Step 1: Obtain an Officiating Application [ APPLICATION ]
Step 2: Complete Concussion Training - Applicants must complete a course on concussion training, prior to officiating.
Step 3: Mail application form and fee - Mail completed application form and required $65.00 application fee ($65 per sport, check or money order payable to the OHSAA) to OHSAA, L-4256, Columbus, Ohio, 43260-4256. Fall sport applications will only be accepted from June 15 through July 15, winter sport applications Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, spring sport applications Dec. 15 through Feb. 15. Track and Field application will be accepted year round.
Step 4: Receive officiating instruction books in mail - You will be mailed all study material and the testing instructions at least two weeks prior to the testing opening up. If you do not receive this material, contact the OHSAA officiating department at [email protected].
Step 5: Prepare for Officiating Exam - Study your rule books in preparation for the online test.
Step 6: Take Officiating Exam - You will take an exam that includes rules and mechanics questions. Each test you will be able to take twice. At the conclusion of the test you will receive your results.
Step 7: Receive Officiating Permit - Applicants with a passing score of 80% or higher will receive their officiating permit in the mail. Allow three weeks from mailing date. If you do not receive your permit within this time frame, contact the OHSAA officiating department at 614-267-2502, ext. 110 or [email protected].
Note: Applicants who do not pass the officiating exam must wait one year to re-apply and start the application process over.
Step 8: Attend Required Rules Meetings - All officials have annual educational requirements. Most sports require four educational sessions. A state rules meeting is also required after the year in which an individual initially becomes an official. Begin educational session attendance NOW!
Step 9: Annual Renewal of Officiating Permit - Renew your officiating permit annually in June.