There are no nationally-sanctioned rules, so obviously there must be local rules. We need to get going on this and the USRA example would be an excellent point of reference. The Holy Grail for many Canadian Officials is to qualify for a FISA license. For any ambitious national-level official it is the ultimate. Among FISA officials there is a certain respect, a certain camaraderie, a certain international officiating jet-set aura.
Canadian officials get to represent their country at international regattas.
But getting a FISA qualification is not easy. It even involves a certain element of risk, because at this level there are no guarantees. The road to paradise is littered with the moldering carcasses of those who have tried but failed. On the way to Oz, the trick is not to look at these grisly remnants. Instead, skip lightly and keep your eyes focused on the brilliant green glow on the horizon.