Watching officials work a game and giving direct feedback on strengths and areas for growth is one of the most powerful tools for officiating development. This program standardizes requirements for local observers, giving them the training and support to raise the quality and consistency of officiating across the country. 

Interested applicants should have with at least three years of officiating experience at the high school level. Having experience assisting in training classes is a plus but not required. 

Applications are reviewed by USA Lacrosse Officials Development based and evaluated based on the quality and completion of the application, including recommendations from two local area officials. 

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Newly certified trainers are required to complete one through four in order. Requirements five through nine may be completed in any order. 

1. Apply using the links on this page 
2. Have a current USA Lacrosse Membership with Official Participation. 
3. Register with the Certified Observer program and pay the one-time registration fee ($45). 
4. Initiate a background check through USA Lacrosse's background check provider NCSI. 
5. Complete the USA Lacrosse Boys' or Girls' Rules Online course through your membership portal 
6. Complete the USA Lacrosse Certified Trainer Online Course  
7. Complete the Certified Officials Trainer & Observer Annual Update course. 
8. Pass the upcoming season's rules tests (NFHS or Collegiate + USA Lacrosse Youth) with at least 85% 
9. Complete the USA Lacrosse Cultural Competency Online Course  

Observers are automatically enrolled in the Certified Observer Recertification Program for the following season at no additional cost. Recertification requirements include: 

1. Maintain a USA Lacrosse Membership with Official Participation. 
2. Maintain a current background check through US Lacrosse’s background check provider NCSI. 
3. Complete the Certified Officials Trainer & Observer Annual Update course. 
4. Pass the upcoming season's rules tests (NFHS or Collegiate + USA Lacrosse Youth) with a 85% or better on the  usalacrosse.com/myaccount. 

Upon completion of all requirements trainers are granted access to the CTO Resource Library, including: 

• Training PowerPoint Presentations 
• Electronic versions of Manuals and Trainer Guides 
• Penalty videos 
• Mechanics videos