Florida High School Soccer Rules: Complete Rulebook Overview

If you're planning to officiate high school soccer in Florida—or you already are—it’s essential to be clear on how the game is called at this level. While many assume high school soccer just follows standard FIFA rules, Florida uses the NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) rulebook, which comes with its own structure and nuances.

This article gives you the full overview of how high school soccer is officiated across the state and how Primary Coverage Officiating supports referees through training, certification, and game-day guidance.

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Which Rulebook Does Florida High School Soccer Use?

Florida high school soccer follows NFHS rules, which are not the same as FIFA’s Laws of the Game. These NFHS rules are specifically tailored for the high school environment, with added emphasis on player safety, sportsmanship, and administrative procedures.

Each year, NFHS publishes a new rulebook, and the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) may include specific state-level adaptations or points of emphasis.

At Primary Coverage Officiating, we make sure all our referees understand both the core rules and any Florida-specific updates before the season begins.

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Key Rules for 2025

Timing and Clock Management

• Two 40-minute halves
• Running clock unless stopped for injury, cards, or when a goal is scored
• Clock stops inside the final 5 minutes of the second half when the leading team substitutes—a major difference from FIFA play

Substitution Rules

• Teams can sub on their own throw-in or on the opponent’s throw-in if both are ready at the same time
• Subs must check in at the halfway line and enter when beckoned
• Unlimited substitutions are allowed, but they must follow proper entry protocol

Cautions and Ejections

• Players receiving a yellow card must leave the field and may be replaced (they can re-enter later)
• Two yellows = red = disqualification
• Red cards require ejection and cannot be replaced

FHSAA takes ejections seriously. Referees must file reports promptly and accurately, and Primary Coverage Officiating supports you in completing them correctly.

Uniform and Equipment

• Jerseys must be numbered properly and contrast from the opponent’s
• Goalkeepers must wear a different color from both teams
• No jewelry allowed—this includes earrings, even if taped
• Shin guards must be NOCSAE approved and properly sized

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Points of Emphasis in 2025

Each season, NFHS and FHSAA provide focus areas for referees. For 2025, expect to see:

• Emphasis on sportsmanship from players and coaches
• Reinforcement of proper substitution mechanics
• Stricter enforcement of illegal contact and dangerous plays

At Primary Coverage Officiating, we hold preseason training and mid-season refreshers to keep you up to date on these focus points so you're always in line with statewide expectations.

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Game Flow and Crew Mechanics

Most varsity games use a three-referee system—one center and two assistant referees. Junior varsity and freshman games may be officiated by two referees without ARs (dual system of control).

Primary Coverage Officiating trains you in both formats, so whether you’re running the middle or working the line, you're prepared.

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How to Stay Certified in Florida

To referee high school soccer in Florida, here’s what you need:

1. Register through FHSAA
2. Complete the NFHS soccer rules exam
3. Attend a rules clinic or workshop
4. Pass a background screening
5. Stay active with an approved local officiating association

Primary Coverage Officiating helps guide you through all of this—from registration to rule exam prep and beyond.

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Interested in Officiating High School Soccer?

High school soccer in Florida is fast-paced, structured, and rewarding to officiate—especially when you know the rules and feel supported.

At Primary Coverage Officiating, we’re here to make sure you’re ready for every kickoff. Whether you’re just getting started or aiming for playoff-level matches, we’ll help you get there.

Reach out now and let’s get you certified, trained, and on the field this season.