Refereeing

There are almost 2,300 registered referees in Scotland, ranging from the top one hundred and fifty on the List of Senior Referees, officiating in the countries top matches, to the two thousand strong army of referees covering every level of the game. One thing all referees have in common is their starting point. Each referee starts with an instruction course, covering the seventeen laws of the game, followed by an exam to confirm their status as a qualified match official.

Referees are a vital part of football and the game simply couldn't exist without them. Like goalkeepers, referees are seen as a breed apart and for some the question is why? Find out why you should become a Referee by going to Why be a Referee?.

If this inspires you then go to How to become a referee. This section contains information on who can get involved and how. The course and exam process is outlined as well as some information on how you start refereeing.

From there you can look at how you progress through the Scottish FA's refereeing structures. The details of your local Referees' Associations are also included to help you to pursue your interest. If you don't wish to pursue a career in refereeing you can still gain some knowledge by reading the Laws of the Game and taking the interactive quiz.

Happy whistling!