10+ Blackjack Hand Signals - A Quick and Easy Guide to Mastery

Blackjack hand signals are essential actions of players to communicate with the dealer. If you don't know or even use them incorrectly, congratulations that you've just added to the list of the most ham-handed players in the casino. So, you must learn these signals to ensure that a "stand" doesn’t accidentally turn into a "hit" and ruin your whole game.

This guide below will help you master all blackjack hand signals and confidently shine in your profession. Let’s get started on your journey to be a pro!

5 Most Common Hand Signals in Blackjack

Hand signals are quite different between two variations: face-up blackjack and face-down blackjack. In face-up blackjack, the dealer shows both of their cards right away, so everyone can see them. But in face-down blackjack, the dealer only shows the first card and the second card stays hidden.

• Face-Up Blackjack: You should not touch the cards, and all signals must be made using hand gestures on the table.
• Face-Down Blackjack: You can handle the cards, but still need to use clear Hand Signals to communicate with the dealer.

Blackjack Hand Signals can vary depending on the variants and rules of each casino

The table below will clearly explain all blackjack hand signals meaning you need to know for this game:

The blackjack hand signals as mentioned can be used in both face-up and face-down versions. However, each signal has its own standards for considering it as valid.

Let’s take a closer look at the details below:

Hit

When you want another card, there are two easy hand signals you can use to ask for a hit.

First, you can wave your hand towards yourself. When the dealer sees this, they’ll understand that you want another card from the deck. This is like a friendly “come here” wave.

Or, you can simply tap your finger on the table in front of you. One or two gentle taps on the table will also tell the dealer you want another card.

Be careful with these signals, though. It’s easy to make them by accident, so make sure you only use them when you truly want a hit. This helps you avoid accidentally asking for a card when you don’t mean to.

Stand

The dealer sees the Stand signal as correct when you place your hand horizontally above the cards.

To make the stand signal in blackjack, you should start by holding your hand flat above your cards. Then, gently wave your hand across your cards. This tells the dealer that you don’t want any more cards for this round.

This signal is simple, but remember, it’s important to make it clear so the dealer understands that you're finished with your turn.

Double Down

To double down in blackjack, you should follow two simple steps. First, place a second stack of chips next to your original bet. This new stack should match your first one, so you're doubling your wager. Then, take one finger and tap the table lightly in front of your cards. This tap shows the dealer you want to double down and get one more card.

Remember, placing the same amount of chips and tapping the table once are key - this way, the dealer clearly knows you're doubling down.

Want to make the most of every hand? Check out our double down guide and learn to play with strategy!

Split

To split your hand, you should first make sure that your two cards are the same, like two 8s or two Kings. Then, you need to place a second bet next to your first one, so you’ll have one bet for each new hand. After that, you can show two fingers to the dealer to let them know you want to split your hand into two separate hands.

Surrender

A legal blackjack surrender hand signal is one that you show to the dealer after receiving your first two cards.

But remember that not all casinos allow you to surrender unless you want to lose interest or even get a warning from the dealer.

Uncommon Hand Signals in Blackjack

Some blackjack hand signals aren’t used very often, so you may not see them in every casino. If you play frequently or visit different casinos, you might come across these signals, include:

• Bust: Waving your hand over your cards with your palm facing down.
• Insurance (only available when the dealer has an Ace): Sliding your index finger from the edge of the betting circle back toward you.

Note: You should be careful when using these signs, because if the dealer is inexperienced, they may not be familiar and easily get confused. This can lead to mistakes that strongly affect your game, so it is always best to communicate clearly.

In fact, there are still many blackjack hand signals but they are less common, even less used, and may not be known by both sides.

Therefore, it still doesn't cause any big problems if you lack learning of these signals. You can feel free because sometimes the finest way is to tell the dealer when facing similar situations. This choice helps avoid mess and keeps the match moving smoothly.

Notes for Using Blackjack Hand Signals

When you step into a casino, if you reveal yourself as a "newbie", there is a high chance that the dealer can quickly notice and take advantage of you.

So, if you want to avoid any embarrassing moments that make you "lose your place", these following tips will help you play like a pro and make the game more fun and exciting:

Observe Before Joining

Before you start playing, take a long time to watch how the other players and the dealer use hand signals correctly. This will help you better understand the rules and be more effective acting during the game.

Give A Signal Decisively

Your signals are made sure that they are easy to see and understand. Moreover, you must look confident when you drive your moves. This will determine whether the dealer gets your message. When they know what you want, the game can go smoothly.

Do Not Touch the Chip After Signaling

It’s best to keep your hands away from the chips after you have completed your moves. If you accidentally tap any chip, it may confuse the dealer. Worse, it can also cause misunderstandings and even interrupt the game.

Try to Use Signals Instead of Words

Whenever you can, use Hand Signals instead of talking. This will not only allow you to maintain rhythm and increase concentration but also create a very professional match. This is exactly the kind of way that you can earn admiration from other opponents.

Ask the Dealer if Unsure

If you are doubtful about how to use the signal in the right way or have any questions, just feel free to ask the dealer directly. The dealer will be more than happy to assist you with anything you need.

Practice At Home

Hard work is better than overthinking! When you repeat these actions again and again, it becomes easier. The more you practice at home, the more natural your moves will feel when you’re in a real game. Then, you won’t need to think hard - you’ll already know what to do!

The secret is practice: As you get used to each move, you’ll feel more confident and relaxed when you play for real.

Playing Free Blackjack Online

Some sites like DuckyLuck Casino offer free online blackjack games where you can practice your signaling skills.

This is even better than practicing alone at home because you can interact with a live dealer, making it feel more real. With other tips, you’re just practicing on your own or with a mirror.

Observe Professional Players

The most useful learning from professional players is to watch videos of their matches and to focus on their use of signals, as this can be very helpful.

Or if it is too difficult to start, you can look for documents that teach basic theory first and then gradually improve the practicality.

Keep Communication Clear and Stay Confident

It will help the dealer understand you better if you can maintain contact clearly when signaling, especially during important moves like double down or split.

Besides, It’s also necessary to stay calm and always confident because your mindset directly affects your choices and how accurate your action.

So, with the notes shared above, hopefully you can apply them and thereby enhance your blackjack experience.

Why Learn Blackjack Hand Signals?

Learning blackjack hand signals is a smart move. These signals make communication with the dealer clear and help the game flow smoothly. When you use hand signals, you’re less likely to make mistakes or misunderstand what the dealer is doing. This can help you play better and keep the game enjoyable for everyone.

If you don’t know all the signals yet, don’t worry. It’s never too late to learn them, even little by little. As you get more familiar with the signals, you’ll feel more confident at the table and look like a true pro.