Everything you need to know to be an active official, including rules, fees and more
There are plenty of things to know if you want to be an active official.
We've got plenty of information for officials of all abilities, so you can keep yourself up to date no matter what level you cover.
Official Rules
It is important to be aware and up-to-date with the current rules of the game.
The official basketball rules (including any recent changes), plus official interpretations, are listed in the related resources section of this page.
To brush up on your rules knowledge, or practice for an upcoming qualification, Basketref.com's online rules test has also been added to the Related Resources section.
Rule Changes
FIBA introduced new and amended rules for 2024.
In the Related Resources section of this page, you'll find a number of helpful documents, including a presentation and video clips, plus a document outlining the main changes that were made in the latest update.
2 Person Officiating
There have been many changes to 3 Person Officiating in recent years, and some of those changes can be used in games with 2 Person Officiating.
BE has created a manual aimed at providing clear instructions for 2 Person Officiating mechanics, so that the understanding of the two referees is the same in each and every game.
The manual is available in the Related Resources section of this page.
Officiating Techniques
FIBA's official Individual Officiating Techniques (IOT) Manual provides the foundation for successful basketball refereeing, focussing on refereeing one situation at a time.
The manual is available in the Related Resources section of this page.
Table Officials
Together with Referees, Referees Instructors and Commissioners, Table Officials are an important part of the Officiating family. The role of Table Officials is crucial in ensuring the smooth running of basketball games.
The official FIBA Table Officials Manual is linked in the Related Resources section of this page.
Recommended non-NBL Officiating Rates
Below are Basketball England's recommended rates for officiating for games that take place in local leagues, schools, colleges, universities and other affiliated competitions.
These fees are intended as a guide, and there is no responsibility for any league, association or provider to meet them. Always check with your appointing body to check the fees agreed for each game.
In addition to the recommended match fee, Basketball England suggest that relevant expenses are paid at 45p per mile or public transport cost.
REFEREE RECOMMENDED RATES 2025/26
- FIBA Referee - £26
- Level 4 Referee - £25
- Level 3 Referee - £23
- Level 2 Referee - £22
- Level 1 Referee - £21
Travel expenses £0.45 per mile
TABLE OFFICIAL RECOMMENDED RATES 25/26
- FIBA Table Official - £20
- Level 4 Table Official - £18
- Level 3 Table Official - £15
- Level 2 Table Official - £13
- Level 1 Table Official - £12
Travel expenses £0.45 per mile
Want to find out more?
FIBA's own website has a detailed officiating section, with plenty of information for referees, table officials and statisticians.