The option to double down is only available on your first two cards. Once you have taken a hit to your hand, you cannot then double.
To double down when playing online, click the DOUBLE button. Your original bet will automatically be doubled, and you will receive just one more card on your hand. When playing in a casino, indicate to the dealer that you wish to double by placing the additional chips beside your original bet.
If your first two cards don't include an ace, double with these totals:
- 9, where the dealer has 3, 4, 5 or 6.
- 10, where the dealer does not have a 10 or ace. This includes situations where your 10 consists of a pair of 5s. Don't split them! You turn a strong starting hand of 10 into two weak hands of 5 each.
- 11, where the dealer does not have an ace.
- 2 or 3, where the dealer has 5 or 6.
- 4 or 5, where the dealer has 4, 5 or 6.
- 6 or 7, where the dealer has 3, 4, 5 or 6.
Tomorrow, splitting pairs.