How to Upgrade

Why Upgrade

The reasons and motivations to be a referee are as different and varied as the personalities, ages and skill levels of referees themselves. The same applies for reasons to Upgrade. Check out the Utah SRA reasons for upgrading by clicking here.

Utah's Requirements as of Feb. 2020

Assessments will follow US Soccer's calendar, July  1 to June 30. (Example: July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022)

Maintenance: 

Two (2) Passing Evaluations as a Referee and one (1) as an Assistant Referee (a score of 70 or higher is passing)

One at the Adult Amateur Level One at the Highest Youth Level (U18 or U19) 

2 x 45 minute half Evaluations 

Must Be Done by 2 Different Referee Coaches

Must pass physical fitness test (see below)

Upgrade:

Minimum of 3 Passing Evaluations as a Referee (a score of 74 is required to upgrade)

2 at Adult Amateur Level & 1 at Highest Youth (U18 or U19)

Minimum of 1 Passing Evaluation as an Assistant Referee

2 x 45 minute half Evaluations 

Must Be Done by 3 Different Referee Coaches

Must pass physical fitness test (see below)

Requirements for Upgrade Consideration

Click Here for the most recent requirements (This document is being revised and will be uploaded when complete. Thanks for your patience.)

As referees advance to higher grades they are required to demonstrate their continued qualification for their grade through "maintenance" assessments and sustained high level competition experience. Each Regional referee is also required to successfully pass a physical fitness field examination which includes distance, agility and speed tests (as set out in the Referee Administrative handbook). The results of this testing are recorded to fulfill part of the annual registration / recertification qualifications. In rare circumstances referees who fail to maintain their qualifications are "down graded" and this is reflected on their next registration.


USSF Referee Levels Explained


FIFA Referees: FIFA Referees who officiate in the World Cup and international matches. 


FIFA Assistant Referees: FIFA Assistant Referees. 


National Referees: In the United States competition at the national level (including professional soccer and MLS) requires Grade 3 or 4. Grade 3 indicates the referee's readiness to be considered for international service. 


Regional Referees: The highest level of competition within a state (amateur leagues beyond youth) indicates the referee's readiness to be considered for national service. 


Grassroots Referees: This category of referees encompasses beginning referees to those that are experienced in the state and who are qualified to officiate all but the highest levels of amateur soccer. This ranges from"small sided" matches to the adult amateur leagues.

Fitness Test Information

Regional Referee Audio Clips

FIFA Assistant Referee Audio Clips

FIFA Referee Audio Clips