How to Shoot Dice in Craps

Street craps is one of those games that doesn’t need a casino floor, polished felt tables, or a crew of dealers. Two dice, a flat surface, and a few players are all it takes. The beauty of this game lies in its speed, simplicity, and the fact you can play it just about anywhere. It’s a stripped-down version of casino craps, but it carries the same thrill — maybe even more, because it’s raw and personal.

Where It All Began

The story of street craps starts with craps itself. The original game can be traced back to an old English dice game called hazard, which was popular in the 1700s. French settlers brought hazard to New Orleans, where the rules evolved and became the modern game of craps. Street craps emerged later as the “no-table” version, played on sidewalks, in backyards, and on street corners. Without the casino structure, players had to come up with their own way to handle bets and payouts — and they did. Word of mouth, quick rolls, and cash on the spot became the standard.

How Street Craps Stands Out

You can spot the differences between street craps and its casino cousin right away:

• No table — just pavement, grass, or any flat spot.

• No dealer or house — players handle the money themselves.

• No chips — cash is the only currency.

• Fast rounds — less waiting, more rolling.

The game is lean and to the point, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less exciting. In fact, many would argue it’s more intense because you’re betting face-to-face.

Variations You Might See

Street craps isn’t always identical from one place to another. The core rules are the same, but some areas add a twist or two.

1. Basic Pass/Don’t Pass — The standard form, where you bet on the shooter to win or lose according to classic craps rules.

2. Side Bets — Extra wagers on things like rolling a 7 in the next two or three throws.

3. Team Betting — Players pool their cash to go up against the shooter.

4. Freestyle Call-Outs — Custom bets shouted out mid-game, sometimes for big stakes.

Rules in Plain English

Street craps works on the same basic foundation as casino craps but cuts out the complex betting board.

Step 1: The Shooter
One player is the shooter — the one rolling the dice. Other players bet on the outcome.

Step 2: The Come-Out Roll
This first throw decides a lot.

• Roll a 7 or 11? Pass bets win instantly.

• Roll a 2, 3, or 12? Pass bets lose, and Don’t Pass bets win (12 is often a tie).

• Any other number becomes the point.

Step 3: Hitting the Point or Sevening Out
If there’s a point, the shooter keeps rolling until they either:

• Roll the point number again (Pass wins), or

• Roll a 7 (Pass loses, Don’t Pass wins).

Step 4: Betting and Payouts
Players make their bets before the come-out roll. In street craps, payouts are almost always 1:1 unless a special side bet is agreed upon.

Throwing Dice the Right Way

There’s no official style guide, but fairness is key.

• Hold the dice lightly between your fingers.

• Take a balanced stance.

• Toss so both dice hit the ground or a wall in clear view.

• No sliding or keeping dice hidden — transparency keeps the game honest.

Playing Fair

Street craps only works if everyone trusts each other. Keep your bets clear, pay up without delay, and stick to the rules you all agreed on. Any hint of cheating — like switching dice or palming — will kill the game fast.

Pros and Cons

Why People Love It

• Easy to start — no equipment but dice and cash.

• Quick, high-energy play.

• Strong social vibe.

Why It Can Be Risky

• No official oversight if there’s a dispute.

• Illegal in many places.

• Potential for dishonest play.

Tips for New Players

• Start with small bets until you’re comfortable.

• Stick to Pass/Don’t Pass — it keeps the odds simple.

• Watch a few rounds before jumping in.

• Know that in both street and casino craps, the Pass Line edge is about 1.41%.

The Real Appeal

Street craps is more than a dice game — it’s part skill, part luck, and part social interaction. The pace is fast, the stakes can be high, and the adrenaline is real. Whether you win or lose, you’ll remember the intensity of rolling those two little cubes and waiting for them to stop.

A Quick Note on Casino Craps

While street craps is informal and fast, casino craps happens at a structured table with dealers, chips, and official rules. There are more betting options, slower pacing, and professional oversight. Both games share the same core dice mechanics, but the atmosphere and formality are worlds apart.