What makes a serve legal?
Rule- USA
- USA Pickleball
- Recreational play
- League play
- All ages
- Doubles and singles
- 2026 rules
- Players
When you hit the serve, at least one foot must be on the ground in the correct serving area (behind the baseline, between the imaginary extensions of the centerline and sideline), and neither foot may touch the court or the ground outside that area (Rule 7.A).
Release the ball with one hand only or the paddle only, without adding spin, and the release must be visible to the receiver (Rule 7.B).
| Volley serve (Rule 7.C) | Drop serve (Rule 7.D) | |
|---|---|---|
| How | Hit the ball out of the air | Drop the ball and hit it after it bounces |
| Requirements | Paddle moving in a clear upward arc; highest point of the paddle head not above your wrist; ball contacted no higher than your waist | Drop from a natural (unaided) height; don't throw, bounce or push the ball |
| Bounces before contact | None | Any number, anywhere |
Both can be forehand or backhand. If the receiver can't see the release, or sees spin added on the release, they may call for a replay, but only before returning the serve.
Added 21 Oct 2026