Miscellaneous Rules on the Craps Table

Not all rules are black and white. While at the craps table take note that there are unwritten rules that relate to security and cheating. Some of these are practices that are part of the culture or they may even be stated as a policy depending on the casino you're in. Here are some of those rules.

Since cheating with loaded dice is a big concern, a lot of rules pertain to dice and dice rolls. Players are expected to handle the dice with only one hand. The dice is not even allowed past the table edges. Passing the dice from one hand to another is not allowed.

During the come out roll (and any other roll for that matter) the dice is supposed to hit the wall at the opposite end of the craps table. The dice should not slid across the table - they must be tossed. Players are to toss the dice no higher than eye level of the dealers.

One important set of rules pertains to where the dice would land, and which dice rolls are legal. For instance if the dice bounces off the table, the Boxman will examine the dice before permitting it for use in the game. The dice are not allowed to land in the Boxman's bank.

The Dealers' working stacks are also taboo for dice. Another rule is that dice that land in the chip tray also constitutes a "no roll" (the roll is not legal and the shooter would have to roll again). But a player may request the same dice be used if ever a dice has been banned from use (the game is laced with a bit of superstition and some people think certain dice are lucky).

Some casinos rule out a "no roll" if dice hits a player. But there are casinos that would consider this as a legal roll if it did not influence the outcome of the dice roll. Make it a habit to check the house rules, especially if you're new to a casino.

Another rule is that the shooter may arrange the dice before making his roll. This is called setting the dice. If ever you do set the dice in a specific fashion you most likely will be asked to do it quickly and not delay the game. Some casinos may allow this and some casinos would have "no setting" rules.

As a rule the Dealers are not permitted to touch players. So, never place money in the dealer's hand during the game. You may instead place it on the layout. The dealer will take the money and replace it with chips which will be placed in front of you. But at the end of the game, if you wish to tip the dealer or any of the employees at the table it is ok to do so. This may well have something to do with bribing or rigging the game with the dealer as an accomplice.

When at the craps table remember that there is a "culture" to it. Knowing the common courtesies wouldn't hurt. Abiding by such practices also keeps you from being suspected of cheating. Since not all rules are written, it is best to be familiar with the unwritten rules of conduct while at the craps table.