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Rules of Craps

Like any game, craps has a set of rules that must be followed. Some rules have to do with etiquette, while others are stringent rules that must be followed or you can possibly lose a turn or not be allowed to play. If you are playing online craps, be sure to read any rules or FAQ before play. Here is a list of rules-

  1. Always push over for a new player- This is one of those etiquette rules. Though the game is loud and exciting, always be courteous and aware of players or new, potential players around you.
  2. Never hand your money to the dealer for chips- This is a standard rule at all casinos. You must lay your money down on the table. Since there are two dealers, the one in charge of your side of the table will see the money you have just put down and will change it. If you want small denominations, all you have to do is ask. They will change it however you want, as long as the denomination you ask for is not lower than the minimum bet on the table. For example, if the minimum bet is 20 dollars, do not ask for five or ten dollar chips.
  3. Make sure that the dice hit the wall- If you are the shooter (person rolling the dice), you MUST make sure that the dice bounce off the wall. Now, if they end up just a little short and it is obvious you are new, then the boxman (table manager) may let is pass once or twice. But even if you are new, you are expected to pick up on this rule and toss accordingly.
  4. Don’t toss at the chips- You WILL be called out on this by fellow players. You must toss the dice in such a way that you do not disturb the chip bets on the table AND hit the wall. As hard as this sounds, it should only take a toss or two to really get the hang of this. The table is so full of bets and chips that knocking them over could confuse things and delay play. And let’s face it, due to the fast pace of the game, craps players are not likely to have a lot of patience for delays.
  5. No kissing, blowing on, or cupping of the dice- Even though you see this in movies and television shows all the time, it is actually considered a no-no to do any of these "lucky" superstitions at an actual casino. And of course, it is downright impossible to do so with online dice (though there are some online players who have an actual set of dice they kiss before clicking on the online dice toss. Talk about superstition!).
  6. Do not ask for the dealer to change your chips back to cash- The game of craps is too involved and too fast-paced for the dealer to be the cashier. Though they will change your money to chips so that you can play, once you are done playing, you should take your chips to the cashier to be changed back to dollars.
  7. Read the house rules! - Every casino will have house rules, most of which are the same as what you have just read. However, there are a few that may alter or add to these rules. What the house says goes! So make sure you read these rules (if any) and adhere to them like you would any other rules in any other establishment.

  8. This is a list of basic rules. The rules betting can be found in the "How to Play" and "Strategies" sections. Here you will find details of how and when to bet at the craps tables.