Pickleball Scoring Rules
Traditional side-out scoring awards points only to the serving side; some events use a rally-scoring option.
What this page covers
Games are commonly played to 11, win by 2.
Only the serving side scores in standard side-out scoring.
Doubles scores use three numbers: serving score, receiving score, server number.
The first serving team starts the game with its server designated as server two, producing the opening call 0-0-2.
Plain-English rules
- Games are commonly played to 11, win by 2.
- Only the serving side scores in standard side-out scoring.
- Doubles scores use three numbers: serving score, receiving score, server number.
- The first serving team starts the game with its server designated as server two, producing the opening call 0-0-2.
- Switch sides in tournaments when the format requires it, commonly at 6 in a game to 11.
Official source
This page references the 2026 USA Pickleball Official Rulebook (PDF), published by USA Pickleball. Check event or league rules as well when a local format differs.
Relevant rulebook sections: 4.A-4.B, 5, 6.B.
Edition 2026. Source checked .
Examples
If the server calls 8-7-1, their team has 8, opponents have 7, and first server is serving.
If the receiving team wins the rally, they do not get a point; they win the serve or side-out.
Quick answers
Can the receiving team score?
Not in standard side-out scoring. They must win the serve first.
What is rally scoring?
A format where every rally creates a point. USA Pickleball recognizes rally scoring as an option for certain formats, while traditional side-out scoring remains common; confirm the format before play.