{"Status":true,"Message":"","Response":{"post":{"postuid":"6a01d717-572e-4c2f-a888-6640d6a6a7a1","tenantuid":"45a0010e-ec76-43e9-9914-4376bfa80903","projectuid":"4025e8c9-71ea-4557-850d-662c78598919","title":"Complete Pickleball Rules Guide","slug":"article/complete-pickleball-rules-guide-1","html":"\u003Cp\u003EPickleball is governed by a straightforward set of rules that most players can learn in a single session. The core rules cover serving, the two-bounce rule, the non-volley zone (the kitchen), scoring, faults, and line calls. This guide covers every rule you\u2019ll encounter \u2014 from your first recreational game to sanctioned tournament play.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022table_of_contents\u0022\u003ETable of Contents\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#the-serve\u0022\u003EThe Serve\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#the-two-bounce-rule\u0022\u003EThe Two-Bounce Rule\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#the-non-volley-zone-kitchen\u0022\u003EThe Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen)\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#scoring\u0022\u003EScoring\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#faults\u0022\u003EFaults\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#line-calls\u0022\u003ELine Calls\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#lets\u0022\u003ELets\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#out-of-bounds\u0022\u003EOut of Bounds\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#doubles-specific-rules\u0022\u003EDoubles-Specific Rules\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#singles-specific-rules\u0022\u003ESingles-Specific Rules\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#equipment-rules\u0022\u003EEquipment Rules\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#advanced-rule-situations\u0022\u003EAdvanced Rule Situations\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ol\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022the_serve\u0022\u003EThe Serve\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEvery rally begins with a serve. Pickleball has strict serving rules that differ significantly from tennis. All serves must be hit underhand \u2014 there are no overhead serves in pickleball.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022serving_requirements\u0022\u003EServing requirements\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe serve must be made with an underhand motion.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPaddle contact with the ball must be made below the server\u2019s waist (navel level).\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe paddle head must be below the highest part of the wrist at the point of contact (for volley serves).\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe server must keep both feet behind the baseline during the serve.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAt least one foot must be on the playing surface when contact is made \u2014 the server cannot jump.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe serve is made diagonally crosscourt into the opponent\u2019s service box.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe served ball must clear the non-volley zone (kitchen) and land in the correct service box.\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ul\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022volley_serve_vs_drop_serve\u0022\u003EVolley serve vs. drop serve\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThere are two legal serve types. A \u003Cb\u003Evolley serve\u003C/b\u003E is hit before the ball bounces \u2014 the server tosses or drops the ball and strikes it in the air. All the arm swing, contact point, and paddle head requirements listed above apply to the volley serve.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA \u003Cb\u003Edrop serve\u003C/b\u003E allows the server to drop the ball and let it bounce before striking it. The drop must be a natural drop from any height \u2014 the ball cannot be thrown, tossed upward, or bounced. There are no restrictions on arm swing, contact point, or paddle head orientation on a drop serve.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022serve_placement\u0022\u003EServe placement\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn doubles, the serve is made from the right service box when the server\u2019s score is even and from the left service box when the score is odd. The serve must land in the diagonally opposite service box \u2014 it cannot land in the kitchen or on the kitchen line (that is a fault).\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ccite class=\u0022recommended\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022title\u0022\u003ENote\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOnly one serve attempt is allowed per rally. If the serve is a fault, the server loses the serve (or the rally, in rally scoring). There is no second serve in pickleball.\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/cite\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022the_twobounce_rule\u0022\u003EThe Two-Bounce Rule\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe two-bounce rule (also called the double-bounce rule) is one of pickleball\u2019s most important and distinctive rules. It states that after the serve, each team must let the ball bounce once before hitting it.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Col\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe \u003Cb\u003Ereturn of serve\u003C/b\u003E must bounce before the returning team hits it.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe \u003Cb\u003Eserving team\u2019s next shot\u003C/b\u003E (the third shot) must also bounce before they hit it.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAfter those two bounces have occurred, either team may volley the ball (hit it before it bounces) or play it off the bounce.\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ol\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe two-bounce rule prevents the serving team from rushing the net immediately after the serve and prevents the returning team from smashing a volley return. It promotes longer rallies and is the reason the third shot drop is so strategically important \u2014 the serving team is forced to advance from the baseline.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022the_nonvolley_zone_kitchen\u0022\u003EThe Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen)\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe non-volley zone \u2014 universally called \u201Cthe kitchen\u201D \u2014 is the 7-foot area on each side of the net bounded by the kitchen line, sidelines, and the net. It is the most strategically significant zone in pickleball and the source of more rule questions than any other.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022the_nvz_rule\u0022\u003EThe NVZ rule\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou cannot volley the ball (hit it before it bounces) while standing in the non-volley zone or while touching the NVZ line. This applies to your feet, body, clothing, and anything you\u2019re wearing or carrying \u2014 including your paddle.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022what_you_can_do_in_the_kitchen\u0022\u003EWhat you can do in the kitchen\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EYou \u003Cb\u003Ecan\u003C/b\u003E enter the kitchen at any time to play a ball that has bounced inside the NVZ.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EYou \u003Cb\u003Ecan\u003C/b\u003E stand in the kitchen between shots, as long as you do not volley from there.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EYou \u003Cb\u003Ecan\u003C/b\u003E reach over the kitchen line to volley a ball, as long as you are not touching the NVZ or the line.\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ul\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022momentum_fault\u0022\u003EMomentum fault\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf a player volleys a ball and their momentum carries them into the NVZ or onto the NVZ line after contact, it is a fault \u2014 even if the ball was already dead. A player who volleys near the kitchen line must be in full control and not step in as a result of the swing\u2019s follow-through.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ccite class=\u0022warning\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022title\u0022\u003EWarning\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe most frequent NVZ fault is momentum after a volley. Even if you hit a clean, legal volley from outside the kitchen, if your follow-through or forward motion carries any part of your body or paddle into the kitchen before you re-establish balance outside it, the fault stands. A dropped paddle, hat, or any object worn by the player that falls into the kitchen during a volley also counts as a NVZ fault. Always be deliberate about resetting your position after aggressive net play.\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/cite\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022scoring\u0022\u003EScoring\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPickleball uses two scoring systems: traditional (side-out) scoring and rally scoring. The format used depends on the event or the agreement between players.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022traditional_scoring\u0022\u003ETraditional scoring\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOnly the serving team can score points.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGames are typically played to 11 points, win by 2.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIn tournament play, games are often played to 15 or 21 points, win by 2.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIn doubles, both players on a team serve before a side-out (except the first service turn of each game, where only one player serves).\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe score is called as three numbers before every serve: serving team\u2019s score, receiving team\u2019s score, server number (1 or 2). Example: \u201C4-3-2.\u201D\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ul\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022rally_scoring\u0022\u003ERally scoring\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEither team can score on any rally, regardless of who served.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGames are typically played to 15 or 21 points, win by 2.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe serve rotates to the other team when the receiving team wins a rally.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ESome formats include a freeze rule at game point.\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor a complete breakdown of both scoring systems, server positioning, and common scoring mistakes, see our \u003Ca href=\u0022#\u0022\u003EPickleball Scoring Explained\u003C/a\u003E guide.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022faults\u0022\u003EFaults\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA fault ends the rally. The team that committed the fault either loses the serve (traditional scoring) or loses the point (rally scoring). Common faults include:\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022serving_faults\u0022\u003EServing faults\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EServe lands in the kitchen or on the kitchen line.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EServe lands out of bounds.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EServe is not hit underhand or above the waist (volley serve).\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EServer steps on or over the baseline before contact.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EServer serves from the wrong position.\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ul\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022rally_faults\u0022\u003ERally faults\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBall is hit out of bounds.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBall hits the net and does not go over.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBall bounces twice before being returned.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBall is volleyed from inside the non-volley zone.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPlayer, clothing, or equipment touches the net or net posts during play.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETwo-bounce rule is violated (ball is volleyed before the required bounce).\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBall strikes a permanent object (ceiling, wall, lighting fixture) before landing in the opponent\u2019s court.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBall is hit by a player who is out of bounds.\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ul\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022line_calls\u0022\u003ELine Calls\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPickleball uses the same basic line-call principles as tennis and other racquet sports, with one notable exception.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EAll boundary lines are in bounds\u003C/b\u003E during rallies \u2014 a ball landing on any part of the baseline, sideline, or kitchen line is considered in bounds.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EException: the kitchen line on a serve.\u003C/b\u003E If a served ball lands on the kitchen line, it is a fault. The kitchen line is out during the serve only.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EThe calling team\u003C/b\u003E is the team on whose side the ball lands. In recreational play, each team calls balls on their own side.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EBenefit of the doubt goes to the opponent.\u003C/b\u003E If a player is not sure whether a ball is in or out, it should be called in.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003ECalls must be made promptly.\u003C/b\u003E A player cannot wait to see if a ball is good, then call it out. Late calls are generally not honored.\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ul\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022lets\u0022\u003ELets\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA let is a replay of a rally. Lets occur in two situations:\u003C/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EService let:\u003C/b\u003E A served ball that clips the top of the net and lands in the correct service box is a let \u2014 the serve is replayed. (Note: under current USA Pickleball rules, a service let is actually replayed. Some older players still call net serves \u201Cdead,\u201D but the current rule is to replay.)\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EDistraction or interference let:\u003C/b\u003E A rally may be replayed if it is interrupted by an outside interference \u2014 a ball rolling onto the court from another court, a loud unexpected distraction, or similar events. Both players must agree to replay. A player cannot call a let after the fact to get a do-over.\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ul\u003E\u003Ccite class=\u0022recommended\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022title\u0022\u003ENote\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cp\u003EUnder current USA Pickleball rules, a serve that clips the net and lands in is replayed as a let. Verify the current rulebook at usapickleball.org if you\u2019re playing in a sanctioned event, as rules can be updated annually.\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/cite\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022out_of_bounds\u0022\u003EOut of Bounds\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA ball is out of bounds when it lands outside the court boundaries \u2014 beyond the baselines, sidelines, or (on a serve) in the kitchen. A ball that hits a permanent object such as a wall, ceiling, or overhead obstruction before bouncing in the court is also out.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA ball that passes over the net and then bounces back onto the server\u2019s side due to spin or wind is still in play \u2014 the opponent can legally reach over the net to play it, as long as they do not touch the net. If the opponent cannot reach it and it bounces twice on the originating side, the player who hit it wins the rally.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022doublesspecific_rules\u0022\u003EDoubles-Specific Rules\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022server_order_and_positioning\u0022\u003EServer order and positioning\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAt the start of each game, the first serving team determines which player serves first. That player is server 1. When the serving team wins a rally, the same player continues to serve from the opposite service box (switching sides after each point). When server 1 faults, server 2 takes over from the correct side. When server 2 also faults, it\u2019s a side-out and the other team serves.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first service turn of every game is a special case: only one player serves before a side-out (to reduce the first-server advantage). This is why the score at the start of every game is called \u201C0-0-2\u201D \u2014 the \u201C2\u201D signals that the second server is already serving, meaning a side-out will occur after just one server.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022court_positioning_in_doubles\u0022\u003ECourt positioning in doubles\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYour position on the court (left or right service box) is always determined by your team\u2019s score, not the server\u2019s individual score. Even score = right side. Odd score = left side. This applies to both the server and their partner. If a team is on the wrong side when a point is scored, they correct their position before the next serve.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022partner_communication\u0022\u003EPartner communication\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBoth players on a doubles team may call balls in or out on their side. Either player may call a let. Disagreements between partners on a line call result in the ball being called in (benefit to the opponent).\u003C/p\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022singlesspecific_rules\u0022\u003ESingles-Specific Rules\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESingles pickleball uses the same rules as doubles with a few differences:\u003C/p\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe score is called as two numbers only: server\u2019s score, then receiver\u2019s score. There is no server number.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EServer position follows the same even/odd rule: even score = right side, odd score = left side.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThere is only one server per side, so a fault results in an immediate side-out.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThere is no \u201C0-0-2\u201D starting rule \u2014 games begin at 0-0.\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ul\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022equipment_rules\u0022\u003EEquipment Rules\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFor sanctioned play, all equipment must meet USA Pickleball standards.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022paddle_rules\u0022\u003EPaddle rules\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe paddle surface must be smooth and meet USA Pickleball texture standards \u2014 no excessive roughness.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECombined paddle length and width cannot exceed 24 inches.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMaximum paddle length is 17 inches.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThere is no restriction on paddle thickness or weight.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EPaddles must appear on the USA Pickleball approved equipment list for sanctioned tournament play.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAdding lead tape or other weight is permitted as long as the paddle remains within surface and size rules.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EReflective surfaces or features that distract opponents are not permitted.\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ul\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022ball_rules\u0022\u003EBall rules\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EThe ball must be an approved pickleball \u2014 a perforated polymer sphere.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMust have 26 to 40 circular holes.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EDiameter:\u003C/b\u003E 2.874 to 2.972 inches.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EWeight:\u003C/b\u003E 0.78 to 0.935 ounces.\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOutdoor balls have smaller, harder holes (typically 40 holes); indoor balls have larger holes (typically 26).\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETournament directors specify which approved ball will be used for their event.\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ul\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022advanced_rule_situations\u0022\u003EAdvanced Rule Situations\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022aroundthepost_atp_shots\u0022\u003EAround-the-post (ATP) shots\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA player may legally hit the ball around the outside of the net post rather than over the net. This is an around-the-post (ATP) shot. There is no height restriction on an ATP \u2014 the ball does not need to clear the net. The ball must still land in the opponent\u2019s court.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022ball_crossing_the_net_and_returning\u0022\u003EBall crossing the net and returning\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf a ball crosses the net and then spins or blows back across to the originating side before the opponent can return it, the player who hit it wins the rally. The ball does not need to be played.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022reaching_over_the_net\u0022\u003EReaching over the net\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA player may reach over the net to play a ball only if the ball has already crossed to their side of the net. A player may never reach over the net to strike a ball that is still on the opponent\u2019s side. Touching the net at any time while the ball is in play is a fault.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022distraction_rule\u0022\u003EDistraction rule\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPlayers may not deliberately distract, hinder, or intimidate their opponents during a rally. Calling the score before the serve is required \u2014 intentionally calling it incorrectly or at a misleading time is considered a distraction. Accidental noise or movement that affects play can result in a let.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ch3 id=\u0022hinders\u0022\u003EHinders\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA hinder is any outside interference that prevents a player from making a legitimate shot. Players must agree that a hinder occurred. A ball from another court rolling onto the playing surface mid-rally is a common example. If agreed, the rally is replayed.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022frequently_asked_questions_about_pickleball_rules\u0022\u003EFrequently asked questions about pickleball rules\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Csection class=\u0022faq\u0022\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ECan you volley in pickleball?\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Carticle\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYes \u2014 but only after the two-bounce rule has been satisfied. The serve must bounce once on the receiving side, and the return must bounce once on the serving side. After those two bounces, either team may volley (hit the ball before it bounces). You may never volley while standing in the Non-Volley Zone (kitchen) or touching the kitchen line.\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/article\u003E\u003C/section\u003E\u003Csection class=\u0022faq\u0022\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ECan you step into the kitchen in pickleball?\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Carticle\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo. You cannot volley (hit the ball before it bounces) while standing in or touching the kitchen or the kitchen line. You can step into the kitchen to hit a ball that has bounced inside it, and you can stand in the kitchen at any other time \u2014 just not to volley.\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/article\u003E\u003C/section\u003E\u003Csection class=\u0022faq\u0022\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EWhat does the two-bounce rule mean in pickleball?\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Carticle\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe two-bounce rule requires the return of serve to bounce before the returner hits it, and the serving team\u2019s third shot to bounce before they hit it. After those two bounces, the ball can be volleyed or played off the bounce freely. It does not mean every ball must bounce twice during a rally.\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/article\u003E\u003C/section\u003E\u003Csection class=\u0022faq\u0022\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EIs the line in or out in pickleball?\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Carticle\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA ball landing on any boundary line is in bounds during a rally. The exception is on the serve \u2014 a served ball that lands on the kitchen line is a fault.\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/article\u003E\u003C/section\u003E\u003Csection class=\u0022faq\u0022\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EDo you get a second serve in pickleball?\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Carticle\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo. Pickleball allows only one serve attempt. If the serve lands out, in the kitchen, or otherwise fails to land in the correct service box, it is a fault and the server loses their serve.\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/article\u003E\u003C/section\u003E\u003Csection class=\u0022faq\u0022\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EWhat happens when you fault in pickleball?\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Carticle\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA fault ends the rally. In traditional scoring, a fault by the serving team ends their serve (the second server takes over, or a side-out occurs). A fault by the receiving team results in a point for the serving team. In rally scoring, a fault by either team results in a point for the non-faulting team.\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/article\u003E\u003C/section\u003E\u003Csection class=\u0022faq\u0022\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ECan the ball hit the net post in pickleball?\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Carticle\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENo. If the ball hits the net post, cables, or any support structure outside the net fabric, it is a fault and the rally ends. The ball must cross over the net fabric cleanly to remain in play.\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/article\u003E\u003C/section\u003E\u003Csection class=\u0022faq\u0022\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EWhat is the difference between pickleball singles and doubles rules?\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Carticle\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe core rules are the same in singles and doubles \u2014 the two-bounce rule, NVZ rules, serving rules, and fault rules all apply equally. The key differences are: in singles, each player serves the entire time their team is serving (no server number is called); the score is called as two numbers; and there is no partner to position. Serving court position (right for even scores, left for odd) still applies in singles.\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/article\u003E\u003C/section\u003E\u003Csection class=\u0022faq\u0022\u003E\u003Ch3\u003EIs the Erne shot legal?\u003C/h3\u003E\u003Carticle\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYes. The Erne is a legal shot where a player steps or jumps outside the sideline to volley a ball near the net post without being inside the NVZ. The player must reach their position outside the court without stepping through the kitchen \u2014 they can go around the outside of the NVZ or jump over the kitchen corner. As long as they don\u2019t touch the kitchen or kitchen line, the shot is legal.\u003C/p\u003E\u003C/article\u003E\u003C/section\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022quick_rules_reference\u0022\u003EQuick Rules Reference\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Ctable border=\u00221\u0022 style=\u0022border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;\u0022\u003E\u003Cthead\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Cth\u003ERule\u003C/th\u003E\u003Cth\u003EQuick Answer\u003C/th\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003C/thead\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ECourt size\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E20 ft x 44 ft (same for singles and doubles)\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ENet height\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E36 in at sidelines, 34 in at center\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EKitchen (NVZ) depth\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E7 feet from the net on each side\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EServe type\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EUnderhand volley serve or drop serve \u2014 both legal\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EServe placement\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMust land diagonally opposite, not in kitchen or on NVZ line\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ETwo-bounce rule\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EBall must bounce once on each side before volleying\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EVolleying in kitchen\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ENever allowed \u2014 fault every time\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMomentum into kitchen\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EFault, even after a clean volley outside the kitchen\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EServe let\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EEliminated in 2021 \u2014 net serves that land in are live\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EGame length\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003E11 points, win by 2 (standard)\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EWho can score\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EServing team only (traditional scoring)\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ELine calls\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EBall on any line is IN, except serve landing on NVZ line (fault)\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EServe court \u2014 even score\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ERight service court\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EServe court \u2014 odd score\u003C/td\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ELeft service court\u003C/td\u003E\u003C/tr\u003E\u003C/table\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Chr\u003E\u003Ch2 id=\u0022related_resources\u0022\u003ERelated resources\u003C/h2\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#\u0022\u003EHow to Play Pickleball: A Complete Beginner\u2019s Guide\u003C/a\u003E \u2014 start here if you\u2019re brand new\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#\u0022\u003EPickleball Scoring Explained\u003C/a\u003E \u2014 traditional and rally scoring in detail\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#\u0022\u003EPickleball Shots \u0026amp; Techniques Library\u003C/a\u003E \u2014 every shot type explained\u003C/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#\u0022\u003EPickleball Strategy Guide\u003C/a\u003E \u2014 how to use the rules to your advantage\u003C/li\u003E\u003C/ul\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHave a rules question that isn\u2019t covered here? Reach out to our support team at \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:support@pickleball.com\u0022\u003Esupport@pickleball.com\u003C/a\u003E \u2014 we\u2019re happy to help.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cscript type=\u0022application/ld\u002Bjson\u0022\u003E\r\n{\r\n  \u0022@context\u0022: \u0022https://schema.org\u0022,\r\n  \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022FAQPage\u0022,\r\n  \u0022mainEntity\u0022: [\r\n{\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Question\u0022,\r\n    \u0022name\u0022: \u0022Can you volley in pickleball?\u0022,\r\n    \u0022acceptedAnswer\u0022: {\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Answer\u0022,\r\n    \u0022text\u0022: \u0022Yes \u2014 but only after the two-bounce rule has been satisfied. The serve must bounce once on the receiving side, and the return must bounce once on the serving side. After those two bounces, either team may volley (hit the ball before it bounces). You may never volley while standing in the Non-Volley Zone (kitchen) or touching the kitchen line.\u0022\r\n    }\r\n},\r\n{\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Question\u0022,\r\n    \u0022name\u0022: \u0022Can you step into the kitchen in pickleball?\u0022,\r\n    \u0022acceptedAnswer\u0022: {\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Answer\u0022,\r\n    \u0022text\u0022: \u0022No. You cannot volley (hit the ball before it bounces) while standing in or touching the kitchen or the kitchen line. You can step into the kitchen to hit a ball that has bounced inside it, and you can stand in the kitchen at any other time \u2014 just not to volley.\u0022\r\n    }\r\n},\r\n{\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Question\u0022,\r\n    \u0022name\u0022: \u0022What does the two-bounce rule mean in pickleball?\u0022,\r\n    \u0022acceptedAnswer\u0022: {\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Answer\u0022,\r\n    \u0022text\u0022: \u0022The two-bounce rule requires the return of serve to bounce before the returner hits it, and the serving team\u2019s third shot to bounce before they hit it. After those two bounces, the ball can be volleyed or played off the bounce freely. It does not mean every ball must bounce twice during a rally.\u0022\r\n    }\r\n},\r\n{\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Question\u0022,\r\n    \u0022name\u0022: \u0022Is the line in or out in pickleball?\u0022,\r\n    \u0022acceptedAnswer\u0022: {\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Answer\u0022,\r\n    \u0022text\u0022: \u0022A ball landing on any boundary line is in bounds during a rally. The exception is on the serve \u2014 a served ball that lands on the kitchen line is a fault.\u0022\r\n    }\r\n},\r\n{\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Question\u0022,\r\n    \u0022name\u0022: \u0022Do you get a second serve in pickleball?\u0022,\r\n    \u0022acceptedAnswer\u0022: {\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Answer\u0022,\r\n    \u0022text\u0022: \u0022No. Pickleball allows only one serve attempt. If the serve lands out, in the kitchen, or otherwise fails to land in the correct service box, it is a fault and the server loses their serve.\u0022\r\n    }\r\n},\r\n{\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Question\u0022,\r\n    \u0022name\u0022: \u0022What happens when you fault in pickleball?\u0022,\r\n    \u0022acceptedAnswer\u0022: {\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Answer\u0022,\r\n    \u0022text\u0022: \u0022A fault ends the rally. In traditional scoring, a fault by the serving team ends their serve (the second server takes over, or a side-out occurs). A fault by the receiving team results in a point for the serving team. In rally scoring, a fault by either team results in a point for the non-faulting team.\u0022\r\n    }\r\n},\r\n{\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Question\u0022,\r\n    \u0022name\u0022: \u0022Can the ball hit the net post in pickleball?\u0022,\r\n    \u0022acceptedAnswer\u0022: {\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Answer\u0022,\r\n    \u0022text\u0022: \u0022No. If the ball hits the net post, cables, or any support structure outside the net fabric, it is a fault and the rally ends. The ball must cross over the net fabric cleanly to remain in play.\u0022\r\n    }\r\n},\r\n{\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Question\u0022,\r\n    \u0022name\u0022: \u0022What is the difference between pickleball singles and doubles rules?\u0022,\r\n    \u0022acceptedAnswer\u0022: {\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Answer\u0022,\r\n    \u0022text\u0022: \u0022The core rules are the same in singles and doubles \u2014 the two-bounce rule, NVZ rules, serving rules, and fault rules all apply equally. The key differences are: in singles, each player serves the entire time their team is serving (no server number is called); the score is called as two numbers; and there is no partner to position. Serving court position (right for even scores, left for odd) still applies in singles.\u0022\r\n    }\r\n},\r\n{\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Question\u0022,\r\n    \u0022name\u0022: \u0022Is the Erne shot legal?\u0022,\r\n    \u0022acceptedAnswer\u0022: {\r\n    \u0022@type\u0022: \u0022Answer\u0022,\r\n    \u0022text\u0022: \u0022Yes. The Erne is a legal shot where a player steps or jumps outside the sideline to volley a ball near the net post without being inside the NVZ. The player must reach their position outside the court without stepping through the kitchen \u2014 they can go around the outside of the NVZ or jump over the kitchen corner. As long as they don\u2019t touch the kitchen or kitchen line, the shot is legal.\u0022\r\n    }\r\n}\r\n    ]\r\n}\r\n\u003C/script\u003E","publish_status":0,"post_type":"Article","authoruid":"42b786ed-5ff2-467c-9593-d828908ee6d2","author":{"authoruid":"42b786ed-5ff2-467c-9593-d828908ee6d2","name":"Christy Cook","url":"https://www.linkedin.com/in/christy-cook-texas/","photo_url":"https://graffiti-auf7e6dwhxhcbwek.z03.azurefd.net/45a0010e-ec76-43e9-9914-4376bfa80903/4025e8c9-71ea-4557-850d-662c78598919/4fd2cf59-047a-4a00-8a6d-2d9c6c9f91fe.jpg?v=1114665229","linkedin_url":"https://www.linkedin.com/in/christy-cook-texas/"},"featured_image_url":"https://graffiti-auf7e6dwhxhcbwek.z03.azurefd.net/45a0010e-ec76-43e9-9914-4376bfa80903/4025e8c9-71ea-4557-850d-662c78598919/6a01d717-572e-4c2f-a888-6640d6a6a7a1-featured.png?v=-367009886","featured_image_updating":false,"meta_description":"Learn all pickleball rules, from serving and the two-bounce rule to scoring, faults, non-volley zone, equipment, and advanced play guidelines.","keywords":"serving rules; two-bounce rule; non-volley zone; scoring systems; faults; line calls; lets; doubles rules; singles rules; equipment standards","display_toc":true,"has_workingcopy":false,"allow_indexing":true,"total_views":7,"date_stale":"2026-11-02T00:00:00","date_published":"2026-05-03T17:00:00","date_updated":"2026-05-05T14:39:44.68","date_created":"2026-05-03T12:06:23.74"}}}