Question 1

How do I become certified in The Driftless League?

Accepted Answer

You need to complete two things...

You need to take either (or both if you'd like to umpire both) the online Baseball course or Softball course and pass with 80% on the quizzes. 
You need to attend an in-person umpire clinic where you will practice making calls behind the plate and at the base pads.

Once you complete both, you will be officially certified for the league.

Question 2

In the future, what will I need to do to certify as an umpire for the league?

Accepted Answer

Once you have completed BOTH the online course and the in-person clinic, the following year you will only need to take the online course to certify.

Question 3

How much would I be paid?

Accepted Answer

That is up to each community. Most communities in The Driftless League has a board or committee that sets the rate for umpires.

Question 4

What umpire gear is provided?

Accepted Answer

You will be provided...

- mask (MUST be worn during the game)
- shield
- broom to clean the plate
- clicker to keep track of count and outs.
- some may provide shin guards, but you would have to ask. 
- some communities may provide an official league umpire polo.

Question 5

When will the online course be available?

Accepted Answer

The courses for both baseball and softball will be available starting May 1, 2023.

Question 6

Are the online courses open book?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We encourage anyone taking the online courses to use the RULES sections under the Baseball and Softball pages of the website when taking the quizzes.

THE Drifltess LEAGUE

Frequently asked questions

How do I become certified in The Driftless League?

In the future, what will I need to do to certify as an umpire for the league?

How much would I be paid?

What umpire gear is provided?

When will the online course be available?

Are the online courses open book?

Online Umpire Courses

Softball Umpire Course 2026

Baseball Umpire Course 2026

In-Person Umpire Clinics