Pickleball Rules: Complete Guide with Scoring System
Understanding Pickleball Rules
Pickleball rules are straightforward and easy to learn. Here's everything you need to know to start playing.
The Serve - The serve must be made underhand - The paddle must contact the ball below the waist - The server must keep both feet behind the baseline - The serve is made diagonally crosscourt - Only one serve attempt is allowed (no second serve)
The Double Bounce Rule After the serve, the ball must bounce once on each side before players can volley (hit the ball in the air). This is known as the two-bounce rule.
The Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone) The 7-foot area on each side of the net is called the kitchen. Players cannot volley the ball while standing in this zone. You may enter the kitchen to play a ball that has bounced.
Scoring System - Games are played to 11 points - You must win by 2 points - Only the serving team can score - In doubles, each player on a team serves before the serve passes to the opponents
Common Faults - Hitting the ball out of bounds - Volleying from the kitchen - Not allowing the ball to bounce once on each side after the serve - Touching the net with your paddle or body
Now you know the rules — grab a paddle and start playing!
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Looking for more tips? Check out our [complete pickleball rules guide](/rules/), [court directory](/courts/), and [equipment buying guides](/equipment/).