If you’re new to the game then check out our helpful list of Blackjack rules to ensure that you know exactly what to expect when you sit down at the table, the order of play and what options you have with playing your hand.
The number of decks used in Blackjack can increase the house edge, and anything between one to eight 52 card decks can be used.
Numbered cards 2 to 9 have a value equal to the number on the card. 10 and face cards have a value of 10, and the ace can be either 1 or 11.
Your hand’s value is determined by the overall value of each card. Blackjack (an ace and 10 or face card) is the highest value hand, equaling 21, Blackjack beats any other hand, even hands with a value of 21.
You first place down your bet, bear in mind different tables have different minimum bets. You are dealt two face up cards, the dealer is dealt two – one face up and one face down.
If the dealer’s visible card is an ace, you have the option to take insurance. This is a side bet and allows you to bet no more than half your original bet. If the dealer gets a Blackjack, your insurance pays 2:1.
If the dealer does not have Blackjack, you lose your insurance bet and the round continues as normal.
When play begins you have a number of choices available on how to play your hand. You can stand, meaning you will receive no more cards. Hit and you will receive another card, if this card brings your total over 21 your hand will “bust” and you lose. Double means you can double your original bet, but you will only receive one more card.
Split if you have any two cards of the same value you can split them. They are treated as two separate hands and each receive one more card automatically, you can then hit stand or double on each split hand.
Once every hand has been played, the dealer reveals the face down card. If the value of the dealers hand is 16 or less, then they must draw another card. If the dealer has an ace and cards totaling to 6, this makes a soft 17 (as the ace is equal to both 1 and 11), some casinos allow a dealer to draw another card on a soft 17, which gives them an edge. Other tables do not allow for this, which is of benefit to the player.
If the dealers hand exceeds 21 then they are bust and any players still in the game who did not bust will win.
If the dealer stands, then whoever has the higher value between player and dealer wins.
Winning hands pay 1:1, with Blackjack usually paying 3:2.
Now that you have an idea of Blackjack Rules, it’s time to put them into practice by hitting the tables, but don’t worry, many online casinos offer the option to play for fun rather than with your cash, so you have the opportunity to build up your skills before taking on the dealer.