Dealing is the first step of every cribbage hand. While the process is simple, beginners often get confused about how many cards are dealt, when players discard, and how the crib is formed.
This page explains the official cribbage dealing rules, including how the dealer is chosen, how many cards are dealt, and common dealing mistakes to avoid.
If you want the full game flow, start here:
Who Deals in Cribbage?
The first dealer is chosen by cutting the deck.
- Each player cuts the deck
- The player who cuts the lowest card becomes the dealer
- Aces are low
- Ties are re-cut
👉 Full explanation: Cutting for Deal in Cribbage
After the first hand, the deal alternates each round.
How Many Cards Are Dealt?
In standard two-player cribbage:
- Each player is dealt 6 cards
- Cards are dealt one at a time, alternating between players
- All cards are dealt face down
After the deal, each player keeps their cards hidden from their opponent.
Discarding to the Crib
Once cards are dealt:
- Each player chooses 2 cards to discard
- These 4 cards form the crib
- The crib belongs to the dealer
After discarding, each player has 4 cards in hand.
👉 Learn what the crib is: What Is the Crib in Cribbage?
Cutting the Starter Card
After discards are made:
- The non-dealer cuts the remaining deck
- The top card is revealed as the starter card
Special Rule: His Heels
- If the starter card is a Jack, the dealer immediately scores 2 points
👉 Learn how scoring works: Cribbage Scoring Explained
What Happens After the Deal?
Once the starter card is revealed:
- Pegging begins
- Players score points during play
- Hands and the crib are counted
👉 Pegging rules: Cribbage Pegging Rules
Dealing in Three- and Four-Player Cribbage
Dealing rules change slightly with more players.
- Card counts and discards differ
- The crib may be formed differently
👉 Learn more:
Common Cribbage Dealing Mistakes
Beginners often make these errors:
- Dealing the wrong number of cards
- Forgetting to discard to the crib
- Letting the non-dealer score the crib
- Forgetting the starter card bonus
- Re-cutting for deal every hand
👉 Avoid these errors: Common Cribbage Mistakes
Quick Dealing Rules Summary
- Cards dealt: 6 per player
- Cards discarded: 2 per player
- Crib owner: Dealer only
- Starter Jack: Dealer scores 2 points
- Deal alternates after each hand
👉 One-page reference: Cribbage Cheat Sheet
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you deal 6 cards every time?
Yes, in standard two-player cribbage.
Who cuts the starter card?
The non-dealer always cuts the deck.
Does the dealer deal first every game?
No. The deal alternates after the first hand.
👉 More answers: Cribbage FAQ