Craps Table Tips and Etiquette

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ByLucas Portela
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Learn essential craps table etiquette. Discover self-service bets, hedging, and how to tip dealers with two-way bets.

Last Updated: 25 June 2026

Finally, if you want to look like you know what you are doing and keep the casino staff happy, you need to follow basic table etiquette. Good manners make the game better for everyone.

Key Takeaways: Craps Etiquette

  • Self-Service Bets: It is entirely your responsibility to physically place your chips and pick up your winnings on the Pass Line or Field.
  • If it Lays, it Plays: If you win a wager but forget to pick up your money, the dealer will automatically assume you are betting it all again.
  • Two-Way Bets: You can tip the hard-working crew by making a Two-Way wager, placing a bet for both you and the staff at the same time.
  • Avoid String Betting: Always declare your wagers at once. Do not slow down the action by handing over your chips one by one.

Self-Service Bets

Certain wagers like the Pass Line, the Don’t Pass, Come, Don’t Come, and the Field are ‘self-service’. This means it is entirely your job to place the chips and pick up your winnings.

Remember the golden casino rule: “If it lays, it plays”. If you win but forget to pick up your money, the dealers will automatically assume you want to wager it all again on the next roll.

Two-Way Bets (Tipping)

Dealers work incredibly hard to run the game. A ‘Two-Way’ bet means you are placing a wager for yourself and the dealers at the same time. Just toss in your chips and say, “Two-Way Hard 10”, and the crew will greatly appreciate it.

Hedging

Hedging means making a bet that wins when another bet loses to protect your bankroll. For example, betting £1 on ‘Any Craps’ perfectly protects a £5 Pass Line wager during the Comeout Roll. This ensures you do not lose your money if a 2, 3, or 12 lands.

Avoid String Betting

Do not be that annoying player who makes the dealer go back and forth by placing bets one by one. Know exactly what you want to do before handing over your money, and declare all your bets at once.

❓ Craps Etiquette FAQ

What does “If it lays, it plays” mean at the craps table?

Self-service bets are entirely your responsibility. If you win a wager but forget to physically pick up your chips, the casino assumes you want to bet it all again on the very next roll.

How do you tip the dealers while playing craps?

You can tip the hard-working crew by making a Two-Way bet. This means you are throwing in chips to place a specific wager for yourself and the dealers at the same time.

Why should players avoid string betting?

String betting slows down the game and forces the dealer to go back and forth unnecessarily. You should always know what you want to do and declare all your wagers at once.

Author:

Lucas Portela

Lucas Portela

Owner, BoldGambler • Avanhandava/SP

Oddsmaker, affiliate and content creator in the iGaming industry.

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