How Many Times Can You Hit in Blackjack? Dealer Rules Explained
At first glance, blackjack may seem simple, but there are important subtleties when it comes to deciding whether to hit or stand. New players are usually not only curious about the choices available to them, but also about how the dealer plays their hand.
In this blog post, we’ll take a close look at how often both players and dealers can take additional cards, what happens if a hand exceeds 21, and how dealers approach certain hands according to the rules. We’ll also clear up some common misconceptions, making it easier to understand what’s happening at the table.
Why Understanding Hitting Rules Matters in Blackjack
Being aware of the hitting rules can help the game move along smoothly and reduce confusion. Each decision to take another card affects only the player’s hand. The dealer, meanwhile, follows clear instructions that guide every move.
Knowing that the dealer acts differently from players is useful if you choose to play, but the details of those actions will be covered further below. Keeping this distinction in mind can help clarify what is happening at the table.
How Many Times Can a Player Hit in Blackjack?
If you choose to play, you may ask for another card as often as you like, one at a time, provided the total does not exceed 21. There is no set maximum number of times a player may take a card.
For example, a starting total of 9 could be followed by multiple additional cards if the total remains at 21 or lower. Eventually, however, one more card might end the hand entirely. The exact consequences of going over 21 are explained in the next section.
What Happens if You Hit and Go Over 21?
If a hand exceeds 21 after taking another card, it immediately ends and is considered lost for that round, even if other hands are still active or the dealer’s total would have been lower. Only the hand that went over 21 is affected; any other hands continue normally.
Players decide when to stop requesting cards, while dealers follow predetermined instructions, which we explore next.
How Many Times Can the Dealer Hit in Blackjack?
Unlike someone choosing how many cards to take, dealers follow clear, table-defined instructions that dictate every move. The details of those instructions determine how often they may take additional cards and how certain hands are treated.
Dealer Hand Rules Explained
Dealers do not make personal choices about whether to take another card. Instead, they continue drawing until reaching a certain total, usually 17 or higher, or until the hand exceeds 21. There is no set maximum number of cards the dealer may take.
When the dealer’s hand is 16 or lower, another card must be drawn. At 17 or above, the dealer usually stops. These totals can be either “hard” (no Ace counted as 11) or “soft” (an Ace counted as 11), and the treatment of soft 17 might vary. House rules are typically displayed on the table, so you can see them before playing.
Does the Dealer Always Have to Hit on 16?
In most cases, yes. A dealer is required to take another card on totals of 16 or less, even if the hand contains an Ace that could be counted as 1. Once the total reaches 17 or more, the dealer normally stops drawing.
The exception is when the total is a soft 17. The rules for these hands differ slightly depending on the table, which we cover next.
When Can the Dealer Stand on Soft 17?
A soft 17 includes an Ace counted as 11, such as Ace and 6. Some tables instruct the dealer to stand on a soft 17, while others require an additional card.
This rule might subtly change how often the dealer draws on borderline hands. Tables usually indicate the rule as “Dealer stands on soft 17” or “Dealer hits on soft 17,” so it is worth checking before deciding how to play your hand.
Common Misconceptions About Hitting in Blackjack
Some people think there is a limit to how many times a player may take another card. In reality, players may continue until they choose to stop or go over 21.
Another frequent misunderstanding is that the dealer makes strategic decisions. The dealer always follows the posted rules, with no room for personal judgement. Players’ choices do not affect the cards the dealer draws; each hand is separate.
If you choose to play blackjack, always keep responsible gambling practices in mind and never wager more than you are willing to lose. If playing begins to affect your finances or well-being, independent organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware offer confidential support and advice.
Play Blackjack Online at Ivy Casino
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We’re licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), and we have measures in place to protect players and maintain the integrity of our games. Our account tools let you set limits or take a break whenever you feel it might be helpful.
If you decide to play, feel free to make an account at Ivy Casino, deposit some funds and explore our blackjack tables at your own pace.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.