Referee

Earn your soccer referee certification Facilitate Any Match

If you have a sharp eye and an interest in earning money while staying fit and officiating the game you love, this position may just be right for you.

A referee is standing in front of the soccer ball.
A man helping a young boy put on his soccer shoes.

Why Become a Referee

Referees are in high demand all across South Texas! The role requires good leadership skills and the ability to keep calm under pressure. The pay is great, and you have the option to make yourself available to work when it is convenient for you.

Becoming a Licensed US Soccer Referee

The U.S. Soccer Learning Center, in collaboration with South Texas Soccer Referees, provides all certifications for new and re-certified referees). All referee candidates must be 13 years or older.

A group of people playing soccer on the grass.
A man in black shirt and blue shorts playing soccer.

Course Requirements for First Time Grassroots Referees

All interested applicants can take the online Grassroots (entry-level) course with an instructor. There are a few things you need to accomplish before attending the course.

Register

The course costs approximately $80-$85 and is valid for a year, sometimes more.

Virtual Course

You need to attend the virtual course provided by South Texas Soccer Referees.

Online Course

You need to accomplish four assignments in the US Soccer Learning Center. The online grassroots reference module must be completed 48 hours before the virtual session.

Background Check

We will require background checks for individuals over the age of 18.

Uniform

To work as a referee, you will also need an official uniform kit, which costs about $75.

Registration Details

Referee Licensing FAQs

Local Rules and Regulations
(Referee Game Day)

The Rules

All FIFA rules apply except for 7U or 8U games. These exceptions are:

  • All offenses are punishable by indirect free kick (no penalty kicks)
  • No offside calls should be made (avoid extreme offside positions)
  • Opponents should keep distance during restarts (5 yards in general, 15 yards at goal kicks)

Arrival Time

All referees are expected to be at the field 30 minutes before the game (20 minutes for 7U to 10U games). In case of delay, please inform the referee assignor as soon as possible.

Attire

Official referee gear must be worn at all times, with the jersey tucked in. All base layer gear must be black without any crew socks, athletic shorts, etc.

Adequate Reporting

There are two ways you can submit a game report. For games that have a game card - usually 11U-19U and sometimes 9U/10U games, you can either mail in the game card to TYSA or send the actual card or a digital copy of it to your referee assignor. For games that do not have a game card - usually 4U-8U and sometimes 9U/10U games, you can just report the results to the coaches and league.

Payment Options

Zelle is preferable, but other mobile payment apps can be used, too. Just provide the email address or phone number linked to your account to our treasurer, Roland Keller. You may contact him at 936-443-6608 or [email protected].

Get Licensed