Roulette Table Etiquette

Contributor | February 27th, 2014

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Iconic, glamorous, and brimming with betting possibilities, the draw of the Roulette table is as strong as ever. The game itself is easy to follow, so it’s even more important not to be excluded from its opportunities by a small breach of protocol.

Joining a Table

The main distinction between Roulette and other table games is that players get their own special chips. This is to help distinguish between their winnings and those of other players at the table. If arriving in the middle of a spin or while bets are being placed, players should just wait until the dealer is free again. Once it’s clear a player wants to buy in, the dealer will ask what denomination they’d like their chips in.

Some table limits start as low as £1, while others are up to £50, so look for an indication of the limits or ask the dealer before handing over chips to avoid embarrassment.

Betting

Players must place all wagers after the last round of bets are settled, and before the next spin. The dealer will announce “no more bets” before spinning. Touching your chips after this announcement is forbidden. Beginners unsure of specific payouts or where to place their bets may ask the dealer for advice. They’re usually more than happy to help.

Make sure not to touch other players’ chips. It’s unnerving, particularly at high stakes, and may be viewed as an attempt to cheat. Likewise, if a player has friends or family at the same table, they cannot pool chips. Each player’s chips must be kept separate.

When a number is called, the dealer will settle. Players should wait until the dealer has settled the bets and moved the chips toward them before attempting to take their chips.

Tipping

Because roulette relies on dealer interaction, it’s common to tip. In the US it’s important to tip regularly. Like in a restaurant, the exact amount is down to player preference, but it should be a small denomination every few spins at least, plus extra on big wins.

In the UK, forgetting to tip is not such a serious breach of protocol. Some casinos will even have rules against it. However, it’s common practice to tip some of your winnings, particularly on large payouts.

Sometimes players will place a bet for the dealer. Unless otherwise indicated, it’s generally accepted that a straight tip is preferred. But a player on a lucky streak might feel like it’s a nice gesture, in which case a bet on Red/Black, or one of the 3/1 markets, is acceptable.

Cashing Out

Players should wait until the betting period, then, when they have the dealer’s attention, request to cash out, moving their chips toward the dealer. The dealer will exchange for casino chips, which can be exchanged for cash at the cage/desk.

General Etiquette

Roulette applies the same general etiquette as most tables. It doesn’t usually have the same boisterous buzz as Craps or Sic Bo, but a certain amount of chatter and excitement is fine.

Drinks are allowed at, but not on, the table. Drunk, loud clients may be asked to leave if they are disturbing other players.

Follow these simple rules and you're guaranteed to have a successful Roulette experience. If you want to avoid making a casino faux pas altogether, you can try Roulette out online at Gala Casino before hitting the strip.