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May 19, 2025
If you want to become a certified baseball umpire in Southern California, follow this complete guide. Certification means you are officially approved to umpire games in authorized leagues (such as high school and youth sports). Once certified, you can officiate in leagues and tournaments across Southern California. Here are the steps to get certified:
First, confirm you meet the basic requirements. In California, high school baseball umpires must be 18 or older (or a high school graduate). Many youth organizations allow umpires as young as 14 or 15 in development programs. You must also be physically fit and pass a background check. Having some baseball experience (playing or coaching) can be helpful but is not required.
In Southern California, high school baseball is governed by various CIF sections (for example, Southern Section, San Diego Section, etc.). Go to the CIF website and create an account in the Officials portal. Enroll in the officials program for baseball and pay the annual registration fee. This registers you in the CIF and NFHS systems. Registration usually opens each spring before the season and must be renewed each year. You may need to agree to policies (for example, NFHS rule updates and concussion training).
Once registered, you must complete the NFHS Baseball Rules Course online. This is an interactive course that covers the official high school baseball rulebook. Study each section carefully and take notes on any points that are confusing.
After training, take the official NFHS rules exam. This online test will cover all the rules from the course. You must score at least 80% to pass (most sections allow a retake to reach that score). Schedule the exam through your CIF account. Once you pass, you will be listed as a certified baseball umpire in the CIF system for that school year. Keep a copy of your exam results or certification notice for your records.
Some CIF sections or local associations offer an in-person mechanics clinic or evaluation after the written exam. This ensures you can properly apply the rules during play. Attend any required mechanics clinic to demonstrate that you know proper positioning (for example, stance for a fastpitch plate or steps on a tag play) and signaling. Passing this step will finalize your certification for the season.
Now that you’re certified, make sure you have the proper gear to start officiating:
With certification and gear in hand, you can begin working games. You’ll typically start with youth or lower-level high school games. Connect with local assignors or organizations. For example, OCBG Umpires assigns officials for youth leagues and high schools across Southern California. Let OCBG Umpires or a local baseball officials group know that you are certified and available. They will add you to their umpire pool and start assigning you to games.
Now that you have the steps, you’re ready to become a certified baseball umpire in Southern California. Follow the process, stay focused on learning, and soon you’ll be officiating games. Reach out to OCBG Umpires or local associations to join their crew and start earning from the games you love! Continue to study new rules each year and attend refresher clinics, as baseball rules can change season to season.
