Referee Equipment Checklist
IFAB Law 5 makes the core list unusually clear: whistle(s), watch(es), red and yellow cards, and a notebook or other means of recording the match. Everything else should support those duties without cluttering the official.
IFAB Law 5 makes the core list unusually clear: whistle(s), watch(es), red and yellow cards, and a notebook or other means of recording the match. Everything else should support those duties without cluttering the official.
Best starting options for this job
Fox 40 Classic + spare
Reliable pealess primary-and-backup setup.
Check current optionsDedicated referee watch + backup
IFAB requires watch(es); a second timing method protects against failure.
Check current optionsRed/yellow cards + wallet
Compulsory cards with organized match notes.
Check current optionsSide-by-side decision table
| Option | Best role | Editorial score | Useful distinction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fox 40 Classic + spare | Whistles | 9.5/10 | Reliable pealess primary-and-backup setup. |
| Dedicated referee watch + backup | Timing | 9.4/10 | IFAB requires watch(es); a second timing method protects against failure. |
| Red/yellow cards + wallet | Discipline | 9.4/10 | Compulsory cards with organized match notes. |
| Notebook / match record card + pens | Record keeping | 9.3/10 | Required means of keeping a record of the match. |
| Assistant referee flags | Crew equipment | 9.1/10 | Needed when assigned as an assistant referee; flag technique is defined in IFAB practical guidance. |
| Coin, pressure gauge and small pump | Useful match tools | 8.8/10 | Practical extras for coin toss and pre-match ball checks. |
What changes from one option to the next
Fox 40 Classic + spare
Reliable pealess primary-and-backup setup.
Dedicated referee watch + backup
IFAB requires watch(es); a second timing method protects against failure.
Red/yellow cards + wallet
Compulsory cards with organized match notes.
Notebook / match record card + pens
Required means of keeping a record of the match.
Assistant referee flags
Needed when assigned as an assistant referee; flag technique is defined in IFAB practical guidance.
Coin, pressure gauge and small pump
Practical extras for coin toss and pre-match ball checks.
The details that actually change the answer
Compulsory under Law 5
Whistle(s), watch(es), red/yellow cards and a notebook or other match-record method are the non-negotiable core.
Useful additions
Coin, spare pens, match sheets, ball gauge, pump, flags when assigned, sunscreen and weather layers can make match administration smoother.
Ball check
IFAB Law 2 specifies 0.6–1.1 atmosphere at sea level (8.5–15.6 psi), along with size and weight requirements for the match ball.
Technology is conditional
Headsets, beep flags and other communication equipment may be permitted, but local competition rules and crew assignments govern their use.
Pack redundancy intelligently
A spare whistle, second watch/timing method and extra pen address high-impact failures without turning the bag into a hardware store.
Referee Equipment Checklist FAQ
What equipment is compulsory for a referee?
Whistle(s), watch(es), red/yellow cards and a notebook or other match-record method under IFAB Law 5.
Do I need two watches?
IFAB says watch(es); many officials use redundancy because timing failure is high impact.
Do I need assistant referee flags?
When assigned as an AR, yes; the crew/competition supplies or expects the appropriate flag setup.
What ball pressure should I check?
IFAB Law 2 specifies 0.6–1.1 atmosphere at sea level, equivalent to 8.5–15.6 psi.
Can referees use headsets?
They may be permitted; competition rules govern their use.
Are body cameras automatically allowed?
No. Current Law 5 permits them only under specific competition-organizer controls.
What should be packed last?
Nothing critical. Use the checklist before leaving home, not at the field.