Every incredible referee begins at Level 5, even the best of the best managers of the pitch learned the Laws of the Game. Like with any other discipline, a good referee must learn the basic laws of the game in order to sit the referee course. Successful Level 5 graduates will receive a certificate and be invited to become playing referees.

Sitting the referee course is no easy feat as it requires several hours of theory modules, practical sessions, and practical mentoring. These units give novice referees the understanding of not only the Laws of the Game but also the ability to self-evaluate play. At Level 4, novice referees can referee in all local matches as a centre ref. This qualification is valid for a period of 4 years.

Most Level 4 referees will seek to grow their skills in order to get more complex and interesting games. A Level 3 referee must be at least 16 years old in order to referee lower divisions of adult football or lower-level state competitions. In order to become a Level 3 referee, you must sit the course to refresh your understanding of the laws, test your fitness, and challenge what you already know about soccer. Valid for four years.