How to Become a Referee
Start your journey as a youth flag football referee with our step-by-step guide.
Founder, Flag Football Advice · Co-owner, Louisiana Flag Football
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Getting Started
1. Confirm Local Requirements
Ask the league or assigning organization which age, background-check, training, and registration requirements apply.
2. Practice & Study
Study the league's adopted rulebook, then practice positioning, communication, and signal mechanics.
3. Seek Supervised Experience
Ask a local league about shadowing, mentoring, evaluation, and game assignments appropriate to your experience.
Optional Training: Pre-Launch Waitlist
Flag Football Advice is developing an educational referee course. It would not be a governing-body credential and would not replace requirements set by a league, school, association, or assigning organization.
Join the Training WaitlistExpand Your Officiating Knowledge
Referee Training Waitlist
Preview a planned educational course and join the waitlist. It would not be a governing-body credential.
Rules & Mechanics Guide
Practical preparation checklist; your league's adopted rulebook always controls.
Positioning & Signals
Learn proper field positioning, crew communication, and hand signals.