Learn the Game
PICKLEBALL
GAME RULES
New to pickleball or need a refresher? Here are the official rules to get you playing confidently on your Pickled Court.
COURT DIMENSIONS
BASIC RULES
1The Serve
The serve must be made underhand with the paddle below the waist. The server must keep both feet behind the baseline. The serve must land in the opposite diagonal service court.
2Service Sequence
Both players on the serving team have the opportunity to serve before the serve is passed to the opponents, except at the start of each game when only the first server serves.
3Scoring
Points can only be scored by the serving team. Games are typically played to 11 points, win by 2. In tournaments, games may be played to 15 or 21.
4Two-Bounce Rule
When the ball is served, the receiving team must let it bounce once before hitting it. The serving team must then let the return bounce once. After that, players may volley the ball (hit without letting it bounce).
5Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen)
Players may not volley the ball while standing in the Non-Volley Zone. A player can be in the kitchen but only to hit a ball that has already bounced. Players must exit the NVZ before volleying.
6Fault
A fault is any action that stops play due to a rule violation. Faults include hitting the ball out of bounds, hitting the net, not clearing the net, volleying from the kitchen, or violating the two-bounce rule.
SERVING RULES
- ✓The server must call the score before each serve (serving score first, then receiving score, then server number in doubles).
- ✓The serve must clear the Non-Volley Zone, including the NVZ lines.
- ✓A serve that hits the net and lands in the proper service court is called a let and is re-served.
- ✓In doubles, the first server of the game starts from the right side. The server switches sides after each point scored.
- ✓A player may not bounce the ball and hit it from there unless the ball naturally bounces from the paddle.
LINE CALLS & ETIQUETTE
Ball on the Line
Any ball that lands on any line (except the NVZ line on a serve) is considered IN. A serve landing on the NVZ line is a fault.
Player Calls
In recreational play, each team is responsible for calls on their side of the net. Players are expected to make fair calls. When in doubt, call the ball IN.
Appeals
Any player may ask the referee for a rule clarification. In recreational play without a referee, all players should agree on a call.
Integrity
Pickleball is a sport built on integrity. Make honest calls, don't argue calls excessively, and remember: it's a game. Have fun!
Official USAPA Rules
For the complete official rulebook, visit USA Pickleball's website.
View Official USAPA Rulebook