How to get the US Soccer Coaching License:

For aspiring and current soccer coaches in the United States, understanding the US Soccer coaching license pathway is essential. This complete guide covers every step of the US soccer coaching license journey, from the grassroots foundation to the elite Pro License. We will explain each level – Grassroots, D, C, B, A (Youth and Senior), and Pro – including prerequisites, course structure, costs, and tips. Along the way, we’ll highlight key differences between US soccer coaching licenses and international (UEFA) licenses. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to progress through the US coaching license soccer system and advance your career. Prepare to dive deep into licensing levels, requirements, and practical advice that will set you on the path to success as a U.S. soccer coach.

Understanding the US Soccer Coaching License Pathway

The U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) has a structured coaching education pathway designed to develop qualified coaches at every level. In 2018, US Soccer revamped its licensing system, replacing the old F and E licenses with a modern Grassroots pathway and creating clearer tiers from youth soccer through professional ranks. The pathway begins with introductory Grassroots licenses and progresses to national licenses (D, C, B, A-Youth, A-Senior) and finally the Pro License, the highest coaching credential in the country.

Key points of the pathway:

• Grassroots Level: Online introductory module + eight small-sided courses (4v4, 7v7, 9v9, 11v11, online and in-person).
• D License: Entry-level national license after Grassroots; focuses on coaches of youth teams (typically U-6 to U-12).
• C License: Mid-level license for coaches of older youth teams (U-13 to U-19); builds on D knowledge.
• B License: Advanced license for high-performance environments; open to coaches in competitive youth or adult leagues.
• A-Youth License: Specialized 10-month course for youth academy coaches (U-13 to U-19) with pro-level development focus.
• A-Senior License: 11-month course for senior team coaches (collegiate or pro level) focusing on high-performance and professional environments.
• Pro License: The top license for professional coaches (MLS, NWSL, USL, national teams); 12-month intensive program for elite coaching roles.

Each license comes with age, experience, and prior-license requirements. Generally, coaches progress linearly (D → C → B → A → Pro), though waiver options exist for experienced professionals (e.g., UEFA license holders) to enter at higher levels. The U.S. system emphasizes not just technical knowledge, but also the “Six Tasks of a Coach” (coaching games, training sessions, leading the team, leading the players, managing the environment, and communication) at every level.

Key Statistics: U.S. Soccer has expanded access to coaching courses nationwide. For example, in 2022 there were 63 C License courses planned across 33 states, the largest offering ever. In 2024, 40 B License courses were organized in 24 states. The Pro License, instituted in 2016, recently celebrated its eighth graduating class in 2023. These numbers reflect growing coach education investment and easier access for coaches around the country.

In the sections below, we’ll break down each level of the US Soccer coaching license levels. Along the way, look for notes on requirements, costs, and practical tips. By understanding each step, you can plan your progression and know exactly how to get a US soccer coach license at any stage of your career.

Grassroots Coaching Licenses: Laying the Foundation

Soccer field at a public park – Coaches usually start their journey here. US Soccer’s Grassroots licensing teaches coaching fundamentals on fields like this.

The very first step in the US soccer coaching license pathway is the Grassroots Coaching pathway. These are introductory courses focused on fundamentals for coaching young players. U.S. Soccer requires all new coaches to begin with a free online “Introduction to Grassroots Coaching” module. After that, coaches must complete three small-sided courses from a set of eight options (4v4, 7v7, 9v9, 11v11 – each offered online or in-person). At least two of the three chosen courses must be completed in person, and one can be done online. The in-person requirement ensures hands-on learning. Crucially, one of the in-person courses must be the 11v11 course before moving to the D License.

• Courses Offered: Four age/formats – 4v4, 7v7, 9v9, 11v11. Each has an online and an in-person version.
• Format: Each course is ~2 hours long (in-person), with corresponding online modules. Content covers age-appropriate teaching methods, coaching games, and training sessions for that format.
• Prerequisites: None (open to all coaches). The online “Intro to Grassroots” is free; the small-sided courses typically cost about $25 each (check Learning Center for updates).
• Order: Coaches often start with the 4v4 or 7v7 modules when working with very young players, then progress to 9v9/11v11 as they gain experience.
• Why Grassroots Matters: This modern system replaced the old F/E license courses and aligns coaching education with player development stages. Coaches learn to create a safe, fun, and positive environment for kids, emphasizing technical skill and tactical understanding appropriate to each format.

Key Takeaway: The Grassroots licenses do not on their own grant you a national license, but they are required prerequisites for the D License. A coach must complete the intro module plus any three of the small-sided courses (with at least 2 in-person, including 11v11) before applying for the D License. In practice, this means a coach will have foundational training in small-sided games and coaching tasks before moving to full-scale team coaching.

Example: A youth coach may take Intro, then do in-person 4v4 and 7v7 courses plus online 9v9. Another coach might do in-person 9v9 and 11v11 plus online 4v4. Both meet the requirement as long as two were in-person and one was online. Once done, the coach is eligible for the National D License course.

National D License

The U.S. Soccer D License is the first official national coaching license in the pathway. It is aimed at coaches working with youth teams (often ages U-6 through U-12) and serves as the “ticket” to coaching older youth (up to U-19) in competitive leagues.

• Prerequisites: To apply for a D License, a coach must have completed the Grassroots requirements: the Intro module, three small-sided courses (with two in-person including the 11v11), and hold a valid US Soccer grassroots certificate. Usually there is no minimum age beyond being an adult (some member organizations require 18+, though USSF itself does not mandate an age). Coaches should also be currently coaching a team, as the course involves working with players during training sessions.
• Course Structure: The D License course typically consists of four weekends (or equivalent) of in-person instruction over 4–6 months. In total it involves about 45 hours of classroom and field time, plus assignments and mentoring. US Soccer lists these hours as “4-weekends of 8 hours each (32 in-person hours) plus 13 hours of assignments/mentoring”.
• Content & Focus: The course focuses on the “Four Game Models” – 4v4, 7v7, 9v9, 11v11 – building on the Grassroots games. Coaches learn to design training sessions for all these formats, emphasizing technical skill, small-sided tactics, and age-appropriate play. The curriculum centers on the six tasks of a coach:
  • Coaching Games (game management, guiding players in matches)
  • Coaching Training Sessions (planning and running practices)
  • Leading the Team (team culture, objectives)
  • Leading the Players (player development, mentorship)
  • Managing the Performance Environment (safety, equipment, medical response)
  • Communicating with Players and Families (positive communication)
    These six coaching tasks are taught through lectures and practical sessions.
• Age Emphasis: While the D License covers full-field 11v11 topics, its primary emphasis is on youth coaching. It is geared toward coaches of players roughly U8–U12, but prepares coaches to handle up to U-19 levels. The goal is to ensure coaches can train players with sound fundamentals and an emphasis on fun and skill development.
• Cost: The D License course fee varies by USSF member and region, typically around $300–$600. Some youth soccer associations (e.g. Cal South) list D courses around $550.
• Completion: Upon completion, a coach earns the National D License, which is nationally recognized. This license qualifies a coach to work with older youth teams and is a prerequisite for the C License. It does not technically expire (US Soccer licenses are lifetime), but continuing education is encouraged to stay current.
• Why It Matters: Many competitive leagues (especially high-level youth leagues and high school state qualifiers) require the head coach to hold at least a D License. It is often the minimum credential expected of coaches working with teenagers. Getting the D License demonstrates a coach’s commitment to education and understanding of the US Soccer coaching philosophy.

Practical Tips:

• Application: D License courses are offered by USSF member organizations (state or local associations). Interested coaches register via the U.S. Soccer Learning Center or through the host association. Enrollment is often competitive, so apply early when schedules are announced.
• Preparation: Review the Grassroots coaching principles before attending. Familiarize yourself with local coaching rules (player substitution, field sizes, etc.) for small-sided games.
• During the Course: Expect a mix of classroom lectures, field sessions, team coaching demonstrations, and individual mentoring meetings. Be prepared to plan and lead training sessions for actual players as part of the curriculum.
• After the Course: Immediately apply your new knowledge by focusing on technical drills and small-sided game concepts in your next coaching assignments. Your certificate can be printed from the Learning Center.

By completing the D License, coaches solidify the foundation begun in Grassroots courses. They gain practical skills to coach full-sized teams and position themselves for the more advanced licenses ahead.

National C License

The National C License is the next step up, focusing on coaches of adolescent players (typically U-13 to U-19) and advanced youth environments. It is a significant jump in both requirements and coaching content.

• Prerequisites: To apply for the C License, a candidate must:
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have held the U.S. Soccer D License for at least one year (some member associations allow waivers for exceptional cases).
  • Be currently coaching (head or assistant) a youth team.
  • Often, candidates must also complete or have active SafeSport/licensing background checks as per US Soccer policy.
    These requirements ensure that C License candidates have field experience. (USSF’s C License eligibility guidelines are detailed on the Learning Center.)
• Course Structure: The C License course is roughly 4 months long. It typically includes four in-person days (grouped into two weekend seminars or four separate weekends), plus weekly online learning and assignments. US Soccer describes it as a four-month mix of independent learning, virtual webinars, and hands-on sessions. Coaches can expect about 32 contact hours in person, supplemented by pre- and post-session work.
• Content & Focus: The C License builds on the D License by deepening tactical and team aspects for older players. Topics include:
  • Advanced tactical principles for 11v11 (managing formations, transitions, attacking/defending phases).
  • Advanced practice planning, including periodization and training cycles appropriate for teen development.
  • Leading the team and leading the players at a higher maturity level; including motivation and psychology.
  • Game analysis and performance management (video analysis, scouting).
  • Player development theory for adolescents (how to support physical, technical, and psychological growth).
    US Soccer describes the C course covering tasks such as coaching training sessions/games, leading players and team, managing performance environment, etc.. It is often said to teach the “core concepts” of coaching.
• Age Emphasis: The C License is geared toward coaches of competitive youth teams (U-13 through U-19). It transitions coaches from a developmental mindset (D License focus) to preparing players for college/pro pathways. However, it still emphasizes youth coaching practices rather than full senior professional contexts.
• Cost: This course is more intensive and typically costs between $1,500 – $2,000 (varies by host organization). Expenses cover the multi-day seminars and instructional materials.
• Outcome: Completing the C License grants a higher national license (often simply called the “C License” or “National C License”). It is nationally recognized and often required or recommended for coaching at high-level youth clubs, academy programs, and some college preparatory teams. It is also a prerequisite for the B License.
• Waivers: Coaches with significant background can apply for a waiver. US Soccer’s policy allows, for example, if someone has a UEFA B license or equivalent international credentials, they might bypass the C course（note: the formal waiver process is handled case-by-case by the hosting organization.
• Statistics: Reflecting growing interest, 63 C License courses were offered nationwide in 2022 (the largest ever). This expansion was partly funded by the U.S. Soccer Coaching Development Fund to make education more accessible.

Practical Tips:

• Application Timing: C License spots are limited and fill up fast. Watch for announcements on the U.S. Soccer site or your state association. Ensure your D License is current and complete the required waiting period before applying.
• Time Commitment: Be prepared for regular assignments. The C License expects you to study between seminars. Treat it like a university course: allocate 2-3 hours per week for readings and videos.
• Networking: You’ll meet other ambitious coaches from around the region. Share ideas and drills; these connections can lead to future opportunities.
• Preparation: Review coaching session plans and game video analysis. The more familiar you are with organizing practices and critiquing play, the smoother the course will be.

The C License represents a major milestone: it turns generalist youth coaches into specialist high-performance youth coaches. Mastery of the C License content signals readiness to step into serious competitive coaching roles.

National B License

The National B License is the gateway to elite coaching and is often considered the culmination of the “youth” pathway before stepping into the highest levels. It is a six-month hybrid course designed for coaches in performance environments (youth or senior teams).

• Prerequisites: To qualify for the B License, applicants must meet these requirements:
  1. Hold a USSF C License for at least 1 year.
  2. Be at least 21 years old.
  3. Have a minimum of 4 years’ coaching experience (with at least 3 years at the youth or senior level).
  4. Currently be a coach with access to 11v11 training (U-13+ players). This usually means coaching a team or working in a club setting.
  5. Approval from club leadership: Many B courses require a letter from your club or organization confirming your role and commitment.
  • Note: Waivers exist for experienced ex-pro players or coaches. For example, holders of a UEFA B license or players with significant pro/National Team experience may petition for entry without a USSF C License.
• Course Structure: The USSF B License is a 6-month course combining online and in-person components. It typically consists of two four-day in-person sessions (each four nights long) and weekly online modules or webinars. The face-to-face sessions might be spread over the first and second halves of the six months. Candidates can expect substantial home study (often 2–3 hours per week) and individual mentoring.
  Example format (varying by provider): Session 1 in January (4 days/3 nights), session 2 in June (4 days/3 nights), with virtual work in between.
• Content & Focus: The B License curriculum emphasizes developing players and teams in a performance environment. Key topics include:
  • Advanced team tactics (attacking/defending systems, set pieces, transitions).
  • Periodization of training (planning cycles for peak performance).
  • Leadership and management at higher levels (building culture, leadership, communication).
  • Performance analysis (video breakdown, statistical methods).
  • Sport science foundations (nutrition, psychology, fitness principles).
  • Individual player development within a team context.
    The B License pushes coaches to think like professionals, focusing on analysis, planning, and long-term development.
• Target: While the B License is part of the “pro track,” it is open to coaches of both youth (U-13+) and adult teams, as long as they meet the prerequisites. Many National B coaches work with top youth academies or semi-professional adult teams.
• Cost & Scholarships: The B License is one of the more expensive courses, typically ranging from $1,300 to $3,000. In recent years, U.S. Soccer has offered a 50% scholarship (Jill Ellis Fund) to female applicants to boost female coaching representation. This scholarship is applied after acceptance.
• Duration & Effort: Expect a full-time commitment to coursework. The hybrid nature means you are “on” nearly every week, balancing teaching, learning, and assignments. Time management is key.
• Outcome: The B License is highly respected. Holding a B License signifies you have mastered advanced coaching concepts and are ready for professional roles or high-tier youth environments. It is a prerequisite for the A Licenses. Many collegiate, professional reserve (USL), or top academy coaches hold the B License.

Practical Tips:

• Ensure Experience: Before applying, compile your coaching resume and make sure your club leadership will support you (you’ll often need a letter of support).
• Application Timing: B courses may only open one or two windows per year. Be ready to apply early; include all required documents (certificate uploads, letters, ID).
• During the Course: Engage fully in group work. The B License has a strong emphasis on collaboration and peer learning. Also, gather a small squad or team where you can trial some of the tactics learned between sessions.
• After the Course: The learning doesn’t end at certification. Use your B License insights to develop long-term plans for the teams you coach. Consider linking with mentors or continuing with webinars that USSF offers.

By completing the B License, coaches join an elite group prepared for the top tier. In recent years U.S. Soccer expanded access – e.g. 40 B License courses were offered in 2024 across 25 organizations – reflecting growing demand.

National A Licenses (Youth and Senior)

US Soccer divides the A License into two parallel 10–11 month courses: A-Youth and A-Senior. Both are considered the highest national licenses before the Pro License, each tailored to different coaching environments.

A-Youth License Course

The A-Youth License is a ten-month program focused on developing coaches for high-performance youth teams (typically U-13 through U-19 environments). Key points:

• Prerequisites:
  • B License for at least 1 year (USSF requires this minimal waiting period).
  • Coaching Experience: At least 4 years coaching (with a focus on youth).
  • Age: Usually minimum 23 years old.
  • Current Role: Actively coaching in a youth environment (club or national team).
  • Access to Team: Must have a team (or players) to apply learning in a U-13–U-19 context.
  • Note: U.S. Soccer offers application windows with limited spots; coaches must apply and be selected. Women have a scholarship opportunity covering 50% of tuition (Jill Ellis Fund).
• Course Structure: As announced for 2024-25, the A-Youth course consists of three in-person meetings (each 4 days long) over a 10-month period. In addition, candidates engage in weekly virtual webinars (large-group and small-group), independent study, and group projects. The in-person sessions cover a wide range of topics, and candidates complete an exit interview and final assessment.
• Content & Focus: A-Youth emphasizes advanced player development and preparation for the professional game. Topics include:
  • Creating a high-performance youth environment (academy culture, long-term development).
  • Advanced tactics for youth teams (pattern play, transitional play suited to youth).
  • Personal and team development skills (mentorship, communication with families at elite level).
  • Game analysis and feedback specifically for adolescent players.
  • Managing expectations (balancing winning vs development).
    According to US Soccer, it “guides participants to perform in a high-performance youth team environment”, with an emphasis on future professional players.
• Example Structure: The first A-Youth session often occurs in late summer (August), with later sessions in fall and spring. Virtual work keeps candidates engaged between visits.
• Outcome: Coaches earn the National A-Youth License, enabling them to coach at the top youth levels (e.g. MLS Next academies, ODP, YNTs). It is equivalent in prestige to the A-Senior license but specifically recognizes youth coaching expertise.
• Cost: The tuition is substantial (often $2,000–$3,500). With the scholarship, many female coaches pay only half.

A-Senior License Course

The A-Senior License (often just called “A License” for adult environments) is the counterpart for coaches in high-performance senior team environments (college and professional). Key points:

• Prerequisites:
  • B License for at least 1 year.
  • Coaching Experience: Typically 4+ years, including recent youth or lower-division senior coaching.
  • Age: Minimum 23 years.
  • Current Role: Coaching at a college or pro club (even as an assistant) in the U.S. (or equivalent environments).
  • As with A-Youth, application windows are limited and competitive.
• Course Structure: The A-Senior program spans 11 months with two in-person meetings (each 5 days) plus extensive virtual learning. The first meeting usually focuses on professional environments, the second on collegiate environments (as in the 2023 timeline). Weekly webinars and group projects fill the interval.
• Content & Focus: A-Senior covers strategic and leadership topics for senior coaches:
  • Coaching at a professional/college level: scouting, recruitment, team management.
  • Advanced domain-specific seminars (e.g. sport psychology, performance analysis, talent ID).
  • Leading at high levels (captain/leadership development, media relations).
  • Implementing club culture and philosophy across programs.
    US Soccer describes it as training coaches to “perform in a high-performance senior team environment” at college or pro levels.
• Outcome: Holders get the National A-Senior License. This license qualifies one to coach at the college level or to be an assistant or head coach in professional leagues (MLS, NWSL, USL) – though final pro coaching roles typically require the Pro License.
• Cost: Tuition is around $3,000–$3,500, often partly covered (50% for women).
• Special Programs: Note that US Soccer sometimes offers women-only cohorts for A-Youth and A-Senior, as part of SheChampions initiatives (to bolster female coaches in the pipeline). Female candidates should explore these scholarships and cohort options.

A-Youth vs A-Senior Key Differences:

• Target Environment: A-Youth centers on elite youth (academy) teams, while A-Senior targets adult/college teams.
• Duration: A-Youth is 3 in-person blocks over 10 months; A-Senior is 2 blocks over 11 months.
• Content Focus: A-Youth emphasizes player development for future pros; A-Senior emphasizes managing a professional-style team and organization.
• Career Path: Many coaches earn both if they coach across youth and senior (e.g., college coaches with youth responsibilities).

Completing an A License (Youth or Senior) is a major accomplishment. These coaches are at the pinnacle of U.S. Soccer coaching education, preparing teams in top academies, NCAA programs, and pro clubs. For MLS head coach candidates, the A License is a stepping-stone (often needed before a Pro License or as a waiver qualification).

U.S. Soccer Pro License

The US Soccer Pro License is the highest coaching credential offered by U.S. Soccer. It is intended only for experienced coaches actively involved in the professional game. In fact, it is required for MLS head coaches (unless waived for some top ex-pros) and is a pinnacle of the coaching pathway.

• Prerequisites: To be eligible for the Pro License, a coach must:
  1. Hold a U.S. Soccer A License for at least 1 year.
  2. Be actively coaching in a professional environment (MLS, NWSL, USL Championship/NextPro, NISA, or on a U.S. National Team staff) for at least 1 year.
  3. Typically be a head or top assistant at that level.
     Coaches without U.S. coaching licenses but with a UEFA Pro License are still required to take the USSF Pro License (USSF only waives some requirements for ex-players).
• Course Structure: The Pro License is an 12-month rigorous program. It typically includes:
  • Three 5-day in-person seminars (often spaced throughout the year).
  • Two six-day onsite visits by a USSF instructor to the coach’s club (for hands-on mentoring).
  • Two extended group meetings (4-5 hours for a week) mid-year.
  • Weekly virtual meetings (two per month) for discussions and seminars.
  • International experience: Where possible, an international training site visit or coach exchange.
  • Individual developmental periods: Coaches implement projects at their own club during the year.
  • Final presentation and interview: Summarizing the year’s learning.
    In sum, the course demands a full-time commitment across 12 months.
• Content & Focus: The Pro License is about mastering the art and science of coaching at the highest level. Topics include:
  • Elite leadership and team culture creation.
  • Cutting-edge sports science and analytics.
  • Advanced talent identification and long-term planning.
  • Personalized development (coaches as leaders and mentors to other coaches).
  • Global best practices (often via international site visits).
    According to U.S. Soccer, the Pro Course “is designed for coaches to develop skills and competencies necessary to work as a professional coach in a professional environment”. It expects candidates to already have a track record of success; it refines strategic vision rather than teaching basics.
• Outcome: Graduates earn the U.S. Soccer Pro License, the only USSF coaching badge recognized at the top pro level. It is officially the “highest license recognized in the United States”. After completion, coaches can continue as MLS head coaches, NWSL leads, or senior national team coaches. Notably, in January 2024, U.S. Soccer announced its 8th class of Pro License graduates, comprising coaches from across MLS, NWSL, and USL.
• Cost: The Pro License is the most expensive and time-consuming course (typically around $10,000, sometimes more). It is a significant investment, often backed by professional clubs or the USSF itself (some MLS clubs support their coaches’ enrollment).
• Special Note: U.S. Soccer requires current and former holders of UEFA Pro Licenses to also take the U.S. Pro License if they coach in the U.S. (unless granted a waiver under specific circumstances).

Practical Tips for Pro License Aspirants:

• Maintain High Performance: Only coaches already in the professional environment qualify. Focus on excelling in your current role to meet prerequisites.
• Long-Term Commitment: Plan for a year of near-daily coaching education work. Ensure your club supports the time away for seminars.
• Network Globally: The course often includes international components. Build relationships with global coaches and stay updated on worldwide coaching trends.
• Finalize Early: The Pro License finishes with an exit assessment. Prepare a comprehensive “graduation” project (often a coaching philosophy or strategic plan) as required.

The Pro License marks the culmination of the US Soccer coaching license pathway. It signifies readiness to lead at the very top of the sport. For context, only a few dozen American coaches have earned this license since its inception, reflecting its exclusivity.

US Soccer vs. UEFA (International) Coaching Licenses

The US Soccer coaching license pathway has many parallels to the UEFA licensing system (used in Europe), but there are key differences:

• Structure: UEFA has four main levels (UEFA B, A, and Pro, plus the national C-level or similar). USSF has five national licenses (D, C, B, A, Pro), but note that USSF’s D License is more like a national “C” in some countries. USSF’s system adds the Grassroots courses below the D level, which UEFA generally does not have as formal prerequisites (UEFA C often requires no prior license, though countries vary).
• Pro Level: Both systems cap at a Pro License for top-level coaches. However, in the U.S., the Pro License is mandatory for MLS head coaches unless waived, similar to how UEFA Pro is required for top European clubs.
• Content Emphasis: USSF licensing places a strong, explicit emphasis on the Six Tasks of a Coach and on structured certification requirements (SafeSport, background checks, etc.) at all levels. UEFA courses are more purely instructional (with each country’s FA deciding prerequisites).
• Waivers & Equivalency: USSF allows coaches with foreign licenses to potentially waive into US courses. For example, holders of UEFA B licenses can apply to enter the USSF B License via a waiver process. Similarly, a coach with the UEFA A may get credit toward the USSF A (pending approval). However, even those with UEFA Pro still often must take the US Pro License to coach in the U.S.. This ensures a baseline of US soccer education.
• Time & Coursework: Generally, European (UEFA) courses involve more classroom hours (UEFA A can be ~240 hours). USSF courses are modular (e.g., US A is spread over months) and may involve more online/self-study. Each system accredits their licenses differently.
• Recognition: A USSF license (e.g. B or A) is not automatically recognized by UEFA or FIFA elsewhere. A US coach moving abroad may have to prove equivalency. Conversely, UEFA licenses are often recognized or given credit by USSF for entry into courses, but not always (especially at the A and Pro levels, as noted above).
• Progression: In the US, coaches must go sequentially (D→C→B→A→Pro) unless waived. In UEFA, some countries allow slightly different paths (for example, a UEFA B license often has no formal prerequisite, though in practice candidates have some coaching background).

Key Comparison Points:

• A U.S. D License roughly covers U-12 coaching and small-sided games, similar to many countries’ UEFA C-level.
• USSF’s C License is akin to a UEFA B (working with teens/youth players).
• USSF’s B License is somewhat like a UEFA A (covering senior play and performance environments).
• The split into A-Youth and A-Senior is unique to the U.S.; UEFA has one A License covering top senior-level coaching.
• Both systems culminate in a Pro License for elite coaches.

Understanding these differences is helpful if you have experience overseas or plan to coach internationally. The good news is that, regardless of the pathway, both systems emphasize high-level coaching competencies. Many US coaches who hold UEFA licenses use the US pathway to officially certify in the U.S., and vice versa.

Checking Your US Soccer Coaching License (Lookup & Tracking)

Once you are part of the coaching pathway, you will use the U.S. Soccer Digital Coaching Center (DCC), also known as the Learning Center, to manage your licenses. Here’s what you need to know about verifying and tracking your certification:

• Learning Center Account: All courses and licenses are recorded in US Soccer’s online system (learning.ussoccer.com). After completing a course, your license will be available in your account. You can print your license certificate and see completion dates.
• License Lookup Directory: If you want to verify a coach’s credentials, use the US Soccer Learning Center Directory. This publicly accessible search tool lets you find coaches by name or other criteria to see what licenses they hold. (Be aware that if a coach took courses with USYS or another member, their record should still be in the national registry.)
• Safesport and Screenings: In addition to licenses, US Soccer requires SafeSport and background checks for coaches. The DCC tracks your SafeSport status. A positive side effect: if a coach is suspended, public discipline lists are also often posted by member organizations.
• Maintenance: USSF licenses do not expire, but continuing education (like re-taking advanced courses or webinars) is encouraged. Some leagues might require re-certificate check-ins. It’s wise to periodically log in to your DCC account to ensure your information is current.
• Contacting US Soccer: If you ever have questions about your record (or can’t find it), contact the US Soccer Coaching Education department (coaches@ussoccer.org). They can help resolve DCC account or license issues.

For example, one youth parent asked online how to verify a club coach’s license. The answer was to use the US Soccer Learning Center “Directory” search tool. This quick check can give peace of mind that your coach is properly certified.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion: Take Your Coaching to the Next Level

Earning a US Soccer coaching license is a journey that builds your expertise step by step. From the Grassroots courses through the National D, C, B, and A licenses, each level equips you with new skills to better train players and lead teams. Whether you dream of coaching youth players in your community or managing at the collegiate or professional level, the US Soccer coaching license pathway provides a clear roadmap.

Remember to leverage the US Soccer Learning Center for registration, tracking, and license lookup. Keep your experience fresh by coaching as you learn. And don’t overlook scholarships and special programs (like the Jill Ellis Fund for women) that can make advanced licenses more accessible.

Now it’s your turn: start mapping out your coaching career, apply for the next license when you’re ready, and join the growing community of certified coaches. Share this guide with fellow coaches, subscribe for updates, and leave your questions or comments below. Good luck on the field – we’re excited to see you succeed as a US Soccer licensed coach!