Rules of Blackjack

Blackjack is a classic card game that many people enjoy playing. Most commonly, the game is dealt from a six to eight-deck shoe. Single and double-deck games are also available, although the most popular online casinos do not offer them.

The object of the game is the same in all variations, which is to beat the dealer.

If you’re wondering what are the rules of blackjack? Then you’ve come to the right place. This guide will help you understand the rules of blackjack and succeed as a beginner blackjack player. Without further ado, let’s get started.

Trusted US Casinos With Online Blackjack

Select your state
Michigan
New Jersey
Pennsylvania
West Virginia
All States
100% Deposit Match up to $1000 + $25 on the House
Promocode PA: CFMPA
Code MI / WV: CFMMI / CFMWV
Code NJ: CFMNJ
Payment options

Get a 100% deposit match up to $2,500 sign-up bonus +$2,500 Reward Credits®
Promo Code: CFM2500
Best options for live dealer games
Caesars rewards program
Payment options

LICENSED & VERIFIED | REVIEWED BY CASINO EXPERTS | 21+ |T&C APPLIES | PLAY RESPONSIBLY

Play $5, Get $100 back in Casino Credits Instantly
Top Live Casino Games
Multiple Statewide Platforms
300 available slots
Payment options

LICENSED & VERIFIED | REVIEWED BY CASINO EXPERTS | 21+ |T&C APPLIES | PLAY RESPONSIBLY

100% up to $500 + 500 Bonus Spins
New casino in New Jersey
Unique loyalty rewards program
100% up to $500 Welcome Bonus + 500 BONUS SPINS
Payment options

LICENSED & VERIFIED | REVIEWED BY CASINO EXPERTS | 21+ | T&Cs APPLY | PLAY RESPONSIBLY

100% up to $1,000 + an extra $20 as bonus on the house!
Promo code PA: CFMBORGATAPA
Promo code NJ: CFMBORGATANJ
Variety of Jackpot Slots
Payment options

LICENSED & VERIFIED | REVIEWED BY CASINO EXPERTS | 21+ |T&C APPLIES | PLAY RESPONSIBLY

Get 200 Bonus Spins & Get Up to $1000 Back
Trusted online gambling provider
Lucrative welcome promotion for new players
Live dealer games available
Payment options

LICENSED & VERIFIED | REVIEWED BY CASINO EXPERTS | 21+ |T&Cs APPLY | PLAY RESPONSIBLY

$10 No Deposit + $300 Matched
Great no deposit offer
Popular & reputable provider
Safe & secure online provider
Payment options

LICENSED & VERIFIED | REVIEWED BY CASINO EXPERTS | 21+ |T&C APPLIES | PLAY RESPONSIBLY

Up to $100 real cash back
Promo code: CFMVIRGIN
Daily free slots available
Unique ongoing promotions
Payment options

LICENSED & VERIFIED | REVIEWED BY CASINO EXPERTS | 21+ |T&C APPLIES | PLAY RESPONSIBLY

100% Deposit match up to $500 + 100 Bonus Spins
Bonus Code: CFMPARTY
Great live dealer options
Slot races with prizes
Payment options

LICENSED & VERIFIED | REVIEWED BY CASINO EXPERTS | 21+ |T&Cs APPLY | PLAY RESPONSIBLY

100% Deposit Match up to $500 in Bonus Money on first deposit - CASINO500
Live Dealer Games
Great Loyalty Program
Helpful Support Chat
Payment options

LICENSED & VERIFIED | REVIEWED BY CASINO EXPERTS | 21+ |T&C APPLIES | PLAY RESPONSIBLY

A 3-part welcome offer with up to $1,500 + 50 FS for grabs!
A collection of popular online slots
A lucrative welcome bonus
Licensed and registered in New Jersey
Payment options

LICENSED & VERIFIED | REVIEWED BY CASINO EXPERTS | 21+ | T&Cs APPLY | PLAY RESPONSIBLY

Blackjack Dealer Rules

Once all players at the table have placed their bets, the rules of how to deal blackjack cards have the dealer give each player one card face-up, rotating clockwise while dealing one card face-up to themselves. Each player will then receive another card face-up, with the dealer taking its second card face down.

Blackjack dealer rules state that they must stand if their cards total 17 or higher and must take a hit if their cards total 16 or lower. The dealer must also stand if they have a “soft” 17, such as when the dealer has A-6.

In this case, the ace must be counted as 11. Casino blackjack rules make the dealer’s decisions automatic on every hand, while the player has many different options of how they can play their cards.  

Blackjack Basic Rules

In blackjack, players bet against the dealer, with the object being to get as close to 21 as possible without going over while also beating the dealer’s hand. All cards from 2-10 are worth face value, while face cards are also worth ten, and aces are worth one or eleven, which the player determines.

If the player’s hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, the player wins an amount equal to their bet. For example, if the player is dealt 21 with the first two cards, it is considered a “blackjack,” The player wins this hand at a ratio of 3:2, as long as the dealer doesn’t also have 21. In this case, the hand would be a “push,” and neither side wins.

The bet is lost if the dealer’s hand is closer to 21 than the player’s. Players that go over 21 after taking a hit will “bust,” and the bet is automatically a loser, no matter the result of the dealer’s hand.

Blackjack Split and Double Down

Blackjack split rules say that players may decide to “split” the first two cards dealt to them if they are of the same value. This makes two individual hands, with each bet equal to the player’s original bet. Then, the dealer will deal two cards to complete the hands, with the player having the same options to either hit or stand. 

Doubling down is usually done if the player holds two cards totaling ten or 11, and they’re confident they can win the hand while doubling their initial bet. The blackjack rules chart says the player will be dealt one card and must stand, regardless of the card’s value. 

Blackjack is one of the most popular games at casinos. It is easy to learn and has a low house edge. If you’re wondering how to play blackjack, we recommend reading our dedicated guide.

Using the information helps you make the best decisions at the blackjack table and increase your chances of winning. Once you’ve had some practice on your own, you can play blackjack online, or even against a real dealer on live blackjack.

FAQ

📝 Can other players affect my winning in the long term by playing blackjack?
+
📝 Is card counting illegal?
+
📝 What's the worst play in blackjack?
+
📝 Should you ever buy insurance?
+

Latest Industry News

US online casino news

Browse News