resources & instruction
These US Soccer documents should be in every referee's personal library, regardless of whether you are a Grassroots or Regional Referee.
International Football Association Board (IFAB) Laws of the Game
These are the 17 Laws of the Game from the IFAB.
US Soccer's Guide to Procedures for Referees, Assistant Referees & 4th Officials
Although no longer published, the Guide to Procedures describes the standard practices for positioning, signaling, and mechanics to be followed by the referee crew. The responsibilities, tasks and duties of the Referee, ARs, and 4th Official are also included. The Guide has been replaced with the USSF Referee Program Pocket Guide.
Player Development Initiatives (PDI)
The PDI describes the standards for small-sided play (4v4, 7v7, 9v9) and addresses US Soccer's Concussion Initiative, Build Out Line Practical Applications, and the modifications to the Laws of the Game for 6U through 12U.
Grassroots Licenses Certification Requirements
These documents describe the profile and minimum certification / recertification requirements (training, testing, fitness, and evaluation) for Grassroots Referees, Assessors and Instructors.
Regional Licenses Certification Requirements
These documents describe the profile and minimum certification / recertification requirements (training, testing, fitness, and evaluation) for Regional Referees, Assessors and Instructors.
Supplemental Publications
These additional Publications have been provided based on FAQs and feedback received.
Cautionable & Sending-Off Offenses, Considerations and Reports
The Offenses for which a Player may be Cautioned and shown a Yellow Card and the Offenses for which a Player may be Sent-Off and shown a Red Card – with examples and report codes. Also, questions the referee must consider in determining whether or not a Player may be guilty of Misconduct. Finally, USSF Referee Report and Supplemental Report forms.
Comparative Study of Rules and Laws
This Table provides an easy reference to the differences between the IFAB Laws of the Game, the NFHS Rules, and the NCAA Rules.