The Promotion Structure and Referee Classification Levels in England

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;

• International Level:

• Level 1 National List

• Level 2 Panel List

• Level 3 Contributory Referees

• Level 4 Supply League Referees

• Level 5 Senior County Referees

• Level 6 County Referees

• Level 7 Junior Referees not in Level 8 or below

• Level 8 Youth Referee

• Level 9  Trainee Referee

• 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.