BECOME A HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS OFFICIAL

Make money. Support students. Stay in the game.

Love being around sports? You don't need any experience to start officiating — just a willingness to learn. We'll show you exactly how.

WHY OFFICIATE?

Six good reasons to pick up a whistle.

Officiating is one of the few side hustles that pays you to stay close to the game you love.

Stay in the game

Be on the field or court, in the action — not watching from the stands.

Earn extra income

A flexible side hustle that pays well for a few hours of your week.

Support students

Help young athletes learn fair play, discipline, and sportsmanship.

Build leadership

Make split-second calls and manage the game with confidence.

Stay active

Get your steps in and stay fit while you work.

Grow your network

Join a community of officials, coaches, and athletes in your area.

START HERE - IT'S FREE

The Get Started Officiating Course

Four short lessons that take you from "curious" to "registered and ready." No cost, no experience needed.

GET STARTED OFFICIATING

Get Started Officiating High School Sports

Four short video lessons that walk you from "curious" to "registered and ready." Finish the quiz, get your certificate, and learn exactly how to sign up in your state.

  • Four free video lessons

  • "Are You Ready to Officiate?" quiz

  • State and local association registration steps

  • Completion certificate

HOW TO START

Three steps to your first game.

The path is the same in most states. Here's how it works.

Register with your state

Every state has a high school athletic association that governs school sports and certifies officials for their contests. Registration starts there.

Join your local association

Register with the local association for the area you want to work. Assigner contact info is usually listed on your state association's website.

Pre-season requirements

Expect local clinics, meetings, and scrimmages — plus online modules and a rules exam in many areas — before you're assigned games.

THE MONEY

How much do officials make?

Game fees vary by state, sport, and level — but the pay is real, and it adds up fast across a season.

In North Carolina, for example, here's what a single game pays:

SAMPLE NORTH CAROLINA GAME FEES

Football - Varsity

$104

Football - JV

$90

Basketball - Varsity

$77

Basketball - JV

$65

WHAT'S NEXT

Get trained and geared up

Once you're registered, confidence comes from knowing the rules and showing up prepared.

Get trained

NFHS rule books are dense. SportDeck flashcards and our video courses turn the rules into something you'll actually remember.

Get your gear

NFHS rule books are dense. SportDeck flashcards and our video courses turn the rules into something you'll actually remember.

Questions about getting started?

Join the list for guidance, resources, and a nudge through each step of becoming an official.

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