Time-outs and interruption requests
FIVB · 2025–2028When a team can pause play and how requests are handled.
Rule 15 — Requests between rallies
Each team may request 2 time-outs and 6 substitutions per set. A time-out normally lasts 30 seconds; an organizer may obtain FIVB approval for a different duration in FIVB, World and Official Competitions. Request it while the ball is out of play and before the service whistle, using the official hand signal. In those competitions, the buzzer must precede the signal. Players on court go to the free zone near their bench. The coach requests regular interruptions; if absent, the assistant coach or game captain may do so.
Rule 15 — Order and improper requests
Time-outs and a substitution request by either team may follow one another during the same interruption. The same team needs a completed rally between separate substitution requests, except a forced change for injury, illness, expulsion or disqualification. Multiple substitutes must enter the substitution zone together for one request. A request during a rally, after the service whistle, by an unauthorized person or beyond the allowance is improper. The first improper request that neither affects nor delays play is rejected and recorded without further consequence; repetition is a delay. After a rejected request earns a delay warning, no further regular interruption may be requested before the next completed rally.
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