Part-time referee Gareth Hewer will be in charge of Saturday's Challenge Cup final between Hull and Warrington at Wembley.
The 34-year-old Cumbrian has beaten the Rugby Football League's seven-strong panel of full-time referees to the job after impressing head of officials Steve Ganson.
"Gareth has had a very solid season alongside a 12-year career to date," Ganson said. "He is a very experienced referee and this game is a worthy reward for his efforts so far.
"Moments like this are encouraging for other referees who aspire to officiate on the big stage. I'm sure Gareth will use this experience to help others along and attract those thinking about getting into refereeing."
Hewer, who refereed the second semi-final between Warrington and Wakefield, has been officiating for 12 years but has in the past knocked back offers to go full-time because of his job at Sellafield as a shift engineering team leader.
Hewer said: "This really is a dream come true for me.
"We've got a fantastic group of referees at the RFL who work hard all season to make sure things run smoothly each week. To be picked as the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup final referee is an absolute honour.
"I'm usually really excited at this point in August about attending the final as a spectator or watching on television with friends - now I'm the guy in the middle controlling the game.
"Today marks the start of an important week for the team. There'll be plenty of planning ahead of Saturday to make sure the game is an enjoyable one for all."
Ben Thaler, who was in charge of last year's final between Leeds and Hull KR and refereed the first semi-final between Hull and Wigan, will be video referee at Wembley.