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What Is a Delayed Penalty in Ice Hockey?

What is a delayed penalty, how does it work, and when does the whistle finally stop play?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 23, 2026

Short Answer

A delayed penalty occurs when a team commits an infraction, but play continues until the offending team gains possession of the puck.

Full Explanation

When a referee signals a penalty against one team, the official raises an arm to indicate a delayed penalty. Instead of stopping play immediately, the game continues if the non-offending team has possession of the puck.

Play is stopped only when the penalized team gains control of the puck. At that moment, the whistle blows and the penalty is enforced.

During a delayed penalty, the attacking team often pulls its goaltender for an extra skater because the opposing team cannot legally score unless they gain possession.

If the non-offending team scores during the delayed penalty situation, the minor penalty is usually wiped out.

Why Delayed Penalties Exist

This rule prevents a team from benefiting from its own infraction and allows the attacking team to maintain advantage and scoring opportunity.

Key Takeaways

• The referee signals a delayed penalty with a raised arm.
• Play continues until the offending team gains possession.
• The attacking team may pull the goalie for an extra skater.
• A goal can cancel a minor penalty during the delay.