Can I pause the chess clock to call the arbiter?

Yes. Pausing the clock is the correct first step when you have a claim or a dispute, so neither player loses time while the arbiter comes over.

What happens after an illegal move in a classical chess game?

Under FIDE rules the position before the illegal move is restored and the opponent receives extra time. A second illegal move by the same player loses the game, unless the opponent could not possibly checkmate, in which case it is a draw.

Should I tell the arbiter if I made an illegal move myself?

Yes. Reporting your own illegal move is honest and correct, and arbiters generally treat it well.

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Tournament play · 2 min read

When to call the arbiter, and how

The arbiter's job is to keep the game correct. Calling them early is almost always better than arguing at the board.

The method is the same every time: pause the clock, raise your hand, wait, and state the facts. Leave the pieces where they are.

When to call

Either player has made an illegal move, such as castling illegally or leaving a king in check.
Pieces have been knocked over or you disagree about the position.
The clock is wrong: wrong time or increment, not switching, or a flag has fallen.
A phone rings, a device is used, or you suspect outside help.
You want to claim a draw by threefold repetition or the 50-move rule.
Your opponent keeps distracting you after you have asked them to stop.
You feel unwell, or something happens the rules do not obviously cover.

How to call

Pause the clock so neither player loses time.
Raise your hand and wait. Do not shout across the hall.
State facts, not accusations: "my opponent castled with a rook that had already moved".
Have your scoresheet ready. Most disputes are settled from it.
Accept the decision at the board. Ask about appeals afterwards.

Claims that need your scoresheet

Threefold repetition and the 50-move rule are claims you have to make, and the arbiter checks them against the scoresheet. Gaps in your notation can cost you a draw you were entitled to.

Illegal moves

In standard games under FIDE rules, the position is restored and the opponent gets extra time for a first illegal move. A second illegal move by the same player loses the game, unless the opponent could not possibly checkmate, in which case it is a draw.
Rapid and blitz games have their own rules, so check the event's regulations.
Do not ignore an illegal move to be polite, or fix it yourself. Call the arbiter.

When not to call

A move you regret.
Ordinary noise in the hall, unless it is repeated and disturbing.
Questions about the position. Arbiters do not give chess advice.

Key takeaways

Pause the clock, raise your hand, state the facts, leave the pieces alone.
Illegal moves, clock faults, devices and draw claims all need an arbiter.
Repetition and 50-move claims depend on a complete scoresheet.
Accept the ruling at the board. Appeal afterwards if you must.

Frequently asked questions

Can I pause the chess clock to call the arbiter?: Yes. Pausing the clock is the correct first step when you have a claim or a dispute, so neither player loses time while the arbiter comes over.
What happens after an illegal move in a classical chess game?: Under FIDE rules the position before the illegal move is restored and the opponent receives extra time. A second illegal move by the same player loses the game, unless the opponent could not possibly checkmate, in which case it is a draw.
Should I tell the arbiter if I made an illegal move myself?: Yes. Reporting your own illegal move is honest and correct, and arbiters generally treat it well.