USAPA Official Rules

Pickleball is a fast-growing sport with structured rules that keep the game fair, fun, and competitive. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, understanding the official USA Pickleball (USAPA) rules ensures you play the game correctly.

Key rules include:
  • The Serve: Must be underhand, hit diagonally, and land in the opponent’s service court.
  • Double Bounce Rule: Both teams must let the ball bounce once before hitting it in the air.
  • The Kitchen Rule: No volleying in the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ) (7 feet from the net).
  • Scoring: Only the serving team scores, and games are typically played to 11 points (win by 2).
  • Faults: Includes hitting out of bounds, serving incorrectly, or stepping into the kitchen while volleying.

The Kitchen Rule (Non-Volley Zone)

The Non-Volley Zone (NVZ)—commonly called "The Kitchen"—is a crucial part of pickleball. This 7-foot zone on both sides of the net prevents players from smashing volleys too close to the net.

Key Rules:
  • Players cannot volley (hit the ball in the air) while standing in the NVZ.
  • Players can step into the Kitchen only when hitting a ball that has bounced.
  • If your momentum carries you into the NVZ after a volley, it’s a fault.

The Double Bounce Rule & Scoring System

  • After the serve, the receiving team must let the ball bounce once before hitting it.
  • The serving team must also let the return bounce before playing it.
  • Only the serving team can score points.
  • In doubles play, both teammates serve before the other team gets a turn.
Win the Game:
  • Most games are played to 11 points (win by 2).
  • In some tournament formats, games go up to 15 or 21 points.