Umpire Accreditation Scheme — 2025
USAFLUA follows the AFL Umpire Accreditation scheme, aligned with current AFL standards while maintaining equivalency with Australian certifications. The USAFL UA Umpire Head Coach oversees accreditations in the US, working with AFL Canada to support umpire accreditation across North America. Enquiries: umpirecoach@usafl.com
Accreditation Levels
| Former Name | Current Name | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Level 0 | Introductory Certification (IC) | Field, Goal, Boundary, Coach |
| Level 1 | Development Accreditation (DA) | Field, Goal, Boundary, Coach |
| Level 2 | Advanced Accreditation (AA) | Field, Goal, Boundary, Coach |
Two-Component Accreditation Process
Theoretical Component
Complete courses through the AFL Learning Management System (AFL Learn).
- Create an AFL Learn account
- Access AFL Learn Platform
- Begin with the AFL First Bounce course and progress through relevant curriculum
Practical Component
A minimum of three game observations documenting performance in actual match situations. Observations span multiple events and seasons, primarily at the USAFL National Tournament in October. Seasonal observations by qualified coaches can substitute.
Pathway Requirements
| Level | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Introductory Certification (IC) | Attend a sanctioned USAFLUA Umpire Clinic + observe at least one match. Applies to all umpiring categories simultaneously. |
| Development Accreditation (DA) | Complete the Introductory Umpire Course + minimum three game observations. |
| Advanced Accreditation (AA) | Complete the Level 2 Umpire Manual with your coach + minimum three game observations. Demonstrates advanced game management and comprehensive law understanding. |
| Umpire Coach Accreditation | AFL-administered webinar (theoretical) + running a clinic while being observed coaching on game day (practical). Offered when sufficient candidates apply. |
Accreditation Duration
Accreditations are valid for four years. Accreditations awarded in 2023 remain valid through 2027. Reaccreditation requires demonstrating previously achieved skill levels, typically at Nationals or regional tournaments. Note: accreditations can differ by category — for example, an umpire may hold AA Goal, DA Boundary, and IC Field simultaneously.
Contacts
| Umpire Head Coach | Jeff Persson — umpirecoach@usafl.com — Available Monday nights during season. Phone coaching sessions available. |
| Goal Umpire Coach | Toby Persson — toby.persson@usafl.com |
Resources & Downloads
- AFL Laws of the Game 2025 (PDF)
- 2025 USAFL Approved Laws and Interpretations (PDF)
- Spirit of the Laws (PDF)
- The Ultimate Umpiring Guide (PDF)
- Umpire Diary (PDF)
- USAFL Umpire Match Assessment Form (DOCX)
- AFL Umpires Manual — Level One (PDF)
- AFL Umpires Manual — Level Two (PDF)
- AFL Umpire Coaches Manual — Level One (PDF)
- AFL Umpire Coaches Manual — Level Two (PDF)
- USAFL Caution-Ejection Form — Completed Example (PDF)