How Much Do USA Hockey Referees Get Paid? Find Out Now!

If you’re a passionate hockey fan, have you ever thought about becoming a referee? Being a referee is a highly respected position that requires dedication, skill, and a deep understanding of the game. But one important question many people have is, “How much do USA hockey referees get paid?”

In this article, we’re going to explore the ins and outs of being a USA Hockey referee, including how much you can expect to make, how to become a referee, and how to increase your pay. Whether you’re a hockey enthusiast curious about the profession, or a seasoned referee looking to learn more, you’re sure to find valuable information here.

So, let’s dive in and explore the exciting world of USA Hockey refereeing together! Read on to discover everything you need to know about becoming a referee and earning a living doing what you love.

Are you curious about the salary of a USA Hockey referee and want to know more about how to become one? Keep reading to find out!

The Average Salary of USA Hockey Referees

One of the most common questions asked by aspiring USA Hockey referees is how much they can expect to get paid. While salary may vary depending on a variety of factors, including experience, certification level, and geographical location, there is a general range that most referees fall within.

According to USA Hockey, the average salary for a Level 1 referee is $30 per game. This rate can increase to as much as $150 per game for more experienced Level 4 officials. Keep in mind that these rates are per game, not per hour, and most games last between one and two hours.

While this may not sound like a lot of money, it’s important to note that many USA Hockey referees don’t do it solely for the financial compensation. In fact, for many people, refereeing is a passion that allows them to stay involved in the sport they love while also giving back to their community.

That being said, it’s also important for referees to be fairly compensated for their time and effort. In addition to the per-game rates, some referees may also be reimbursed for expenses such as travel costs and equipment.

Ultimately, the salary of a USA Hockey referee may not make you rich, but it can be a rewarding and fulfilling way to stay involved in the sport you love while earning a little extra money on the side.

If you’re interested in becoming a USA Hockey referee or want to learn more about the pay rates and certification levels, keep reading to find out more!

How Much Money Can You Make as a USA Hockey Referee?

If you’re considering becoming a USA Hockey referee, you may be wondering about the potential earnings. The good news is that referees are compensated for their time on the ice. The amount you can earn depends on several factors such as the level of certification and the location of the games.

USA Hockey referee pay rates start at $15 per game for new officials and can increase up to $50 per game for those with higher certifications. In addition, some leagues pay higher rates for playoff games and championship matches.

On average, a USA Hockey referee can earn between $1,000 and $4,000 per season, depending on the number of games worked and the certification level. However, keep in mind that being a referee is not a full-time job and should not be relied on as a primary source of income.

How to Become a USA Hockey Referee

Interested in becoming a USA Hockey referee? It’s a great way to stay involved with the game you love and make some extra cash on the side. The process isn’t too difficult, but it does require some time and effort.

The first step is to register with USA Hockey as an official. This involves filling out an application, paying a registration fee, and completing a background check. You will also need to attend a seminar to learn the rules and regulations of the game.

After completing the seminar, you’ll need to take an online open book exam and pass with a score of 80% or higher. You’ll also need to complete a certain number of supervised games before you can work on your own.

Once you’ve completed these requirements, you’ll be able to work games as a USA Hockey referee. Keep in mind that you’ll need to continue your education and attend annual seminars to maintain your certification.

Steps to Becoming a USA Hockey Referee

1. Educational Requirements: In order to become a USA Hockey referee, you must complete the USA Hockey Online Seminar, which includes video modules and quizzes.
2. Certification Requirements: Once you have completed the Online Seminar, you must pass an open book exam to become certified. You will also need to attend an in-person seminar to complete your certification process.
3. Age Requirements: To become a Level 1 referee, you must be at least 14 years old. To become a Level 2 or higher referee, you must be at least 16 years old.
4. Experience Requirements: USA Hockey requires that you have at least two years of experience playing ice hockey before becoming a referee.
5. Continuing Education: As a USA Hockey referee, you must complete continuing education requirements annually to maintain your certification status. This includes completing online modules and attending in-person seminars.

Keep in mind that the requirements to become a USA Hockey referee may vary depending on your location and the level of hockey you wish to officiate. It is best to check with your local USA Hockey affiliate for specific information and requirements.

Requirements for Becoming a USA Hockey Referee

Before you can become a USA Hockey referee, you must meet certain requirements. The requirements vary depending on the level of certification you are seeking. Here are some of the general requirements:

1. Age: You must be at least 13 years old to become a USA Hockey referee.
2. Registration: You must register with USA Hockey as an official and complete the background screening process.
3. Education: You must attend a USA Hockey referee seminar and pass an open-book test with a score of 80% or higher.
4. Equipment: You must have the necessary equipment, including skates, a helmet, a whistle, and a referee jersey.
5. Experience: You must gain experience by officiating games at lower levels before you can advance to higher levels.

Once you meet these requirements, you can begin your journey as a USA Hockey referee. Keep in mind that the requirements may differ based on your state or region, so be sure to check with your local USA Hockey affiliate for specific details.

USA Hockey Referee Certification Levels and Pay Rates

If you’re considering becoming a USA Hockey referee, it’s important to understand the different certification levels and pay rates. USA Hockey has five certification levels, with each level requiring a higher level of experience and training.

The pay rates for USA Hockey referees vary depending on the certification level, game level, and location. Typically, higher certification levels and game levels result in higher pay rates. In some areas, referees may earn more for games played at higher levels of competition, such as college or professional leagues.

The certification levels for USA Hockey referees are Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, Level 4, and Level 5. Each level requires referees to complete specific training modules and attend seminars to improve their knowledge of the rules and game mechanics.

Level 1 certification is the starting point for most referees. It covers the basics of officiating and is required for anyone who wants to referee youth hockey games. As referees progress through the certification levels, they learn more advanced techniques and strategies for officiating.

Once a referee is certified at a specific level, they are eligible to officiate games at that level and lower levels. For example, a referee who is certified at Level 3 can officiate games at Levels 3, 2, and However, a referee who is certified at Level 1 cannot officiate games at Level 3 or higher.

Referees who are certified at higher levels are often assigned to more competitive games and tournaments. This can result in more game opportunities and higher pay rates. However, referees at all certification levels are essential to the sport and play an important role in ensuring fair and safe play on the ice.

What Are the Different USA Hockey Referee Certification Levels?

USA Hockey offers several referee certification levels, each with different requirements and responsibilities. These include:

• Level 1: For new referees. Requires attending a seminar, completing an online module, and passing an open-book exam.
• Level 2: For referees with some experience. Requires attending a seminar, completing an online module, and passing a closed-book exam.
• Level 3: For experienced referees. Requires attending a seminar, completing an online module, passing a closed-book exam, and passing a skating and positioning evaluation.
• Level 4: For high-level referees. Requires attending a seminar, completing an online module, passing a closed-book exam, passing a skating and positioning evaluation, and being recommended by a supervisor.
• Level 5: For elite-level referees. Requires attending a seminar, completing an online module, passing a closed-book exam, passing a skating and positioning evaluation, being recommended by a supervisor, and being selected by USA Hockey.

Each level of certification allows referees to officiate games at different levels of competition, and comes with different pay rates.

Understanding the different certification levels and their requirements can help referees progress in their careers and earn higher salaries.

Perks of Being a USA Hockey Referee

Stay involved in the game: As a USA Hockey referee, you get to stay involved in the game you love, even if you aren’t playing anymore. You’ll be right there on the ice, helping to ensure fair play and safety for all involved.

Make extra money: Refereeing hockey can be a great way to make some extra cash. While it may not make you rich, it can be a nice way to supplement your income while doing something you enjoy.

Stay in shape: Refereeing hockey requires physical activity, so it can help you stay in shape. You’ll be skating up and down the ice, keeping up with the action, and making quick decisions – all of which can be great for your health.

Develop leadership skills: Refereeing hockey can help you develop leadership skills, as you’ll need to make quick decisions, manage players, and communicate effectively with coaches and other officials.

Give back to the game: Refereeing hockey is a way to give back to the game that has given you so much. You’ll be helping to ensure fair play and safety for all involved, and you’ll be helping to develop the next generation of hockey players.

Overall, becoming a USA Hockey referee can be a great way to stay involved in the game you love, make some extra money, stay in shape, develop leadership skills, and give back to the hockey community. So why not consider becoming a referee today?

Benefits of Being a USA Hockey Referee

If you love hockey and want to earn some extra money, becoming a USA Hockey referee could be an excellent option. Besides earning money, there are numerous other benefits to being a USA Hockey referee.

• Flexible schedule: Being a referee allows you to work on your own time and choose games that fit your schedule.
• Travel opportunities: Refereeing can provide opportunities to travel to new cities, towns, and even countries to officiate games.
• Improved fitness: Refereeing requires a significant amount of physical activity, which can help you stay in shape.
• Personal and professional development: As a referee, you’ll develop your communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills, which can be valuable in all aspects of life.
• Community involvement: By becoming a USA Hockey referee, you’ll become part of a community of referees who share your passion for the game.

Overall, being a USA Hockey referee is an excellent opportunity for hockey lovers to make some money, travel, stay fit, develop skills, and become part of a community.

Other Rewards for USA Hockey Referees

• Opportunities to travel to different locations to referee different games.
• Access to training and education programs to enhance their knowledge and skills.
• Being part of a community that shares the same passion for the game of hockey.
• The satisfaction of contributing to the growth and development of hockey in their local area.
• The chance to work with and learn from experienced referees and officials.

Aside from the financial compensation and the pride of being a USA Hockey referee, there are several other rewards that come with the job. Referees get to travel to different locations to referee games and tournaments. This provides them with the opportunity to meet new people and explore new places. Additionally, USA Hockey provides its referees with access to training and education programs that can help them enhance their knowledge and skills. These programs cover various topics such as rules, game management, and communication skills, and are designed to ensure that referees are always up-to-date with the latest developments in the game.

Becoming a USA Hockey referee also means being part of a community that shares the same passion for the game of hockey. Referees get to interact with other officials and players, and they get to be part of the game in a meaningful way. They also get the satisfaction of contributing to the growth and development of hockey in their local area. Refereeing games and tournaments helps to promote the game and inspire future generations of players and officials.

Working as a USA Hockey referee also means having the chance to work with and learn from experienced referees and officials. This is a great opportunity for new referees to develop their skills and gain valuable insights from those who have been in the game for a long time. Refereeing is a challenging and rewarding job that provides a unique perspective on the game of hockey.

How to Increase Your Pay as a USA Hockey Referee

If you’re a USA Hockey referee looking to increase your pay, there are several things you can do to make it happen. Here are some tips:

Get Certified: Becoming certified as a USA Hockey referee can increase your chances of getting more games and higher pay. Attend the certification clinics offered by USA Hockey to become certified and improve your skills.

Referee Higher Level Games: Refereeing higher level games means higher pay. Work your way up to higher levels of competition and get more experience to improve your chances of being assigned to those games.

Attend Seminars and Workshops: Attending seminars and workshops can help you improve your skills as a referee and make you a more valuable asset to USA Hockey. These events also provide an opportunity to network with other referees and officials.

Be Professional: Being professional on and off the ice can help you gain the respect of coaches, players, and other officials. This can lead to more games and higher pay.

Be Willing to Travel: Being willing to travel to different locations can increase your chances of getting more games and higher pay. Let your assignor know that you’re willing to travel to work games and tournaments.

Increasing your pay as a USA Hockey referee requires dedication and hard work. By becoming certified, refereeing higher level games, attending seminars and workshops, being professional, and being willing to travel, you can improve your chances of getting more games and higher pay. Remember, the more experience and skills you have, the more valuable you become to USA Hockey.

Tips for Increasing Your Salary as a USA Hockey Referee

Are you a USA Hockey referee looking to boost your income? Here are some tips to help you earn more money:

Take advantage of higher-paying opportunities. There are certain types of games that pay more than others, such as playoff games or higher-level tournaments. Make sure you are aware of these opportunities and take advantage of them when you can.

Expand your skill set. The more skills you have, the more valuable you are as a referee. Consider taking additional courses or training to improve your skills, such as skating or officiating clinics. This can help you qualify for higher-level games that pay more.

Build your reputation. Referees who are respected and have a good reputation are more likely to be selected for higher-paying games. Make sure you are always professional and approachable on the ice, and strive to be a fair and unbiased referee.

Network with other referees and officials. Building relationships with other referees and officials can lead to more opportunities for higher-paying games. Attend local meetings and training sessions to connect with other officials in your area.

Be flexible with your schedule. Referees who are willing to work on short notice or travel to different locations may have more opportunities to earn extra money. Be open to taking on extra games or working during times when other referees may not be available.

Frequently Asked Questions