FAQ
Sports Official FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a sports official.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a sports official: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about sports officials
How do I become a referee?
Register with a league or state association and complete training.
Is officiating full-time?
Most officials work part-time.
Can officials advance?
Yes, to higher levels with experience and evaluations.
How much does a sports official make?
The median annual wage for sports officials was $40,710 in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $26,540 and the highest 10% earned more than $82,960.
How long does it take to become a sports official?
Most people need about Weeks to months of training of training. A high school diploma is typical. Officials register with leagues or state associations, complete training and pass rules exams.
Do you need a degree to be a sports official?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is sports official a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +5.2% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 4,300 openings each year. Upsides include stay involved in sports; a common challenge is that criticism from fans and coaches.
What skills does a sports official need?
Key technical skills include rules knowledge, positioning and mechanics, game management, and communication signals. Employers also value composure, decisiveness, and integrity.
What certifications are available for sports officials?
Common credentials include State association officiating registration, Rules exams, NCAA or league certifications, and CPR and first aid. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Sports Official fit quiz, compare with Sports Coach, or explore Sports Official training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 27-2023 (Umpires, referees, and other sports officials).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Umpires, referees, and other sports officials (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.