Online poker etiquette: the unwritten rules

Online poker has fewer formal rules than a casino, but there’s still etiquette: be polite in the chat, act in reasonable time, don’t slow-roll, and don’t leave your seat taking up a spot. Breaking the room’s rules, for example by sharing accounts or colluding, can get you banned.

Do

Act in reasonable time. Use your time bank for hard decisions, not every hand.
Say “gl” (good luck) and “gg” (good game) if you like; most players appreciate it.
Sit out if you need a break, and leave the table if you’ll be away for a while.
Report suspicious play or abusive chat to support.

Don’t

Slow-roll: waiting a long time to call or show when you have the nuts. It’s seen as very rude.
Tap the tank (complain) after bad beats. See bad beat vs cooler.
Coach or criticise other players’ play in the chat. It’s unpleasant, and it teaches weak players to improve.
Discuss a hand in progress if you’re not in it.
Use abusive language: most rooms mute or ban for it.

Never (rule-breaking)

Action	Why it’s not allowed
Sharing hole cards with friends	Collusion
Letting someone else play on your account	Against the terms
Using banned software	Against the terms
Multiple accounts	Against the terms

See is online poker rigged? for how rooms detect cheating.

Private clubs

In clubs, the host may set extra rules (for example about chat or sitting out). Read them when you join. See poker clubs.

Live games have their own customs: see poker etiquette.

FAQ

What is slow-rolling in poker?

Taking a long time to call or show a winning hand, which is considered very rude.

Is it OK to use the chat in online poker?

Yes, if you’re polite. Avoid criticising or coaching other players.

What gets you banned in online poker?

Collusion, sharing accounts, using banned software, multiple accounts and abusive behaviour.

What do gl and gg mean?

Good luck and good game.