How to Become a Basketball Referee in Florida: Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about stepping onto the hardwood as a basketball referee in Florida? Whether you're looking to stay close to the game, earn some extra money, or explore a new side hustle with flexible hours, officiating is a great option. And if you're located in Central Florida, Primary Coverage Officiating is here to help you get started with training, certification, and real game assignments.

This guide walks you through exactly what it takes to become a certified basketball official in Florida.

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Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before anything else, make sure you’re eligible:

• Minimum age: You must be at least 18 years old to officiate high school games in Florida
• Be in good physical condition—basketball moves fast, and you'll be on your feet
• Have reliable transportation to and from game sites
• No prior experience is required, just a willingness to learn and hustle

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Step 2: Register with the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA)

All high school basketball officials in Florida must be registered through the FHSAA, the governing body for high school athletics in the state.

Here's how to register:

1. Go to www.fhsaa.com
2. Navigate to the “Officials” section
3. Create an account and choose basketball as your sport
4. Complete the registration form and pay the annual fee
5. Undergo a background check, which is required for all new officials

Once registered, you’ll get access to official training materials, rule books, and more.

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Step 3: Complete Required Training

After registering, you’ll need to complete a few training steps before you can start officiating:

• Attend a rules clinic or online meeting hosted by the FHSAA or your local association
• Pass a rules exam based on NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) basketball rules
• Review mechanics training materials, which show you where to stand, how to move, and how to communicate with players and coaches

If you're new to officiating, don’t worry—Primary Coverage Officiating can help you every step of the way, including mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities.

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Step 4: Get the Right Gear

To officiate games, you’ll need a standard basketball referee uniform and equipment, including:

• Black-and-white striped shirt
• Black pants
• Black shoes with good grip
• Whistle with lanyard
• Stopwatch or game timer
• Pocket notebook or game card

Starter kits are easy to find online, and Primary Coverage Officiating can recommend where to shop and what to prioritize so you don’t overspend.

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Step 5: Get Assigned to Games

Once you’re certified and geared up, it’s time to get on the court. If you're in Central Florida, Primary Coverage Officiating connects you with real game assignments based on your experience and availability.

Most new officials start with:

• Youth leagues
• Freshman and JV games
• Recreational and club-level events

As you build experience, you can move up to varsity games, tournaments, and even playoff assignments.

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What to Expect on Game Day

• Arrive 30–45 minutes early
• Check in with coaches and game administrators
• Conduct pre-game warm-ups and discussions with your crew
• Stay focused, stay calm, and make confident calls

Each game you work will build your confidence, improve your judgment, and get you closer to more advanced opportunities.

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Why Officiate Basketball in Florida?

• Earn $50–$90 per game, depending on level
• Flexible schedule—you decide how often you want to work
• Stay active and involved in the game you love
• Meet new people and grow your network in the sports community
• Develop transferable skills like communication, leadership, and decision-making

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Work with Primary Coverage Officiating

If you're based in Central Florida, Primary Coverage Officiating is the easiest way to break into basketball officiating. They’ll help you navigate the certification process, get your first assignments, and continue developing your skills throughout the season.

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Ready to Blow the Whistle?

Reach out to Primary Coverage Officiating today and take your first step toward becoming a certified basketball referee in Florida.