Registration can be done online to become a high school sports official in Arizona. The Arizona Interscholastic Association certifies officials to become basketball, soccer, football, hockey, lacrosse, volleyball and wrestling referees as well as baseball, softball and field hockey umpires.
The first step to becoming an AIA referee or umpire is to obtain your Fingerprint Clearance Card. This can be done through the DPS or Crimshield.
After you receive your card, you can register with the AIA and begin the process of becoming a referee or umpire. All of the information you need to get started can be found on the official page of the AIA website.
Arizona Referee Training
Arizona Area Commissioners handle the recruiting, training, assigning and evaluating of Arizona sports officials. They will be your primary contact as you advance in your officiating career. Contact your Area Commissioner for more information.
New officials begin as a Level 4 official. To become Level 4 classified you must be 18 years old, out of high school and you must pass the NFHS exam for your sport. Passing grade is 70%.
Each year, officials are eligible to move up by one level until they reach the top level of certified official. To be promoted to a higher level, referees and umpires must achieve the required grade score on the yearly NFHS exam. He or she must also receive positive recommendations from area schools, observers and evaluators.
Promotion of sports officials will be recommended by your Area Commissioner with final approval from the State Commissioner.
