How to Become a Hockey Referee or Linesperson
Which path you take depends on the hockey you want to work. Most new officials in the U.S. start with USA Hockey. High school games in some states are run by the state association, and college games need extra steps on top of that.
- USA HockeyYouth, girls, adult, most junior, and high school hockey that is not run by a state association.
- High school (NFHS rules)Games run by a state high school association. You register with that association, not with the NFHS.
- College (ACHA and NCAA)Club college hockey (ACHA) and NCAA hockey. Both build on experience you gain elsewhere first.
- Off-ice officialsScorekeepers, timekeepers and penalty box attendants.
- Getting gamesHow assignors and scheduling platforms fit together.
- Questions new officials askShort answers with sources.
Not sure which applies? Most youth, girls and adult hockey in the U.S. is USA Hockey. If your games are school-against-school varsity hockey in a state that runs high school hockey, start with the state association table.