Craps Rules and Table Layout: A Guide for the New Era
Regulatory information reviewed 29 September 2026: Earlier unsupported claims about New Zealand licensing, mandatory features or guaranteed protections have been removed. For current rules and licensing status, consult the Department of Internal Affairs. A licence, review or badge does not guarantee a win or eliminate gambling harm. Support information.
At its core, craps is about predicting the outcome of the roll of two six-sided dice. The “Shooter” is the person throwing the dice, and everyone else at the table bets on the result. In an online environment, the “Shooter” is either a Random Number Generator (RNG) or a professional dealer in a 5G-streamed live studio.
The Side Areas (The Line Bets)
The side areas are where the most common, low-edge bets are placed. You will find the Pass Line, the Don’t Pass Bar, the Come and Don’t Come areas, and the Field.
- The Pass Line: This curved border is for players betting with the shooter.
- The Don’t Pass Bar: This is for “Wrong Way” bettors who are wagering against the shooter.
- The Big 6 and Big 8: Often located in the corners, these are bets that a 6 or 8 will be rolled before a 7.
The Two Phases of the Game
A round of craps in the 2026 lobby is played in two distinct stages. The software will usually change the visual state of the table to help you identify which phase is active.
The Come Out Roll
This is the first roll of a new round. The Puck is set to “OFF”.
- If a 7 or 11 is rolled, the Pass Line wins and the Don’t Pass loses. The round ends immediately.
- If a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled, this is “Craps.” The Pass Line loses, but the round still ends.
- If any other number is rolled (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), that number becomes the “Point.”
The Point Phase
Once a Point is established, the Puck is flipped to “ON” and moved to the corresponding Box Number. The shooter continues to roll the dice until one of two things happens:
- The Point is rolled again: Pass Line bettors win, and the round ends.
- A 7 is rolled (Seven Out): The round ends, and the Pass Line loses.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the craps table divided into labelled areas?
Each area identifies a wager or a group of wagers. Position and markers help show which conditions and point numbers apply.
What is the difference between an opening roll and a point phase?
The opening roll can settle a line bet immediately or establish a point. During the point phase, the rules track the point against a subsequent seven.
Can every bet be removed at any time?
No. Some wagers are contractual after they are established. Removal, reduction and working status depend on the rules for that bet.
Can information about craps guarantee a winning result?
No. Understanding rules does not remove uncertainty or the risk of loss. A game’s payout schedule is not a promise about the result of a particular round or session.
Which rules should I use when checking a craps example?
Use the rules and paytable for the exact version being discussed. Different editions can change payouts, optional features and settlement conditions. General examples do not override those published rules.
Does this guide confirm that a service is authorised in New Zealand?
No. An information page, payment logo or software listing does not establish a particular operator’s status. Check current DIA information for online casino customers and the rules for the specific service.
