To become a referee in Florida you must first register with an association in your area. These local boards help to train and prepare sports officials to become basketball, soccer, football, hockey, lacrosse, volleyball and wrestling referees as well as baseball, softball and field hockey umpires.
Use the Officials Central Hub page to select the sport that you want to officiate. From there, navigate to the Florida map link page and select the association in your area. The officer for your local association will be displayed. Contact that person to get started.
To become a high school sports referee or umpire in Florida, you must be 19-years old. However there are opportunities for 16 – 18 year olds to get involved with officiating through a Florida Student Officials Program.
FHSAA Referee & Umpire Training
You will also need to register with the Florida High School Athletic Association. During the registration process, you will be asked to declare what sport of sports you plan to officiate. You will also be asked what association you are a member of. The Florida Officials Guidebook outlines everything you need to know to become a Florida referee.
After your registrations are complete, you must to take the online exam to demonstrate that you understand the rules of the game. For the exam, you will be given a maximum of 75 minutes to complete a 50 questions, so be prepared. Exams are given on specific time periods just prior to the start of the season. This exam period usually lasts between 9-11 days.
If you miss the primary exam period, a make-up exam period is available within the next month. If you miss the make-up period, you will have to wait until the following year to take and pass the exam.
You should expect to pay a registration fee to both your local association and the FHSAA. A yearly dues assessment will also be required. Registration fees cover the cost of the NFHS Rule Book, Case Book, Officials Manual and insurance.
