Table Tennis Rules

Whether you call it table tennis or ping pong, the objective is simple: score points by hitting the ball over the net so your opponent cannot make a legal return.

This guide explains the official rules in plain English. You'll learn how to serve, how scoring works, singles and doubles rules, common faults, and answers to the questions players ask most often.

Quick Rules at a Glance

Rule Official Requirement
Game Score First to 11 points (win by 2)
Match Usually best 3 of 5 or best 4 of 7 games
Ball 40+ mm plastic ball
Table Size 9 ft × 5 ft (2.74 m × 1.525 m)
Net Height 6 inches (15.25 cm)
Table Height 30 inches (76 cm)
Serve Changes Every 2 points (every point after 10-10)

Table Tennis Equipment

To play table tennis you'll need:

  • A regulation table
  • A net
  • A 40+ mm plastic ball
  • A racket (often called a paddle)

Official tables measure:

  • 9 feet long
  • 5 feet wide
  • 30 inches high

The net stands 6 inches high.

How to Start a Point

Every rally begins with a serve.

A legal serve requires the server to:

  • Hold the ball on an open palm.
  • Toss the ball at least 6 inches (16 cm) straight upward.
  • Strike the ball while it is falling.
  • Allow the ball to bounce once on their side.
  • Hit the ball so it lands on the opponent's side.

Unlike tennis, there is only one serve. There is no second serve.

Singles Rules

Singles is the most common form of table tennis.

After bouncing once on your side, the serve may land anywhere on your opponent's side of the table.

There is no requirement to serve crosscourt.

Players alternate serves every two points.

Doubles Rules

Doubles has several additional rules.

The serve must:

  • Bounce first on the server's right half.
  • Then bounce on the receiver's right half.

Players must also alternate every shot.

If either partner hits the ball twice in a row, the point is lost.

How Scoring Works

A point is won when your opponent:

  • Misses the table
  • Hits the ball into the net
  • Allows the ball to bounce twice
  • Strikes the ball before it bounces
  • Hits the ball twice
  • Touches the table with their free hand
  • Moves the table
  • Obstructs the ball

Games are played to 11 points.

If the score reaches 10-10, play continues until one player leads by two points.

Changing Ends

Players switch ends:

  • After every game.
  • During the final game when one player reaches five points.

Let Serves

A serve is replayed if:

  • The ball touches the net and still lands correctly on the opponent's side.

There is no limit to the number of let serves.

The Expedite System

If a game lasts longer than 10 minutes (unless both players have reached at least 18 points), the Expedite System may be introduced.

After that:

  • Service alternates every point.
  • If the receiver makes 13 consecutive legal returns, the receiver automatically wins the point.

This rule keeps matches from becoming excessively long.

Common Faults

Players frequently lose points because of:

  • Hiding the ball during the serve.
  • Not tossing the ball high enough.
  • Tossing the ball with spin.
  • Serving before the ball begins falling.
  • Touching the table with the free hand.
  • Blocking the ball before it bounces.
  • Double-hitting the ball.
  • Moving the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ping pong the same as table tennis?

Yes. "Table tennis" is the official sport name. "Ping pong" is a common recreational name and copyrighted.

Can the ball hit the net during play?

Yes. During a rally the ball may touch the net and continue over.

Can a serve clip the edge?

Yes. If any part of the ball touches the playing surface, the serve is legal.

Can you hit around the net?

Yes. As long as the ball does not pass through the net assembly and lands legally, a shot may travel around the outside of the net.

Can you touch the table?

Yes, with your body or racket hand. However, touching the table with your free hand while the ball is in play loses the point immediately.

Do you have to serve diagonally?

Only in doubles.

Tips for New Players

If you're just getting started:

  • Learn a legal serve first.
  • Focus on consistency instead of power.
  • Keep your paddle angle steady.
  • Watch your opponent's paddle contact.
  • Practice keeping the ball low over the net.

Ready to Play?

Whether you're playing in your garage or preparing for tournament competition, knowing the official rules makes every match more enjoyable.

Paddle Palace has helped players of every level since 1973 with expert advice, quality equipment, and coaching resources to help you improve your game.