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Dart Game Rules & How to Play

Whether you're a beginner learning the basics or an experienced player looking for a quick reference, our comprehensive guides cover everything you need to know about playing darts.

Start with how to play cricket darts, review 301 darts rules, or go deep on 501 darts rules and checkouts.

Choose a Game Type

General Darts Rules

Learn the fundamentals of darts including dartboard layout, scoring zones, throwing techniques, and basic gameplay rules.

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501 Darts Rules

The most popular darts game worldwide. Start at 501 points and race to zero with a double finish.

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301 Darts Rules

A faster-paced version of 501. Perfect for quick games or when time is limited.

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Cricket Darts Rules

A strategic game focusing on closing numbers 15-20 and the bullseye. Great for all skill levels.

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Around the Clock Rules

Hit numbers 1 through 20 in sequence, then finish with the bullseye. Excellent for practice.

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Killer Darts Rules

An elimination game where each player defends a double. Become a killer, take lives, be the last one standing.

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Football 501 Rules

Each leg of 501 counts as a goal, played across two halves. Extra time and a penalty shootout if the match is tied.

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Quick Scoring Reference

Maximum Scores

  • Single dart:60 (Triple 20)
  • 3-dart turn:180 (Triple 20 x 3)
  • Highest checkout:170 (T20 T20 Bull)

Scoring Zones

  • Single:Face value (1-20)
  • Double ring:2x face value
  • Triple ring:3x face value

Why Learn Dart Rules?

Understanding the rules of darts is essential for enjoying the game, whether you're playing casually at home or competing in tournaments. Each game variant offers a unique experience:

  • 501 and 301 test your ability to score consistently and finish under pressure with checkouts.
  • Cricket adds strategic depth as you balance closing numbers with scoring points.
  • Around the Clock improves your accuracy across the entire dartboard.
  • Killer brings chaos and tactics to group play — defend your double and eliminate opponents.

Guides & Strategy

Darts Scoring Explained

Singles, doubles, triples, and the bullseye — complete breakdown

501 Checkout Chart

Every double-out finish from 170 down to 2

Beginners Complete Guide

Everything you need to start playing darts

Best Darts Games to Play

10 games for groups, beginners, and competitive players

Dartboard Setup: Height & Distance

Official measurements for hanging your board and the throwing line

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the basic rules of darts?+
Players take turns throwing three darts per round at a circular dartboard. Each section scores a different point value: the thin outer ring doubles the score, the thin inner ring triples it, the small outer bullseye scores 25, and the center bull scores 50. Games like 501 start from a fixed score and race to zero; other games have their own objectives.
How do you win at 501 darts?+
In 501 darts, both players start at 501 points and subtract each turn's score. The first player to reach exactly zero wins — but the final dart must land in a double or the bullseye (double-out rule). If you go below zero your score reverts to what it was at the start of that turn.
What is a double-out in darts?+
A double-out means you must finish the game by hitting a double — the thin outer ring of any number, or the bullseye (which counts as double 25). For example, if you need 32 to finish, you must hit double 16. If you only need 1 remaining, you cannot finish because there is no double 1 that equals 1.
How many players can play darts?+
Most dart games support 2 or more players. 501 and 301 work well for 2–4 players. Cricket is best with 2 players or two teams. Killer and Around the Clock can accommodate up to 8 players and are popular pub games for groups.

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