Offical Darts Rules (DRA)

DRA Rules Frequently Asked Questions ​

What is the Darts Regulation Authority (DRA)?
Answer: The DRA is a not-for-profit organisation that ensures governance within the sport of darts, setting rules and regulations to improve the image and professionalism of the sport. (Reference: Page 2 - Foreword)

Who are the current board members of the DRA?
Answer: The board members are Nigel Mawer, Tim Ollerenshaw, Ritchie Gardner, and Dave Jones. (Reference: Page 2 - Foreword)

What is the purpose of the DRA Rule Book?
Answer: The DRA Rule Book provides the standards of behaviour for players in DRA-sanctioned events and reflects updates based on changes in the sport. (Reference: Page 2 - Foreword)

Who do the DRA rules apply to?
Answer: The rules apply to all members of the DRA Board, PDPA Members, Associate Members, and all players or other parties agreeing to abide by them when participating in DRA events. (Reference: Page 7 - Section 1)

What is the jurisdiction of the DRA over darts events?
Answer: The DRA has jurisdiction over all DRA-sanctioned events, but other affiliated organisations like the WDF may apply their own rules for specific events. (Reference: Page 7 - Section 1.2)

What are some important terms used in the rule book, such as "Player," "Tournament Director," "Oche," and "Double"?
Answer: The rule book defines a "Player" as any darts player participating in DRA-sanctioned events; "Tournament Director" is the official in charge of overseeing an event; "Oche" is the line from which players throw darts; "Double" is a double-score section of the dartboard. (Reference: Pages 8-12 - Section 2)

How are terms like "Misconduct," "Serious Misconduct," and "Minor Misconduct" defined?
Answer: "Misconduct" is any act or behaviour likely to bring the sport into disrepute. It can be categorised into "Minor," "Non-Minor," or "Serious" based on the severity. (Reference: Page 24 - Section 8)

What behaviour is expected from players during DRA-sanctioned events?
Answer: Players are expected to act professionally, refrain from discriminatory behaviour, and follow tournament rules and social media guidelines. (Reference: Pages 13-14 - Section 3)

Are there any restrictions on social media behaviour for players?
Answer: Yes, players must adhere to the DRA's social media guidelines, and any insulting or abusive messages posted online can be considered misconduct. (Reference: Page 13 - Section 3.5)

What are the consequences of betting on darts matches?
Answer: Players are prohibited from betting on any DRA-sanctioned or affiliated darts event, and violations may lead to disciplinary action. (Reference: Page 14 - Section 3.10)

Example of a recent match fixing scandal that lead to PDC star Leighton Bennet being banned 

What responsibilities do players have regarding their managers and agents?
Answer: Players must only engage with DRA-registered managers and agents and report any approaches to influence match outcomes to the DRA within 24 hours. (Reference: Page 15 - Sections 4.1 and 4.2)

What should a player do if they receive an approach to influence the outcome of a match?
Answer: Players must report the approach to the DRA, the Tournament Director, or the PDPA as soon as possible and no later than 24 hours after the approach. (Reference: Page 15 - Section 4.2)

How does the DRA cooperate with other regulatory bodies and authorities?
Answer: The DRA may conduct investigations with other authorities, such as the police, and share information if necessary. (Reference: Page 20 - Sections 5.2 and 5.3)

What are the rules for sharing personal information during investigations?
Answer: Players consent to the sharing of their personal information if relevant to investigations and must confirm consent in writing if requested. (Reference: Page 20 - Sections 5.5)

What are the requirements for dartboards and lighting at events?
Answer: Dartboards must be of the bristle type, and the lighting must meet specific standards to ensure clarity without shadows during match play. (Reference: Pages 27-29 - Sections 6.5 and 6.6)

What is an "Oche" and what are the rules for throwing from it?
Answer: The Oche is the line behind which players must stand when throwing. Players must not step on or over it during a throw. (Reference: Page 30 - Section 6.7)

What is the standard starting and finishing point for a leg in darts?
Answer: Legs start from a score of 501 and must end on a double to be completed. (Reference: Page 28 - Section 6.3)

What happens if a dart bounces out of the board?
Answer: Darts that bounce out or fall out of the dartboard do not count and cannot be re-thrown. (Reference: Page 28 - Section 6.2.7)

How is scoring conducted, and what happens if there is an error?
Answer: Scoring must be verified by the referee and marker. Errors in scoring must be corrected before the next throw; otherwise, they stand. (Reference: Pages 28-29 - Sections 6.4)

What are the rules for tie-breaks and practice before matches?
Answer: Tie-breaks may be used as per tournament rules, and players are allowed a set number of practice darts before each match. (Reference: Pages 30-31 - Sections 6.14 and 6.16)

What attire is allowed or prohibited for players during events?
Answer: Players cannot wear jeans or casual sportswear. Only approved attire is permitted, and deviations require Tournament Director approval. (Reference: Page 32 - Section 6.17)

What powers does the DRA have in disciplining players?
Answer: The DRA can issue charges, conduct hearings, and impose sanctions like suspensions, fines, or expulsions for rule violations. (Reference: Page 33 - Section 7)

How is misconduct categorised (e.g., minor, non-minor, serious)?
Answer: Misconduct is categorised based on its severity and impact, ranging from Minor to Serious Misconduct. (Reference: Page 24 - Section 8)

Under what conditions can a player be suspended before an investigation?
Answer: If the complaint is serious, the DRA Chair or Disciplinary Committee can suspend a player to protect the integrity of the sport. (Reference: Page 34 - Section 11)

How can a player appeal against a suspension or a disciplinary decision?
Answer: Players can submit a written appeal within 14 days of being informed of their suspension, which the Appeals Committee will review. (Reference: Page 34 - Section 11.5)

​

Useful Resources: Offical PDC Website / Darts Regulation Authority (DRA)

​

All Questions Answered By Douglas Logan

​