The starting score in doubles pickleball is 0-0-2, not 0-0-1.
If you’ve ever paused at the baseline wondering what to call, you’re not alone. In this guide, I’ll explain what is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game in clear, simple terms, then go deeper with examples, tips, and common mistakes. I’ve coached new and seasoned players, and I’ll show you how to keep score with confidence every time you step on the court.
How doubles pickleball scoring works
In doubles, you call the score as server score, receiver score, and server number. That last number is either 1 or 2. It tells you which partner on the serving team is serving.
What is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game? The official start is 0-0-2. That means only one partner on the first serving team gets to serve before a side out. This rule keeps the opening fair, since serving is a big advantage.
A point is scored only by the serving team. If the serving team wins a rally, they get a point and the server switches sides with their partner. If they lose the rally, the serve passes to the next server or to the other team.
Key terms you’ll hear on court:
- Side out: The serve moves to the other team.
- Even court: Right side of the court.
- Odd court: Left side of the court.
- Rally: A ball in play after the serve.
What is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game might sound strange at first, but you’ll love how simple it becomes once you try it a few times.
What 0-0-2 really means (and why it exists)
0-0-2 means the first serving team starts with their second server. Only one of them serves before a side out. If they lose a rally, the serve goes to the other team right away.
Why 0-0-2? It balances the strong serve advantage. Both teams get almost the same chance at the start. Official rules confirm this is the standard for doubles.
If you’re new and asking what is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game, the short logic is this: it’s 0-0-2 so the first team has just one server to reduce early advantage.
Step-by-step: The first three rotations from 0-0-2
Here’s a quick walkthrough so you can picture the flow.
- Start: Score is 0-0-2. Player A on the right (even) court serves.
- If A wins the rally: Score becomes 1-0-2. A and B switch sides. A serves again from the left.
- If A loses a rally at any point: Side out. Now the other team serves at 0-0-1.
Next, the new serving team gets both servers, in order:
- First server serves until they lose a rally.
- Then second server serves until they lose a rally.
- Then side out back to the first team.
If you remember what is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game, you can map every next step with ease.
How to call the score in doubles like a pro
Say the numbers in this order: server score, receiver score, server number. Call it clearly before serving.
Examples:
- Start of the game: 0-0-2.
- After scoring once: 1-0-2.
- New team serving after side out: 0-0-1.
Tips I share with students:
- Take a breath, face the court, and call loud and clear.
- Check your position. Even score means you should be on the right.
- If you forget, pause and ask. Better to reset than play confused.
Repeat this on every serve and you will never wonder what is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game or how to say it again.
Common mistakes and quick fixes
These happen to everyone, even in league play. Here’s how to avoid them.
-
Calling 0-0-1 at the start
Fix: Remember the start is 0-0-2 so the first team has only one server. -
Serving from the wrong side
Fix: Even score means right side. Odd score means left side. Say it out loud. -
Forgetting the server number
Fix: Use a small cue like a wristband or paddle edge tape. The wristband partner serves first. -
Moving after a fault
Fix: Do not switch sides after a fault on serve. Switch sides only after winning a point.
You can repeat what is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game while you walk to the baseline. It helps lock your routine.
Singles vs. doubles: What changes
Singles scoring is simpler. You call only server score and receiver score. There is no server number. You still start at 0-0, and you switch sides based on your score being even or odd.
In doubles, what is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game is always 0-0-2. In singles, you won’t use 1 or 2 at all.
Memory hacks, drills, and real-court tips
Here are simple ways to keep score like a veteran.
-
Wristband method
Put a band on the arm of the first server on your team. That player is “1.” When you get the serve back, the band tells you who starts. -
Even-odd mantra
Say “even is right, odd is left” before each serve. It keeps partners in the right spots. -
Dry-run scoring
Before playing, walk through a fake first game. Call 0-0-2, serve to targets, call the next score. Build the habit. -
Corner check
After a point, glance to the opposite even corner. If you started there on even, you should be opposite on odd.
When I coach new players, I start every game by asking, “What is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game?” The group says “0-0-2,” and we’re off with fewer mistakes and more fun.
Formats and rule variations you might see
Most play follows official rules, which use 0-0-2. Some leagues or camps test rally scoring, where every rally earns a point. Tournaments can use variations for time or broadcast needs.
Always check posted rules before a match. If you hear something different, ask the referee. But if you’re wondering what is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game under standard rules, it is 0-0-2.
Frequently Asked Questions of what is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game
Is the starting score always 0-0-2 in doubles?
Yes, under standard rules, doubles starts at 0-0-2. That means only one player on the first serving team serves before a side out.
Why not 0-0-1 to start?
0-0-2 reduces the first-team serving edge. It gives both teams a fair start by limiting the first team to one server.
How do I remember who is server 1 and 2?
Choose server 1 before the game starts. Use a wristband or say it aloud so both partners agree.
Does singles also use 0-0-2?
No. Singles starts at 0-0 and has no server number. You call only server score and receiver score.
What if someone calls the score wrong?
Stop play before the return is hit and correct it. If the rally finishes, follow the rules for correcting position and score before the next serve.
What is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game in casual play?
Most groups stick with 0-0-2. If your group changes it, agree before the first serve so everyone is aligned.
Does rally scoring change the starting call?
It can, depending on the format. Ask for the event or league rules, since formats vary.
Conclusion
You now know what is the starting score of a doubles pickleball game, why it is 0-0-2, and how to call it with poise. Use clear calls, the even-odd check, and a simple wristband cue to stay organized when play gets fast.
Take this to your next match. Call the score loud, own your role, and help your partner do the same. Want more tips like this? Subscribe, share this with a friend, or drop your scoring questions in the comments.