by If you’ve ever stepped onto a pickleball court and thought, “Wait—how do we actually keep score?” you’re not alone. How to score points in pickleball is the number one rule that confuses beginners and even frustrates experienced players. The unique pickleball scoring system—especially in doubles with its three‑number call—often leads to mid‑game arguments, lost focus, and unnecessary mistakes.
Here’s the good news: scoring doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you understand the pickleball rules for singles and doubles, you’ll not only avoid confusion but also gain a strategic edge. This guide will break down pickleball scoring step by step, highlight common errors, and share simple pickleball tips to help you track points with confidence.
Table of Contents
Why Pickleball Scoring Trips Players Up
- Only the serving team can score points—a rule many forget.
- Doubles scoring uses three numbers (server score, receiver score, server number).
- Switching sides after points adds another layer of complexity.
Understanding these quirks is the first step to mastering the game.
How to Score Points in Pickleball
1. Only the Server Scores
- In pickleball, points are earned only by the serving team.
- If the receiving team wins a rally, they don’t score—they simply gain the serve.
2. Doubles Scoring (Three‑Number System)
When calling the score in doubles, you’ll hear: Server’s score – Receiver’s score – Server number (1 or 2).
Example: “4‑2‑1” means the serving team has 4 points, the receiving team has 2 points, and the first server is serving.
3. Singles Scoring
- Much simpler: only two numbers (server’s score – receiver’s score).
- Still, only the server can score points.
4. Winning the Game
- Standard games are played to 11 points, win by 2.
- Tournament formats may extend to 15 or 21 points.
Read more: 5 Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners in 2025: Buyer’s Guide, Top Picks & Expert Guide
Common Mistakes Players Make
- Thinking both sides can score → Only the serving team scores.
- Forgetting server numbers in doubles → Leads to confusion mid‑game.
- Not switching sides correctly → After scoring, the serving team must switch positions.
Pro Tips to Keep Score Easily
- Call the score out loud before every serve—it reinforces memory.
- Use hand signals (hold up 1 or 2 fingers to remember server number).
- Practice short games focused only on scoring rules.
Singles vs Doubles Scoring in Pickleball
| Aspect | Singles Scoring | Doubles Scoring |
|---|---|---|
| Numbers Called | 2 (server – receiver) | 3 (server – receiver – server number) |
| Who Can Score | Only the server | Only the serving team |
| Server Rotation | Switch sides after each point | Two servers per team before side‑out |
| Complexity Level | Simple | More complex, often confusing for beginners |
Read more: How to Play Pickleball Singles Like a Pro – The Secret Strategy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Pickleball Scoring
Que1: Can You Score Points in Pickleball While Receiving?
Ans: No. Only the serving team can score points.
Que2: Why Does Doubles Scoring Have Three Numbers?
Ans: The third number indicates whether it’s the first or second server on the serving team.
Que3: How Many Points Do You Need To Win in Pickleball?
Ans: Most games are played to 11 points, win by 2, but tournaments may go to 15 or 21.
Que4: What Happens If The Wrong Score is Called?
Ans: If corrected before the serve, replay the point. If not, the rally continues.
Que5: Is Scoring Different in Singles vs Doubles?
Ans: Yes. Singles use a two‑number system, while doubles use a three‑number system.
Summary
Scoring in pickleball may seem confusing at first, but once you understand the basics, it’s straightforward:
- Only the serving team scores points.
- Doubles use a three‑number system.
- Games are usually played to 11, win by 2.
By mastering scoring, you’ll avoid mid‑game confusion, play with confidence, and even gain a strategic edge over opponents who are still second‑guessing the rules. To get more information like this save pickleball pro zones.
