How to Get Certified as a Football Referee in New Mexico

If you’ve ever thought about becoming a football referee in New Mexico, now’s a great time to get started. Officiating is a great way to stay involved in the sport, earn extra income, and be part of the game-day experience in a meaningful way.

Whether you want to work youth football, middle school games, or high school Friday nights, getting certified is the first step. And if you're in the Albuquerque area, Dream Big Officials is a great local organization that helps new referees through the entire process—from training to assignments.

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Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need to know:

• Minimum age: You must be at least 18 years old to officiate high school football in New Mexico
• No prior experience required—just a willingness to learn
• Most games are on evenings or weekends, so you’ll need some availability outside of 9 to 5 hours
• You’ll need to be comfortable on your feet and able to move with the play

If you’ve played football or watched a lot of it, that’s helpful—but it’s not required.

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Step 2: Register with the New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA)

To officiate high school football in New Mexico, you need to register with the New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA), which oversees all school sports officials in the state.

Here’s how:

1. Visit www.nmact.org
2. Click on the "Officials" section
3. Select football and complete the registration form
4. Submit the annual registration fee
5. Complete a background check (required for all officials)

This gives you access to official rules, training materials, and state-approved clinics.

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Step 3: Complete Required Training

Once you’re registered, you’ll go through a few training steps to get certified:

• Attend a rules clinic, either in-person or online
• Pass a written exam on high school football rules (NFHS rules)
• Watch mechanics training videos, which show where to stand, how to signal, and how to move with the game
• Attend a local field clinic, where you’ll get on-the-field practice with experienced officials

Dream Big Officials can help guide you through all of this, especially if it’s your first season. They’ll let you know which clinics to attend and how to prepare.

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Step 4: Get Your Referee Gear

Once you’re certified, you’ll need to be ready with the proper uniform and equipment:

• Black and white striped shirt
• Black pants (or shorts for lower levels)
• Black hat (white if you’re the referee)
• Whistle and lanyard
• Penalty flag
• Stopwatch or timer
• Down indicator and a game card

If you’re not sure where to buy gear, Dream Big Officials can point you in the right direction and help you get what you need without overpaying.

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Step 5: Start Officiating Games

Now you’re ready to get on the field. If you’re in or around Albuquerque, Dream Big Officials can help you get assigned to games that match your experience and comfort level.

New referees often start with:

• Youth football
• Middle school games
• Freshman or JV games

As you gain experience and confidence, you can move up to varsity or even playoff games.

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Why Get Certified as a Football Referee?

• Earn extra income—referees in New Mexico often make $50–$100 per game
• Stay active and involved in football
• Build leadership and communication skills
• Work around your own schedule
• Be part of a team environment off the field

Officiating is also a great fit for former athletes, teachers, college students, and anyone who enjoys the sport and wants a rewarding side hustle.

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Get Started with Dream Big Officials

If you live in the Albuquerque area and want to become a football referee, Dream Big Officials is your go-to for getting certified and finding games to work.

They’ll help you:

• Navigate the registration process
• Understand the rules and mechanics
• Get your first assignments
• Connect with experienced mentors

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Ready to Make the Call?

Contact Dream Big Officials today and take the first step toward becoming a certified football referee in New Mexico.