N E W M E M B E R A P P L I C A T I O N
BECOME AN ELITE
ACADEMIC REFEREE
Apply today and start your career officiating soccer matches across Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Three simple steps — and you're on the field.
H O W T O G E T S T A R T E D
THREE SIMPLE STEPS TO THE FIELD
Joining Elite Academic Referees is straightforward. Our Membership Director will personally guide you from application to your first assignment.
01
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Complete the New Member Application form below. Our Membership Director will email you within 48 hours with your next step.
02
GET ADDED TO ARBITER
You'll be added to Arbiter — our official referee assigning platform. Look for an email with login instructions and how to set your availability.
I M P O R T A N T - R E A D B E F O R E A P P L Y I N G
About Your USSF ID
The "Last Digits of USSF ID" can be found on the CalSouth Registered Officials List. Your name must appear on the list before you can be assigned a scrimmage or game.
If your name is not yet listed, simply enter "NEW" in that field — we'll help you complete certification.
03
EARN YOUR RATING
You'll be assigned a scrimmage or game where a senior official will rate your performance and place you on the appropriate match level.
NEW MEMBER APPLICATION
All fields marked with an asterisk are required. We'll respond within 48 hours.
L E T S W O R K T O G E T H E R
M E M B E R. B E N E F I T S
WHAT YOU GET AS AN EAR MEMBER
From your first whistle to advanced certifications, we invest in your growth as an official.
M
Mentorship Program
Every new referee is paired with a veteran official for hands-on guidance during your first matches.
A
Tiered Assignments
Game assignments from youth leagues to competitive adult matches — matched to your experience level.
C
Ongoing Clinics
Regular training sessions and rules clinics to sharpen your skills and prepare for advanced certifications.
P
Career Pathway
A clear path from Grassroots to Regional and National certifications — with the support to get there.