{"id":244,"date":"2026-09-21T23:12:37","date_gmt":"2026-09-21T15:12:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mrsfa.com\/index.php\/2026\/09\/21\/american-mahjong-courtesy-pass-rules\/"},"modified":"2026-09-21T23:12:37","modified_gmt":"2026-09-21T15:12:37","slug":"american-mahjong-courtesy-pass-rules","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mrsfa.com\/index.php\/2026\/09\/21\/american-mahjong-courtesy-pass-rules\/","title":{"rendered":"American Mahjong Courtesy Pass Rules: A Guide for Beginners"},"content":{"rendered":"
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American Mahjong Courtesy Pass Rules: A Guide for Beginners<\/h1>\n

The courtesy pass is a small, optional exchange that may happen after the Charleston. It gives two players sitting opposite each other one last chance to trade unwanted tiles before normal play begins. Unlike the formal Charleston passes, it happens only when both players agree.<\/p>\n

Because house customs differ, the courtesy pass can feel vague at a new table. The safest approach is simple: ask, agree on the number, and exchange the same number of eligible tiles at the same time.<\/p>\n

\"American
The courtesy pass is optional and requires agreement from both opposite players.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

When does the courtesy pass happen?<\/h2>\n

It comes after the required Charleston sequence has finished and before East makes the opening discard. At many tables, each pair of opposite players handles its exchange separately.<\/p>\n

If you are still learning the larger exchange sequence, read the American Mahjong Charleston strategy guide<\/a>. The courtesy pass does not replace any required Charleston step.<\/p>\n

How many tiles can you pass?<\/h2>\n

Players generally agree to exchange zero, one, two, or three tiles. Both sides must pass the same number. If you want to pass two and your opposite player wants to pass one, the exchange is one tile. The lower number is the agreement.<\/p>\n

No one has to participate. Saying \u201czero\u201d or politely declining is valid, especially when every tile supports the hand you are considering.<\/p>\n

How to make the exchange<\/h2>\n
    \n
  1. Look at your rack and decide whether you have any safe unwanted tiles.<\/li>\n
  2. Ask your opposite player how many they would like to exchange.<\/li>\n
  3. Agree on a number from zero to three.<\/li>\n
  4. Place that exact number face down.<\/li>\n
  5. Slide the tiles across at the same time, then add the received tiles to your rack.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Keep the exchange clear and visible. Do not change the number after seeing what the other player offers, and do not reveal tile faces during the pass.<\/p>\n

    \"Equal
    Each player passes the same agreed number of face-down tiles.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Can you pass a Joker?<\/h2>\n

    No. Jokers are not passed in the Charleston or courtesy pass. Keep them on your rack while deciding which ordinary tiles you can release. The separate rules for using and replacing Jokers are explained in the Joker exchange guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n

    Which tiles should a beginner pass?<\/h2>\n

    Start by comparing two or three realistic lines on the current card. Pass tiles that fit none of those options. Isolated suit tiles, unsupported winds, or extra flowers may be candidates, but the right choice depends on your rack and the card.<\/p>\n

    Avoid dismantling a useful pair just to participate. Pairs can be difficult to rebuild because a discarded tile cannot normally be called merely to complete a pair. If you are unsure about hand structure, revisit beginner-friendly American Mahjong hands<\/a>.<\/p>\n

    Courtesy pass etiquette<\/h2>\n