How to Get Certified as a Baseball Umpire in Minnesota

Becoming a certified baseball umpire in Minnesota means you can legally officiate games in official leagues across the state. Whether you want to umpire youth baseball or high school, certification is required for higher levels of play. Follow these steps to get certified in Minnesota:

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Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Make sure you meet the basic requirements. In Minnesota, high school umpires must be 18 or older (or a recent high school graduate) to officiate varsity games. Many youth programs allow umpires starting around 14–16 years old for junior umpire programs. You will need to be physically fit and pass any background checks required by the league or school.

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Step 2: Register with MSHSL or Local Programs

High school baseball in Minnesota is governed by the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL). Create an account on the MSHSL website and register as an official for baseball. Pay the annual fee to be added to the state officials pool. For youth baseball, check with local leagues such as Minnesota Youth Athletic Services (MYAS) or Little League. These programs may have their own registration or junior umpire enrollment.

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Step 3: Complete Umpire Training

Once registered, complete the required training. Take the NFHS Baseball Rules Course online to study the official rulebook. Look for any required courses offered by Minnesota officials associations or sports commissions. Many local umpire associations or clubs (including Blue North Umpires) offer clinics on mechanics and positioning. Attending a spring training or summer session will teach you how to work home plate and bases properly.

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Step 4: Pass the Certification Exam

After training, take the written rules exam. In Minnesota, you will typically take the NFHS baseball rules exam online through the officials portal (often MSHSL). Study carefully, and aim to score at least 80%. Once you pass, you are officially certified for the season. Keep your exam score report and certification as proof of eligibility.

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Step 5: Acquire Your Umpire Gear

Now that you are certified, assemble your umpire equipment:

• Protective Gear: Mask with throat guard, chest protector, and shin guards.
• Uniform: Umpire shirt (gray/navy), black pants, black belt, and black shoes.
• Tools: Indicator (clicker) and plate brush.
• Extras: Cap, umpire bag, and lineup card with pencil. Male umpires need a protective cup.

Having your own gear ensures you're ready for games and meets all safety requirements.

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Step 6: Join an Umpire Crew and Get Assigned

With certification and equipment in hand, begin getting games to umpire. Contact local assigners and leagues throughout Minnesota. Blue North Umpires is an organization in Minnesota that helps match officials with games. Let them know you are certified and available. They will place you in youth leagues, high school games, and tournaments in the area. Also reach out to local associations and ask to be added to their umpire roster.

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Step 7: Gain Experience & Advance

Work as many games as you can to improve your skills. With experience, you can advance to higher levels:

• High School Varsity: After gaining experience at lower levels, you may qualify to umpire varsity high school baseball.
• College Baseball: With experience, you may get opportunities in college summer leagues or junior colleges.
• Tournaments and Travel Ball: Showcase tournaments and elite youth leagues often need qualified umpires

Continue training each year and network with other umpires to move up.

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Why Become a Certified Umpire in Minnesota?

• ✅ It’s required to umpire high school and organized baseball games.
• ✅ Certification often brings higher pay for games.
• ✅ You get ongoing support and training from the umpiring community.
• ✅ Certification signals credibility and commitment to leagues and coaches.

Now that you know the steps, you’re ready to get certified and start umpiring in Minnesota. Follow this guide, stay committed to learning, and you'll be ready to step onto the field. Blue North Umpires and other organizations are available to help new umpires with advice and game assignments. Get out there, have fun, and enjoy being part of the game!