How to Get Certified as a Soccer Referee in Missouri: Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about becoming a certified soccer referee in Missouri? Whether you're looking to earn extra income, stay active, or get more involved in the sport, getting certified is your first step. The process is beginner-friendly, doesn’t take long, and sets you up to start officiating youth and adult games across the state.

If you're in the Kansas City area, KC Soccer Officials can walk you through the entire process and help you get started with real game assignments once you're certified.

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Step 1: Make Sure You Meet the Requirements

To become a soccer referee in Missouri, you’ll need to meet a few basic requirements:

• Be at least 13 years old
• Have access to a computer or device with internet (most of the training is done online)
• Be ready to learn and able to stay active on your feet during games

That’s it. You don’t need to have playing experience or prior knowledge of refereeing to get started.

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Step 2: Register with U.S. Soccer

All referee certification in Missouri runs through the U.S. Soccer Learning Center. This is where you'll complete your training and get officially licensed.

Here’s how to register:

1. Visit learning.ussoccer.com
2. Create an account
3. Sign up for the Grassroots Referee Course
4. Complete the required online training modules

If you’re 18 or older, you’ll also need to complete:

• A background check
• SafeSport training (a requirement for working with youth athletes)

The entire process is self-paced and can be completed in just a few hours.

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Step 3: Attend an In-Person Field Session

After the online portion, you’ll attend a short in-person training session. These are held throughout Missouri and give you hands-on experience with:

• Basic positioning and movement
• Whistle use and signaling
• How to manage a game and enforce rules

If you're near Kansas City, KC Soccer Officials can help you find a session close to you and answer any questions before you attend.

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Step 4: Order Your Referee Gear

Once you’re certified, you’ll need to get your uniform and equipment so you’re ready to hit the field.

You’ll need:

• Referee jersey (start with yellow)
• Black shorts and socks
• Whistle and lanyard
• Yellow and red cards
• Stopwatch or referee watch
• Score pad or notebook

Many referees start with an entry-level gear kit, which can be ordered online. KC Soccer Officials can also guide you on where to buy and what to get.

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Step 5: Start Getting Assigned to Games

Once you're certified and geared up, you're ready to start working. If you're in the Kansas City area, KC Soccer Officials is the best place to start. They'll help you:

• Get assigned to local youth and adult games
• Start building experience and confidence on the field
• Connect with mentors and other officials

Most new referees begin with recreational youth games and can move up to more competitive matches over time.

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Why Get Certified as a Referee?

• Earn $25–$60+ per game depending on level and experience
• Set your own schedule with weekend and evening flexibility
• Stay active and involved in the sport
• Learn leadership and communication skills that translate off the field

Whether you want to work just a few games a month or pack your weekends with back-to-back matches, it’s up to you.

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Work with KC Soccer Officials

If you're looking to get certified and start refereeing in the Kansas City area, KC Soccer Officials is the place to go. They help new referees every season get trained, equipped, and assigned to their first games.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact KC Soccer Officials today to begin your referee certification journey and start working matches in Missouri.