Become a CSI-Certified Referee
Completing the CSI Referee Program is a two-step process. Here’s how it works:
Step 1 - Attend a CSI Referee Training Class
Classes usually last 3-4 days and include formal instruction on topics such as professional conduct, player management, proper positioning, making judgment calls, and dispute resolution just to name a few. We’ll show you how to approach the table, assess the situation, gather the facts, and be prepared to make the call.
You’ll receive a complete review of The Official Rules of CueSports International with emphasis on the General Rules, 8-Ball, 9-Ball and 10-Ball Rules, Event regulations, USA PL specifics and Referee Authority. You’ll learn the physics of pool and view actual demonstrations on the table. We will completely prepare you to take and pass your final written examination which you must pass before moving on to Part 2 of this process.
You’ll receive a complete review of The Official Rules of CueSports International with emphasis on the General Rules, 8-Ball, 9-Ball and 10-Ball Rules, Event regulations, USA PL specifics and Referee Authority. You’ll learn the physics of pool and view actual demonstrations on the table. We will completely prepare you to take and pass your final written examination which you must pass before moving on to Part 2 of this process.
Step 2 - On the Floor Training
After the class is successfully completed, you must perform a minimum of 8 hours of actual referee duties at a CSI event. You will be observed and evaluated by your instructors, other designated CSI referees, or both while on duty. You will only be asked to perform duties that your classroom training prepared you for. If there is no tournament at the site of the class, you may take Part 2 at any CSI event within one (1) year from the date you pass the written examination. However, you must contact the CSI Director of Rules & Referees to make these arrangements.
CSI offers its Referee Training Class each year in Las Vegas at the BCA Pool League World Championships. This provides the opportunity to take both parts of the course at one time in one location. If you cannot come to Las Vegas, CSI may offer the class at other locations during the year. Refer to this website for announcements of future dates and locations or call us at (702) 719-7665.
Attendees enter with the title CSI Referee Candidate in Training (CSI-RT). That designation is held until you either pass the course or one (1) year lapses from the date you entered, whichever is sooner. Passing both parts of the course entitles you to apply for immediate promotion to CSI Referee Level 1. Failure to pass the course entitles you to repeat it at no additional cost.
You must pass the class and the floor training in order to receive the official Referee shirt and Certificate.
CSI offers its Referee Training Class each year in Las Vegas at the BCA Pool League World Championships. This provides the opportunity to take both parts of the course at one time in one location. If you cannot come to Las Vegas, CSI may offer the class at other locations during the year. Refer to this website for announcements of future dates and locations or call us at (702) 719-7665.
Attendees enter with the title CSI Referee Candidate in Training (CSI-RT). That designation is held until you either pass the course or one (1) year lapses from the date you entered, whichever is sooner. Passing both parts of the course entitles you to apply for immediate promotion to CSI Referee Level 1. Failure to pass the course entitles you to repeat it at no additional cost.
You must pass the class and the floor training in order to receive the official Referee shirt and Certificate.
To Apply Fill Out the Online Application and Pay for the class
Complete an application below (online or paper) and submit it to the CSI Director of Rules & Referees along with a fee is $150 which includes all training materials. You’ll receive a current copy of The Official Rules of CueSports International along with a referee shirt, name tag and certificate of completion. You may purchase ball markers, and additional shirts from CSI.
CSI Referee Code of Conduct
| CSI_Referee_Code_of_Conduct.pdf |
CSI Referee Dress Code
All CSI Referees:
When acting in an official capacity at a CSI State, Regional, or National event, are required to abide by the CSI Referee dress code.
This will include:
Referees in Training:
CSI Head Referees, Pro-Event Referees or Tournament Directors:
When acting in an official capacity at a CSI State, Regional, or National event, are required to abide by the CSI Referee dress code.
This will include:
- A neat, clean, presentable, polished, and professional appearance
- The current Official Referee Uniform Shirt bearing an official CSI Referee logo
- Name Tag
- Black Dress Pants (no old, wrinkled or faded pants)
- Black Dress Shoes or Black Athletic Shoes (no white or light colored soles)
- Black Socks
- White Gloves
- Only black long sleeve shirts for warmth may be worn under the referee shirt
- No Fanny Packs are allowed
Referees in Training:
- Are to wear a plain black polo in place of the Official Referee Shirt in class.
- All other items of the dress code must still be adhered to.
- White gloves should be brought to class but need not be worn for class.
CSI Head Referees, Pro-Event Referees or Tournament Directors:
- May wear clothing appropriate for the event
- All other requirements of the Dress Code must still be met.
