A standard hockey game consists of three periods, each lasting 20 minutes of play. Between each period, there is an intermission typically lasting around 15 to 18 minutes, allowing players to rest and the ice to be resurfaced

. This three-period format has been the standard in professional hockey, including the NHL, for over a century

. In summary:

• Number of periods: 3
• Length of each period: 20 minutes
• Intermissions between periods: about 15-18 minutes

This structure helps balance the pace of the game, giving players rest and teams time to adjust strategies

. If the game is tied after these three periods, overtime periods may be played depending on the league rules