What Does a Blackjack Dealer Do?

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino card games in the world, and for good reason. It’s fast-paced, easy to learn, and offers plenty of opportunities for strategy. But while the players focus on making 21, there’s someone else at the table making sure the game runs smoothly: the blackjack dealer. 

So, what exactly does a blackjack dealer do? Whether you’re playing at a land-based casino or enjoying online blackjack, the dealer has a key role in keeping the game fair, organised, and fun. Let’s find out how. 

The Dealer's Main Job: Running the Game 

At its core, the dealer’s job is to oversee the casino game and make sure everyone follows the rules. Blackjack is played against the dealer, rather than other players, so they act as both a host and an opponent at the table. 

In a standard game of blackjack, the dealer is responsible for: 

• Shuffling and dealing the cards 
• Managing bets and payouts 
• Enforcing the rules of the game 
• Maintaining the pace of play 
• Creating a welcoming and fair playing environment 

Let’s take a closer look at each of these responsibilities.  

Shuffling and Dealing 

One of the most visible parts of a dealer’s role is shuffling and dealing the cards. At the start of a round, the dealer shuffles the deck (or uses a pre-shuffled shoe) and deals two cards to each player, plus two cards to themselves: one face-up, one face-down. 

The way they handle the cards is important. Dealers are trained to use specific techniques that prevent cheating or card manipulation, and they always deal in a consistent, professional way to keep the game moving. 

In online blackjack, the “dealer” is virtual, but the same principles apply. A random number generator (RNG) shuffles and deals the cards, and the dealer’s actions are carried out digitally to replicate a real casino experience. 

This is all part of the experience; after all, we’re serious about play, and ensuring the cards are dealt fairly and properly is a big part of that. 

Managing Bets and Payouts 

The dealer is also in charge of the chips on the table. At the start of each round, players place their bets in the betting area. Once the cards are dealt and the hands are played, the dealer collects losing bets and pays out winnings to players who beat the dealer’s hand. 

Dealers must calculate payouts accurately and quickly, even when there are multiple players and side bets in play. In most blackjack games, a winning hand pays 1:1, and a blackjack (an Ace and a 10-value card) pays 3:2. If the player and dealer have the same total, it’s usually a push - the player’s bet stays where it is. 

Enforcing the Rules 

The rules of blackjack are clear, but it’s the dealer’s job to make sure everyone follows them. This includes sticking to house rules on when the dealer must hit or stand. For example, in many casinos, the dealer must hit on 16 or less and stand on 17 or more; there’s no choice involved. 

The dealer also helps players who are unsure of the options available to them, such as hitting, standing, doubling down, or splitting. While they won’t give specific blackjack strategy advice, they can explain what actions are allowed. 

In online blackjack, the software enforces the rules automatically, but it’s still helpful to familiarise yourself with how the game works before playing. The best way to do that is by practising with free blackjack games here at Virgin Games. 

Keeping the Game Moving 

Blackjack is known for its fast pace, and dealers help maintain that flow. They keep the action moving by prompting players when it’s their turn, quickly dealing cards, and resolving each round efficiently. 

A good dealer will also create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, encouraging players and keeping the mood light while maintaining professionalism. This is all part of the casino experience - whether you’re sitting at a live blackjack table or playing in an online game with a live dealer stream. 

Live Dealer Blackjack: A Real Casino Experience at Home 

If you’re playing online, you can still enjoy the experience of playing with a real dealer thanks to live dealer blackjack. These games use a real table and a professional dealer, streamed live to your screen. 

The dealer’s responsibilities are just the same as in a casino; they shuffle, deal, manage bets, and chat with players while keeping the game running smoothly. It’s a great way to get the authentic casino feel from the comfort of home. 

Why the Dealer Matters 

While blackjack is ultimately about beating the dealer’s hand, it’s the dealer who keeps the game fair and enjoyable for everyone. Without them, the structure and flow of the game would fall apart. 

By handling the cards, managing the bets, and keeping the game moving, the dealer allows players to focus on what really matters: making the best decisions with their hand and enjoying the experience. 

Whether you’re playing at a casino, trying out online blackjack, or joining a live dealer game, understanding the dealer’s role can help you feel more comfortable at the table. They’re not just your opponent; they’re also there to guide the game and make sure everyone has a good time. 

If you’re new to blackjack, you may also find it helpful to get familiar with some of the common terms used in the game. Our blackjack terminology guide is a great place to start. 

Now that you know what a blackjack dealer does, you can sit down at the table with confidence and maybe even walk away a winner.  

Ready to hit the tables? Sign up at Virgin Games today and enjoy online blackjack with real dealers, fair play, and plenty of winning chances.