Laws of the game

Welcome to the World Rugby Laws of Rugby Union. Here, you can read the laws and watch explanatory video examples to build your understanding of how the laws are applied on the field of play. The laws are available in 12 languages and have specific sections on:

• The playing charter – the basic principles which relate to the playing, coaching and application of law
• Specific definitions which explain terminology
• Each of the 21 laws
• Detail on the variations for under-19, sevens and 10s
• Video and still images of match official signals
• Application guidelines which have been issued by World Rugby to help referees to apply specific laws
• A catalogue of law clarifications whereby unions have made specific requests
• Modified forms of the game such as beach, tag and XRugby.

Laws exam

The World Rugby Laws exam is available at the World Rugby online learning system

After completing the World Rugby Laws exam, you can download your personalised awareness certificate. Registration is free and takes only a few minutes. This self-check multiple choice exam is a pre-requisite for many World Rugby and union-specific educational courses for referees, coaches and match management staff.

Laws of the game

Welcome to the World Rugby Laws of Rugby Union. Here, you can read the laws and watch explanatory video examples to build your understanding of how the laws are applied on the field of play. The laws are available in 12 languages and have specific sections on:

• The playing charter – the basic principles which relate to the playing, coaching and application of law
• Specific definitions which explain terminology
• Each of the 21 laws
• Detail on the variations for under-19, sevens and 10s
• Video and still images of match official signals
• Application guidelines which have been issued by World Rugby to help referees to apply specific laws
• A catalogue of law clarifications whereby unions have made specific requests
• Modified forms of the game such as beach, tag and XRugby.

Laws exam

The World Rugby Laws exam is available at the World Rugby online learning system

After completing the World Rugby Laws exam, you can download your personalised awareness certificate. Registration is free and takes only a few minutes. This self-check multiple choice exam is a pre-requisite for many World Rugby and union-specific educational courses for referees, coaches and match management staff.