The Promotion Structure and Referee Classification Levels in England
(For Wales click here.)
The Classification Levels shown below, were introduced in season 2001/2002. Prior to this, there were only 3 levels of Referees, Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3.
The current Level 5 and above categories, were previously know as Class 1 & 1X levels.
On behalf of The Football Association in England, each Affiliated Association (County Football Association) must classify Referees administered by their Association. The classification period runs from 1 June in each year, or the date of successful completion of the initial examination, to the following 31 May.
As at 1 June each year Referees in England are to be classified as follows;
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International Level:
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Level 1 National List
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Level 2 Panel List
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Level 3 Contributory Referees
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Level 4 Supply League Referees
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Level 5 Senior County Referees
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Level 6 County Referees
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Level 7 Junior Referees not in Level 8 or below
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Level 8 Youth Referee
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Level 9 Trainee Referee
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Level 10 Declared non-active Referees
Described in the next few pages, are details showing the various levels of football at which a Referee can operate in; and the promotion requirements.
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