Blackjack is a popular card game that can be found at many casino establishments. It has a reputation for being intimidating, but it is actually a game of skill and strategy. It is also a great way to spend time with friends, family or strangers.
To play the game, each player must have two cards and place a bet. The dealer then deals them a third card. If their hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, they win. A hand that is closer to 21 than the dealer’s is a “blackjack” and wins 3:2 as long as the dealer does not have a blackjack as well. If the dealer has a blackjack, the players lose their bets.
There are many different side bets that can be made in blackjack, including putting money on the dealer having a specific card value, betting on your own hand making a poker hand with the dealer’s up card and the other players’ hands, and so on. Side bets can make or break a blackjack player’s bankroll, so it is important to understand the rules of each one before playing.
Blackjack dealers must be competent at math, which empowers them to calculate winning bets accurately and quickly. They must be able to communicate the status of a hand with the other players, as well as spot any cheating or other attempts to take advantage of the casino or its customers. They must also be able to follow a set of procedures and remain calm under pressure.
Besides being a great opportunity to make a living, blackjack dealer jobs are also very rewarding. They are in demand, especially for casinos that are expanding their operations to other states. They can earn a good salary, and some of them even get to travel for their work.
Another reason why people want to become blackjack dealers is because they can do the job from home. This is because there are a number of online casinos that provide blackjack dealing jobs to people who live outside of Nevada. These online casinos can also offer better pay than those in the physical casinos.
To be a blackjack dealer, you must be 18 years of age or older and have a high school diploma or GED certificate. Then, you can enroll in a dealer training program in your area. This course is usually between eight and 12 weeks and will prepare you to deal at a real casino. Some schools offer a certification that is recognized by the Nevada gaming commission or other regulatory body. Lastly, you will need to pass a background check and criminal history check before you can start working. This is a necessary step to protect the integrity of the gambling industry and its customers. The casinos and gaming commissions are looking for responsible people who will not commit crimes while they are on the job. Those with criminal records or a history of substance abuse are not allowed to deal blackjack.