Mahjong Rules Explained

Every player begins with 13 tiles, while the dealer starts with 14. After the Charleston, the dealer discards and regular play begins.

Players follow a simple rhythm: draw, rack, exchange if possible, and discard. Your goal is to complete one hand exactly as it appears on the current National Mah Jongg League card.

Important rules include:

• Keep 13 tiles during regular play.

• Draw before discarding when it is your turn.

• A discarded tile cannot be called for a concealed hand unless it completes Mahjong.

• Jokers may replace tiles in groups of three or more identical tiles.

• Jokers cannot be used in pairs or Singles and Pairs hands.

• A discarded joker cannot be called.

• Verify a winning hand before other players mix their tiles.

Rules may vary by group, so establish any table rules before play begins.