What Are the Rules/Procedures of Serving in Pickleball?

Pickleball may be fun and easy to learn, but mastering the rules—especially when it comes to serving—can take your game to the next level. Serving is the first shot of every rally and sets the tone for each point. Understanding the correct pickleball serving procedures ensures fair play and improves your overall strategy.

So what are the official rules and best practices when it comes to serving in pickleball? Here’s everything you need to know.

1. The Basics of the Pickleball Serve

In pickleball, the serve must be made underhand, with the paddle contacting the ball below the waist (specifically, below the navel). Unlike in tennis, overhand serves are not allowed. The server must strike the ball in the air without letting it bounce—this is known as a volley serve.

There’s also a drop serve option, where the ball is dropped (not tossed) and then hit after it bounces. This method is legal and helpful for beginners or those with limited mobility.

2. Proper Foot Position

When serving, at least one foot must be behind the baseline, and neither foot may touch the baseline or the court before the ball is hit. The server should stand within the imaginary extension of the sideline and centerline.

After the serve, players are free to move into position as the point progresses.

3. Serving Rotation and Scoring

In doubles pickleball, each player on a team has a chance to serve before the serve rotates to the opposing team—except at the beginning of the game, when only one player on the starting team serves.

Scoring in pickleball is unique: only the serving team can score points. The score is announced in a three-number format:

• First number: Serving team's score

• Second number: Receiving team's score

• Third number: Server number (1 or 2)

Example: “4-2-1” means the serving team has 4 points, the receiving team has 2, and it’s the first server on the serving side.

4. Serve Direction and Target

The serve must be made diagonally across the court, landing in the opposite service area. If the serve lands outside the proper service box, into the non-volley zone ("the kitchen"), or hits the net without landing in the correct area, it’s a fault.

There are no second serves in pickleball. If a fault occurs, the serve either moves to the partner (in doubles) or to the other team.

Serve With Comfort and Style

Serving effectively starts with feeling confident and unrestricted. Breathable, flexible men's pickleball athletic shorts help players move freely, whether you're stepping into a drop serve or lunging for a return. Look for shorts with stretch fabrics, moisture-wicking materials, and secure pockets so nothing slows you down on the court.

Dress the Part On and Off Court

Pickleball is growing fast, and so is the demand for performance-ready men's sportswear that feels great during play and looks sharp afterward. Whether you're in a casual weekend match or a local league, having the right gear keeps you focused and looking fresh from first serve to match point.