How to Play Blackjack
A round of blackjack follows a simple sequence: place a bet, receive your cards, choose your actions, and compare your total to the dealer. Here is what happens at each stage.
Placing a Bet
Before any cards are dealt, you place a bet within the table minimum and maximum limits.
The size of your bet determines potential winnings and losses for that round.
Receiving Cards
You and the dealer each receive two cards. Your cards are usually face up, while the dealer shows one card and keeps one face down.
If your two cards total 21 immediately — an ace and a 10-value card — you have a blackjack.
Choosing Your Action
Hit: take another card to increase your total.
Stand: keep your current total and end your turn.
Double: double your bet, take exactly one more card, and stand.
Split: if you have two cards of the same value, split them into two separate hands.
Surrender: give up the hand early and lose only half the bet, if the table allows it.
Comparing Totals
Once you stand or bust, the dealer reveals their hidden card and draws until reaching 17 or higher.
If your total is higher than the dealer's without going over 21, you win.
Ready to apply what you learned?
Play Blackjack