Pickleball Basics · 4 of 10
The Double Bounce Rule
Two bounces, then the game opens up.
What is the Double Bounce Rule?
After the serve, both teams must let the ball bounce once before hitting it. The serve bounces on the receiver's side, the return bounces on the server's side — and only after those two bounces can anyone hit the ball in the air (that's called a volley).
This one rule is why pickleball rallies last: nobody can charge the net and smash the third shot, so every point starts fair.
How It Flows
- 1The serve bounces once in the service box
- 2The return bounces once on the server's side
- 3Then you can volley — hit the ball in the air
Quick Facts
- ✓Bounces required: 2 — one on each side
- ✓Applies to: The serve and the return of serve
- ✓After that: Volleys are legal (outside the kitchen)
Curious what level you'd be?
Answer 12 quick questions and get your level (2.5 to 5.0), your weakest shot, and a plan built around both. Free, about two minutes.