Whether you play darts professionally or have recently taken it up as a hobby, there are specific darts rules to follow. Like in any sport, rules are there to maintain a safe, fair, and mentally focused game.
Wondering what the rules for darts actually are, or eager to apply them when practising? Here at Double Top Darts, we’ll explain exactly that. Not only are we a leading online supplier of darts and collections from your favourite dart players, but we also offer expert advice when it comes to the rules of the game that’s loved by many.
Get ready to play like a pro…
The basic rules of darts
All professional darts tournaments, like the World Darts Championship and the Premier League Darts, are operated under the rules laid down by the Darts Regulation Authority (DRA), and are there to provide a standardised environment.
The absolute core rules of darts include:
- Players standing behind the line - Their feet cannot touch or cross the oche until the dart is released
- Three darts are thrown per turn
- Scoring follows the same pattern (more on this below…)
***It’s worth knowing that different leagues can have slightly different rules, normally focused on checkouts and teammates letting you know where to throw for your checkouts. With this in mind, it is always a good idea to get a copy of the specific league rules before playing.***
While there are dozens of game variations, let’s first talk about the standard rules used in professional tournaments that revolve around 501. Eager to play something different? Here are 5 dart games you can play on a dartboard to get you started.
Dartboard rules & measurements
Before you can start throwing, you need to make sure that your dartboard is hung correctly. The centre of the bullseye must be exactly 5 feet 8 inches away from the floor, while your throwing distance should be 7 feet 9.25 inches away from the face of the board.
Players are always required to stand behind the line (the oche) while throwing. For a great setup, we’d recommend investing in dartboard lights and a dartboard surround so that you can clearly see where you’re aiming and keep your walls well protected at the same time.
>>>>> We’ve got some top tips when it comes to setting up the perfect dartboard <<<<<
Basic rules for 501
In your standard game of 501, the object is for one player or a team to be the first to reach zero from the starting total of 501. In turns, players will throw three darts each, then subtract the total points scored from their current total until they reach zero.
To win, you must reach exactly zero. The final dart that brings you to zero must also be a double - if you hit a number that puts you at 1 or below zero, you are bust and must return to your previous score. For example, if a player has 36 remaining, they must hit double 18 to win.
Watch Sam try to check out from 100!
Scoring rules
Visually, we all know what a dartboard looks like, but if you’re a beginner, you need to get your head around what all the different sections mean. A dartboard is always divided into 20 numbered segments, each one split into four different sections, with the number displayed at the top.
Here is how the maths works:
Large single sections = the face value of the number.
Outer rings (doubles) = 2x the number’s value.
Middle rings (triples) = 3x the numbers’ value.
Outer bullseye (the green section) = 25 points.
Inner bullseye (the red section) = 50 points.
***If you’re a darts fanatic, you’ll already know, but remember - the highest possible score with one dart is the Triple 20, not the bullseye!***
Other things to know…
We’ve covered all the basics, but the rules of darts can be much more advanced, especially if you’re a dedicated player. When playing with your mates, you can, of course, make up your own rules or play other common games, like:
- Around the clock - hit every number on the board in numerical order, finishing with the bullseye.
- Killer - Determine your own number for the game, and if you’re a killer, you’re aiming for the doubles of your opponents.
- Cricket - Close specific numbers and have the highest overall score.
- 301 - Very similar to 501, however, your game is shorter as you’re starting out at 301. You also need to hit a ‘double in’ to start.
When it comes to playing serious darts, your darts stance and dart grip matter more than you think. Your stance must be entirely behind the oche… If your foot slides over the line before the dart even leaves your hand, then it’s a foul throw, and you’ll score zero. Your grip is also important, as your throw must result in a distinct release. Your dart cannot exceed 50 grams or a certain length of around 12 inches, so make sure your hand is accommodating to this.
Wondering if point length actually matters? We go into more detail on the different point lengths below ⬇️
Spotlight on: Owen Binks!
>Who is he?
Owen Binks is a well-known darts referee, officially refereeing for the PDC. He knows every darts law inside out, so if you’re looking for even more top tips or funny videos, you’re sure to find some great content surrounding specific dart rules in professional situations.
>>Follow Owen Binks on TikTok!<<
Darts etiquette tips to keep in mind
Beyond the more serious dart rules we’ve covered, if you really want to feel like a professional, we’d also recommend bearing the following in mind:
- Stand at least two feet behind your opponent when they’re throwing and stay out of their peripheral vision.
- Once you retrieve your darts, walk back to the oche along the side of the lane, never directly down the middle, as this can be distracting towards the next player.
- Don’t touch another player’s darts - every player should handle their own gear!
- In some leagues, it is common practice that if you lose your singles match, you offer the winner a drink. This can vary by team and league, so it is always best to check beforehand at the start of the game.
- If you know you’ve busted on your first or second dart, stop throwing. This can be seen as a waste of time.
- Rattling your darts in your hand behind the oche while your opponent is about to throw can be seen as rude or off-putting. Instead, keep a firm grip or keep them on the side.
- Don’t pull your darts out of the board until the score has been called.
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Play like a pro with the help of Double Top Darts
And there you have it… The darts rules that all players should follow. Hopefully, you now feel clued up enough on the official rules of darts and are eager to step up to the oche. While you can be a bit more lenient if you’re playing against your mates, if you’re playing professionally, the rules are there for a reason.
At Double Top Darts, we love darts as much as you do. Our team is made up of darts experts, and we’re here to help you find all your favourite darts and darts accessories with the click of a button.
Want more info or need some advice? Then do get in touch. Our team will be more than happy to talk about all things darts! 🎯
