend a recertification clinic for this year, can I still referee?
Answer - Recertification clinics are conducted from July through February for the next registration year. Wisconsin typically conducts a minimum of 60 recertification clinics throughout the state during this time frame. If you missed out on 60 clinics throughout eight months, then you have failed to meet the annual certification requirements set forth by the United States Soccer Federation and are not permitted to referee. You can either attend an entry level clinics and referee as soon as you successfully complete it. You can also wait to attend a recertification clinic for the next year, but then must wait until after Janary 1. You must be registered for the current year, with a current year badge, in order to referee.

Question - What is the 16-digit ID number that appears on my new registration form?
Answer - The 16-digit ID number is a number that is automatically assigned to every referee by the U.S. Federation referee department. This number replaces the use of your social security number for identification purposes only.

Question - When will I receive my new referee badge?
Answer - The Wisconsin Program for Referee Development has changed the procedure for badge distribution. You will receive your new badge at your recertification clinic, upon successful completion of your requirements and the filing of your registration form with accompanying payment. Click here for additional recertification requirements. ID cards and Laws of the Game will be mailed from the USSF national office at a later date.

Question - Do I have to take a physical fitness test to renew my certification?
Answer - Level 9 & 8 referees are not required to complete a physical fitness test (effective July 12, 2001). Level 5, 6, & 7 referees are required to pass an annual fitness test. Click here for additional recertification requirements.

Question - How does my club/unit/district host a referee clinic?
Answer - First, identify the type of clinic you'd like to host. You'll need to make arrangements for a public meeting facility (local school, library, conference room) with overhead projector, TV/VCR, and screen. You'll also need to have a local contact person to handle registration and answer pre-clinic questions. You'll then contact your district administrator to discuss the appropriate dates and times. This individual will schedule the USSF instructors. Your club/unit/district will be responsible for paying the instructors for their classroom time and reasonable travel expenses.