Casino Etiquette for First-Timers: Dress, Chips, Players Cards and Don'ts

Before you go in

• Original passport: required almost everywhere in Asia (copies or phone photos won't do)
• Age: 21+, except South Korea at 19+
• Dress: rarely strict, but smart casual is the safe choice; some resorts refuse singlets, very short shorts or flip-flops in certain areas
• Bags: may be checked at the door; no outside food or drink

Buying chips

• At the table: lay cash on the layout (don't hand it to the dealer); it will be counted and changed
• At the cage: cash chips out or exchange for higher denominations
• Currency: Macau takes HKD and MOP with most chips in HKD; Singapore uses SGD; many Korean casinos accept foreign currency; Las Vegas uses USD
• Chip colours mark value, and chips are only valid at the casino that issued them

Players cards

Sign up free at the rewards desk with your passport. Hand the card to the dealer or insert it in a slot to earn points for dining, rooms, retail and promotions. Some Macau and Manila resorts add shuttles or lounges for members.

Don'ts

• No photos or video on the gaming floor (Las Vegas is more relaxed, but never film tables or players)
• Don't touch cards dealt face up, or your chips once betting is closed
• Don't occupy a seat without playing when it's busy — watch from behind
• No phone calls at the table in many casinos

Tipping

In Las Vegas tipping dealers and cocktail servers is customary. In Asia it's optional, and in some places (such as Singapore) dealers may not accept tips.