To become a high school sports referee in Pennsylvania, you must first register with the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association. The PIAA tests and certifies officials for the following sports: basketball, soccer, baseball, football, volleyball, field hockey, softball, lacrosse, track & field, gymnastics, swimming & diving and wrestling.
How to Become a PIAA Referee
Once you register with the PIAA, you will be sent a packet of rule books and support material to help you prepare for your referee or umpire exam. Exams are given four times each year at high schools and recreation centers located in different parts of PA. The registration fee allows you to take the exam for two sports. However, you cannot take both exams on the same date.
In other words, if you decide to become a Pennsylvania soccer referee and a Pennsylvania baseball umpire, you might plan it this way. Take the soccer test in June to be ready for the fall season. Then take the baseball test in February prior to the spring season. One registration fee will cover both exams.
Once you pass the test, you have 15-days to join a local officials’ chapter. A list of chapters will be sent to you when you are notified of your test results. Local chapters help officials with training, rule interpretations and game assignments.
To become a Pennsylvania referee you must be at least 18 years old.
Begin by completing the PIAA Registration, available online. Go to the officials page for more details.
