How to Play Darts: Basic Rules & Dartboard Guide

A standard dartboard is divided into 20 numbered sections, with each section having different scoring zones. The board also includes a bullseye in the center.

Scoring Zones

• Single areas:Score the face value (1-20 points)
• Double ring:The thin outer ring scores 2x the face value (2-40 points)
• Triple ring:The thin inner ring scores 3x the face value (3-60 points)
• Outer bull:The green ring around the bullseye scores 25 points
• Bullseye:The center red circle scores 50 points (counts as a double)

The Throwing Line (Oche)

Players must stand behind the throwing line, called the "oche" (pronounced "ockey"). The standard distance is 7 feet 9.25 inches (2.37 meters) from the face of the dartboard.

Basic Throwing Rules

• Each player throws 3 darts per turn
• Darts must remain in the board when you retrieve them to count
• Players alternate turns throughout the game
• You may throw all 3 darts or stop after 1 or 2 if strategic
• Darts that bounce out or fall out do not score

Dartboard Height

The dartboard should be hung so the center of the bullseye is 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) from the floor.