Volleyball
VOLLEYBALL

Volleyball rules

The key rules of volleyball, from the basics to the situations beginners doubt most.

The basics

  • The court is 18 × 9 m, split by a net.
  • Net height: 2.43 m (men), 2.24 m (women); attack line at 3 m.
  • Two teams of 6 players.
  • Max. 3 touches per side (pass – set – attack); not twice in a row (except after a block).
  • Rally scoring: sets to 25 (win by 2), deciding 5th set to 15; best of five.
  • You rotate clockwise as soon as you win the serve.

Common questions

The serve and the net

Is a foot on the line at the serve a fault?

Yes. You may not touch the end line or the court before you've struck the serve.

Is touching the net a fault?

Touching the net while playing the ball is a fault. Incidental contact outside the action is usually allowed.

May the libero serve?

Under the official FIVB rules, no. Some national and recreational competitions allow the libero to serve in one rotation — check your competition.

The ball and the touches

Does a block count as one of the three touches?

No. A block doesn't count, so your team still has three touches afterwards.

When is a double touch a fault?

Two touches in a row by the same player is a fault — except on the first team touch (the pass/reception).

The ball lands on the line — in or out?

In. A ball touching any part of the line is good.

Catching or carrying the ball?

A held, caught or thrown ball is a fault — it must be a clean contact.

Can you play the ball with your foot?

Yes. Any body part may touch the ball.

Positions, points and conduct

May a back-row player attack?

Only from behind the 3-metre line. From in front of it they may not attack a ball above net height.

What is a rotation or overlap fault?

At the moment of the serve the players aren't in the correct rotational order. That costs you the point.

How do you win a set and a match?

A set to 25 with a two-point margin (deciding set to 15); a match is usually best of five.

May you step onto the opponents' side?

A foot may touch the centre line as long as part stays on your side; fully crossing and interfering is a fault.

Rules can vary by competition and level; this is the general/official line. The full rules are at the FIVB. In doubt? Check your club or federation.