Do you have to call your shots in pool?
I · Intermediate · The general rules · 2 of 8In games that require it, the shooter must name the ball and the pocket for each shot unless both are obvious. Only one ball is called, and details like cushions or other balls hit do not matter. The shooter may call "safety" in place of a ball, and play passes to the opponent after the shot.
How it works
- What to call: the ball and the pocket, if they are not obvious.
- Not needed: cushions, kisses or other balls pocketed.
- One ball only: on each shot.
- Doubt: the referee must be satisfied the intended shot was made, so bank and combination shots should always be called.
- Asking: the referee or the opponent may ask for a call.
- Safety: calling a safety means play passes to the opponent after the shot.
- Balls pocketed on a safety: whether they are spotted depends on the game.
- Which games: 8-ball, 10-ball and straight pool use called shots; 10-ball has no safety call.
The glossary has the call shot, the safety, the bank shot, the combo shot, the eight-ball and the inning.
Tricky cases
The called ball goes in after hitting three cushions. Does it count?
Yes. Cushions and other contacts do not matter, only the ball and the pocket.
The player calls a safety and pots a ball. Do they keep shooting?
No. Play passes to the opponent. In 8-ball the ball stays down; in straight pool it is spotted.
Can a player call two balls on one shot?
No. Only one ball may be called.
Can a player call a safety in 10-ball?
No. 10-ball has no safety call.
Why the rule exists
Calling shots stops a player from being rewarded for a lucky pot. The safety call lets a player play defence openly, without risk of having to carry on after a fluke.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 8-ball | Calls required; ball potted on a safety stays down | WPA 4.6 |
| 10-ball | Calls required; no safety call | WPA 6.5 |
| Straight pool | Calls required; ball potted on a safety is spotted | WPA 7.5 |
| 9-ball and blackball | No calls | WPA 5, 8 |
From the rule book
World Pool-Billiard Association, Rules of Play (effective 15 September 2025), General Rule 1.7 and Definition 2.16. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the WPA Rules of Play, revised from time to time.