Top 10 Umpire Certifications

Certifications are important for umpires in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and experience that helps employers to assess their qualifications. They provide evidence of an umpire’s competence and ability to meet certain standards, which can give them an edge over other applicants. Certifications also signal commitment to the sport, as well as a willingness to stay up-to-date with the latest rules and regulations. Having certifications can open up more opportunities for work, as organizations may be more likely to hire someone who has taken the time and effort to become certified.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Umpires and explains how they can help umpires advance their careers.

What are Umpire Certifications?

Umpire certification is a program designed to provide umpires with the necessary skills and knowledge to officiate games safely and fairly. The certification process includes classroom instruction, field training, and the successful passing of an exam. Umpires who complete the program are certified by their respective state or national governing body, such as USA Softball or Little League Baseball International.

Having a certified umpire can help ensure that games are played safely and according to the rules. Certified umpires have a comprehensive understanding of the game’s rules and regulations, which helps them make correct calls on the field. They also understand how to handle any disputes that may arise between teams during the game. Certified umpires also know how to ensure that all players adhere to safety protocols while playing.

Overall, having certified umpires at games helps promote fairness among teams and ensures that games are played in accordance with proper rules and regulations. This encourages players to take responsibility for their actions on the field and promotes respect for each other’s abilities.

Pro tip: Make sure to stay up-to-date on the latest umpire certification requirements. Different leagues and organizations may have different regulations, so it's important to check with your local league or organization to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria for umpire certification.

Related: What does an Umpire do?

Top 10 Umpire Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Umpires today.

1. Professional Baseball Umpire School

Professional Baseball Umpire School is an intensive instructional program designed to prepare aspiring umpires for a career in professional baseball. The school, which is run by Major League Baseball (MLB), offers three levels of instruction: Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3.

Level 1 classes last two weeks and are held at various locations throughout the United States. During this time, students learn the fundamentals of umpiring, including rules interpretation, positioning, mechanics and communication skills. At the end of the course, participants must pass a written exam in order to advance to Level 2.

Level 2 classes last four weeks and are held at MLB's Umpire Training Academy in Vero Beach, Florida. During this time, students receive advanced instruction on umpiring techniques and strategies as well as physical conditioning drills. At the end of the course, participants must pass a field exam in order to advance to Level 3.

Level 3 classes last six weeks and are also held at MLB's Umpire Training Academy in Vero Beach. During this time, students receive specialized instruction on game management techniques as well as additional physical conditioning drills. At the end of the course, participants must pass a final exam in order to be considered for professional umpiring positions with MLB or its affiliated minor league teams.

The cost for attending Professional Baseball Umpire School is approximately $6,000 per level (not including travel expenses). Additionally, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements before being accepted into any level of the program. Those interested should contact MLB directly for more information about admission criteria and application procedures.

2. Major League Baseball Umpire Training Program

Major League Baseball Umpire Training Program is an intensive program designed to prepare umpires for the Major League Baseball (MLB) level. It is a comprehensive program that focuses on developing the skills and knowledge necessary to become an MLB umpire. The program typically takes two years to complete and includes classroom instruction, field experience, and mentorship from current MLB umpires.

The first step in the training program is attending one of the six MLB-affiliated Umpire Schools located throughout the United States. During this school, prospective umpires will receive instruction on rules, mechanics, positioning, and more. After successfully completing the school, participants will be eligible for placement in one of Minor League Baseball's affiliated leagues where they can gain additional experience before being considered for promotion to the MLB level.

In addition to attending Umpire School, those interested in becoming an MLB umpire must also pass a physical exam and background check prior to being considered for employment or promotion. There are no fees associated with attending Umpire School or taking part in the training program; however, there may be costs associated with travel expenses and other related costs.

Once accepted into the training program, candidates will spend two years honing their skills under the guidance of veteran umpires and instructors. During this time they will receive regular evaluations on their performance as well as feedback from instructors and mentors. At the end of this period, successful candidates may be promoted to full-time Major League umpires.

Overall, Major League Baseball Umpire Training Program is an excellent way for aspiring umpires to gain valuable experience that can help them reach their goal of becoming a professional baseball official at the highest level possible.

3. Minor League Baseball Umpire Certification Program

The Minor League Baseball Umpire Certification Program is a program designed to certify umpires at the professional level. The program is offered by Minor League Baseball (MiLB) in partnership with the Professional Baseball Umpire Corporation (PBUC).

The program consists of three phases: classroom instruction, field training, and evaluation. The classroom instruction phase covers topics such as rules and regulations, game management, positioning, mechanics, and judgment calls. The field training phase consists of on-field drills and practice games officiated by PBUC instructors. The evaluation phase involves umpiring actual MiLB games while being observed by PBUC instructors.

In order to be eligible for the program, applicants must have prior experience umpiring amateur or high school baseball games. They must also pass a physical fitness test and background check before being accepted into the program.

The entire certification process typically takes about six weeks to complete. It costs approximately $1,000 to enroll in the program and attend all three phases of instruction.

4. National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) Umpiring Certification

The National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) Umpiring Certification is a certification program that provides umpires with the knowledge and skills necessary to officiate at all levels of sports. This certification is designed to ensure that umpires have the necessary qualifications to officiate in a professional manner.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the NASO Umpiring Certification program, depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to it. The program consists of online modules, self-study materials and exams, as well as on-field training sessions with experienced umpires. To get started, you must first become a member of NASO and pay an annual membership fee. After that, you will be able to register for the certification program and begin your studies.

The cost of the NASO Umpiring Certification program varies depending on the level of certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, the fees range from $50-$150 per year for basic certifications up to $500 or more for advanced certifications. Additionally, some states require additional fees in order to receive state-specific certifications.

Overall, obtaining NASO Umpiring Certification is an important step for any aspiring umpire who wants to take their career seriously and ensure they are properly qualified for their job.

5. International Association of Approved Basketball Officials (IAABO) Certification

The International Association of Approved Basketball Officials (IAABO) is an organization that provides certification for basketball officials. This certification is recognized by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and other governing bodies of basketball. It is considered to be the gold standard in certification for basketball referees.

In order to become certified, a person must take and pass a series of tests administered by IAABO. The tests cover topics such as rules knowledge, game management, and judgment skills. The tests are designed to ensure that referees have the necessary skills and knowledge to officiate games at a high level.

The process of obtaining IAABO certification generally takes between six months and two years, depending on the individual's experience level and how quickly they can complete the required tests. In order to begin the process, a person must first join their local IAABO board. After joining, they will then need to attend classes or workshops offered by their local board in order to prepare for the exams. Once they have completed all of the necessary classes or workshops, they will then be able to register for and take the exams.

The cost of obtaining IAABO certification varies from board to board but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD depending on what type of membership is purchased and which exams are taken. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking classes or workshops offered by local boards in preparation for taking the exams.

6. National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Umpiring Certification

The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Umpiring Certification is a program designed to provide umpires with the knowledge and skills necessary to officiate high school sports. It is a comprehensive program that covers all aspects of officiating, including rules, mechanics, and conduct. The certification is valid for three years and must be renewed every three years in order to remain active.

In order to become certified, individuals must first complete an NFHS Umpiring Course. This course consists of both classroom instruction and field practice sessions. During the classroom portion, students will learn the rules of each sport they plan on officiating as well as proper game management techniques. During the field practice sessions, students will apply their knowledge by working with experienced umpires in live game situations.

Once the course has been completed successfully, individuals can then take a written exam administered by their state's high school association or local umpire organization. Upon passing this exam, individuals will receive their NFHS Umpiring Certification card which is valid for three years from the date it was issued.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the state or local organization administering the course and exams. Generally speaking, however, most courses range from $50-$100 per person and exams range from $25-$50 per person.

7. USA Hockey Officiating Program Level 1-5 Certifications

USA Hockey Officiating Program Level 1-5 Certifications are certifications that ice hockey referees can obtain to validate their officiating abilities.

Level 1 Certification: This certification is the entry level certification and is available to anyone who has completed the USA Hockey Online Officiating Education Program, which includes a background check, and is at least 14 years old. It takes approximately 4-8 hours to complete the online program, and costs $40.

Level 2 Certification: This certification is for those who have held a Level 1 Certification for at least one year and are at least 16 years old. To obtain this certification, applicants must attend a Level 2 Clinic (which typically takes two days) and pass an on-ice evaluation. The cost of the clinic varies depending on location but generally ranges from $100-$200.

Level 3 Certification: This certification is for those who have held a Level 2 Certification for at least one year and are at least 18 years old. To obtain this certification, applicants must attend a Level 3 Clinic (which typically takes two days) and pass an on-ice evaluation. The cost of the clinic varies depending on location but generally ranges from $200-$300.

Level 4 Certification: This certification is for those who have held a Level 3 Certification for at least one year, have officiated in USA Hockey competitions for three seasons or more, and are at least 21 years old. To obtain this certification, applicants must attend a Level 4 Clinic (which typically takes two days) and pass an on-ice evaluation. The cost of the clinic varies depending on location but generally ranges from $400-$500.

Level 5 Certification: This certification is for those who have held a Level 4 Certification for at least one year, have officiated in USA Hockey competitions for five seasons or more, and are at least 24 years old. To obtain this certification, applicants must attend a Level 5 Clinic (which typically takes two days) and pass an on-ice evaluation. The cost of the clinic varies depending on location but generally ranges from $600-$700.

8. American Softball Association (ASA) Umpiring Certification

The American Softball Association (ASA) Umpiring Certification is a program designed to provide individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to become certified softball umpires. The certification process consists of both classroom instruction and on-field training, and can take up to three months to complete.

To get ASA Umpiring Certification, individuals must first register for an ASA Umpire School or Clinic. These schools or clinics are offered by local ASA associations or state softball organizations throughout the country. During these courses, participants will learn the rules and regulations of softball as well as proper mechanics for officiating games. Upon completion of the school or clinic, individuals must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of ASA Umpiring Certification varies depending on the location and type of school or clinic attended. Generally, most schools or clinics cost between $50-$100 USD per participant. Additionally, some schools may require participants to purchase their own umpire uniform which can range from $50-$150 USD depending on the quality and style purchased.

Once certified, umpires must maintain their certification by attending annual refresher courses and completing continuing education requirements as set forth by their local ASA association or state softball organization.

9. United States Soccer Federation Referee Grade 8-7 Certifications

The United States Soccer Federation Referee Grade 8-7 Certification is a certification program designed to recognize the highest level of refereeing in the United States. The certification is awarded to referees who have achieved a certain level of proficiency and experience in officiating soccer games. It is the highest level of referee certification available in the USSF system.

In order to obtain this certification, referees must first complete a grade 8 course, which is an intensive training program that covers all aspects of refereeing, including rules, mechanics, positioning, and game management. After completing the course, referees must pass a written test and demonstrate their ability to officiate a game at the grade 8 level. Once they have passed these requirements, they are eligible for Grade 7 certification.

Grade 7 certification requires additional training and testing beyond what was required for Grade 8. This includes additional courses on advanced topics such as player safety and communication with coaches and players. Additionally, referees must pass an oral exam that tests their knowledge of game rules and mechanics as well as their ability to manage games effectively.

Once all requirements are fulfilled, referees will receive their Grade 7 certificate from USSF which recognizes them as having achieved the highest level of refereeing in the United States. The cost for obtaining this certification varies depending on location but usually ranges from $200-$400 USD.

10. International Volleyball Federation Refereeing Course and Exam

The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) Refereeing Course and Exam is an official FIVB program designed to train and certify volleyball referees. The course provides the knowledge and skills necessary to officiate at all levels of international volleyball competitions, including the Olympic Games.

The course consists of two parts: a theoretical part, which is completed online, and a practical part, which is done in person. The theoretical part covers topics such as rules of the game, referee signals, court positioning, game management, decision-making process and communication with players. The practical part includes drills and exercises that help participants develop their refereeing skills.

To obtain the FIVB Refereeing Certificate, participants must pass both the theoretical and practical parts of the course. The course typically takes two weeks to complete but can be extended if needed.

The cost for the FIVB Refereeing Course varies depending on the country where it is taken. In some countries it may be free or subsidized by local volleyball federations; in others it may cost several hundred dollars.

Do You Really Need a Umpire Certificate?

Whether you need an umpire certificate or not depends on the type of umpiring you intend to do. Umpires are typically divided into two categories: amateur and professional. Amateur umpires may not require a certificate, but professional umpires often must obtain one in order to work in their chosen field.

For amateur umpires, a certificate is not required but it can be beneficial when trying to obtain a position as an umpire. A certificate shows that you have taken the time to learn about the rules and regulations associated with umpiring as well as demonstrate your commitment to the sport. It also provides potential employers with evidence of your knowledge and experience in the field.

Professional umpires, however, usually must obtain a certification from a governing body such as Major League Baseball or Minor League Baseball before they can work as an official at games. The certification process includes passing an exam and attending specialized training sessions that cover topics such as game rules and mechanics, player safety, and proper handling of disputes between players and coaches. Professional certifications show that you have met the necessary qualifications to become an official in your chosen league or association.

In conclusion, whether you need an umpire certificate depends on what level of play you intend to officiate. Amateur players may not require a certificate but it can still be beneficial for those looking to become involved in the sport professionally. Professional players must obtain certifications from governing bodies before they can work as officials at games in order to demonstrate their knowledge and qualifications for the job.

Related: Umpire Resume Examples

FAQs About Umpire Certifications

1. How do I become an umpire?

Answer: You must complete a certified umpire training program, pass the final exam, and obtain certification from your local state or provincial governing body.

2. What is the cost of umpire certification?

Answer: The cost of certification varies depending on the governing body and location, but usually ranges from $50-$200.

3. How long does it take to become certified as an umpire?

Answer: It typically takes between 3-6 months to complete the entire process of becoming a certified umpire.

4. Is there a minimum age requirement for becoming an umpire?

Answer: Yes, most governing bodies have a minimum age requirement of 18 years old in order to become an umpire.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my umpire certification?

Answer: Yes, most governing bodies require that you attend periodic refresher courses or seminars in order to maintain your certification status.