Pickleball scores are called as three numbers and only the serving side can score. Here is how a game works.
Pickleball scoring confuses almost everyone the first time. The score is called as three numbers, and only one side can score at a time. It makes sense once you see it.
A game goes to 11
The first side to 11 points wins, and they must win by two. Some tournaments play to 15 or 21, but 11 is the usual score for casual play.
Only the serving side scores
You can only win a point when your side is serving. If you win the rally while receiving, you win the serve, not a point.
The three numbers
In doubles, the server calls three numbers: their side's score, the other side's score, and whether they are the first or second server. A call of "4-2-1" means the serving side has 4, the other side has 2, and this is the first server.
In singles there are only two numbers, because there is only one server per side.
Two bounces
After the serve, the ball must bounce once on each side before anyone volleys. This is the double-bounce rule. It stops the serving side from rushing the net.
The kitchen
The non-volley zone, called the kitchen, is the area seven feet from the net on both sides. You cannot hit a volley while standing in it.
Keeping the record
If you play regularly, write the score down or log it. On Sportzey, your opponent signs the result and it goes onto your pickleball match card. Get in the beta.
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