Referee pay in hockey scales with experience, skill, and the level of play. From small community rinks to national broadcasts, officials are expected to manage pace, enforce rules, and maintain control in a demanding environment. What they earn for that work, however, varies widely depending on where they are in the system.
Below is a breakdown of how much hockey referees typically make at each stage of their careers — from entry-level assignments to full-time positions at the professional level.
At the high school level, officiating is generally a part-time role. Referees are paid per game, and most work locally within their school districts or regions. Compensation depends heavily on the province or state, along with the level of competition.
Most referees in this category are paid between $30 and $75 per game.
Varsity games tend to pay more than junior varsity or recreational leagues, and travel demands can also influence pay rates.
This level is often the entry point into officiating. While it’s not typically a primary income source, it does offer valuable experience and steady opportunities for those working their way up the ladder.
As referees move into junior and amateur leagues — such as the CHL, USHL, or Junior A/B circuits — pay improves to match the increased pace and pressure of the game. These assignments often come with more responsibility and stricter evaluations.
Officials at this level typically earn between $100 and $300 per game. Many work multiple games per week during the active season, especially in regions with dense league schedules.
Unlike high school officiating, this tier begins to resemble a semi-professional commitment. Referees may also begin traveling more frequently, and their assignments are more likely to be tracked or scored for advancement.
College hockey introduces another step up — both in terms of game intensity and referee expectations. Assignments here demand a deep understanding of the rulebook, faster decision-making, and a professional approach to communication with coaches and players.
Pay for NCAA Division I games typically ranges from $300 to $500, while Division II and III games generally fall between $150 and $300.
Some games, such as conference finals or playoff series, may offer higher rates or travel stipends.
In Canada, U Sports officials are paid along similar lines, depending on the conference and sport. At this level, referees are often selected based on prior performance in junior leagues or through strong evaluations at development camps.
Officials working in leagues like the ECHL or AHL are typically under seasonal contracts and begin to experience the demands of a full professional schedule. These referees travel regularly, attend mandatory training, and are evaluated on a regular basis.
These leagues serve as pipelines to the NHL, and officials in both the ECHL and AHL are often under consideration for promotion. As such, consistency, professionalism, and accuracy are all closely monitored.
At the top of the sport, NHL referees are full-time professionals with contracts, benefits, and postseason bonuses. These officials work a demanding schedule — often over 70 games during the regular season — and are expected to maintain elite physical condition and sharp judgment throughout.
Additional compensation is awarded for playoff assignments, with the most experienced referees selected for the later rounds. NHL officials also receive per diem payments, health benefits, and pension contributions as part of their contracts.
While pay scales are tied to league level, several other factors influence what a referee earns, including:
Hockey referees are compensated based on the level of play, the structure of the league, and their own performance and availability. For those officiating at the grassroots level, it may serve as a flexible side job. For others, especially those in the professional ranks, officiating is a full-time, career-level commitment.
Understanding the range of salaries across the hockey system helps clarify the path for aspiring officials — and sets expectations for what’s possible at every stage.
