Blackjack basics
Blackjack dealer rules
The dealer has no choices. The dealer hits every total of 16 or less and stands on 17 or more. At the tables these pages cover, the dealer stands on soft 17 too.
These answers are for a 6 deck game where the dealer stands on soft 17, blackjack pays 3 to 2, and you can double on any two cards, including after a split.
Why
The dealer plays last, after every player has finished, and follows the house rule exactly. A dealer cannot stand on 16 because you stood on 13, and cannot double or split.
That fixed rule is what makes strategy possible. Since you know how the dealer must play, the dealer card showing tells you how likely the dealer is to finish strong or bust.
The play against every dealer card
| Dealer total | Dealer must |
|---|---|
| 16 or less | Hit |
| Hard 17 or more | Stand |
| Soft 17 | Stand at these tables (some tables hit) |
| Soft 18 or more | Stand |
Questions players ask
- Does the dealer have to hit on 16?
- Yes. The dealer must hit 16 or less.
- Can the dealer choose to stand?
- No. The dealer follows the house rule on every hand.
Related answers
- Dealer stands on soft 17: what it means
- How to play blackjack
- Should I hit or stand on 12 to 16?
- Blackjack basic strategy chart
Learn blackjack from someone who dealt it for 15 years
Card Sharp is a blackjack trainer built on our own system, taught by someone who dealt the game for 15 years. You play hands on your phone with play money and practice making the right play.