How to Play Craps for Beginners
Craps is one of the most dynamic and entertaining table games you'll find in any casino—both in person and online. While it may seem intimidating at first glance, especially when compared to simpler games like blackjack or roulette, craps is actually easier to learn than many people think.
In fact, once you understand a few basic concepts, craps becomes a fast-paced, engaging game that’s perfect for online play. Whether you're new to casino gaming or just curious about how to play craps, this guide will help you get started.
We’ll walk you through the essential rules of craps, including what a "Natural" is, what happens when you "Crap Out," how the "Point" system works, and the fundamentals of placing bets
Keep reading to discover how this exciting dice game works and why it might become your new favorite casino game.
How to Play Craps: A Simple Guide to Craps Rules and Bets
Craps is a thrilling dice game played in both land-based and online casinos. It all begins with a roll known as the come-out roll, which marks the start of each betting round. The player who rolls the dice is called the shooter.
Whether you're at a real casino or playing online, the shooter rolls two dice—either by physically throwing them or pressing the roll button. Once the dice land, the game moves forward based on the total value shown. There are three possible outcomes from this initial roll:
What Is a Natural in Craps?
If the come-out roll results in a 7 or 11, this is called a Natural. It’s the best possible outcome on the first roll. You instantly win the round and get to roll again.
What Does It Mean to Crap Out?
Rolling a 2, 3, or 12 is referred to as crapping out. This means you lose the bet on the come-out roll. However, the game doesn't end—you'll have another chance in the next round.
What Is the Point in Craps?
If the shooter rolls a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the Point. In a physical casino, the dealer marks the Point on the table. Online, you’ll see a small “On” button light up to show that the Point is set.
From here, the goal is simple: roll the same number again before hitting a 7. It doesn’t matter how you get there—as long as the total matches the Point, you win.
So, why is 7 missing from the list of Point numbers? Because once a Point is established, rolling a 7 means you seven out—you lose, and the round ends.
Craps Table Layout: How to Read and Use the Craps Table
Before placing your first bet in craps, it's important to understand the layout of the table. The design might look a bit overwhelming at first, but once you know what each section means, everything becomes much easier.
A typical craps table is divided into several areas, each dedicated to different types of bets. The layout is mirrored on both ends so multiple players can participate at the same time.
Now that you know how the dice are rolled and how each outcome works, the next step is learning where and how to place your bets. From simple wagers like the Pass Line to more advanced options such as Come bets and Place bets, the table is your guide to navigating the game.
Understanding the layout is the key to making smart bets—and enjoying the game to the fullest.
Pass Line vs Don’t Pass Line Bets in Craps
In craps, one of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to bet on the Pass Line or the Don’t Pass Line. These are the two most common bets in the game, and they set the tone for the entire round.
A Pass Line bet means you’re backing the shooter to win. You win if the come-out roll is a 7 or 11 (this is called a “natural”). If a point is established—meaning the shooter rolls a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10—they must hit that number again before rolling a 7. If they do, you win. If a 7 comes up first, you lose.
A Don’t Pass Line bet is essentially the opposite. You’re betting against the shooter. If the come-out roll is a 2 or 3, you win. A 7 or 11 means you lose, while a 12 is usually a push (no win or loss). If a point is set, you're hoping the shooter rolls a 7 before hitting the point again.
These bets must be placed before the come-out roll—once the point is set, they’re no longer available. After that, you can explore Come and Don’t Come bets, which work similarly but are made after the point is established.
Come and Don’t Come Bets in Craps
Once a point is established in craps, players can place Come or Don’t Come bets—these are essentially bets on the outcome of the next roll, following similar rules to the Pass and Don’t Pass bets.
A Come Bet wins if the next roll is a 7 or 11 and loses if it's a 2, 3, or 12. If a different number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) is rolled, that number becomes your personal “Come Point.” From there, you’re hoping the shooter rolls that same number again before a 7 shows up. If that happens, you win. If a 7 is rolled first, the bet loses.
A Don’t Come Bet works the other way around. You win if a 2 or 3 is rolled right after placing the bet, and lose on a 7 or 11. A roll of 12 results in a Push, meaning your bet is returned. If another number becomes the Don’t Come Point, you’re hoping for a 7 to appear before that number rolls again.
Once placed, Come and Don’t Come bets cannot be turned off. They stay active until resolved. However, you can place additional bets on your Come Point—these are known as odds bets—and those can be increased or reduced at any time.
These bets add more depth and flexibility to the game, especially for players who want continuous action throughout the round.
Proposition Bets in Craps: Quick Wins with High Risk
Proposition bets are single-roll wagers placed in the center area of the craps table. These are often fast, high-risk bets with attractive payouts, making them popular among players seeking instant results.
Below is a breakdown of common proposition bets, how they win, and their standard payouts:
| Bet Type | Wins If... | Payout (per $1 bet) |
|---|---|---|
| Any Seven | A 7 is rolled | $4–$5 (typically $4) |
| Any Craps | A 2, 3, or 12 is rolled | $7 |
| Ace Deuce | A 3 is rolled | $15 |
| Aces | A 2 is rolled | $30 |
| Boxcars | A 12 is rolled | $30 |
| Horn | A 2, 3, 11, or 12 is rolled | Varies (avg. $3.75–$5) |
Note: Actual payouts may differ slightly depending on the casino or online platform. Always check the house rules.
What About the Hard Ways?
The only multi-roll proposition bets are called Hard Way bets. You win if the number is rolled as a pair (e.g., 2+2 for a Hard 4 or 3+3 for a Hard 6) before either a 7 or an easier combination of that number appears (like 1+3 for an Easy 4).
- Hard 4 or Hard 10 usually pays 7:1.
- Hard 6 or Hard 8 usually pays 9:1.
Other Even-Money Bets
In addition to proposition bets, craps offers several even-money (1:1) wagers, such as:
- Pass Line
- Don’t Pass Line
- Come
- Don’t Come
These bets are lower risk and often preferred by players focusing on consistent long-term strategy rather than quick wins.
Place Bets in Craps: Choose Your Number
After the point is established, you have the option to make Place Bets. This allows you to bet on specific numbers—typically 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10.
- You win if your chosen number is rolled before a 7.
- You lose if a 7 comes up first.
Place bets offer different payout rates depending on the number you choose. For example:
- 6 or 8 typically pays 7:6
- 5 or 9 pays 7:5
- 4 or 10 pays 9:5
Place bets are flexible—you can increase, reduce, or remove them at any time (unless a roll is in progress).
Field Bets in Craps: One-Roll Simplicity
Field bets are one-roll wagers. They cover a wide range of numbers and are resolved immediately after the next roll.
- You win if the shooter rolls a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12
- You lose if the result is 5, 6, 7, or 8
Most casinos pay double on 2 and sometimes triple on 12, making field bets appealing to those looking for a quick payout with decent odds.
Big 6 and Big 8 Bets: Simple but Not Ideal
The Big 6 and Big 8 bets are placed in the corner of the craps table. You’re betting that a 6 or 8 will be rolled before a 7.
- If the selected number shows up first—you win
- If a 7 comes first—you lose
While the rules are straightforward, these bets pay even money (1:1) and are often considered less favorable compared to placing a standard Place Bet on 6 or 8, which offers better payouts.
How to Start Playing Craps – A Beginner’s Guide
Now that you understand the fundamentals of craps and are familiar with the different types of bets, the next step is simple: it's time to start playing.
But where should you begin?
Whether you’re completely new to the game or looking to sharpen your skills, there are plenty of options available—both online and in physical casinos. Many online casinos now offer user-friendly craps games that are perfect for beginners, complete with helpful tutorials and low-stakes tables.
If you prefer the thrill of a live environment, land-based casinos offer the full craps experience, often with dealers ready to assist new players.
Start by choosing a platform that suits your level of comfort and budget. Practice the basic bets first, such as the Pass Line or Don’t Pass, before exploring more advanced betting strategies. With just a little practice, you’ll be rolling like a pro in no time.
How to Play Craps for Beginners – Frequently Asked Questions
What is Craps?
Craps is a popular casino table game played both in physical casinos and online. Players roll two dice and place bets on the possible outcomes by positioning chips on a specialized craps table.
Where can I find free online Craps games?
Several websites offer free craps games, allowing beginners to practice and learn the rules without risking real money.
Can you win at Craps?
Yes, you can win at craps if your bets correctly predict the dice outcome.
What is the house edge in Craps?
Craps offers one of the lowest house edges among casino games—approximately 1.41%—which is more favorable than games like blackjack and roulette.
What are the odds for each outcome in Craps?
Payout odds vary widely, ranging from 30:1 to even money (1:1), depending on the specific bet and the game’s built-in house advantage.
How much can you win in Craps?
Your potential winnings depend on several factors, including the casino’s house edge, your bet size, and the roll results.
Is Craps a game of skill or luck?
Craps is mostly a game of chance since outcomes rely on dice rolls. Although some players believe in influencing the dice, this remains unproven.
Why is the game called Craps?
The term "craps" likely comes from the French word “crapaud,” meaning “toad,” referring to players crouching low while playing on the ground or sidewalk.