FAQs

It’s up to you. Some umpires work as many as 200 games in a single season, others work as little as a few games. The average among our umpires is 25-60 games. Time spent studying the rules can add to the time dedicated to umpiring.

The pay varies from league to league and according to the level of play. We also offer excellent incentive packages for games worked, new umpires recruited, etc.

You’ll need a uniform and the proper equipment for umpiring.

A uniform shirt/pants can cost as little as $100. An equipment starter package starts at $150. (See our list of equipment suppliers on the “Our Partners” page for more information.)

Secondhand equipment is available to new members at a fraction of the cost.

We also have used equipment that high school and college students can use during the season (no cost).

Talk to us about getting a starter package via a game draw (no upfront funds needed).

Clinics and training materials are optional expenses.

Sports officials insurance is available from third-party organizations such as the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) and the Amateur Baseball Umpires Association (ABUA).

As an umpire in Washington, your independent contractor status makes these expenses tax-deductible.

NO. Your dedication to the sport and desire to be an umpire is all that is required.

There aren’t any tests, but some level of training is required. We train our new umpires to ensure they understand their role as an umpire and improve their skill levels.

Experience, skill, dedication, and hustle influence games assigned. The opportunities available to Umpires NW umpires range from Little League to adult and/or college. You’ll also have a chance to do charity and company events.

Providing you with feedback is a priority for our organization and we make every effort to make that feedback worthwhile.

The minimum age to umpire is 16.

Some level of physical fitness is necessary. Umpiring can be as strenuous as playing. We want our umpires to arrive at plays quickly so the best judgment is applied to every situation.

Travel is always left to the preference of the individual umpire. The location of your job and home can influence these preferences. Some Umpires, however, find better variety and quality of play as an incentive for additional travel.

NO. You are considered an independent contractor. Your independent contractor status gives you the bonus of tax deductibility of your expenses.