Through your membership in the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials, Inc. you are a member of the only organization of its kind in the world: a nonprofit service and professional organization managed by and for basketball referees. Founded in 1923, IAABO's stated purposes are:

• To educate, train, develop, and provide continuous instruction for basketball officials.
• To promote the welfare of the game of basketball, its players and officials.
• To maintain the highest standard of basketball officiating.
• To encourage the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship.
• To have available at all times an adequate number of thoroughly trained and capable officials.
• To Cooperate with all organizations officially connected with the game of basketball in furthering its interests and ideals.

Through a worldwide organization of some 200 local "boards" spanning 38 States and 11 foreign counties, IAABO has been the unparalleled and undisputed leader in worldwide training of basketball officials in the areas of:

• Basketball rules
• Mechanics and techniques of officiating
• Organization of local officials' groups
• Development of curricula and standards by which other officials' organizations are judged

Training and education processes are ongoing, augmented by comprehensive written and practical programs, updated annually (or more often as needed). Throughout the year, the IAABO office, in conjunction with nationally acclaimed clinicians, constantly develops and improves teaching and testing techniques.

If you are interested in becoming an official go to our Become an Official page and fill out the registration information.