Craps 101—How to Play Craps

One shooter determines the outcome for up to 15 other players—now that’s a game of chance! Yet, it’s also a game of skill with betting techniques that, if done correctly, can win you a lot of money. The craps table may seem intimidating to a new player, but after studying the game’s rules, you’ll be eager to experience the action and excitement for yourself!

Let the good times roll—Craps Fundamentals

• When the puck is in the OFF position, a round of Craps is about to begin.
• If a 2, 3, 7, 11 or 12 is rolled, the round is over immediately.
• If a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9 or 10 is rolled that number becomes the point. The puck is turned to ON and the shooter will continue to throw until a 7 is rolled.
• When shooting, roll the dice so that both hit the opposite back wall.
• The shooter may handle the dice with only one hand.
• The dice must stay in plain sight of casino staff.

Wanna bet? Craps Wagering Strategies

Betting the Pass Line: Betting with the dice when the puck is OFF. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the first throw (come-out roll), it’s a natural and you win. If he or she rolls a 2, 3 or 12 on the come-out roll, it is craps and you lose. Any other number becomes the point. You win if the point repeats before a 7 is rolled.

Betting the Don’t Pass Line: Betting against the dice when the puck is OFF. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the first throw, you lose. If he or she rolls a 2 or 3, you win. The number 12 is a push—nobody wins or loses. Any other number becomes the point. You win if a 7 is rolled before the point is repeated.

Field Bet: A one-time bet that the next roll will be a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 or 12. If a 2 or 12 is rolled, you win double! 

Come Bets: Betting with the dice when the puck is ON. You win on a natural 7 or 11 and lose on craps—2, 3 or 12. Any other number becomes the come-point and you win if your come-point is made before a 7 is rolled. 

Don’t Come Bet: Betting against the dice when the puck is ON. You lose if a 7 or 11 is rolled and win on 2 or 3; 12 is a push. If a 7 is rolled before your don’t come-point is made, you win.

You may also bet True Odds—based on the number of ways on the dice to win—up to 10x your original bet. This secondary wager may be made after the shooter has established a point. Payouts are determined by the number combinations on the dice.

Or make a Place Bet any time on 4, 5, 6, 8, 9 or 10. If your Place Bet number is rolled before a 7, you win! When the puck is in the OFF position, these wagers are not in play unless the dealer has been notified.