Pickleball Doubles: Court Switching Rules Explained

In pickleball doubles, players switch court positions based on scoring and serving rules, not after every point. Understanding when and how to switch sides is essential for correct play.

1. Switching Sides During a Game

Players switch ends of the court when one team reaches 6 points in games played to 11 points (win by 2).

This rule helps ensure fair playing conditions, especially in outdoor matches with wind or sun.

2. Positioning at the Start of the Game

• At the beginning of the game, the first server starts on the right-hand (even) court.

• The server continues serving from the right court when their team’s score is even, and from the left court when the score is odd.

3. Switching Positions After Scoring

• Only the serving team switches positions after winning a point.

• The receiving team does not switch sides.

• The server and their partner alternate left and right positions each time they score.

4. Server Change (Side-Out)

When the serving team loses a rally:

• The serve passes to the partner (except for the first service of the game).

• After both players lose their serve, a side-out occurs and the opposing team begins serving.

• The new serving team starts from the right-hand court.

5. Key Rule to Remember

Your court position is always determined by your team’s score when serving.

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