How to Get Certified as a Baseball Umpire in Chicago [2025 Guide]

If you're looking to become a certified baseball umpire in the Chicago area, the process is more straightforward than you might think—and the opportunities are better than ever. Whether you're a student looking for a part-time job or an adult looking to stay involved in the game, umpiring is a high-impact, flexible way to earn money and contribute to your local sports scene.

This guide breaks down the full step-by-step process to get certified in 2025 and explains how Home Plate Umpires can help you do it with confidence.

‍

Step 1: Decide Where You Want to Umpire

Certification requirements depend on the level of games you want to work:

• Youth and Rec Leagues (Ages 8U–14U): You can get started without needing state-level certification. These leagues often accept local training and mentorship as the primary prep.
• High School Games (IHSA Sanctioned): You’ll need to register with the Illinois High School Association (IHSA), take their exam, and complete annual requirements.
• Travel Ball and Tournaments: Requirements vary, but most want officials with solid youth or high school experience. Many summer tournaments also require protective plate gear.

If you're unsure where to begin, Home Plate Umpires will help guide you to the best starting point based on your age, experience, and goals.

‍

Step 2: Register with the Right Organization

If you're aiming for high school games, you'll need to go through IHSA (Illinois High School Association):

1. Go to the IHSA Officials Center
2. Select “Baseball” as your sport
3. Complete the application and pay the annual registration fee
4. Pass the required rules exam and background check
5. Attend any required clinics or training events

Don’t worry—Home Plate Umpires walks you through this process and gets you fully prepped for the IHSA exam.

For youth-level games, we’ll get you signed up for local leagues we assign and train for, no IHSA required.

‍

Step 3: Attend Training Clinics

Training is where you actually learn how to umpire—not just the rules, but how to manage a game, position yourself, and communicate with coaches and players.

At Home Plate Umpires, we run training clinics and on-field sessions that cover:

• Rule interpretations and updates
• Plate and base mechanics
• Positioning and movement
• Conflict resolution and communication
• Game flow and pacing

We also offer hands-on shadowing opportunities so you’re not thrown into your first game unprepared.

‍

Step 4: Get the Right Gear

Umpire gear depends on the level you're working. We’ll help you figure out exactly what you need for your first assignments. Here’s a general list:

For Base Work Only:

• Umpire shirt (navy, black, or powder blue depending on the league)
• Dark slacks and black shoes
• Ball/strike indicator, plate brush, hat

For Plate Work:

• Chest protector
• Face mask
• Shin guards
• Plate shoes
• Protective cup
• Optional: throat guard, arm guards

You don't need to spend a fortune up front—we’ll help you find affordable starter sets and recommend what to prioritize.

‍

Step 5: Start Working Games

Once you’re certified and geared up, you’re ready to get out there. With Home Plate Umpires, we’ll start assigning you to games that match your comfort level and availability.

• Start with youth or rec games
• Work solo base or two-person crews
• Move up to older divisions or tournaments
• Work evenings, weekends, or full Saturdays—whatever fits your schedule

The more games you work, the more you’ll build confidence and earn. Many umpires start with 2–3 games per week and quickly build into full weekends during tournament season.

‍

Why Get Certified Through Home Plate Umpires?

We don’t just hand you a rulebook and send you out. We train you, support you, and make sure you’re ready. Whether you’re going after IHSA certification or just want to work youth games in your area, we’ll help you take the right path.

When you work with Home Plate Umpires, you get:

• Step-by-step help with certification and registration
• Access to real training—not just videos
• Assignments in leagues we trust and support
• Mentorship from experienced Chicago-area umpires
• Opportunities to move into tournaments, high school, and more

‍

Ready to Get Certified and Start Umpiring?

If you’re ready to step behind the plate or out on the bases, we’re ready to help you get there. Home Plate Umpires will walk you through certification, gear, training, and your first assignments.

Let’s get you on the field. Reach out today and we’ll get started.