Blackjack is one of the most popular and fast-paced card games in any casino, loved for its mix of strategy and simplicity. Behind the table, the blackjack dealer is not just a card handler — they’re also an expert in rules enforcement, game management, and customer service. Whether you’re a beginner interested in becoming a dealer or just curious about how the game works from the other side of the table, this guide walks you through how to deal blackjack in a casino environment — with clear rules, procedures, and pro tips.
Table of Contents
Objective of Blackjack
The goal of blackjack is simple: players aim to get a hand value as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it, and they must beat the dealer’s hand to win.
Card Values in Blackjack
| Card | Value |
|---|---|
| Number cards | Face value (2–10) |
| Face cards | 10 |
| Ace | 1 or 11 (player’s choice) |
Dealer Responsibilities
As a casino blackjack dealer, your duties extend beyond just dealing cards. Here’s a breakdown of your primary roles:
Key Responsibilities
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Game Setup | Shuffling, cutting the deck, setting up chips and cards |
| Card Dealing | Dealing cards to players and self according to standard rules |
| Rule Enforcement | Ensuring players follow game rules (e.g., splitting, doubling, insurance) |
| Payouts & Collections | Paying winners and collecting losing bets accurately |
| Customer Service | Interacting courteously with guests while managing the game efficiently |
Step-by-Step Guide to Dealing Blackjack
Let’s break down the process of dealing a standard hand of blackjack in a casino setting.
Step 1: Prepare the Table
- Shuffle the cards manually or with a shuffling machine.
- Use 6 or 8 decks in a shoe (standard in most casinos).
- Burn one card before the first hand.
- Ensure all players have placed their bets before starting.
Step 2: Initial Deal
- Deal one card face-up to each player, starting from your left and moving clockwise.
- Deal one card face-up to yourself (the dealer).
- Deal a second card face-up to each player.
- Deal a second card face-down to yourself (this is the “hole card”).
Step 3: Player Turns
- Move from left to right, giving each player a chance to make their decision:
- Hit – Receive another card.
- Stand – End their turn without more cards.
- Double Down – Double their bet, receive only one more card.
- Split – If dealt two of the same card, split into two hands.
- Surrender – Some casinos allow early surrender (player loses half their bet).
- Deal cards based on the player’s decision and inform them of hand totals as needed.
Step 4: Dealer’s Turn
- Reveal your face-down card.
- Follow house rules — typically:
- Hit on 16 or less.
- Stand on 17 or more (including soft 17 in some casinos).
- Draw cards until reaching the required minimum.
Step 5: Determine Winners & Payouts
| Outcome | Payout |
|---|---|
| Player wins | 1:1 (even money) |
| Player gets blackjack | 3:2 (varies by house rules) |
| Insurance win | 2:1 on insurance bet |
| Push (tie) | No win or loss |
| Dealer wins | Player loses their bet |
- Pay winners accurately and collect chips from losing hands.
- Reset for the next hand.
Important House Rules for Dealers
| Rule | Common Standard |
|---|---|
| Blackjack Payout | 3:2 or 6:5 (varies) |
| Dealer Hits on Soft 17 | Yes (varies) |
| Insurance Allowed | Yes |
| Surrender Allowed | Depends on casino |
| Splitting Aces | Typically one card per split Ace |
Always follow your casino’s specific house rules, as they can differ slightly.
Tips for New Blackjack Dealers
- Practice Chip Handling – Be quick and accurate with payouts.
- Master Hand Totals – Know the value of every hand instantly.
- Stay Professional – Remain calm, even with difficult players.
- Use Clear Verbal Cues – Announce actions (“player hits,” “blackjack pays”) so all are informed.
- Security Awareness – Be alert to cheating attempts and report suspicious behavior.
Fun Fact
Blackjack offers some of the lowest house edges in the casino, around 0.5%, when played with basic strategy. That’s why many skilled players flock to this game — and why dealers need to be on top of their game!
Dealing blackjack is more than shuffling and passing out cards — it’s a mix of technical skill, customer engagement, and precise game management. Whether you’re pursuing a career as a dealer or exploring how the casino world works behind the scenes, understanding the structure and flow of blackjack is essential.
Next time you watch a dealer work the table, you’ll know exactly what’s going on behind the confident smile and crisp shuffle.
