How to Become a Blackjack Dealer

Blackjack is a card game played with one or more decks of 52 cards. The value of each card is its numerical worth, or its face value — a jack is worth 10, a queen is worth 11, and an ace is worth either 1 or 11. The goal of the game is to acquire a hand that totals closer to 21 than the dealer’s. Players bet on the outcome of their hands, with a high score winning and a low score losing. A pair of aces and a king is considered a blackjack and pays 3:2.

To play, the player sits at the table, places their bet in the betting box, and the dealer deals two cards to each player. The player can then choose to hit (request more cards) or stand. If the player’s hand exceeds 21, they lose and their bet is returned. If they reach a hand of 21 or better, they win their original bet plus an amount equal to the dealer’s bank.

If the dealer has a blackjack, all the other players automatically lose the round. A push means the dealer’s blackjack wins, and a tie occurs when no hand beats the dealer’s. After the hands are settled, the dealer collects and shuffles the cards, then starts a new round.

The rules of blackjack vary slightly from casino to casino, but the basic strategy is the same. Practicing the basic strategy before you head to the casino can help you make wise decisions when playing for real money. You should also avoid side bets, which typically have large house edges, and remember to practice responsible gambling. This includes setting a budget and not chasing your losses.

Many people consider blackjack a game of luck, but there are strategies that can give you an advantage. Counting cards is one of these methods, and while it is only possible in land-based casinos (as standard online blackjack games shuffle the cards after each hand), it can reduce the house edge by 1% to 2%.

If you’re interested in becoming a blackjack dealer, you’ll need at least a high school diploma or equivalent and be able to pass a background check and drug screening. Most dealers complete a dealer training program, often run by the casino or as part of a vocational school. These programs last about six weeks and include instruction on casino games, player behavior, and local regulations. In addition, a strong work ethic and good customer service skills are essential for the position. Some casinos require additional qualifications, such as fluency in multiple languages or experience with other casino games. These qualifications can boost your odds of getting a job as a blackjack dealer. Some gaming schools are even offered in conjunction with local universities. They can be a great way to gain valuable casino industry experience while you’re pursuing your degree.