Blackjack is a card game played by one or more players against a dealer. The object is to have a hand that is closer to 21 than the dealer’s. The highest hand wins, but ties are possible. The game is normally played in a casino and the dealer and players must follow certain rules. A player can make a number of side bets in addition to the basic bet, including insurance and the dealer match bet. The player can also split pairs of cards if they are dealt two of the same value (for example, a pair of aces).
A dealer is normally dealing two cards face down and one card face up (these are called the hole and up card respectively). Each player can then decide to hit (ask for another card) until their hand total exceeds 21 or they can stand (stop taking cards for the rest of their hand). If a player’s first two cards add up to 21 or a picture card and an ace, this is a natural or blackjack, and the player wins immediately. The dealer will then pay off any player with a natural before checking their own card (using a special viewing window in the table).
Other than blackjack, the dealer must draw until they have a hand of 17 or more. The dealer will then compare their hand to the player’s and whoever has a higher total wins. If both hands have the same total it is a tie and all bets are swept (not paid).
Most games of blackjack will allow players to make side bets, or insurance bets, when the dealer shows an ace. These bets are usually half of the player’s original bet and pay 2-1 if the dealer has blackjack. However, the dealer only has a blackjack less than one-third of the time, so in the long run insurance bets lose money.
Many blackjack dealers are able to make good tips by working hard, being friendly and helpful with customers, and being knowledgeable about the game. Blackjack dealers work in shifts, which can be up to 8 hours long, and must stay at a gaming table for an hour before getting a 20 minutes break. They will be exposed to secondhand tobacco smoke and other irritants while at work.
Blackjack dealers must be able to read the rules of blackjack, understand hand totals, and deal efficiently and fairly with players. Inexperienced or poorly trained dealers can cause confusion and disruption to the game. This is why most casinos require their blackjack dealers to have extensive training and experience. The position can be physically demanding, and the dealer may be required to stand for long periods of time and use their hands and arms for extended periods of time. The job also requires regular movement and interaction with guests. Some casinos offer a blackjack internship program for students interested in pursuing careers as dealers. These programs can be a great way to get started in this exciting and lucrative industry.