Introduction

Referees play a critical role in every VEX V5 Robotics Competition event. They help ensure that matches run safely, fairly, and consistently, and that the game is played as intended by the Game Design Committee.

Refereeing is a team effort. Scorekeeper Referees and Head Referees work together to support accurate scoring, consistent rule enforcement, clear communication, and smooth event flow at the Field. 

• Scorekeeper Referees evaluate and record scores, observe match play, communicate with field staff, and bring possible rule concerns to the Head Referee. 
• Head Referees are responsible for final gameplay rulings, rule interpretations, confirming scores, and decisions about Violations or penalties.

Each role matters. Accurate scoring helps teams trust the results of each match. Consistent rule enforcement helps teams compete under the same expectations, whether they are at a local league event or the VEX Robotics World Championship. Clear communication between referees, teams, and other event volunteers helps create a positive experience for everyone involved.

This course is designed to help you:

• Understand the responsibilities of Scorekeeper Referees and Head Referees.
• Apply the scoring rules for the 2026–2027 VEX V5 Robotics Competition Override with confidence.
• Support safe, fair, consistent, and well-run matches.
• Prepare for the referee role that matches your event responsibilities.

The Structure of this Course

The course is divided into two certification pathways. Chapters 1–3 cover referee foundations, Head-to-Head Match scoring, and Robot Skills scoring. These chapters are intended for all referees. After completing Chapters 1–3, you will complete the Scorekeeper Referee Certification exam. Upon receiving a certificate, Scorekeeper Referees can be finished with the course.

Chapters 4–10 build on that foundation with content specific to Head Referees, including robot inspection, match starts, loading and possession, robot interaction, violations, penalties, documentation, VEX U, and event preparation. After completing these chapters, you will complete the Head Referee Certification exam and earn an additional certificate.

Whether you are volunteering as a Scorekeeper Referee, serving as a Head Referee for the first time, or returning with years of experience, it is important to stay current with official rules, game updates, and expectations for event operations. Once earned, your certificate(s) can be shared with Event Partners to show that you are prepared and certified for the referee role you are serving.

The course is self-paced and should be completed in the order presented, since each chapter builds on concepts introduced earlier in the course. Check Your Understanding questions are included throughout the lessons to help you monitor your progress and review key concepts before moving on. Chapter exams must be completed before each certification exam is unlocked.

Thank you for volunteering your time, energy, attention, and judgment in this important role. VEX Robotics Competition events would not be possible without dedicated referees who are willing to support teams and help events run successfully.

In This Chapter

This chapter introduces the foundations of VEX V5 Robotics Competition refereeing. You will learn the responsibilities of Scorekeeper Referees and Head Referees, how these roles work with other event volunteers, and how referees support each phase of a match.

The time to complete this chapter is approximately 30 minutes.