Blackjack basics
Blackjack hand signals
Tap the table behind your cards to hit. Wave your hand flat over your cards to stand. To double or split, set the second bet beside the first and hold up one finger for a double or two for a split.
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
Casinos use hand signals so the camera above the table records every decision. Saying it out loud is fine, but the dealer waits for the signal.
In a shoe game your cards are dealt face up and you never touch them. Put the second bet next to your first, not on top of it.
The play against every dealer card
| Play | Signal |
|---|---|
| Hit | Tap the felt behind your cards |
| Stand | Wave a flat hand over your cards |
| Double down | Second bet beside the first, one finger up |
| Split | Second bet beside the first, two fingers up |
Questions players ask
- Do I have to use hand signals?
- Yes, at a casino table. Saying it as well is fine.
Related answers
- How to play blackjack
- Blackjack terms every player should know
- Blackjack rules for beginners
- Blackjack basic strategy chart
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