U.S. Soccer details the various Referee Levels and outlines the requirements to move from one Level to another.  Upgrading levels require that the following two requirements must be fulfilled in order to proceed with the Upgrade process.

• Previous Game Experience (game count at appropriate level according to certification)
• Previous Certification Experience

When the first two requirements are met and you are ready to initiate the Upgrade process:

• Notify the State Referee Administrator (SRA) Chad Collins in writing that you are requesting an Upgrade. Include a copy of your game log as proof of Experience (Forms to assist you with keeping track of your game count and Upgrade requirements are available on the Downloads page)

The following are additional requirements that must be completed during the Upgrade process:

• Training Requirements (contact SDI at sdi@kyreferee.com)
• Safety and Compliance (US Soccer Learning Center)
• Laws of the Game Update and Test (US Soccer Learning Center)
• Practical Evaluation (contact SDA at sda@kyreferee.com)
• Physical Fitness Test (contact SDI at sdi@kyreferee.com)

When you have completed ALL the requirements to Upgrade you must notify the SRA (chad.sra@kyreferee.com) that all requirements are now met.

Once your upgrade has been approved you will be notified that the Upgrade process has been completed.

Evaluations can be both formal and informal. Informal evaluations, known as development and guidance evaluations, are completed using a carbon copy form. These evaluations offer general performance feedback and a record for the official, mentor/coach and the State Director of Assessment.

Formal evaluations are required for upgrade and maintenance of level for regional and national referees. These evaluations follow specific criteria and must be completed online by the coach. All online evaluations  are completed in the GameOfficials System and can be accessed by the official, coach, State Director of Assessment, State Referee Administrator and the U.S. Soccer Referee Department.