Although the game is fairly easy to learn, there are some very important rules to understand at a blackjack table. These rules will not only keep you out of trouble with your fellow players and the casino itself, they will also allow you to maximize your profits at the blackjack tables.

In Blackjack dealers are restricted as to what they can and can’t do with their hand. Even if your point total is just 13, the dealer must still hit any hand under 17 –which is why blackjack is one of the most strategic casino games you’ll find.

Here is a look at the most common set of guidelines for the dealer in a standard blackjack game:

• The dealer must hit any hand that totals less than 17 –In most cases the dealer will hit on a “soft” 17, which is when the dealer’s cards total 17, but includes an Ace being used as an 11 instead of a 1.
• The dealer cannot split, double-down, surrender, or use any of the other strategies available to the players.
• Winning hands are paid out on a 1-to-1 basis
• A player who is dealt a blackjack –a total of 21 using only their first two cards—will be paid 1.5-to-1 on their initial wager unless otherwise stated
• If the dealer and player tie –have the same point total– the hand is a “push”, and the player neither wins or loses

There are also certain rules and ethical practices that must be observed when playing live blackjack:

• You are not permitted to touch your cards –except when playing Single-Deck blackjack. This rule is put in place to discourage card-markers.
• If players are in the middle of a “Shoe” you should ask if it is ok to join the table. The reason for this is that blackjack players can be very superstitious and when players are on a hot streak they don’t want anything to change.
• When hitting or standing you do not simply speak the words, instead each action has its own hand gesture: If you want to hit you tap the table in some way –typically with your fingertips: If you want to stand you make a sweeping gesture over your cards in a similar fashion to relaying you’re all done eating with your hand.

It’s important to note that each casino and online blackjack site may have slightly different rules in place, and it’s in your best interest to inquire about these rules beforehand. However, almost every reputable casino will have the House Rules printed on the table’s felt.