Blackjack Etiquette

Proper blackjack etiquette isn't always written on paper or posted on the wall but it's important nonetheless. Not only does it keep the dealers happy but it keeps your fellow blackjack players happy as well. Proper blackjack etiquette makes it a pleasant experience for everyone and keeps the game moving at a nice rate.

Ask if you can join a game in progress

This rule isn't strictly enforced but it shows extra courtesy to ask if you can join a game that's in progress. Sometimes players will ask you to wait a hand or two if they are in the middle of a good run. It's just superstition of course, but courtesy is the name of the game here.

If possible, exchange your cash for chips before sitting in

Most blackjack tables have cash boxes but it just makes it a little easier if you get that taken care of before joining the table. For the times you do cash in at the table, wait until the current hand is completed before requesting chips. When you're all finished up, you will have to trade your chips for cash back at the casino cage. Blackjack tables don't hand out cash.

Tip the dealer

Dealers work hard for your tips so don't neglect this rule. Even if you're losing you should tip from time to time because the dealer doesn't control your luck. All he's doing is making your time at the table as pleasant as possible. If you're winning, be willing to tip a little extra. It's all in good fun.

Don't ask the dealer for advice

Dealers don't like to be asked for advice because it's distracting. On top of that players already blame dealers enough for their bad luck without asking them for advice. Dealers are more than happy to answer any questions you may have, but don't ask them to play your hand for you.

Don't touch face up cards

Some casinos deal the entire blackjack game face up. This is done specifically so the players don't have to touch their cards. These games are dealt face up for casino security reasons so be extra mindful of this rule.

Keep cards you touch in plain sight at all times

This is another important etiquette rule. In games where you are allowed to handle your own cards, keep the handling to a minimum and make sure they always stay above the table and in plain sight.

Don't order food and drinks when it's your turn to act

It's rude to make the whole table wait for you to order a drink or snack. Wait until your turn is over before ordering anything.

Pay attention at the table

It's important to pay attention at the table so that you'll be ready to act when it's your turn. You don't want to make the table wait for you to figure out what's going on. It's also good to pay attention so you don't have any misunderstandings or conflicts that delay the game even further.

Don't touch the chips after you've made your bet

Casinos hate it when you touch your chips if they've already been bet. Con men have been trying to use sleight-of-hand tricks for years to add chips to their bets after receiving winning hands. This is an important rule to keep in mind at any table game.

Don't yell at the players for hitting at "bad times"

Contrary to popular belief, new players making "bad hits" have no effect on the outcome of the hand. All too often some wannabe hotshot gambler will berate a player for hitting and "making him lose." There's no math to back up this belief so leave the other players alone. If you don't like the way someone is playing, it's your responsibility to find a new table.

If you would like more information about the popular game of blackjack, then take a look at our main blackjack page or our blackjack strategy page.