Craps is one of the most thrilling and fast-paced casino games you will encounter—whether you are standing at a buzzing table in Las Vegas or exploring online live dealer rooms from home. With its dynamic dice rolls, layered betting options, and surprisingly low house edge on key bets, craps offers both excitement and strategic depth for new players.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to play craps with confidence—from basic rules and bet types to smart beginner strategies, table layout tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is Craps?
Craps is one of the most exciting and fast-paced table games in any casino. Played with two dice, it is a game of pure chance—but with a wide range of betting options that give players control over risk and reward. Whether you are watching the dice fly across a felt table in Las Vegas or tapping your screen in an online live dealer room, craps delivers energy, suspense, and surprisingly strategic depth.
At its core, craps is about predicting the outcome of dice rolls. Players bet on whether the shooter (the person rolling the dice) will win or lose, and on specific combinations or totals that might appear. The game starts with a “come-out roll,” which sets the tone for the round. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, it is an instant win for Pass Line bettors. If they roll 2, 3, or 12, it is a loss. Any other number becomes the “point,” and the shooter keeps rolling until they hit the point again—or roll a 7 and end the round.
What makes craps unique is its layered betting system. You can keep it simple with Pass Line bets or dive into more complex wagers like Place Bets, Field Bets, or Proposition Bets. Each has its own odds, payout, and house edge—making craps a game that rewards both beginners and seasoned strategists.
For total beginners, craps may look intimidating at first. The table is filled with numbers, zones, and jargon. But once you understand the basic flow and focus on a few low-risk bets, it becomes one of the most rewarding games to play. In this guide, we will walk you through every rule, bet type, strategy, and online adaptation—so you can roll with confidence.
Craps Rules Explained
At first glance, craps might seem overwhelming—there is a large table, dozens of betting options, and a crowd cheering around the shooter. But once you understand the basic flow of the game, it becomes surprisingly straightforward. In fact, the core rules of craps revolve around just two dice and a few key outcomes.
The Objective
The goal in craps is to predict the outcome of the dice rolls. The game is played in rounds, and each round begins with a “come-out roll” by the shooter (the player rolling the dice). Depending on what is rolled, the game either ends immediately or enters a second phase called the “point.”
The Come-Out Roll
- If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, it is called a “natural,” and Pass Line bets win.
- If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, it is called “craps,” and Pass Line bets lose.
- If the shooter rolls 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the point.
Once a point is established, the shooter keeps rolling the dice until one of two things happens:
- If the point number is rolled again, Pass Line bets win.
- If a 7 is rolled before the point, it is called “seven-out,” and Pass Line bets lose.
This cycle continues with a new shooter once the round ends.
Shooter Rotation
Every player at the table gets a chance to be the shooter, moving clockwise. You do not have to shoot to play—you can bet on other shooters’ rolls.
Key Terms to Know
- Pass Line: The most common bet, placed before the come-out roll.
- Don’t Pass: A bet against the shooter—wins when the shooter loses.
- Point: The number that must be rolled again before a 7 to win.
Craps is essentially a game of two phases: the come-out roll and the point phase. Once you grasp this rhythm, the rest of the game becomes much easier to follow. In the next section, we will break down the different types of bets you can place—and which ones are best for beginners.
Craps Bets & Payouts
Craps offers one of the most diverse betting systems in any casino game. While this variety can seem intimidating at first, most players only need to understand a few core bets to get started. In this section, we will break down the most common craps bets, their payouts, and which ones are best for beginners.
Core Bets for Beginners
| Bet Type | Description | Payout | House Edge |
| Pass Line | Bet that the shooter will win (7/11 on come-out or hit the point) | 1:1 | ~1.41% |
| Don’t Pass | Bet against the shooter (2/3 win, 7 before point wins) | 1:1 | ~1.36% |
| Come | Like Pass Line, but placed after the point is set | 1:1 | ~1.41% |
| Don’t Come | Like Don’t Pass, but placed after the point is set | 1:1 | ~1.36% |
| Odds Bet | Side bet placed behind Pass/Don’t Pass—pays true odds, no house edge | Varies | 0% |
These bets are ideal for beginners because they are simple, low-risk, and offer some of the best odds in the casino.
Intermediate & Advanced Bets
| Bet Type | Description | Payout | House Edge |
| Place Bets | Bet that a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) will be rolled before a 7 | 9:5 to 7:6 | ~1.52–6.67% |
| Field Bet | One-roll bet on 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12 | 1:1 or 2:1 | ~5.5% |
| Proposition | One-roll bets on specific outcomes (e.g. Snake Eyes, Any 7, Yo 11) | Up to 30:1 | 10–16%+ |
These bets offer higher payouts but come with significantly higher house edges. They are best used sparingly or for entertainment value.
Smart Betting Tips
- Stick to Pass Line + Odds: This combo gives you a strong edge with minimal complexity.
- Avoid Proposition Bets: They may look tempting, but the odds are heavily against you.
- Use Come/Don’t Come for Variety: These mirror the Pass/Don’t Pass logic and add flexibility once the point is set.
Understanding which bets to focus on—and which to avoid—is key to enjoying craps without draining your bankroll. In the next section, we will walk you through a full round of craps step by step, so you can see how these bets play out in real time.
Step-by-Step: How to Play Craps
Craps may look chaotic at first, but once you understand the rhythm of the game, it becomes one of the most thrilling and beginner-accessible experiences in the casino. This walkthrough breaks down each phase of a typical craps round—from joining the table to placing your bets and watching the dice roll.
Step 1: Join the Table and Buy In
- Approach the craps table and exchange your cash for chips.
- Most tables have a minimum bet, often around $5 or $10.
- You do not need to be the shooter to play—just place your bets in the designated areas.
Step 2: Place Your First Bet (Pass Line or Don’t Pass)
- Before the shooter rolls, place your chip on the Pass Line (betting the shooter will win) or Don’t Pass (betting against the shooter).
- These are the simplest and most beginner-friendly bets.
Step 3: The Come-Out Roll
- The shooter rolls two dice:
- 7 or 11: Pass Line wins
- 2, 3, or 12: Pass Line loses (Don’t Pass wins on 2/3, pushes on 12)
- 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10: That number becomes the point
Step 4: Point Phase Begins
- The shooter keeps rolling until:
- They roll the point again → Pass Line wins
- They roll a 7 → Pass Line loses (Don’t Pass wins)
You can now place additional bets like Come, Place, or Field Bets, depending on your comfort level.
Step 5: Optional Odds Bet
- After the point is set, you can place an Odds Bet behind your Pass/Don’t Pass wager.
- This bet pays true odds and has no house edge—a smart move for beginners.
Step 6: Shooter Rotation
- If the shooter rolls a 7 before the point, the dice pass to the next player clockwise.
- You can continue betting on each shooter’s roll or wait for your turn to shoot.
Craps is all about momentum and timing. By sticking to Pass Line and Odds bets, you will enjoy the thrill without getting lost in complex wagers. In the next section, we will explore the layout of the craps table—so you know exactly where to place your chips and what each zone means.
Craps Table Layout
The craps table might look like a maze of numbers and betting zones at first glance—but once you understand the layout, it becomes much easier to navigate. Whether you are playing in a land-based casino or online, the table is designed to accommodate multiple players and a wide variety of bets. In this section, we will break down the key areas of the craps table and explain how they work in both physical and digital formats.
Land-Based Craps Table Layout
A standard craps table is large and U-shaped, designed to fit up to 16 players. It is mirrored on both sides so players can place bets from either end. The center of the table is reserved for high-risk bets, while the outer edges are where most beginners place their chips.
Key Zones:
- Pass Line & Don’t Pass Line: Located along the outer edge—this is where most players start.
- Come & Don’t Come Areas: Found just above the Pass Line zone.
- Field Bet Area: A large rectangular section in the center third of the table.
- Place Bets & Number Boxes: These are labeled 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10—used for betting on specific numbers.
- Proposition Bets: Located in the very center—these are one-roll, high-risk bets like “Any 7” or “Snake Eyes.”
Dealers and stickmen manage the table, collect losing bets, and pay out winners. Chips are placed directly on the layout, and players often rely on dealers to help position complex bets.
Online Craps Table Layout
Online craps tables are simplified for clarity and ease of use. The layout is usually top-down and interactive, with clickable zones for each bet type.
Key Features:
- Clean UI: Only the most common bets are shown by default.
- Expandable Options: Advanced bets like Proposition or Place Bets can be toggled on.
- Bet Highlighting: Hovering over a zone shows payout info and rules.
- Live Dealer Tables: These mimic land-based layouts but include digital overlays for betting.
Beginner Tip
Start by focusing on the Pass Line, Don’t Pass, and Field Bet areas. These are the most accessible zones and offer the best introduction to the game’s flow.
In the next section, we will dive into beginner-friendly strategies and tips to help you play smarter and avoid common traps.
Beginner Strategy & Tips for Playing Craps
Craps may be a game of chance, but smart betting choices can dramatically improve your odds and stretch your bankroll. For beginners, the key is to focus on low-risk bets, avoid the flashy traps, and understand the rhythm of the game. This section breaks down the most effective strategies for new players—whether you’re playing online or at a land-based casino.
Start with Pass Line and Don’t Pass Bets
These are the foundation of craps strategy. They’re simple, easy to follow, and offer some of the lowest house edges in the game:
- Pass Line: ~1.41% house edge
- Don’t Pass: ~1.36% house edge
Stick to these bets until you’re comfortable with the game flow. They are ideal for learning without risking too much.
Use Odds Bets to Your Advantage
Once a point is established, you can place an Odds Bet behind your Pass or Don’t Pass wager. This bet pays true odds and has no house edge, making it one of the smartest moves in craps.
Tip: Always take full odds if your bankroll allows. It’s the best value bet in the entire casino.
Avoid Proposition Bets (For Now)
Proposition bets—like “Any 7” or “Snake Eyes”—may offer high payouts, but they come with house edges of 10–16% or more. These are best left to experienced players or used sparingly for entertainment.
Bankroll Management Tips
- Set a session budget and stick to it.
- Avoid chasing losses—craps moves fast.
- Use smaller units (e.g., $5 bets) to extend playtime and reduce risk.
Watch Before You Play
If you’re new to live craps, spend a few minutes observing the table. Watch how bets are placed, how the shooter rolls, and how dealers manage payouts. This builds confidence and helps you avoid rookie mistakes.
In the next section, we’ll bust some common myths and highlight beginner mistakes to avoid—so you can play smarter from day one.
Common Myths & Mistakes in Craps
Craps is one of the most misunderstood games in the casino. Its fast pace, unique terminology, and wide range of bets often lead to confusion—and unfortunately, to costly mistakes. In this section, we’ll debunk the most common myths and highlight beginner pitfalls to help you play smarter and avoid unnecessary losses.
Myth #1: “You Need to Know Every Bet to Play”
False. While the craps table is filled with dozens of betting options, you only need to understand a few core bets—like Pass Line, Don’t Pass, and Odds Bets—to play confidently. Many experienced players stick to these simple bets for years.
Tip: Master the basics first. You can explore advanced bets later once you’re comfortable.
Myth #2: “The Dice Are Due for a Certain Number”
This is known as the Gambler’s Fallacy—the belief that past outcomes influence future ones. In craps, each roll is independent. Just because a 7 hasn’t appeared in a while doesn’t mean it’s “due.”
Tip: Focus on probabilities, not patterns. Don’t chase “hot” or “cold” streaks.
Mistake #1: Chasing High-Payout Bets Too Early
Proposition bets like “Any 7” or “Snake Eyes” may offer flashy payouts (up to 30:1), but they come with house edges of 10% or more. These bets are designed for entertainment, not long-term success.
Tip: Stick to low-edge bets like Pass Line + Odds until you’ve built experience.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Odds Bets
Many beginners skip Odds Bets because they seem optional or confusing. But they’re one of the only bets in the casino with zero house edge—a rare opportunity to improve your returns.
Tip: Always take full odds behind your Pass/Don’t Pass bets if your bankroll allows.
Mistake #3: Jumping In Without Observing
Craps has a rhythm. Jumping in mid-round without understanding the current phase (come-out vs point) can lead to misplaced bets or confusion.
Tip: Watch a few rolls before placing your first bet. Learn the flow, then join in.
In the next section, we’ll explore the different Craps Variants you might encounter—so you can choose the version that suits your style and skill level.
Craps Variants Explained
While standard casino craps is the most widely played version, there are several variants that offer different rules, betting styles, and pacing. Understanding these options can help you choose the version that best suits your comfort level, strategy preferences, and playing environment—whether you’re in a land-based casino or exploring online platforms.
1. Bank Craps (Standard Casino Craps)
This is the version you’ll find in most casinos and online live dealer rooms. It uses a large table layout, two dice, and a wide range of bets. The house acts as the bank, and all bets are placed against the casino.
Best for: Beginners and experienced players
Why play it: Offers the full craps experience with structured rules and dealer support
2. Street Craps (Informal Version)
Street craps is a simplified, informal version often played outside casinos. There’s no table layout—just two dice and a group of players betting against each other. It follows the same basic rules (Pass Line, point system) but lacks formal structure and house oversight.
Best for: Casual play among friends
Why play it: Fast, flexible, and social—but not available in regulated online casinos
3. Online Craps (Digital RNG Version)
Online craps uses a random number generator (RNG) to simulate dice rolls. It’s fast, solo-friendly, and often includes simplified layouts. Some versions allow auto-betting and quick replays.
Best for: Solo players and mobile users
Why play it: Convenient, fast-paced, and ideal for learning the basics
4. Live Dealer Craps
Live dealer craps combines the authenticity of a physical table with the convenience of online play. A real dealer rolls the dice, and players place bets via a digital interface. Some platforms offer interactive features like chat and bet history.
Best for: Players who want realism without leaving home
Why play it: Immersive, social, and great for learning with visual cues
Which Should You Choose?
- New to craps? Start with online RNG craps or live dealer craps for clarity and control.
- Want full strategy depth? Play bank craps in a casino or live dealer format.
- Just for fun? Try street craps with friends—but remember, it’s not regulated or available online.
In the next section, we’ll break down the most common craps terms in a beginner-friendly glossary—so you can speak the language of the table with confidence.
Craps Glossary
Craps comes with its own language—filled with unique terms, slang, and betting jargon that can confuse new players. This glossary breaks down the most common craps terms in simple, beginner-friendly language. Whether you’re playing online or at a land-based table, knowing these definitions will help you follow the action and place your bets with confidence.
Core Gameplay Terms
- Shooter: The player rolling the dice. Every round begins with a new shooter.
- Come-Out Roll: The first roll of a round. Determines whether the game ends immediately or enters the point phase.
- Point: A number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) established after the come-out roll. The shooter must roll this number again before rolling a 7 to win.
- Seven-Out: When the shooter rolls a 7 before hitting the point. Ends the round and Pass Line bets lose.
Betting Terms
- Pass Line Bet: A bet that the shooter will win. Wins on 7 or 11, loses on 2, 3, or 12.
- Don’t Pass Bet: A bet against the shooter. Wins on 2 or 3, loses on 7 or 11, pushes on 12.
- Come Bet: Similar to Pass Line, but placed after the point is set.
- Don’t Come Bet: Similar to Don’t Pass, but placed after the point is set.
- Odds Bet: A side bet placed behind Pass/Don’t Pass. Pays true odds and has no house edge.
- Field Bet: A one-roll bet on 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
- Place Bet: A bet that a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) will be rolled before a 7.
- Proposition Bet: High-risk, one-roll bets on specific outcomes like “Any 7” or “Snake Eyes.”
Table & Etiquette Terms
- Stickman: The casino staff member who manages the dice and calls out results.
- Boxman: Oversees the table and handles large bets and disputes.
- Layout: The printed design on the craps table showing all betting zones.
- Chips: Casino tokens used to place bets. Different colors represent different denominations.
In the final section, we’ll show you where to play craps online—highlighting trusted platforms, mobile options, and live dealer experiences that are perfect for beginners.
Where to Play Craps Online
Online craps has become increasingly popular thanks to its convenience, fast-paced gameplay, and beginner-friendly interfaces. Whether you’re looking for digital RNG versions or immersive live dealer tables, there are plenty of trusted platforms offering craps in multiple formats. In this section, we’ll guide you through where to play craps online safely, what to look for in a good platform, and how to get started.
Types of Online Craps Platforms
- RNG Craps (Digital Version):
- Uses random number generators to simulate dice rolls.
- Fast, solo-friendly, and ideal for learning the basics.
- Often includes auto-bet features and quick replays.
- Live Dealer Craps:
- Streams a real dealer rolling physical dice.
- Combines realism with digital betting overlays.
What to Look For in a Craps Site
- Mobile Compatibility: Ensure the site works smoothly on smartphones and tablets.
- Low Minimum Bets: Ideal for beginners—look for tables starting at $0.50 or $1.
- Live Dealer Options: Great for realism and learning table etiquette.
- Bonus Offers: Some casinos offer welcome bonuses or cashback on table games—check wagering requirements.
Beginner Tip
Start with RNG craps to learn the rules and flow. Once you’re confident, switch to live dealer tables for a more immersive experience.
Always read the terms and conditions before claiming any bonus. Craps may contribute differently to wagering requirements.