Certifications & Upgrades
This page contains info on recertification, advanced certifications, and additional certifications.
Referee Match Pyramid
Practical Evaluation Fees
The MDCVSRP has moved to a flat fee structure for formal referee evaluations. It is no
longer tied to the match fee. The evaluation fees are currently set as follows:
longer tied to the match fee. The evaluation fees are currently set as follows:
Regional Referee Upgrade and Maintenance – $100
National Referee Upgrade and Maintenance – $200
Evaluations must be completed by June 30 to meet requirements for the following year’s certification. This means that evaluations for your 2027 badge must be completed by June 30, 2026.
Top Division 1 and Above Leagues For Referee Evaluations
The following MDCVSA adult leagues/divisions, United Soccer Leagues (USL), and have been designated as “Top Division 1 Leagues” and or “Professional Leagues” for evaluation of referees attempting to upgrade to or maintain a National or Regional Referee license.
| League | Division | Evaluation Level |
|---|---|---|
| USL Premier | Men’s Professional (D1) | National |
| USL Championship | Men’s Professional (D2) | National |
| Gainbridge Super League | Women’s Professional (D1) | National |
| USL League 1 | Men’s Professional (D3) | National |
| NISA | Men’s Professional (D3) | National |
| MLS Next Pro | Men’s Professional (D2) | National |
| USL League 2 | Men’s Pre-professional | National/Regional |
| USL W League | Women’s Pre-professional | National/Regional |
| CCL Pro-23 | Men’s Semi-professional | National/Regional |
| American Premier Soccer League (APSL) | Men’s Semi-professional | National/Regional |
| United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) | Men’s Semi-professional | National/Regional |
| National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) | USASA Tier 1 | National/Regional |
| American Premier League (APL) | Men’s Top Amateur (D1) | National/Regional |
| Virginia Super Soccer League (VSSL) | Men’s Top Amateur (D1) | National/Regional |
| Maryland Super Soccer League (MSSL) | Men’s Top Amateur (D1) | National/Regional |
| US Open Cup | N/A | National/Regional |
| DC Premier League (DCPL) | Men’s Top Amateur (Premier only) | Regional |
| Central Virginia Soccer Association (CVSA) | Men’s Top Amateur (Premier only) | Regional |
| Northern Virginia Soccer League (NVSL) | Men’s Amateur (D1 only) | Regional |
Career Development
Welcome to our guide on advancing your career as a soccer referee! This page outlines the steps and resources needed to progress from grassroots officiating to the professional level. Whether you’re starting out or enhancing your skills, we provide valuable insights to support your development.
Why Become a Referee?
Beyond the love of the game, becoming a soccer referee offers significant personal and professional benefits. You'll stay active and fit, develop invaluable leadership skills, and earn money for your hard work. Most importantly, you'll play a vital role in the youth soccer community by ensuring fair play and a positive experience for all.