When fans watch an NHL game, most of the attention goes to the athletes on the ice—the goals, the saves, and the hits. But right at the center of the action are the referees, silently ensuring that every play abides by the rules. These officials are not just passionate about the game; they are also trained professionals who make a solid living enforcing the game’s rules at the highest level of competition.
TLDR (Too Long, Didn’t Read)
NHL referees earn between $200,000 and $450,000 per season, depending on their experience and whether they are full-time or part-time officials. Linesmen typically make slightly less, between $115,000 and $250,000. Top-tier officials who work playoff games can earn additional bonuses. The role requires extensive training, physical fitness, and knowledge of the game.
How the NHL Officiating System Works
The National Hockey League employs two types of on-ice officials for every game: referees and linesmen. Each game typically features:
- 2 Referees – Responsible for assessing penalties and controlling game flow.
- 2 Linesmen – Responsible for calling offsides, icing, and breaking up fights.
The league employs a mix of full-time and part-time officials throughout the season. These officials are based across North America and assigned to different games based on schedules and performance reviews.
How Much Do NHL Refs Make?
The salary for NHL referees varies based on several factors, including years of experience, playoff assignments, and whether they work full-time or part-time. Here’s a breakdown of referee earnings:
Base Salary for NHL Referees
- Entry-Level Refs: Typically earn $200,000–$250,000 per year.
- Veteran Refs: Can make up to $400,000–$450,000 per year.
Base Salary for NHL Linesmen
- Entry-Level Linesmen: Start around $115,000 per year.
- Veteran Linesmen: Can earn up to $250,000 per year.
The difference in pay between referees and linesmen reflects the greater responsibility referees carry, especially in terms of penalty calls and game management.
Playoff and Special Game Bonuses
In addition to their base salaries, NHL referees and linesmen can earn bonuses for officiating playoff games. These bonuses are highly coveted and come with an increase in both pay and prestige.
According to reports, a referee can earn an additional $27,000 to $29,000 for working the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The deeper the rounds they work in, the higher the bonuses. Selection for these games depends on regular season performance, reviews, and physical readiness.
Do NHL Refs Get Paid Per Game?
While NHL officials have an annual contract, their pay can be effectively broken down into per-game rates when considering travel, scheduling, and seasonal workload.
- Referees may officiate around 70-75 games per season.
- Linesmen can work close to 75-80 games due to less game management responsibility.
This means a veteran referee making $400,000 a year is earning roughly $5,300 to $5,700 per game.
Training and Fitness Requirements
Becoming and remaining an NHL referee is no easy task. Officials go through rigorous physical training, especially during the offseason. Every year includes conditioning camps and testing to ensure officials maintain game-ready fitness levels.
In addition to physical conditioning, NHL referees also undergo:
- Rulebook Training: Ongoing updates and compliance checks.
- Video Analysis: Reviewing calls and game decisions regularly.
- On-Ice Drills: Simulation of live-game scenarios.
Travel and Workload
NHL referees spend a significant portion of the season on the road. During the regular season, officials travel across the U.S. and Canada, covering multiple games weekly. Travel costs, accommodations, and meal stipends are generally covered by the league.
While the salary may sound lucrative, the lifestyle involves frequent travel, time away from family, and physical wear and tear. This is why job retention rates among NHL referees are strong—many stick with the job for decades.
Career Path to the NHL
To become an NHL referee, one typically starts from grassroots or amateur hockey leagues. From there, potential candidates may work their way up through:
- Junior Leagues (e.g., CHL, USHL)
- College Hockey (NCAA levels)
- Minor Pro Leagues (e.g., AHL, ECHL)
The NHL scouting team identifies top talent from these feeders and brings them into officiating development programs—a process that can take years. Once on the NHL radar, candidates undergo evaluations and minor league work before being assigned NHL games.
Comparing NHL Referee Salaries to Other Sports
Here’s how NHL referee earnings stack up compared to other major North American sports leagues:
- NBA Refs: Approximately $180,000 to $550,000 annually
- MLB Umpires: Range from $150,000 to $450,000
- NFL Officials: Around $205,000 per season (part-time basis)
While NHL referees are amongst the better-paid officials in sports, NBA referees generally hold the top spot due to the size of the league’s broadcast revenue and global appeal.
Job Perks and Benefits
In addition to salary, NHL referees receive several perks:
- Comprehensive Health Benefits
- Pension Plans
- Travel Accommodations
- Annual Training Camps
Retired officials are often transitioned into roles in league operations, coaching, or as refereeing mentors, ensuring continuation of their careers within the sport.
Conclusion
Being an NHL referee is a demanding but rewarding career. With salaries that can rival those of professional athletes in some leagues, it’s clear that these officials are more than whistle-blowers. They are integral to the integrity of the game and are compensated accordingly. Still, it takes years of training, commitment, and performance to reach—and remain—at the highest level of officiating.
FAQs About NHL Referee Salaries
How much do NHL referees make per game?
Based on their annual salary, NHL referees earn around $5,000 to $6,000 per game, depending on experience.
Do NHL referees work full time?
Many are full-time employees of the NHL, though part-time rotation exists depending on injury, experience levels, and playoff scheduling.
How do you become an NHL referee?
You need years of officiating experience in junior, college, and minor leagues before entering NHL development programs.
Do NHL refs get bonuses for playoffs?
Yes. Officials can earn up to $29,000 extra during the playoffs, with the amount increasing per round worked.
Are there female NHL referees?
As of now, there are no full-time female referees in NHL games, but women have officiated in pre-season and minor league affiliate games, signaling potential future inclusion.