Online Blackjack Rules – Rules for Online Blackjack

The basics of online blackjack and an overview of blackjack rules, including some blackjack tips.

The basics

The idea behind blackjack is that you have to get a hand value that is closer to twenty-one than that of your dealer, without getting more than 21 and going ‘bust'.  You should not worry about the other players, as they do not affect your game. You are strictly playing and comparing your hand against the hand of the dealer.

The dealer is not allowed to make any decisions and strictly follows the predetermined rules of play. For this reason it is OK for the dealer and or other players to see your current cards. Player cards are even dealt face up during shoe games. At first, when you are learning to play, do show the dealer and or other players your cards, and ask as many questions as you need to.

The first thing you need to know about blackjack, is what the cards are worth.  An Ace counts as either one or eleven.  Cards 2 through 9 are valued as indicated. The ten, Jack, Queen, and King each count 10.

When you have a hand that contains an Ace, it will be called "soft," as the Ace can count as either one or eleven. For example, when you have a six and an Ace, it will be a soft 17. This is because you can now draw another card without worrying of going "bust" by getting more than 21. When you draw a ten and have (Ace,6,10) your hand is a "hard" 17, since the Ace can now only be a one, as counting it as eleven would make you bust.

Once the bets are placed, cards will be dealt to the players. He'll make 2 passes around the table starting at his left side, ensuring that both the players and himself have 2 cards each. The dealer will then turn 1 of his cards over, displaying its value.  

Shoe games

You can expect all players' cards to be dealt face-up in blackjack shoe games, and be aware that players aren't allowed to touch the cards. It's a good idea for beginners to start playing at the shoe game or online blackjack shoe game, as you can observe other players' moves and don't have to worry about handling the cards.  Another great way to learn is to play free online blackjack at the online casino of your choice.

Tips for hand-held games

In the hand-held games, your cards will be dealt face down, and the players pick up the cards.  Remember that players are only allowed to touch the cards with one hand.  You will have to practice this blackjack move if you are a poker player, used to handling cards with both hands!  Furthermore, keep in mind to hold the cards over the table.

Any further cards that the dealer deals to your hand must stay on the table, not added to the cards in your hand. Once everyone has their cards, play starts at the 1st seat to the dealer's left, also called 1st base. Each player will tell the dealer how he or she wishes to play their blackjack hand. After all the hands have been finished, the dealer will play his hand, and then collect or pay the player bets.