Find out what the fa referee course involves, who can apply, how online and face-to-face learning link together and where to register
Getting started as a referee can feel confusing. The FA Referee Course gives a clear, practical path into grassroots officiating—combining online learning with hands-on training so you’re ready for real matches.
Who can apply and what you get
– Eligibility: Anyone aged 14+; no prior refereeing experience required.
You must be able to complete online modules and attend the in-person sessions.
– Qualification: On successful completion of the online assessment and practical sign-off, you’ll receive the recognised entry-level qualification and be recorded as a registered referee (youth referee or Level 7 junior county referee, depending on local registration).
The standard course fee is £150.
Before you arrive: the online modules
– Complete the assigned online modules before any face-to-face days. Content covers the Laws of the Game with emphasis on practical decisions, common match situations and mandatory safeguarding training.
– Have proof of completed modules available to show tutors at the first in-person session.
DBS checks and account administration
– If you’ll be working with under‑18s, a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check may be required by your county FA. Apply through the county portal and have photo ID and proof of address ready to avoid delays.
– Create and maintain a FAN (FA Network) account. This is used for enrolment, payments, DBS tracking and recording your referee status. Keep digital copies of certificates and correspondence to speed up future progress.
– If a parent or guardian completed modules on their FAN account for an under‑18 learner, raise a support ticket with FA Education via the support hub to request transfer of course records.
Face-to-face training: structure and what to expect
– Mix of classroom and on‑pitch work: rules application, match management, decision‑making, communication, positioning and handling incidents.
– Bring ID, any DBS evidence, printed/digital course confirmations and suitable kit. Be ready to take part in simulated matches and practical drills.
Contact hours and format
– The in-person element totals about 11 hours and is organised into three contact days: – Day 1: weekday evening (intro + scenario analysis) – Day 2: full weekend day (practical drills and live pitch practice) – Day 3: weekday evening after you’ve completed five supervised matches (review and sign‑off)
– Throughout you’ll consolidate online learning with real-world practice and receive clear assessment criteria.
Assessment, accreditation and next steps
– Final award is issued after completing the online assessment, practical instructor sign-off and any required safeguarding/DBS checks.
– After qualification: register for local fixture appointments via your county FA portal, join mentoring programmes and begin supervised matches. Keep concise match reports and ask mentors for feedback after each game.
– Progression is driven by deliberate practice: aim for varied fixtures (youth, amateur, small‑sided), set goals, review footage when possible and record supervised match evidence promptly.
Typical timetable for early 2026 (local course examples)
– Binfield FC (RG42 5NR) – Day 1: 19 Feb 2026, 19:30–21:30 (Binfield FC) – Day 2: 22 Feb 2026, 10:00–18:00 – Day 3: 4 Jun 2026, 19:00–21:00 (Ascot United)
– Sir William Ramsay School (HP15 7UB) – Day 1: 18 Mar 2026, 19:00–21:00 – Day 2: 22 Mar 2026, 11:00–19:00 – Day 3: 11 Jun 2026, 19:30–21:30 (venue TBC for South/Mid‑Bucks)
– Lynch Hill Enterprise Academy (SL2 5AY) – Day 1: 19 Mar 2026, 19:30–21:30 – Day 2: 22 Mar 2026, 10:00–18:00
– Leon leisure centre (MK2 3HQ) – Dates and full details: check the course page for confirmation and any updates.
Trainers and venues
– Courses run at local venues to minimise travel. Tutors are FA‑registered instructors with current match experience. Check the course listing for specific tutors (examples include Coral John and Juliette Forgham) and choose dates that suit your availability.
Booking, cancellations and support
– By enrolling you accept the organiser’s terms and cancellation policy. If sessions are full, join the waiting list to receive notifications of new dates.
– For help with online modules, FAN accounts or transferring completions, contact FA Education via the support hub. Clubs can post volunteer opportunities on county FA noticeboards.
Who can apply and what you get
– Eligibility: Anyone aged 14+; no prior refereeing experience required. You must be able to complete online modules and attend the in-person sessions.
– Qualification: On successful completion of the online assessment and practical sign-off, you’ll receive the recognised entry-level qualification and be recorded as a registered referee (youth referee or Level 7 junior county referee, depending on local registration). The standard course fee is £150.0
Who can apply and what you get
– Eligibility: Anyone aged 14+; no prior refereeing experience required. You must be able to complete online modules and attend the in-person sessions.
– Qualification: On successful completion of the online assessment and practical sign-off, you’ll receive the recognised entry-level qualification and be recorded as a registered referee (youth referee or Level 7 junior county referee, depending on local registration). The standard course fee is £150.1
