In blackjack, the player is trying to gain as many cards as possible before they are forced to draw. When a player has two cards of the same rank, they may signal to the dealer that they want to switch hands.
They then must draw two cards from the deck and put them back on the table, face down. The dealer then turns over the new cards and the player decides whether or not to keep the hand. .
If the player has an Ace and a two-card combination (two Jacks or Queens), they may also signal for a split. In this case, the player flips over their two cards and puts them back on the table; the dealer then turns over their two new cards and both players decide whether or not to keep their hand.
If either player has an Ace, they automatically keep their hand regardless of what else is on their cards.
Players are not allowed to signal for any other type of split, such as a three-card combination (three Jokers). In fact, any kind of signal, including no signal at all, is considered a “call” and can result in additional money being put into the pot by either player.
It’s important to remember that signals are only legal if both players are aware of them and have agreed to use them. If one player suspects that their partner is using signals without their knowledge, they should politely ask them to stop before any further action is taken.
