Welcome to our Referee Training FAQ section. This section will hopefully answer any questions you have about referee training. If it doesnt then please get in touch with us via email in the contact us section.
Q: Can women become referees?
Q: How old do I have to be?
Q: Can I referee as soon as I pass the exam?
Q: Will there be anyone to help me once I start to referee?
Q: How long does the course take?
Q: Is there an exam at the end of the course?
Q: What is the pass mark?
Q: Does it cost much to become a referee?
Q: Is there a course near my home?
Q: What equipment will I need when I come to a course?
Q: Do I have to actually referee when I pass the exam?
Q: How do register my interest in becoming a Referee?
Q: How fit do you have to be?
A: Yes. female referees are very welcome onto our courses. They are also welcome as referees once they have qualified.
A: You may start to referee once you are 14.
A: Level 9 Trainee Referees who have participated in the two-tier training, and who have qualified, will immediately move to level 8(14 - 16 years of age) or Level 7 as appropriate. A Trainee Referee is a potential candidate who has undergone the Basic Referees Course, having successfully demonstrated a knowledge and understanding of the Laws of Associated Football, but has yet to take the initial examination - they may be Registered as a 'Trainee Referee'. Trainee Referees, once registered as such, may be appointed as Match Officials in accordance with FA Regulations. A Basic Referees Course, is a course of instruction as determined by the Association leading to the examination of Referee candidates. Trainee Referees undertaking the Basic Referees Course will be registered as Level 9. A Level 9 Referee will automatically become a Level 7 Referee on successful completion of the Basic Referees Course and having attained the age of 16. Yes. We would like all new referees to start as soon as possible.
A: Most certainly. Your instructor will always assist and so will other senior referees. The Referees' Association will always be on hand to help. There are a number of Referees' Societies around the country. Joining a Referees' Society will enable you to share learning with more senior Referees. Each County will provide refresher training for Referees each season.
A: Usually one evening a week for 6 to 8 weeks. Some courses are arranged over a weekend.
A: Yes. A written exam lasting 1 hour and an individual oral test.
A: 75%
A: Not much. Sometimes there will be a small tuition fee and you will need to buy kit. Often, other referees will help you with this.
A: Most likely. Courses are held in all large cities and towns as well as in small market towns in every part of England. If you are in the Services or at College there may be a course in your place of work or study.
A: Very little. All text books are provided by the Football Association free of charge
A: No, you don't have to referee. You may wish to take up active refereeing later but you will need to keep up your registration and your knowledge of the Law.
A: Visit the UK Referees Association web site, or contact your local Referees' Society (see my Referees' Society page).
A: See the fitness pages in the training material section.