The goal
In 501, each player or team begins with 501 points. You score by throwing three darts per turn and subtracting their combined total. The first side to reach exactly zero under the agreed finishing rule wins the leg.
Scoring the board
The numbered segments score their face value. The thin outer ring doubles the number, and the thin inner ring triples it. The outer bull scores 25; the inner bull scores 50. Three darts in the triple 20 score 180, the highest possible three-dart turn.
Finishing on a double
Many competitive 501 formats use double-out rules: your final dart must be a double, including the inner bull (50). If you have 40 remaining, double 20 is a standard finish. If you have 32 remaining, double 16 is another common target.
What is a bust?
If a turn takes your total below zero, leaves exactly one point in double-out, or reaches zero without a valid finishing double, the turn is a bust. Your score returns to its value at the beginning of that turn.
Before your first match
Ask your opponents whether the game uses open-in, double-in or another entry format, and whether the finish is double-out. Agree on the match length and who throws first. Keep score clearly and give other players a safe space at the oche.
What score do you start at in 501 darts?
Each player or team begins with 501 points and subtracts the score from each turn.
How do you win a leg of 501?
Reduce your score to exactly zero. Under double-out rules, your final dart must land in a double segment or the inner bull.
What happens if I score more than the points remaining?
The turn is a bust, and your score reverts to what it was at the start of that turn.