How do I become a referee?

Becoming a football referee is a fantastic way to stay involved in the game, develop new skills and earn money whilst officiating matches.

To become a qualified referee, you'll need to complete The FA Referee Course.

What is The FA Referee Course?

The FA Referee Course is the entry-level qualification required to referee affiliated football in England.

The course is designed for anyone looking to start their refereeing journey and provides the knowledge, practical experience and support needed to officiate matches safely and confidently.

How old do I need to be?

You must be at least 14 years old to complete The FA Referee Course.

There is no upper age limit, and people of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to become referees.

What does the course involve?

The course is made up of several stages:

• Complete the mandatory pre-course learning. (Module One)
• Attend Day One – Face-to-face classroom theory session (approximately 3 hours). (Module Two)
• Attend Day Two – Face-to-face practical and theory session (approximately 8 hours). (Module Three)
• Referee five qualifying matches within six months of attending Day Two, with support available throughout. (Module Four) 
• Attend Day Three – Face-to-face call-back theory session (approximately 3 hours). (Module Five) 

• Once you have successfully completed all stages, you'll become a qualified referee and can officiate affiliated football.

What is the pre course learning?

Before you can book onto a course, you'll need to complete two mandatory online learning modules using your Participant FAN:

• Safeguarding for All
• Guide to the Laws of the Game

Once both modules have been completed, you'll become eligible to book onto a course.

Useful links

https://learn.englandfootball.com/courses/safeguarding/safeguarding-for-all

https://mylearning.englandfootball.com/learn/learning-plans/49/guide-to-the-laws-of-the-game

If you need assistance accessing your Participant FAN or completing the online learning, please email Referees@SussexFA.com.

How much does the course cost?

The FA Referee Course in Sussex costs £170.

What qualification will I receive?

Once you have successfully completed the course and your five qualifying matches, you'll become an FA Qualified Referee and be eligible to referee affiliated football in England.

Your starting level will depend on your age:

• 14–15 years old: Level Y1 Referee
• 16 years and over: Level 7 Referee

How do I book onto a course?

Once you have completed the mandatory pre-course learning, please complete our - Expression of Interest - Sussex FA Referees Course – Fill in form 

Our team regularly reviews submissions and will verify that your pre-course learning has been completed before sending you booking links for the next available courses.

We look forward to welcoming you onto an FA Referee Course soon!