Do I need to be certified to judge?

Yes. Under Article 102.10.2, anyone acting as Referee, Starter, Stroke and Turn Judge or Administrative Official at a sanctioned or approved meet must be certified and trained by their LSC to USA Swimming's national standards before being assigned. LSCs and clubs can't add extra certifications.

• Trainees may work the position only under the direct supervision of a certified official in that position.
• Officials serving in a sanctioned meet must be non-athlete members of USA Swimming, or of another World Aquatics member organization (202.5.5). Official members must be at least 18.
• As USA Swimming non-athlete members, officials need a background check every 2 years and Athlete Protection Training every year.