You only score in pickleball when serving, and doubles calls use three numbers.
If you want a friendly, expert walk-through on how to score pickleball, you’re in the right spot. I’ve taught dozens of new players, and I’ve seen the same questions pop up again and again. This guide breaks it down with clear steps, real examples, and coach-tested tips so you can master how to score pickleball fast and play with confidence.
The basics: scoring in pickleball at a glance
Pickleball uses side-out scoring. Only the serving side can win points. Games are usually to 11, win by 2. In tournaments, some games go to 15 or 21, still win by 2.
In doubles, the score call has three numbers. It goes server’s score, receiver’s score, then server number (1 or 2). The first call of the game is 0-0-2. In singles, you only call two numbers.
You switch sides of the court when your team wins a point on its serve. Even point scores serve from the right. Odd point scores serve from the left. Learn this, and how to score pickleball will click fast.
How to call the score in doubles
Doubles calls have three parts:
- Server score
- Receiver score
- Server number (1 or 2)
Before each serve, say it in that order. The first server of the game is treated as server 2. So the starting call is 0-0-2.
Here is what that looks like:
- Your team serves at 0-0-2 and wins the rally. Call 1-0-2 for the next serve.
- You win again. Call 2-0-2.
- You lose the next rally. Now your partner serves. Call 2-0-1.
- If your partner loses, it is a side out. The other team now serves at 0-2-2.
A quick memory tip I give my students: hold up fingers as you call the numbers. Right hand is your score. Left hand is theirs. Then hold up one finger or two for the server number. This small habit makes how to score pickleball feel simple.
How to score in singles
Singles is easier. You only call two numbers:
- Server score
- Receiver score
Only the server can score. If you win a point, switch sides. If your score is even, serve from the right. If your score is odd, serve from the left.
Example:
- Start 0-0. Serve from the right.
- Win the rally. Call 1-0. Now serve from the left.
- Lose the rally. It is a side out. Opponent serves at 0-1 from the right.
These patterns make how to score pickleball in singles very clear and fast to learn.
Serving rules that affect scoring
When learning how to score pickleball, clean serves help keep rallies fair and clear.
Key points:
- The serve must go crosscourt and land in the service box beyond the non-volley zone line.
- You can use a traditional serve or a drop serve. Both are legal when done right.
- No lets on serve. If your serve clips the net but lands in, play on.
- Foot faults matter. Keep both feet behind the baseline when you strike the ball.
- Call the score before you serve. If you forget, redo the call and serve again if needed.
A legal serve reduces disputes and keeps how to score pickleball smooth and fun.
Rally examples and walkthroughs
Let’s walk through two common doubles sequences. This is how to score pickleball in real play.
Sequence A: your team starts serving
- Call 0-0-2. You serve from the right and win. Next call 1-0-2.
- You switch sides with your partner. Serve again and win. Next call 2-0-2.
- You lose the next rally. Now your partner serves. Call 2-0-1 from their current side.
- Your partner loses. Side out. Opponents call 0-2-2 and serve.
Sequence B: opponents start scoring
- Opponents call 0-0-2 and win twice. They move to 2-0-2.
- They lose. Side out. Your team now serves at 0-2-2.
- You hold serve and win three points. Your calls go 1-2-2, 2-2-2, 3-2-2.
- You miss the next shot. Partner serves at 3-2-1.
Run a few mock games like this in practice. The rhythm of how to score pickleball will feel natural within a session.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
I see these issues a lot when players learn how to score pickleball.
-
Wrong server or wrong position
Always check even or odd before you serve. If your score is even, you should be on the right. If odd, be on the left. -
Wrong score call
Pause and reset. Call the correct three numbers. If the rally started on a wrong call, follow local rules on how to correct it. -
Forgetting to switch sides after a point
Make it a habit. After every point you win on serve, swap courts with your partner. -
Mixing up server 1 and server 2
Use a wristband or call out “I’m one” at the start of each serve turn. Keep it simple and clear. -
Not tracking the start rule
Remember, the game starts at 0-0-2. That rule reduces any first-serve edge.
These fixes help you nail how to score pickleball without stress.
Strategy tips tied to scoring
Scoring is not just numbers. It shapes your tactics. Here is how to score pickleball smarter.
-
Protect your serve
Aim deep to the backhand. Make the return tough. A strong first ball gives you a chance to earn points. -
At 10, play high percentage
When you are near game point, choose safe targets. Avoid low-margin shots. Make them play one more ball. -
Return smart to stop a run
Deep returns blunt the serve team’s edge. Target the weaker third shot player. -
Use communication on every point
Say the score, the target, and the plan. When both partners share the plan, how to score pickleball becomes more repeatable. -
Reset under pressure
If you feel rushed, slow the pace. Bounce the ball, breathe, then call the score with calm.
These simple habits lift your hold rates and stop streaks against you.
Tools, drills, and practice routines
You can train how to score pickleball like any skill.
Helpful tools:
- Wristbands or colored tape to mark server 1 and server 2
- A small whiteboard for score tracking between drills
- A phone app or watch timer to cue score calls
Drills:
-
Even-odd call-out
Before each serve, players shout “even” or “odd,” then call the full score, then serve. -
Side-switch sprint
After every point in a serving run, both partners switch sides fast, then reset. This builds the habit. -
Shadow scoring
Play a rally with no net, call the score before each feed, then say the next expected call after the rally ends.
Consistency tip:
- End every drill with a clean score call. This bakes in how to score pickleball until it is second nature.
Frequently Asked Questions of how to score pickleball
What is the starting score call in doubles?
It is 0-0-2. The first server is marked as server 2 to reduce serve advantage.
Can the receiving team score points?
No. Only the serving team can score. If the receiving team wins a rally, it becomes a side out.
Do I switch sides after every rally?
Only the serving team switches sides after winning a point. If you lose the rally on your serve, you do not switch.
How do I know who is server 1 or server 2?
Pick at the start of your team’s serve turn. Keep it the same until a side out. Use a wristband to remember.
Is the third number called in singles?
No. Singles calls use two numbers only. Call server score first, then receiver score.
Does a serve that hits the net and lands in count?
Yes. There are no let serves. If it lands in the correct box, play continues.
What score do most games go to?
Most games go to 11, win by 2. Some formats use 15 or 21, also win by 2.
Conclusion
You now know how to score pickleball with clarity and confidence. Call the numbers in order, track even and odd sides, and keep your serve tight. Use the drills above until calling 0-0-2 feels as easy as tying your shoes.
Take this to the court this week. Practice the score call out loud, point by point. If this helped, share it with your group, subscribe for more tips, or drop a question so I can help you dial in your game.