Blackjack Etiquette

Like any other social activity where there are norms and proper behavior, blackjack also has its own etiquette. We may be doing something, which is considered inappropriate, and be judged as being rude. It is recommended that beginners learn all the required proper behaviors before getting on a table and play blackjack.

Let's take a look at the appropriate etiquette and ritual norms at a blackjack table.

First etiquette we'll discuss is the norm when we stand as spectators to a game. If a player simply just wants to be a spectator, that would be perfectly fine. When a player does this he is indeed expected to watch the game from a reasonable distance.

There is no recommended distance but a spectator ought to be at a distance where he does not interfere with the players on the table. Proper etiquette dictates that we are not allowed to do things that may distract the players on the blackjack table.

The next etiquette concerns novices. Since a beginner is expected to somehow be inexperienced or less knowledgeable with the rules it is best that he move to a table with no other players on it. It is recommended that when in a gambling hall players ought to learn the rules on their own.

The reason behind all this fuss is that it is unfair to other players that the game lags behind just because one player can't get a good grasp of the rules. Proper etiquette therefore holds that before a player sits down on a blackjack table he must have a good working knowledge of at least the basics of the game.

It is all right to tip the dealer, no problem about that. This is well and good when a player is winning. A player may tip the dealer by placing an additional bet outside the betting circle in the dealer's direction. Betting on his behalf is like being cordial to the dealer in some respects.

Now let's take a look at the etiquette when we are in a game at the table. One big taboo for any player is touching the cards that are dealt face up. Players are only allowed to touch the cards when they are dealt face down (i.e. a face down game).

Etiquette holds that players are not to drink while at the table. The only exception is if a player is able to avoid spilling the drink. Tied to this is that a player who drinks while in a game mustn't get drunk. It is also inappropriate for a player to order a drink when it is his turn and makes other players wait.

Proper etiquette on a blackjack table includes avoiding excessive talk. It is extremely inappropriate for a player to tell another player how to play his cards. It is also inappropriate to ask the dealer for gaming advice.

Beginners are supposed to know all the etiquette that was mentioned here. These are rules that are to be observed by all players.