Cribbage is most commonly played with two players, but it can also be played with three players using a slightly modified set of rules. The core mechanics remain the same, with a few important differences in dealing, the crib, and gameplay flow.
This guide explains how to play three-player cribbage, including the correct dealing rules, crib setup, and gameplay flow.
For the standard version of the game, start here:
How Three-Player Cribbage Differs from Two-Player
| Rule | Two-Player | Three-Player |
|---|---|---|
| Cards dealt | 6 per player | 5 per player |
| Discards to crib | 2 per player | 1 per player + 1 from dealer |
| Crib size | 4 cards | 4 cards |
| Winning score | 121 points | 121 points |
| Teams | No | No |
| Board tracks | 2 | 3 (or different peg colors) |
| Pegging order | Back and forth | Clockwise |
The core scoring rules — fifteens, pairs, runs, flushes, nobs — are identical in both versions.
Can You Play Cribbage with Three Players?
Yes. Three-player cribbage is a well-established variation and is commonly played in casual and club settings.
- All players compete individually
- There are no teams
- The goal is still to reach 121 points first
Dealing in Three-Player Cribbage
Dealing is the main difference compared to two-player cribbage.
How many cards are dealt?
- Each player is dealt 5 cards
- Cards are dealt one at a time, clockwise
This results in 15 cards dealt, leaving the rest of the deck unused for the deal.
👉 Standard dealing rules: Cribbage Dealing Rules
Forming the Crib (Important Difference)
After the deal:
- Each player discards 1 card
- The dealer places 1 additional card into the crib
This creates a 4-card crib, just like in two-player cribbage.
Who owns the crib?
- The crib always belongs to the dealer
- Only the dealer scores the crib
👉 Learn more: What Is the Crib in Cribbage?
Cutting the Starter Card
After discards:
- The player to the dealer’s left cuts the deck
- The top card is revealed as the starter card
His Heels rule:
- If the starter card is a Jack, the dealer scores 2 points
👉 Scoring explained: Cribbage Scoring Explained
Pegging Rules in Three-Player Cribbage
Pegging rules are the same as standard cribbage, with one difference: turn order.
- Players take turns clockwise
- Each player plays one card at a time
- The running total cannot exceed 31
All standard pegging points apply:
- 15s
- 31s
- Pairs
- Runs
- Go and last card
👉 Full rules: Cribbage Pegging Rules
Hand Scoring in Three-Player Cribbage
After pegging:
- Each non-dealer scores their hand (in order)
- The dealer scores their hand
- The dealer scores the crib
Each hand consists of:
- 4 cards
- + the starter card
👉 Hand examples: Cribbage Hands Explained
Board Setup for Three Players
Most cribbage boards include:
- Three tracks, or
- Shared tracks with different peg colors
Each player still uses two pegs to track their score.
👉 Visual explanation: Cribbage Board Explained
Strategy in Three-Player Cribbage
Three-player cribbage changes the strategic balance in a few important ways.
Discarding to the crib is more defensive. In two-player, non-dealers try to avoid giving the dealer useful cards. In three-player, two players are feeding the crib — so the dealer has a higher chance of landing a strong crib. As a non-dealer, be even more conservative about what you discard. Avoid giving away cards that form easy fifteens or pairs.
Pegging becomes less predictable. With three players in the sequence, it’s harder to control the running count. Avoid playing into 11 or 21 hoping for a fifteen or 31 — another player may get there first. Focus on defensive pegging: play cards that are harder to pair or extend into runs.
Position matters more. The player scoring first after pegging has a significant advantage — they can win from further back since the dealer scores last. If you’re in first scoring position, play aggressively. If you’re the dealer, be aware that opponents may reach 121 before you get to count your crib.
The crib is less reliable. With only one discard from each opponent (instead of two), the crib is harder to build deliberately. Don’t count on a strong crib — focus on maximizing your hand score instead.
👉 Beginner strategy: Cribbage Strategy for Beginners
Common Mistakes in Three-Player Cribbage
- Dealing 6 cards instead of 5
- Forgetting the dealer adds a card to the crib
- Playing as if it were a team game
- Scoring the crib incorrectly
👉 Avoid errors: Common Cribbage Mistakes
Quick Summary
- Players: 3 (individual play)
- Cards dealt: 5 per player
- Discards: 1 per player + 1 from dealer
- Crib owner: Dealer
- Goal: 121 points
Free Cribbage Cheat Sheet
Struggling to remember what scores during pegging? Not sure how to count your hand?
Download this free 3-page printable and keep it beside you while you play — scoring combinations, pegging examples, and round order all in one place.
Free printable PDF · 3 pages · Instant download
👉 One-page reference: Cribbage Cheat Sheet
Frequently Asked Questions
Is three-player cribbage official?
Yes. It’s a recognized variation with standard rules.
Does the dealer always add a card to the crib?
Yes, to ensure the crib has four cards.
Is scoring different?
No. Scoring rules are the same as standard cribbage.
👉 More answers: Cribbage FAQ