Signal

In blackjack, a signal is a non-verbal action that communicates your decision to the dealer. These hand gestures are used in land-based casinos to avoid confusion, ensure fair play, and create a verifiable record of your choices via security cameras. While online blackjack uses digital buttons, at a physical table, you’ll need to use signals correctly, especially when hitting, standing, splitting, or doubling down.

Knowing the right signals is not just about etiquette; it’s essential for avoiding disputes and keeping the game moving smoothly. Miscommunication can lead to costly mistakes or even heat from the pit boss if it looks like you're trying to cheat or confuse the dealer.

Key Details of Blackjack Signals

Signals don’t affect the odds, payouts, or house edge directly—but they are part of the rules and procedures players must follow. Here's what you need to know:

Purpose: Communicates your action clearly to the dealer
Standard Use: Required in live games for security and verification
Applies To: Hit, stand, double down, split, surrender
No Impact on Odds: Signals are procedural, not strategic
House Edge: Unchanged; ranges from 0.5% to 2% depending on game rules

How to Use Blackjack Signals

Using the correct signal depends on whether your cards are dealt face up or face down, and on the action you’re taking. Here's how to do each one:

Hit

Face-up cards: Tap the table with your finger
Face-down cards: Scratch the edge of your cards lightly on the felt

Stand

Face-up: Wave your hand palm-down over your cards, as if saying “no more”
Face-down: Slide your cards under your chips without exposing them

Double Down

Place an equal bet next to your original wager and point with one finger

Split

Place a second bet equal to the first and hold up two fingers in a “peace” sign

Surrender

Say “surrender” and draw a horizontal line behind your bet with your index finger (check first that the casino allows it)

How Does a Blackjack Signal Work?

Once you’re dealt your two cards and the dealer shows their upcard, you use one of the gestures above to communicate your decision. The dealer will then respond by giving you a new card (hit), taking no action (stand), or splitting/doubling your hand if your signal and bet indicate so.

The key is clarity. Dealers are trained to follow hand signals, not verbal commands, especially when dealing face-up. That way, the casino surveillance system has a visual record in case of disputes.

Examples of Blackjack Signals in Action

Let’s say you’re dealt a 10 and a 2, and the dealer shows a 9.

You want to hit, so you tap the table with your index finger.
The dealer gives you a 6. Your total is now 18.
You stand by waving your hand palm-down over your cards.
The dealer turns over a 6, then draws a 10 for 15, and busts with a 9.

Your bet wins and pays 1:1.

Tips for Using Blackjack Signals

Learn before you play: Practice the signals at home or watch videos before stepping into a live game.
Be confident: A shaky or unclear gesture can confuse the dealer or slow down the game.
Always follow procedure: Never touch your chips after making a gesture unless instructed.
Ask when unsure: Dealers are usually happy to explain before the hand begins.
Respect the table: Don’t argue about decisions after your signal is interpreted—especially if you didn’t say anything.

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