A new initiative by U.S. Soccer will see referees younger than 18 receive a green badge, while those 18 and older will continue to receive the traditional black badge, effective with the 2026 referee certification cycle. The change, announced July 31, 2025, applies to those completing first-time certification or recertification between July 2025 and May 2026.
The policy shift comes alongside a strengthened Referee Abuse Prevention Policy (Policy 531-9), implemented in March 2025, designed to improve safety and empowerment for referees at youth and amateur levels. The updated policy outlines clear examples of misconduct and associated consequences, which can include suspensions based on the severity of the incident.
According to the Metro DC-VA State Referee Program, referees involved in abuse situations are directed to first contact their assignor, complete their game report, and submit a Referee Abuse Report online. Area Referee Administrators are then responsible for discussing the incident and next steps with the referee, with the SRP Office available for follow-up within 48 hours. U.S. Soccer aims to resolve these incidents within 30 days.
The program likewise maintains an agreement with Official Sports International (OSI) to provide discounted referee kits, mirroring the uniforms worn by professional referees at U.S. Soccer events. Registration for new referees for 2026 is available from July through May, while returning referees can begin recertification by selecting the appropriate path.
U.S. Soccer maintains lists of match officials, including FIFA, PRO, and National referees, available for public viewing. The 2026 National Match Officials List is available as a PDF document.
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