Casino Etiquette for First-Time Visitors

A first visit to a land-based casino can feel like walking into a room where everyone else knows the rules. In truth, most of the etiquette is common sense, and dealers are used to helping newcomers. A little preparation makes the evening far more relaxed.

Before you go

• Bring valid photo ID. Age checks are standard, and some venues ask everyone.
• Check the dress code; some casinos expect smart casual, especially in the evening.
• Decide your budget at home and bring it in cash or set it on a card limit.

Buying in at a table

Wait for a break between hands or spins, then place your cash on the table rather than handing it to the dealer. The dealer will exchange it for chips. Ask about the minimum and maximum bets if they are not displayed; it is a normal question.

Table manners

Follow the dealer's pace

Place bets when betting is open and stop when the dealer signals. Touching chips after a call of "no more bets" is a classic beginner mistake.

Use hand signals

In games such as blackjack, gestures confirm decisions for the cameras. A tap on the table to take a card, a wave over it to stand. The dealer will show you if you ask.

Keep the cards on the table

Where players handle cards at all, they stay in view. Never take them below the edge of the table.

Be a good neighbour

Avoid giving unrequested advice, and do not blame others for your losses. Good humour goes a long way.

Phones and photos

Using your phone at a live table is usually discouraged, and photography on the gaming floor is often restricted. Step away from the table to take calls, and ask before taking pictures anywhere inside.

Tipping

Customs vary by country. In some places tipping dealers is expected; in others it is rare or not allowed. Watch what others do, or simply ask.

Leaving gracefully

You can leave a table at any point between rounds. Ask the dealer to "colour up" your chips into fewer, larger denominations, then cash them at the cage. Sticking to your plan and walking away while you are still enjoying yourself is, quietly, the best etiquette of all.