Playing darts is more than just throwing sharp objects at a board. It’s a game with a rich history, strict standards, and clear rules recognized worldwide. If you want to play darts seriously—whether at home, in a pub, or in a tournament—understanding the official dart board rules is essential. Many beginners skip learning the basics, but knowing these rules makes the game fair, fun, and competitive. Let’s break down everything you need to know about dart board rules, from board setup to scoring, gameplay, and common mistakes that even experienced players make.
Dart Board Setup: Measurements And Placement
Getting the setup right is the first step to playing darts correctly. The official rules set clear standards for board placement and measurements.
Key Dart Board Specifications:
- The board must be 18 inches in diameter.
- The bullseye sits at the center.
Height and Distance:
- The bullseye must be 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) from the floor.
- The throw line, called the oche, must be 7 feet 9.25 inches (2.37 meters) from the face of the board (not the wall).
Mounting Tips:
- Hang the board on a stable wall.
- Make sure the board is level, so numbers are upright.
- The number 20 should be at the top center.
Common Mistake: Many people measure from the wall, not the board face. Always measure from the board’s front.
Dart Board Setup Comparison
| Setup Aspect | Official Rule | Common Mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 5’8″ from floor to bullseye | Measuring to board bottom |
| Distance | 7’9.25″ from oche to board face | From wall instead of board |
| Board Position | Number 20 at top center | Board tilted or misaligned |
Dart Board Anatomy And Scoring Zones
Understanding the board itself is crucial. The dart board is divided into numbered sections, each with different scoring values.
Sections:
- Single area: The largest part of each numbered section. Score is the number shown.
- Double ring: Outer thin ring. Hits here score double the section’s number.
- Triple ring: Inner thin ring. Hits here score triple the number.
- Bullseye: Center divided into two parts:
- Outer bull (25 points)
- Inner bull (50 points)
Scoring Example: If you hit the triple 20, you score 60 points. If you hit the double 16, you score 32 points.
Non-obvious Insight: The highest score from a single dart is the triple 20 (60 points), not the bullseye.
Standard Dart Game Rules: 501 And 301
The most common official dart games are 501 and 301. These games use the same board, but scoring and finishing rules differ.
501 Game Rules
- Each player starts with 501 points.
- Players throw three darts per turn.
- The score from each turn is subtracted from the total.
- To win, a player must reach exactly zero, finishing with a double (outer ring) or the bullseye.
Example: If you have 40 points left, you must hit double 20 to win.
301 Game Rules
- Each player starts with 301 points.
- Rules are the same as 501, but with a lower starting score.
- Players must “double in”—the first scoring dart must land in a double segment.
Non-obvious Insight: If you go below zero (called “bust”), your score resets to what it was at the start of your turn.
501 vs. 301 Rule Differences
| Rule | 501 | 301 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Score | 501 | 301 |
| Double-In Required | No | Yes |
| Finish with Double | Yes | Yes |
| Bust Rule | Score resets to previous | Score resets to previous |
Rules For Throwing Darts
Throwing is more than just aiming and tossing. The official rules cover everything from stance to etiquette.
Throwing Basics:
- Stand behind the oche (throw line).
- Do not cross the line until all darts are thrown.
- Use only three darts per turn.
- Each dart must be thrown separately.
Etiquette:
- Wait for your turn.
- Do not distract the thrower.
- Retrieve darts only after scoring is confirmed.
Common Mistake: Leaning over the oche or stepping across it is not allowed.
Scoring And Recording Points
Accurate scoring is a must in darts. Points are counted after each turn.
Scoring Steps:
- Count the total for three darts.
- Subtract from your current score.
- If you “bust” (go below zero or finish without a double), your score returns to what it was at the start of the turn.
Scorekeeping Tips:
- Use a chalkboard or digital scoreboard.
- Record scores after every turn.
- Confirm scores before removing darts.
Example: If you have 32 left and hit 15, 10, 8 (total 33), you “bust.” Your score returns to 32.
Official Dart Board Rules For Tournaments
Professional and tournament darts follow stricter standards than casual play.
Tournament Rules:
- Darts must be steel-tip and weigh no more than 50 grams.
- Players may use their own darts, but they must meet official size and weight.
- Boards must be bristle (not electronic or plastic).
- Matches follow strict turn order and time limits.
Match Structure:
- Games are divided into legs and sets.
- The winner is the first to reach a set number of legs or sets.
Data Example: In the PDC World Darts Championship, matches are best-of-sets, each set made up of legs.
Dart Board Maintenance And Care
A well-maintained board improves gameplay and extends its life.
Maintenance Tips:
- Rotate the board regularly so the number 20 is not always at the top.
- Use soft cloth to clean the board.
- Avoid moisture—store in dry conditions.
Dart Care:
- Inspect tips for damage.
- Replace flights and shafts as needed.
- Avoid dropping or bending darts.
Non-obvious Insight: Rotating the board prevents excessive wear in high-scoring areas.
Variations And Other Popular Dart Games
Beyond 501 and 301, many other games use the dart board.
Popular Variations:
- Cricket: Players aim to “close” numbers 15–20 and the bullseye.
- Around the Clock: Hit each number in order from 1 to 20.
- Shanghai: Try to score a single, double, and triple of each number.
Game Variation Comparison
| Game | Main Objective | Unique Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Cricket | Close 15-20, bullseye | No score if not closed |
| Around the Clock | Hit each number in order | No scoring zones |
| Shanghai | Score single, double, triple per round | Instant win with Shanghai |
Penalties And Common Mistakes
Understanding penalties helps keep the game fair.
Penalties:
- Crossing the oche: Dart is invalid.
- Using more than three darts per turn: Extra darts do not count.
- Removing darts before score is recorded: Turn may be void.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Not measuring setup correctly.
- Failing to finish with a double in 501/301.
- Distracting other players.
Experienced Tip: Always double-check your final dart before finishing—it’s easy to miss the double under pressure.
Official Rules Reference And Further Learning
If you want to dive deeper, the official rules are published by organizations like the World Darts Federation (WDF) and Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). For a full list of standards, visit the Wikipedia Dart Rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Official Height For A Dart Board?
The official height is 5 feet 8 inches from the floor to the center of the bullseye. This measurement ensures fair play for all players.
How Far Should You Stand From The Dart Board?
You must stand 7 feet 9.25 inches from the face of the board. This distance is measured from the front of the board, not the wall.
Can You Use Electronic Or Plastic Dart Boards In Tournaments?
No, official tournaments require bristle boards. Electronic or plastic boards do not meet professional standards for accuracy and durability.
What Happens If You Go Below Zero In 501 Or 301?
If your score drops below zero, you “bust. ” Your score returns to what it was at the start of your turn, and your darts for that turn do not count.
Is It Necessary To Finish With A Double?
Yes, in games like 501 and 301, you must finish by hitting a double or the bullseye. If you finish with a single or triple, it does not count as a win.
Darts is a game that rewards accuracy, skill, and knowledge of the rules. Whether you’re playing with friends or aiming for tournament glory, following the official dart board rules ensures every match is fair and exciting. Remember, careful setup, proper scoring, and good etiquette make a huge difference—so take your time and play by the book.
