How much does a referee make?

In the U.S., officials are often paid per game, so working more games can mean more pay. Rates rise with the level of competition and differ by league, employer, and location; experience and training can help officials qualify for higher-level games, while seasonal or part-time schedules limit how much they work.

Officiate at competitive athletic or sporting events. Detect infractions of rules and decide penalties according to established regulations. Includes all sporting officials, referees, and competition judges.

What's a typical day like?

A baseball umpire arrives before the game, plans with partners who will cover home plate and the bases, then checks lineups and ground rules with the coaches. The plate umpire puts on a mask, pads, and hard-toed shoes before calling the game.

In the U.S., rules vary: some jobs ask for a high school diploma, classes, and a rules test, and many officials start in youth games. Soccer referees can start at 13 with U.S. Soccer’s online course and test, then contact a local game assigner.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like leading and selling and keeping things organized.

A baseball home-plate umpire wears specially designed shoes with hard toes.