How Many Periods in Ice Hockey? Full Breakdown

By Emma Wilson · January 31, 2026

Ice hockey games consist of three periods, each lasting 20 minutes of regulation playing time, totaling 60 minutes. Between each period, there is an intermission, typically 15 to 18 minutes long, allowing players to rest and regroup.

Understanding the Structure of Ice Hockey Periods

The game of ice hockey is divided into three distinct segments known as periods. Each period lasts for 20 minutes of actual playtime, during which the clock stops frequently due to penalties, goals, or out-of-bounds pucks. This structure helps maintain player performance and game intensity throughout the match.

Why Three Periods?

Historically, games were played in two 30-minute halves, but ice conditions deteriorated quickly.
Switching to three 20-minute periods allowed for better ice maintenance during intermissions.
Improved player recovery and strategic adjustments between periods enhance competitive balance.

Duration and Timing Rules

While each period is scheduled for 20 minutes, the actual duration can extend significantly due to stoppages. Here’s how timing works:

The game clock stops when the puck is not in active play.
Penalties, injuries, video reviews, and commercial breaks (in professional leagues) pause the clock.
Overtime periods may be added in playoff or tied games, varying by league rules.

Intermissions Between Periods

Intermissions provide crucial downtime for players, coaches, and arena staff:

First intermission: After the first period, usually 17 minutes in NHL games.
Second intermission: After the second period, also around 17 minutes.
Longer intermissions occur before overtime or during finals for entertainment purposes.

Game Duration Across Different Leagues

While most leagues follow the three-period format, exact timing and intermission lengths vary slightly. The table below outlines key differences.

League	Period Length (min)	Number of Periods	Intermission Length (min)	Overtime Format
NHL	20	3	17	5-min 3v3 (regular season), 20-min 5v5 (playoffs)
IIHF (International)	20	3	15	10-min 3v3, then shootout
College (NCAA Men's)	20	3	15–18	20-min sudden death
High School (USA)	15–17	3	10–15	Varies by state
KHL	20	3	18	5-min 3v3, then shootout

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows that while the core structure of three 20-minute periods is consistent across elite levels, variations exist in intermission length and overtime rules. Professional leagues like the NHL and KHL have longer breaks, likely due to broadcasting requirements and player recovery needs. High school games feature shorter periods, reflecting developmental pacing and scheduling constraints.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ice Hockey Periods

How many periods are in a standard ice hockey game?

A standard ice hockey game has three periods, each lasting 20 minutes of regulation time.

How long is each period in ice hockey?

Each period in professional and international ice hockey is 20 minutes long, though high school games may use shorter 15- to 17-minute periods.

Why does ice hockey have three periods instead of two halves?

Ice hockey uses three periods to allow for ice resurfacing and player recovery. Historically, two 30-minute halves caused poor ice conditions; switching to three 20-minute periods with intermissions improved gameplay quality.

What happens during intermissions in a hockey game?

During intermissions, players rest and receive coaching feedback, while ice crews resurface the rink using Zambonis. In televised games, broadcasters show analysis and commercials.

Do all hockey leagues have the same number of periods?

Yes, virtually all organized hockey leagues—including the NHL, IIHF, NCAA, and KHL—use three periods. However, period length and intermission duration may vary slightly depending on the level of play.