Referee Info + FAQs
Information in this section covers the Laws of the Game and other important program information.
The IFAB is made up of the four British football associations (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) and FIFA. In January 2014 The IFAB officially became registered as an independent association. This was a new beginning, with their own administration, headquarters and, more importantly, statutes that re-define their purpose, structure and responsibilities. IFAB newly introduced bodies, the Football and Technical Advisory Panels FAP and TAP, include members from the football world bringing in their experiences and perspectives as former players or referees.
The Law book has undergone a major overhaul, which reflects the transformation of the organization itself. The new revision is a true milestone and the adopted amendments symbolize a bolder step into the future of football and the Laws of the Game.
IFAB has created a document that summarizes the law changes and a document the provides clarification for the law changes for the 2026/2027 year. This document provides information and explanation on the implementation and execution of the new laws.
Go to IFAB for the 2026/2027 Law Change booklet.
Go to IFAB for the Throw-in and goal-kick countdown protocol here.
Go to IFAB for the Time-limited substitution protocol here.
Go to IFAB for the Off-field treatment and assessment pro
Go to IFAB for the “Only The Captain” Guidelines. (Mandatory for 2026/2027)
U.S. Soccer has created a presentation that summarizes the law changes and a document the provides clarification for the law changes for the 2026/2027 year.
Go to U.S. Soccer to view this presentation.
U.S. Soccer has updated Referee Abuse Prevention Policy (Policy 531-9) which is designed to make youth and amateur matches safer, more fun, and more empowering for everyone involved.
Go to U.S. Soccer to view the updates on this policy.
You can download a copy of a U.S. Soccer Game and Supplemental Report by clicking the link below. Complete and submit this form to the appropriate competition authorities (e.g., local league, tournament director, cup coordinator, etc.) as directed. If needed, and in addition to the U.S. Soccer Referee Report, the U.S. Soccer Supplemental Referee Report can be used for instances of referee assault, referee abuse, dismissal of team officials, sending-off offenses, serious injuries, game abandonment or other substantial occurrences.
You can download a copy of the FIFA Considerations by clicking the link below.
Log into your STSR account and in the member page dropdown, select “Order Replacement Badge” which will then reflect in the box titled “Completing your Request and Paying Fees:” and then you may complete the process.
If you wish to see or print out your current year license for either a referee, referee mentor/coach or assignor, log into your profile at the U.S. Soccer Learning Center and each will be listed under your profile for you to view or download and print.