Whether you’re playing blackjack online or in a live casino, you need to follow the rules of proper blackjack etiquette. It’s easy to make mistakes that can negatively impact your experience and even cause a table to close. While these rules may seem obvious to more experienced players, rookies can still benefit from them.
1. Do not touch your chips once the dealer starts dealing.
When you place your chips in the betting circle, it’s important to not touch them again until the hand is over and you either double down, surrender or take insurance. This is a simple rule that will prevent you from making any errors in your betting and keep the game moving as smoothly as possible.
2. Do not talk to other players at the table.
While many players like to interact with each other during blackjack games and have friendly banter, this should be done in moderation. If you’re talking too much, you may distract other players and cause them to lose their focus. You should also never offer advice to other players unless you’ve been specifically asked for it.
3. Do not give your cash directly to the dealer.
You should never give your cash directly to the dealer at a blackjack table, regardless of how much you win or lose. This is against casino rules and it’s a good way to potentially steal money from the table. Instead, always place your cash on the table and the dealer will distribute it as they count. This is not only safer for you, but it’s also better for the casino’s security.
4. Do not double down on a 7 or less against a dealer showing a 5 or 6.
There are few things more frustrating than sitting down at a blackjack table and having beginner’s luck. You buy in for a small amount of money and start winning big, so you raise your bets. Then, just as you’re about to bust, you get dealt two face cards and your entire bankroll is gone. This is one of the most common and avoidable scenarios in blackjack. Instead, you should only ever double down when the dealer shows a 7, 6 or an Ace.
5. Do not point at the dealers or the table with your hands.
It’s a bad idea to point at the dealer or blackjack table with your hands while playing, as this can distract other players and make them lose their focus. It’s also against casino rules, so this type of behavior could lead to a loss or even being kicked out of the establishment.
6. Do not leave your wallet or purse on the table during play.
Putting your wallet or purse on the blackjack table can be annoying for other players and can disrupt the flow of the game. Leaving them on the table can lead to stolen money and other issues for the casino, so you should always keep your belongings off of the blackjack table during play.