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College football games feel huge and high-stakes, and officials are a big part of keeping them fair, fast, and safe. But how much do college football referees actually get paid? The short answer: it depends on the level (FBS vs. FCS vs. Division II/III), the conference, the game type (regular season vs. bowl or playoff), and your role on the crew. This guide walks you through the typical ranges, what affects pay, how travel and expenses work, and what a full season might look like in the real world. It is simple, clear, and perfect for beginners who want the full picture.
How College Football Officiating Pay Works
The independent contractor model
Most college football officials are independent contractors, not salaried employees. That means they are paid per assignment instead of earning a full-time salary. The conference or assigning body pays a game fee, and officials are responsible for their own taxes, travel planning, and equipment. There are usually no benefits like health insurance or retirement through the conference.
Per-game fees, travel reimbursement, and per diem
Officials typically receive a base per-game fee plus reimbursement for travel-related costs. Depending on the conference, you may get mileage, airfare, hotel, meals (per diem), or a set travel stipend. Policies vary by league, but in many cases travel is reimbursed based on the conference’s rules or a standard mileage rate. Some conferences book travel directly; others reimburse after the game when you submit receipts.
Who pays you and how often
Officials are assigned by a conference or a regional officiating consortium. Payment usually arrives a week or two after the game, but schedules vary. Bowl games and playoffs may pay on a different timeline. Many officials receive a 1099 form for taxes at the end of the year, because they are not on payroll as employees.
What Do College Football Referees Make? Quick Ranges by Level
FBS Power Conferences (the biggest programs)
Typical per-game fees for the on-field Referee (the “white hat”) often fall in the range of about $3,000 to $5,000 per game, with other on-field positions slightly lower (for example, $2,500 to $4,000). Some games that are high-profile and heavily televised may sit near the top of that range. Replay officials also earn solid fees that commonly land around $1,200 to $2,500 per game at this level, depending on the conference.
FBS Group of Five (mid-major conferences)
Per-game fees usually range around $1,500 to $3,000 for on-field officials. The white hat may be toward the top of that range, with the other positions a bit lower. Replay officials may be paid slightly less than on-field colleagues but still earn competitive fees per assignment.
FCS (Football Championship Subdivision)
FCS rates are commonly in the $1,000 to $2,000 per-game range for on-field officials. Replay, where used, can be several hundred dollars to just above a thousand per game, depending on the conference’s resources and standards.
Division II
Division II fees are often around $300 to $700 per game. Travel policies and per diem are more variable at this level, and officials may shoulder a greater portion of costs up front before reimbursement.
Division III and NAIA
Division III and NAIA officials typically earn about $150 to $400 per game. Some leagues pay travel stipends; others rely on mileage. At this level, officiating is often a passion project and a pathway to higher levels rather than a major income source by itself.
Important note on variability
The ranges above are typical—not guaranteed. Conference budgets, regional cost of living, and game assignments can shift numbers up or down. Postseason assignments and special games pay differently and can be more lucrative.
Positions on the Crew and How Pay Differs
Referee (white hat) vs. other on-field officials
The Referee (white hat) is the crew chief, handles announcements, and leads communication with coaches. Because of the leadership duties, the white hat often earns the highest per-game fee on the crew. In many conferences, the difference is noticeable but not massive—think roughly 10% to 20% more than other positions. Other crew roles—Umpire, Line Judge, Side Judge, Field Judge, Back Judge, Center Judge, and sometimes a dedicated Alternate—are usually paid similarly to each other.
Seven- or eight-person crews
Power conferences commonly use eight-person crews (including a Center Judge), while lower levels may use seven. Your level and assignment determine crew size, which can affect total budgeted pay for the game. If a league uses eight officials, the per-official fee may be slightly adjusted to fit the overall pay structure.
Replay officials and communicator
Replay officials work in the booth to evaluate reviews, manage video angles, and communicate with the on-field crew. Pay is often comparable to (or slightly below) many on-field roles in the same conference, but ranges vary. Some conferences also assign a communicator or technician to support replay, typically paid a lower flat fee.
Chain crew and clock operators
Chain crew and clock operators are separate game-day staff. They are usually paid by the host school and earn much less—commonly a modest flat fee. They are not part of the officiating crew that travels with the conference.
Postseason and Bowl Game Pay
Conference championships
Conference championship assignments are prestigious and generally pay more than regular-season games. For FBS Power conferences, these can land in the high end of the regular-season range and sometimes above it, reflecting the game’s profile and added preparation demands.
New Year’s Six and other bowls
Bowl fees vary widely. A typical non-New Year’s Six bowl might pay officials figures in the range of roughly $2,500 to $5,000 per game, depending on bowl and conference agreements. New Year’s Six bowls and similarly high-profile matchups can be higher than that.
College Football Playoff and National Championship
Playoff assignments are rare and highly competitive. Officials selected for semifinal or championship games usually earn some of the highest single-game fees available in college football. These can land above typical bowl rates and may include enhanced travel support. Because exact amounts vary year to year and by contract, most officials refer to them simply as “top-of-market” fees.
FCS, Division II, and Division III playoffs
FCS playoff games generally pay more than regular-season FCS rates—commonly in the low four figures per game. Division II and Division III playoff assignments may add a few hundred dollars above regular-season totals, but pay still reflects the smaller budgets at those levels. Travel for playoffs may be better supported than regular-season travel, especially as teams and officials move through later rounds.
What Affects How Much You Get Paid
Conference and level
The level you work is the biggest driver of pay. Power conferences have the largest budgets and the biggest TV deals, which usually means higher game fees. Group of Five and FCS are a step lower, while Division II and III pay less. Certain conferences within the same level may still differ based on regional resources and negotiated officiating agreements.
Assignment tier and game profile
Not all games are equal. Rivalry games, ranked matchups, and nationally televised prime-time slots are often considered top-tier assignments. While the base game fee may not change dramatically, some leagues offer tiered pay or add-ons for marquee games. Bowl and playoff assignments are a clear step up in compensation.
Position, experience, and evaluations
Officials move up based on performance, rules knowledge, mechanics, fitness, and communication skills. Better evaluations and more experience often lead to higher-profile assignments (and sometimes higher pay). The white hat role is typically reserved for proven leaders and offers a premium over other positions.
Travel distance and logistics
Pay from the game fee is only part of the picture. Depending on the conference, travel can be fully covered, partially covered, or reimbursed using mileage and per diem. A long flight with multiple connections can consume time and energy, even if costs are reimbursed. In some conferences, crew members who live far from most schools may have higher out-of-pocket costs before reimbursement arrives.
Replay usage and technology
Conferences that invest more heavily in replay, communications gear, and technology often have higher officiating budgets. That can increase pay for both on-field and replay officials. Technology also adds pregame and in-game responsibilities that reward strong preparation and teamwork.
Hidden Costs and Your True Take-Home Pay
Uniforms and equipment
Officials buy and maintain their own gear. That includes shirts with conference patches, pants, shoes, flags, beanbags, down indicators, whistles, weather gear, and travel bags. High-quality gear and backups can add up to several hundred dollars or more each season. Some conferences provide patches or specific items, but most equipment costs are on the official.
Travel and meals
Many conferences reimburse mileage or airfare and hotel, plus a per diem for meals. However, you often pay these upfront and get reimbursed later. If you fly out Friday and return Sunday, that’s multiple meals, airport parking, and incidentals. Over a season, even reimbursed travel requires cash flow planning.
Taxes and insurance
Because you are an independent contractor, taxes are not withheld automatically. You are usually responsible for quarterly estimated taxes and self-employment tax. There are no conference-provided benefits, so health insurance and retirement planning are up to you. Keep good records; in many cases, you can deduct certain business expenses. Consult a tax professional familiar with officiating or gig work.
Realistic net pay examples
Example 1: A Power conference on-field official works 12 regular-season games at an average of $3,200 each ($38,400) and one good bowl at $4,500. Gross game fees: about $42,900. Add modest per diem stipends, say $1,000 total, and reimbursed travel (net $0 over time). Subtract equipment, some nonreimbursed travel incidentals, and professional dues—say $1,500 to $2,500. Before taxes, that official might net around $40,000 to $41,000 from game fees plus per diem, and then owe taxes on that income.
Example 2: An FCS official works 10 games at $1,500 each ($15,000) and earns one playoff assignment at $1,800. With a few hundred in per diem and some out-of-pocket costs, pre-tax take-home might be around $15,500 to $16,500 before deducting equipment and professional expenses. After expenses and taxes, actual take-home can be several thousand lower.
Example 3: A Division II official does 9 games at $500 each ($4,500). If travel is mostly regional and reimbursed by mileage, and equipment costs are modest, pre-tax earnings might remain near $4,000 for the season. This level is usually about experience-building and the love of the game rather than major income.
How Many Games and Total Seasonal Earnings
Typical FBS schedule
Most FBS officials work one game per week, with roughly 11 to 13 regular-season assignments. Many will also have a bye week. If you average $2,800 to $3,800 per game and add a bowl, you can reasonably land in the $35,000 to $50,000 range for total game fees in a season, before expenses and taxes. Getting a conference championship, New Year’s Six, or playoff assignment can push totals higher.
FCS and below
FCS officials often work 10 to 12 regular-season games and may receive one or more playoff assignments. Annual game fees commonly total $12,000 to $25,000 before expenses and taxes. For Division II and III, officials might work 8 to 10 games, leading to seasonal totals ranging from a couple thousand dollars to the mid-$5,000s, depending on rates and travel support.
Spring games and scrimmages
Spring games, preseason scrimmages, and camps can pay additional fees, though much lower than regular-season games. These might be $75 to a few hundred dollars each. They help with mechanics, evaluation, and career development, and they add a bit to your annual total.
How to Move Up to Better-Paying Assignments
Master the fundamentals and rules
The path to top-tier assignments runs through consistent accuracy, calm under pressure, and excellent rules knowledge. College conferences expect officials who understand not only the rules but also philosophies on targeting, forward progress, catch/no-catch, and game management.
Work college camps and clinics
Officiating camps are a key stepping stone. Many are run by conferences or well-known coordinators of officials. Camps offer classroom sessions, film breakdown, and on-field drills. They also serve as auditions, where evaluators watch mechanics, judgment, movement, and communication. Camp days can be long, but they are invaluable for development and networking.
Build experience the right way
Start in high school or small college conferences and earn strong evaluations. Work your way through junior college or NAIA, then to Division II or FCS, then to FBS. Each step brings faster play, more complex schemes, and tighter scrutiny. The officials who advance are highly coachable and consistent from snap to snap.
Fitness and positioning
College football is fast. To be in position, you need to be in shape. Conferences emphasize fitness testing, hustle, and clean mechanics. The better your positioning, the better your view—and the more accurate your calls. That leads to better ratings and bigger games.
Professionalism and communication
Game control depends on crisp signals, clear enforcement, and respectful communication with coaches and players. Top officials manage tense moments calmly, explain rulings briefly and clearly, and keep the game moving. Coordinators prize these skills when selecting crews for bowls and playoffs.
Life on the Road: Time Commitment Behind the Pay
Weekly rhythm during the season
A college football official typically invests more time than most fans realize. Early in the week, you review video, study tendencies, and attend conference calls. You confirm travel details by midweek. Many officials travel Friday, meet with the crew, handle stadium walk-throughs, and review mechanics. Game day includes pregame meetings, warmups, and the game itself, followed by postgame evaluations. Travel home is often late Saturday or Sunday.
Hours and preparation
Including film study, rules quizzes, travel, and game operations, it is common to spend 20 to 30 hours per week on officiating in-season—even for a single game. Postgame self-evaluation and coordinator feedback also take time. Offseason clinics and testing add to the commitment.
Family and work balance
Most college officials have day jobs. Balancing a full-time career, family life, and weekend travel is a challenge. The pay helps, but for many, the love of the game and the satisfaction of performing a difficult job well are the biggest motivators.
Myths vs. Reality About College Football Referee Pay
Myth: College refs have full-time salaries and benefits
Reality: Almost all are independent contractors paid per assignment. No benefits are provided by the conference, and taxes are your responsibility.
Myth: All games pay the same
Reality: Pay varies by conference, level, and sometimes by game tier. Postseason assignments generally pay more.
Myth: The referee is the only one who earns well
Reality: While the white hat gets a premium, other crew members at the FBS level still earn strong per-game fees. The entire crew at power levels earns professional rates.
Myth: Travel makes officiating a money-losing hobby
Reality: Travel is usually reimbursed or supported, especially at higher levels. However, officials should still plan for upfront costs and cash flow until reimbursement arrives.
Negotiating, Contracts, and Professional Standards
Conference agreements
Each conference has its own officiating agreement that outlines pay, travel policies, and expectations. Officials typically agree to the conference terms rather than negotiating individually. Consistency keeps crews aligned and simplifies budgeting.
Assignment expectations
Officials agree to availability windows and standards for preparation and behavior. On top of rules testing and mechanics, conferences may require background checks, fitness standards, and annual training. Meeting these expectations builds trust and can lead to better assignments over time.
Professional fees and dues
Officials pay dues to associations, testing bodies, and sometimes for Arbiter or similar assignment platforms. These are normal costs of the craft and can be accounted for when evaluating overall earnings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do college football referees get a salary?
No. They are usually paid per game as independent contractors. There are no traditional salaries, and most do not receive benefits from the conference.
How often do officials get paid?
Payments typically arrive after each game, but timing varies by conference. Bowl and playoff games can follow different schedules. Expect to track and reconcile reimbursements and per diem separately.
Are travel costs covered?
Often yes, but policies vary. Many conferences reimburse mileage or book airfare and hotels. Per diem for meals is common. Keep receipts and follow your conference rules to get reimbursed.
Do replay officials make as much as on-field officials?
Replay fees vary. At the FBS level, replay officials often earn amounts similar to or slightly less than many on-field positions. The exact numbers depend on the conference and game.
What about spring games and scrimmages?
They pay less than regular-season games—anywhere from tens to a few hundred dollars. They are valuable for practice and evaluation and can help you earn better in-season assignments later.
Do officials buy their own uniforms?
Yes. Officials are responsible for uniforms and gear, including weather-appropriate clothing and backups. Some items may be provided by the conference, but most are on the official.
Is there a path for women in college football officiating?
Yes. Women work at all levels of college football and have appeared on significant FBS crews and bowl assignments. The path and standards are the same: rules knowledge, mechanics, fitness, and performance.
How do taxes work?
As independent contractors, officials usually receive a 1099 and must handle their own estimated taxes and self-employment tax. Many officiating expenses can be deductible. A tax professional can help you set up a sensible system.
Can I make a living just officiating college football?
At the college level, officiating is typically a part-time pursuit. Even at FBS, most officials maintain a primary career. NFL officiating pays significantly more, but those roles are extremely limited and highly competitive.
Putting It All Together: What a Season Might Look Like
A strong FBS season
You work 12 games at an average of $3,400 per game. That is $40,800 in game fees. You receive a bowl at $4,500. Per diem over the season totals about $1,200. Gross cash inflow is around $46,500. You spend $1,800 on gear, dues, and unreimbursed costs, leaving about $44,700 before taxes. After setting aside taxes and self-employment payments, your net take-home is likely closer to the low-to-mid $30,000s. It is good money, but it comes with significant time, travel, and preparation.
A competitive FCS season
You work 11 games at $1,600 each ($17,600) and earn a playoff at $1,900. With per diem of $600 and a few hundred dollars of out-of-pocket costs, you might land near $18,500 to $19,500 before taxes and gear. After expenses and taxes, you likely net $12,000 to $15,000 for the year.
A developmental Division II/III season
You work 9 games at $450 each ($4,050). Travel is mostly local with mileage reimbursement, and you spend $500 on gear and dues. After taxes, you may net around $2,500 to $3,000. The main payoff at this level is experience, evaluation, and the chance to move up.
Tips for New Officials Who Want to Climb
Find a mentor and join an association
Local officiating associations provide training, scrimmages, and mentors. A good mentor corrects mechanics early and helps you build a strong rules foundation. Associations also connect you to camps and coordinators.
Film everything and study
Use film to review positioning, keys, and judgment. Treat every rep as a chance to get better. The officials who climb fastest are relentless film students.
Communicate like a pro
Polished signals, short and clear explanations, and respectful tone will elevate your crew standing. Coaches may not love every call, but they respect clarity and consistency.
Invest wisely in gear and travel
Quality shoes, weather protection, and a reliable bag system make travel smoother. Track expenses carefully for reimbursements and taxes. Small organization habits add up over a season.
Why Pay Ranges Make Sense
Economics of college football
Power conferences enjoy big TV contracts, which support higher officiating budgets, technology, and training. Lower divisions have smaller budgets, so pay scales are leaner. That is why per-game fees map so closely to the level and visibility of the game.
Risk, responsibility, and scrutiny
FBS games move faster, with more complex offensive and defensive schemes. The crew’s judgment is under national scrutiny. The added pressure and preparation time are reflected in pay, especially for marquee games and bowls.
Key Takeaways
Quick summary of typical pay
FBS Power conferences: about $3,000 to $5,000 per game for the referee; other on-field roles somewhat lower; replay often $1,200 to $2,500. Group of Five: roughly $1,500 to $3,000. FCS: around $1,000 to $2,000. Division II: about $300 to $700. Division III/NAIA: about $150 to $400. Postseason and bowls pay more than regular-season games.
Your net pay depends on more than the game fee
Travel reimbursements, equipment costs, per diem, and taxes all affect your final take-home. Keep good records, plan for cash flow, and think in “season totals” rather than single-game checks.
Advancement comes from performance and preparation
Strong mechanics, fitness, rules mastery, and professional communication open doors to higher-paying assignments. Camps, clinics, and film work are key to that growth.
Conclusion
Making sense of college football referee pay
College football officials are paid per game, with fees that scale to the level of competition. At the top end, Power conference referees can earn several thousand dollars per game, with significant bumps for bowls and playoff assignments. At lower levels, pay is more modest but offers experience and a pathway to higher tiers. When you factor in travel, equipment, and taxes, you see that the job pays fairly for the commitment—but it is not a typical full-time salary with benefits.
Is it worth it?
For most college officials, the answer is yes. The combination of competitive pay, the thrill of big-stage games, and the satisfaction of doing a hard job well keeps them coming back. If you are just starting out, learn the rules, work your mechanics, find mentors, and be patient. With steady improvement, you can climb to the assignments and pay scales that match your ambition.