Quick Answer: The Two Biggest Etiquette Rules
If you only remember two things, remember these:
- Don’t touch chips or place bets while the dice are flying.
- Don’t reach into the table during a roll.
Those two habits prevent most arguments and most dealer headaches.
If you want the full big-picture guide first, start here: The Complete Guide To Craps.
Why Etiquette Matters So Much In Craps
Craps is different because:
- many players share the same layout space
- many bets settle at once
- the pace is fast
- and the dealer team needs clear timing to pay correctly
If betting timing is messy, you get:
- late bets
- disputes
- payout confusion
- slower rolls
- and a frustrated table
Knowing etiquette makes you a better player because it reduces mistakes and keeps your plan steady.
Bet Timing: When You Should Place Bets
Place Bets Early, Not At The Last Second
The best time to place bets is:
- right after the previous roll settles
- before the stickman sends the dice
If you toss chips in as the shooter is about to roll, the dealer might ignore it or tell you “no bet.”
That’s not personal. That’s how the game stays fair.
Don’t Chase The Dice With Late Bets
A classic mistake is seeing a number hit and thinking:
- “I should get on that!”
By the time you place it, the roll is already happening.
Late bets create arguments.
Hands Off The Layout During The Roll
Once the dice are in motion:
- don’t reach into the layout
- don’t adjust chips
- don’t point inside the table
- don’t slide chips around
This is a safety and fairness rule.
Dealers need to see clearly what was down before the roll.
How To Handle Chips The Right Way
Use Clean, Clear Bet Calls
Instead of vague language, use clear calls:
- “Pass Line for fifteen.”
- “Place the six and eight for twelve each.”
- “Odds behind my Pass Line, please.”
Vague calls like “Put me on the numbers” can cause mistakes.
If you want to learn more about the layout first, read How To Read The Craps Table Like A Pro.
Don’t Toss Chips Randomly
If you’re far from the dealer, you can “toss in” chips, but do it carefully:
- one small toss, not a scatter
- aim for a clear open space
- say your bet clearly
If you scatter chips, the table stops while dealers sort it out.
Tip: Learn Two Core Phrases
If you’re new, just learn these two:
- “Pass Line for X.”
- “Place the six and eight for X each.”
That alone prevents most awkward moments.
Shooter Etiquette: How To Handle The Dice Properly
If you’re the shooter, there are a few standard rules:
Use One Hand
Most casinos require:
- one-hand toss only
Hit The Back Wall
The dice usually must:
- bounce off the back wall
If you don’t hit the wall repeatedly, the dealer may warn you or change the dice.
Don’t Take Forever
Some shooters set dice and take long pauses.
A short routine is fine. A two-minute ritual is annoying to the table.
If A Die Falls Off The Table
Don’t grab it yourself.
Let the dealers handle it.
Social Etiquette: Don’t Be “That Guy”
Don’t Blame The Shooter
Seven out happens. It’s normal.
Blaming the shooter ruins the table vibe and doesn’t change the math.
If you want the meaning explained, read What “Seven Out” Means & Why It Ends The Shooter’s Turn.
Don’t Police Other People’s Bets
Some players love telling others what to bet.
Ignore it.
Play your plan.
Don’t Celebrate Other People Losing
If you’re betting the “don’t” side, that’s fine, but:
- don’t cheer when others lose
It creates tension fast.
Betting Etiquette: Center Bets And Dealer Workload
Center bets (prop bets) are high-action and can slow tables down if everyone is firing them constantly.
If you play props:
- call them early
- keep them small
- don’t demand constant “work” from the dealers mid-roll
If you want to know more about prop bets, read Understanding Prop Bets In Craps (Horn, Yo, C&E, Etc.).
A Simple “Beginner Etiquette Checklist”
Before you play live, remember:
- place bets early
- hands off during rolls
- call bets clearly
- don’t blame the shooter
- don’t copy bets you don’t understand
- keep it simple until you’re comfortable
That’s it.
Common Beginner Mistakes That Break Etiquette
Mistake 1: Late Betting
Most disputes start here.
Mistake 2: Reaching In During The Roll
Even “just pointing” can cause confusion.
Mistake 3: Tossing Chips Like Confetti
This slows the game and frustrates dealers.
Mistake 4: Talking Over The Dealer Calls
Dealers need clear communication. Wait for the call, then speak.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Place Bets While The Shooter Is Rolling?
Usually no. Most casinos won’t allow bets once the dice are out.
What Should I Say When Placing A Bet?
Use clear calls like “Pass Line for X” or “Place the six and eight for X each.”
Is It Rude To Play Don’t Pass?
No. It’s a standard bet. Just don’t celebrate when others lose.
What Happens If I Don’t Hit The Back Wall As A Shooter?
You’ll usually get a warning, and repeated misses can lead to the dealer changing dice or stopping your turn.
What’s The Best Etiquette Tip For Beginners?
Place bets early and keep your hands off the layout during the roll.
Where To Go Next
You now know the key craps etiquette rules that keep live tables smooth: bet timing, hands off during rolls, clear chip calls, and shooter behavior.
Next, we’ll cover how to handle the dice properly, the casino rules behind it, and why small handling mistakes can get your roll called “no roll.”
Continue with How To Handle Dice Properly (Casino Rules).
