Individuals interested in refereeing NWASL games must meet the following qualifications:

• AYSO Intermediate or higher certification, or
• USSF Grade 8 or higher certification
• Thorough knowledge of the NWASL Rules and Regulations
• Willingness to do TWO games per night (center, AR, 4th official, or 2 ARs)

All officials for the NWASL must abide by the FIFA Laws of the Game and the NWASL Rules and Regulations.

The referee and assistant referees shall call all players to the center circle prior to game time for safety and uniform inspections. After the inspections are completed, the referee shall ask that all players shake hands with each other and perform the coin toss. The Referee is responsible for completing the match report prior to and at the conclusion of the match, and return the completed match report to the registration table. The match report includes the officials' names, team names, the half-time and final score of the match, and a summary of disciplinary actions taken. If cautions and/or sendoffs are issued, the Referee is responsible for submitting a Misconduct Report as outlined under Reporting.

In addition to the duties for fourth officials outlined by FIFA and USSF, the fourth official is responsible for conducting the player check-in 20 minutes prior to game time. The fourth official must ensure all players have an entry, including a picture, in the appropriate roster page of the field game binder. If these requirements are met, the fourth official shall stamp the player's right hand with the appropriate stamp issued by the league representative. In addition, the fourth official must ensure that any player who is serving a suspension or who is not allowed to play for any reason does not get a player stamp. Players with no entries in the roster or with missing pictures are NOT to be allowed to play.

Cautions and/or sendoffs MUST be documented by filling out and submitting a Misconduct Report. Give this report to the Regional Referee Administrator within 24 hours of the game. This information should also be entered into the game report at the completion of the match, as well as on the Team Roster under the appropriate player(s) name(s).