How do you call the score in pickleball?
B · Beginner · The game · 2 of 5Only the serving side scores, by winning the rally. In doubles both partners serve before a side out, except at the start of a game, when only one serves. The score is called as serving score, receiving score, server number, so games start at zero-zero-two. Games go to 11, 15 or 21, won by two. Rally scoring is a provisional option.
How it works
- Points: serving side only.
- Side out: after both servers lose.
- Start of game: one server only.
- Call: server, receiver, server number.
- Opening call: zero-zero-two.
- Singles call: two numbers.
- Games: 11, 15 or 21.
- Margin: two.
The glossary has the point, the server number, the side out, the score call, the rally scoring and the game.
Tricky cases
The server serves during the score call. Result?
A fault.
The score is wrong. When can it be challenged?
Before the return of serve.
In team play, is it win by two?
No. Win by one.
What does rally scoring change?
Every rally scores.
Why the rule exists
Starting at server two stops the first team getting two serves before the opponents have one.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Start | Zero-zero-two | L 5.B.2 |
| Team play | Win by one | L 15.C |
| Rally scoring | Every rally | L 14.A |
From the rule book
USA Pickleball, Official Rulebook (2026), Rules 4, 5, 6, 14 and 15. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: USA Pickleball Official Rulebook 2026.