Beginner Craps Etiquette

BetMGM Sep 07, 2026, 1:04 PM
min read
A casino dealer in a white shirt reaching across a teal craps table to place chips on the layout.
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  • Etiquette for craps focuses on bettor actions in each phase of the game.
  • Most recommendations involve behaving respectfully and preserving the pace of craps.
  • Tips for etiquette also work to keep craps fair and transparent.

Craps table etiquette includes unwritten and written rules that minimize interruptions and unpleasant experiences for casino staff and players. These standards cover what players should do to avoid causing delays or detracting from the experience of the game.

Proper etiquette is just as crucial to a positive session with live dealer online casino craps games as it is when you play at a brick-and-mortar casino. 

What Are the Craps Rules Beginners Should Know?

When you’re visiting a casino for the first time to play craps, the first thing to know is that craps table manners cover every moment of your session. The etiquette considerations begin the second you decide that you want to play.

Before you occupy a spot at a table, review the basics of how to play craps. Few things can disrupt a game like a bettor who doesn’t know where to put their chips or how to take their turn as the shooter. 

Why is it Important to Confirm the Table Rules?

One of the more common beginner dice game mistakes is assuming that all the gameplay rules are the same at every table. You can avoid that error by checking the rules of each specific game prior to betting. In the context of craps, you’ll find tables with different betting minimums and restrictions on the types of wagers you can place, so confirm these procedures first.

What is the Proper Way to Join a Craps Table?

One of the best tips for beginner craps players is simply to wait until there’s a break in play, such as when the previous shooter has rolled a seven-out, to join a craps table. There’s a natural break in the action while the dice are passed to a new shooter, so this is also a perfect time to take a spot.

As a rule of thumb, you shouldn’t throw money on the table, increase your bets, or add bets when the shooter has the dice and is ready to throw or if the stickman is pushing the dice to the shooter. This is one of the staunchest unspoken rules of the casino, as other bettors will consider this rude or bad luck.

Why Should You Watch Your Hands During Craps?

Bettors should keep their hands above and away from the table to avoid interfering with the game when a dice roll is about to occur. Common craps terminology involves hearing the stickman/dealer say “hands high” or “the dice are out” as a reminder.

Why Should You Keep the Dice Visible?

The dice must be visible at all times so everyone can trust the upcoming roll is free from manipulation. Regardless of what arm motion you prefer or craps dice setting you choose, don’t remove the dice from plain sight.

Why is Waiting Your Turn So Crucial in Craps?

The game’s base dealer will usually have a particular order in which he pays out bets and players, so take note of where you’re in that order and wait your turn. Pushing in front of another player to be paid or changing your bet when it’s not your turn is considered rude and should be avoided at a craps table. This is an informal process, so it’s important to pay attention. 

Why Should You Never Hand Dealers Cash?

Dealers aren’t allowed to directly accept cash under any circumstances, so ensure you get chips from the cage or dealer before the first come out roll of your first round. 

What is the Proper Way to Leave a Game of Craps?

The best time to do this is when the shooter has sevened out, and the dealers are removing losing bets from the table. Avoid leaving the table during the shooter’s turn with the dice and rather wait for a natural break in the action to leave.

What Are the Best Recommendations for Etiquette for Online Craps?

Online game etiquette plays as significant a role in the quality of experiences as player behavior at physical casinos. Bettors should be considerate of other players and dealers and have a basic working knowledge of game rules.

How Should Online Craps Players Treat Live Dealer Game Chats?

Many live dealer versions of craps include a chat feature that lets bettors interact with croupiers and each other, so courteous conduct matters. Keeping your messages related to the game and respectful of everyone is a crucial component of the dos and don’ts of live casino gaming.

Why Should You Be Aware of Time During Live Dealer Craps?

While you’re more likely to delay an in-person game of craps, you should still be aware of time during a live dealer craps game. This is because live dealer craps games often have a specific time-limited betting period for all players to act, so just as when you’re practicing good blackjack etiquette, you should place your bets in an efficient manner.

What is the Rule on Dealer Tipping in Live Dealer Craps?

It’s good form to tip a croupier when you’re finishing a live dealer craps session, just as you would when you follow proper baccarat etiquette online or play craps at a land-based casino. The user interface of some live dealer craps games has a dedicated option for this, and how much you tip is discretionary.

Beginner Craps Etiquette FAQ

Are There Etiquette Rules for Handling Chips at Craps Tables?

With some casino table games, the general rules are to only touch your chips and do so only when necessary to avoid perceptions of improper behavior. For craps specifically, never touch your chips during the roll, and keep a tidy stack to avoid disrupting other bettors’ stacks.

Do You Tip the Dealer in Craps?

While tipping is typically optional, it’s customary to tip dealers when you leave a craps table and many players do so after a significant win as well. Each person decides how much to tip.

What Shouldn’t You Do at a Craps Table?

Some of the biggest “no-nos” at a craps table involve interfering with a roll, hiding dice, and giving unsolicited advice to other bettors. Abusive or seriously disruptive behavior may result in a warning or removal from the game.

Enjoy Your Craps Play  With BetMGM Casino

BetMGM is home to the greatest selection of craps titles and the best casino rewards program for bettors who observe the rules and treat others with respect. Doing so keeps craps the exciting event that has drawn in so many players over the course of decades 

Register with BetMGM to join this group of people trying their luck in a fun-filled atmosphere. By following craps etiquette, you’ll make the experience better for everyone.