This is the course to become licensed as a US soccer referee.  Referees can officiate games (both youth and adult amateur) not only in New Hampshire, but throughout the United States.

Purpose

The purpose of the First-Time Referee course is to prepare First-Time Referees to work in a competitive or recreational youth and amateur adult matches.

FIRST-TIME REFEREE COURSE

Goals

The goal of the First-Time Referee course is to broaden a candidate’s understanding on how to: 

  • Facilitate a fair, fun, and safe game for the players by enforcing and applying the Laws of the Game  
  • Make and clearly communicate decisions based on perception and interpretation of player’s actions  
  • Facilitate understanding and application the Laws of the Game for players and coaches 

Outcome

On successful completion of the course, candidates will receive a Referee license for the current registration year. Once the license and badge are received, Referees can officiate competitive, small-sided or recreational youth and amateur adult matches.

First-Time

Referee Checklist

Click the button below to access a checklist to help keep track of all of the necessary requirements to become a US Soccer Referee. Once you click on the button, you will be directed to make a copy of the form for yourself.

Make sure to complete all of the online course components at least 24 hours prior to attending the in-person class. If you are unable to complete all of the online course components prior to your in-person class, follow the directions on the second page of the First-Time Referee Checklist.

** For those 18 years old and older, you are required to complete the background check through the US Soccer Learning Center. It can take up to 4 weeks to receive your background check result and you need to have a Clear status in order to attend in-person classes.**

Step 1: Create a Profile

New Hampshire uses the US Soccer Learning Center to license referees.  To create a profile, an individual must be at least 13 years of age and have an individual email address.

Step 2: Complete Online Requirements

Online Course
($20)

  • Complete all modules via the US Soccer Learning Center

In-Person Course
($80)

  • Attend a 2 hour classroom and 2 hour field session
  • SafeSport Training (online assignment; for those turning 18 during registration year and older)
  • Introduction to Safe and Healthy Playing Environments (online assignment)
  • Referee Certification Quiz (online assignment)

Background Screening
($30)

  • For those aged 18 and older – this must completed every two years
  • May take up to two weeks to complete and you will not be able to attend any in-person activities until it is completed – please plan ahead!

Step 3: Complete Course Assignments

Courses are typically offered during the months of January through April, as well as July and August. Registration closes one week prior to the course date. Additional Field Sessions are available to officials seeking to gain some experience prior to officiating any matches. See all Upcoming Classes

march 2025

sat29mar8:45 am1:00 pmFirst Time Referee Certification - 03.29.20258:45 am - 1:00 pm Nashua North High School, 8 Titan Way

april 2025

sat05apr8:30 am12:45 pmFirst Time Referee Certification - 04.05.20258:30 am - 12:45 pm Londonderry High School, 295 Mammoth Rd, Londonderry, NH 03053

sat12apr8:15 am12:30 pmFirst Time Referee Certification - 04.12.20258:15 am - 12:30 pm Portsmouth High School, 50 Andrew Jarvis Dr, Portsmouth, NH 03801

U.S. Soccer Learning Center

MAKE SURE TO SELECT HOST: New Hampshire State Referee Committee

Use the “Learning Center” button to see and register for the available classes. Make sure to select “New Hampshire” in the “Location” field to narrow results to NH classes only.

X