Learn Texas Holdem

If you're a beginner playing in your first live Texas hold'em poker tournament, you may not be clear on all the rules. Here are a couple of questions commonly asked by players who have never played a Texas hold'em poker tournament before.

What if I Have to Go to the Bathroom?

Don't worry if you really have to go to the bathroom or get up for any reason. You don't have to wait for a break to leave the table. You can get up whenever you want. You will be dealt a hand that will be killed if you do not come back to the table in time to retrieve it. Be aware that your blinds will be posted for you as will your antes if you are at an ante level of the tournament. You will forfeit this money, but there will be no other penalty.

Can I Remove Chips From the Table?

Absolutely not. The only time you can pick chips up is when your table is breaking. You will be given a rack to place your chips in when this happens. Do not under any circumstances put chips in your pocket or give them to a friend to carry. Carrying your chips to the new table using any method other than the rack or your hands is grounds for immediate disqualification from the tournament.

Do I have to Post Blinds if I Miss a Round?

No. Since your blinds will be automatically put into the pot when it is your turn, even if you are not there, you do not have to put in any additional money when you return to the table.

What is the Rule on Exposing Cards?

Exposing cards during a hand in order to discourage or encourage action is prohibited. Your hand may not be killed, but you will probably incur a penalty and be forced to sit out a number of hands. Cards exposed by accident bring no penalty, but if your cards go off the table and it is your fault, this is a punishable offense even if it is an accident.

Do I Have to Tip If I Win?

You are never obligated to tip, but it is expected. Some tournaments take out money for the dealers from the total prize pool. If this is the case, you can tip less than you might normally. A typical tip for the tournament dealers is three percent of whatever you win.