Laws of the game

Rules of play

The association's playing rules for all six disciplines. The full rule book, including tournament regulations and the code of conduct, is published in the documents library.

Download the rule book

Disciplines

Six sets of rules, one association

Every sanctioned event is played under the rules below. Where a tournament applies a variation — a shot clock, a three-foul rule, or a handicap — the tournament page states it.

Officials

Referees and markers are certified through the association's officials pathway. Certified officials can be assigned to matches, submit match reports and appear in the officials directory.

Referee and coaching courses

Rules of play

Six sets of rules, one association

8 BallTwo players. First to clear their group and pot the 8 ball wins the frame.

9 BallTwo players. The lowest numbered ball on the table must be struck first; potting the 9 legally wins the frame.

10 BallTwo players. Call shot, call pocket. The lowest numbered ball is always struck first and potting the 10 legally wins the frame.

BlackballTwo players. Clear your colour then pot the black, which must be nominated where the association requires it.

SnookerTwo players. Red then colour alternately, colours re-spotted until the reds are gone, then the colours in order. Highest score wins the frame.

HeyballTwo players, played under Chinese 8 ball rules on a championship table.