How to Score Darts
Updated 20 October 2026 · By the Custom League Jerseys team
Every dart scores the number of the segment it lands in. The thin outer ring doubles that number, the thin inner ring triples it, the outer bull is 25 and the bullseye is 50. In 501 and 301 you subtract each turn's total from your starting score and must finish exactly on zero with a double.
What each part of the board is worth
A standard bristle board is split into 20 numbered segments, 1 to 20, arranged around the board with 20 at the top.
| Area | Score |
|---|---|
| Single (the large areas) | Face value of the segment, 1 to 20 |
| Double ring (thin outer ring) | 2 x the segment number |
| Treble ring (thin inner ring) | 3 x the segment number |
| Outer bull (green ring) | 25 |
| Inner bull (bullseye) | 50, and it counts as a double |
| Outside the double ring, or a dart that falls out | 0 |
The highest score with three darts is 180: three darts in treble 20. The highest single dart is 60 (treble 20).
How a turn works
A turn is three darts. Add the three scores together and announce the total. A dart only counts if it stays in the board until the player removes it. In steel tip play, a dart that bounces out or falls out before the player collects it scores nothing. Soft tip machines count what the board registers.
Scoring 501
- Each player or team starts on 501.
- After each turn, subtract the total from your remaining score.
- To win, reach exactly zero, and the final dart must land in a double or the bullseye. This is called checking out.
- If a turn would take you below zero, leave you on 1, or reach zero without a double, it is a bust. Your score goes back to what it was at the start of that turn.
Example: you have 40 left. A dart in double 20 wins. A single 20 leaves 20, so you then aim for double 10. If you hit single 20, then single 19, you are on 1, which is a bust because no double can finish 1.
Scoring 301
301 works the same way from a lower start. Many American leagues play 301 double in, double out: your score only starts counting once you hit a double, and you must also finish on one. Check your league's rules, because some play straight in.
Throwing distance and board height
For steel tip darts, WDF rules set the center of the bullseye 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in) from the floor and the throw line 2.37 m (7 ft 9.25 in) from the face of the board, measured along the floor. Soft tip play under NDA rules uses the same bullseye height and an 8 ft throw line. Always check the rulebook your league uses.
Who keeps score
In league play a scorer or the opposing player usually chalks the board, writing each turn's total and the remaining score. Most venues now use a scoring app or the machine. Learn the subtraction anyway: being able to work out your checkout on the spot saves time and arguments.
Next steps
Once 501 feels easy, try cricket darts rules, the other main league game. And if your team is ready to look the part, see our custom dart jerseys.
Questions
Does the bullseye count as a double?
Yes. The inner bull scores 50 and counts as a double, so it can finish a game of 501.
What is a bust in darts?
A turn that would take your score below zero, leave you on 1, or reach zero without a double. Your score goes back to what it was before that turn.
What is the highest checkout in 501?
170: treble 20, treble 20, bullseye.
Sources
- World Darts Federation: WDF Playing and Tournament Rules
- American Darts Organization: ADO Rules
- National Dart Association: NDA Official Rules (soft tip)
Rules change. Check the current rulebook of the organization your league follows.
Get your team's jersey
Free mockup, factory direct prices. See our custom dart jerseys.
Get my free mockup