Table Game Etiquette Every Player Should Know

Whether you’re a new gambler or an experienced one who's payed thier dues grinding away at online casinos, there’s a burst of energy when you walk into a brick-and-mortar casino. This is what attracts so many people.

The bright lights and loud sounds of the slot machines, along with the buzz from table game players, create the backdrop for an electrifying night out.

That excitement can fade once you sit down at a table game. It can feel intimidating being shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers who are risking real money.

Many assume everyone at the table is experienced and knows exactly what they’re doing. That’s not always the case, but the assumption can still be nerve-racking - especially for new players.

On top of that, nobody wants to look like they don’t know what they’re doing. Gambling can be stressful for both new and seasoned players.

Every table game has its own etiquette and quirks that players should know. While this won’t guarantee a winning session, it will give you the confidence to enjoy the experience.

📘 Preparation is key

Knowing the unwritten rules of table game etiquette can go a long way in easing any concerns. Preparation is one of the best ways to feel comfortable before you sit down.

A little knowledge heading into the casino can go a long way.

Choose the games you’re most interested in before visiting a casino. Blackjack, craps, and roulette each have their own rules and playing styles.

Do a little preparation before heading to the casino. Knowing the basics will help your gameplay and show respect to the dealer and other players.

Sitting down with confidence will make the entire experience smoother for everyone. Knowing the unwritten rules of table game etiquette can ease a lot of concerns.

🍒 Choose the right game and buy in

Before taking a seat, find the right table. Many casinos offer multiple versions of the same game with different minimums and rules.

Each table has a placard showing the minimum bet. Choose one that fits your budget. At craps, the minimum is posted on the wall below the dealers.

Check the felt for specific rules and payouts. Roulette players should look for layouts with fewer zeros. Blackjack players should check the payout for a natural blackjack.

Don’t try to buy in while a hand is being played. At craps, avoid buying in mid-roll. In blackjack, players often prefer to wait until the end of a shoe.

Never hand money directly to the dealer. Set your bills on the table outside the betting circle, and the dealer will exchange them for chips.

Once a game starts, don’t touch the chips. Dealers usually offer a polite warning, but will be firmer if it continues.

Dealers often ask players to color up before leaving. They’ll exchange smaller chips for larger ones, making it easier to cash out and keeping low-denomination chips in play.

This also makes it easier for the casino to track how a player performed at the table. In turn, players will receive appropriate marketing offers, like comp hotel rooms or free play.

🖐 Watch your hands

Card handling rules vary. The constant is that players shouldn’t pull cards toward their face or off the table. You may raise the cards to look at them, but they must remain above the felt.

In blackjack, you can’t touch cards dealt from a shoe or continuous shuffle machines. You can touch them in pitch games, which usually involve single or double decks.

Don’t touch cards while they’re being dealt. The dealer will let you know when it’s time to look. Handle them with one hand only.

Some games require hand signals so surveillance can verify your decisions. In blackjack, tap to hit, wave to stand, point to double, and split two fingers to split a pair.

Dealers will explain signals, but they’ll get frustrated if the same mistakes keep happening.

📲 Mind your phone

Players can’t use their phones at the table for any reason. The dealer will stop the game if someone checks a text or takes a call. It’s embarrassing and slows things down. 

Step away from the table if you need to look at your phone. Even if the table has a USB charging port, phones must stay below the surface and can’t be used during play.

Paper blackjack strategy cards are allowed, but digital versions on your phone are not.

If you want a picture of a big hand, ask the dealer. Sometimes they or the pit boss will allow it.

For those who are glued to their phones, playing on real money casino apps might be better than playing in person.

🟢 Be considerate of the table

Being considerate of others can go a long way for a great table experience. Everyone has hot streaks and cold streaks. Don’t celebrate too loudly or get upset at other players.

You never know how someone else is feeling. Superstitious players frown upon too much glory during hot streaks and may act negatively if things turn around.

Keep advice to yourself unless asked. Even then, it might be best to pass. You don’t want to be blamed for someone’s loss.

Watch your drinks. Drinking too much will affect your play, and spilled drinks slow down the game. Use a cupholder if one is available and keep beverages off the felt. Use the rail below the cushions at a craps table.

Smokers might want to ask others if they mind. At the very least it’s polite to blow smoke away from the players and dealer. Sometimes it might make sense to step away from the table and skip a couple hands or wait for the dealer to shuffle.

Casinos are full of distractions, but keep your attention on the game. Slow play frustrates everyone at the table.

💸 Tipping is appreciated but not required

Dealers always appreciate tips. You can place the tip directly in front of your chips or bet it for the dealer, which creates camaraderie and can lead to a bigger payout for them. You can always ask the dealer which they prefer.

Tipping isn’t required. It’s a reward for good service and a good time. It’s your money, so use it however you want.

🚶 Know when to walk away

Gambling is supposed to be fun. If you’re not having fun, walk away.

Otherwise, you’ll frustrate yourself and drag down the table’s vibe.

If you’re on a cold streak, take a break or switch tables to reset. The games aren’t going anywhere and sometimes a fresh restart will help.