The Official UDF Rules & Regulations
These Rules govern all USADA-sanctioned soft-tip electronic dart play conducted at approved member venues.
“EVERY THROW COUNTS”
Official Rules & Regulations – Version 1.0 (2025)
UNITED DARTS FEDERATION (UDF)
Official Rules & Regulations – Version 1.0 (2025)
© 2025 United Darts Federation, Inc.
Tennessee Nonprofit Corporation (501(c)(6))
All Rights Reserved
Table of Contents
ARTICLE I – Name, Purpose, and Authority
ARTICLE II – Equipment Standards
ARTICLE III – Playing Area and Match Setup
ARTICLE IV – Rules of Play
ARTICLE V – Pace of Play
ARTICLE VI – Player Conduct and Etiquette
ARTICLE VII – Team Structure and Captains
ARTICLE VIII – Rules Interpreters and Certification
ARTICLE IX – Membership and Eligibility
ARTICLE X – Scoring and Rankings
ARTICLE XI – League and Tournament Operations
ARTICLE XII – Disciplinary Process and Appeals
ARTICLE XIII – Competitive Pathway
ARTICLE XIV – Singles and Team Formats
ARTICLE XV – The UDF Cup Series
ARTICLE XVI – Rules Amendments and Review
ARTICLE XVII – Adoption
ARTICLE XVIII –Tournament Ranking and Elimination Order
APPENDIX A – Board Diagram and Measurements
APPENDIX B – Equipment Registry and Inspection Form
APPENDIX C – Official Match Score Sheet
APPENDIX D – Glossary of Terms
APPENDIX E – Annual Rule Amendment Log
APPENDIX F – Player Classification Policy
APPENDIX G – Code of Conduct and Ethics
APPENDIX H – Licensing and Sanctioning Procedures
APPENDIX I – Director and Official Certification Standards
APPENDIX J – Branding and Seal Usage Policy
MISSION STATEMENT
The United Darts Federation (UDF) exists to unify players, venues, and leagues under one standard of integrity and fair competition. Through education, certification, and sanctioned play, UDF promotes the growth of darts as both a social and professional sport—providing every player with a pathway from local pub leagues to national championship competition.
Guided by the spirit of the game and the community that built it, we stand by our motto:
“From Pub to Cup – Every Throw Counts.”
FOREWORD – THE SPIRIT OF UDF
Darts has always belonged to the people—it’s a sport born in pubs, perfected in living rooms, and celebrated around the world. Every great player started somewhere local: a bar match among friends, a coin drop on league night, a moment when one good throw sparked a lifelong passion.
The United Darts Federation (UDF) was founded to honor that spirit. Our mission is simple: to unite players, venues, and communities through fair play, shared standards, and opportunity for all. Whether you play once a week at your neighborhood pub or chase points across the country, you are part of something bigger—a movement that begins in local bars and culminates on the national stage.
From Pub to Cup — every throw counts.
LEGAL NOTICE AND ORGANIZATIONAL STATUS
The United Darts Federation, Inc. (UDF) is organized as a 501(c)(6) nonprofit sports trade association under the laws of the State of Tennessee. UDF’s purpose is to promote and govern the sport of darts, establish consistent standards for fair play, and support the development of leagues, players, and venues through education, certification, and sanctioned competition.
The UDF Official Rules & Regulations are binding upon all members, associations, licensees, and sanctioned participants. These rules may be amended by the UDF Rules Committee and Board of Directors as the sport evolves.
No portion of this publication may be reproduced or distributed without written consent of UDF, Inc.
ABOUT THE FEDERATION
The United Darts Federation (UDF) is the governing body dedicated to standardizing, promoting, and advancing the sport of darts across all levels of play. Established in 2025 as a Tennessee nonprofit corporation under section 501(c)(6), UDF serves as a national sports trade association for players, leagues, and venues. Its purpose is to unify competitive and recreational darts under a single structure that values fair play, community, and opportunity.
The Federation’s mission, “From Pub to Cup,” reflects its belief that every player—whether throwing darts in a neighborhood pub or competing on the national stage—is part of one connected community.
UDF operates through a network of licensed associations and leagues, including the United States Amateur Darts Association (USADA) and future international partners. These organizations adopt and administer the UDF’s Official Rules, ensuring consistent standards, player safety, and ranking integrity nationwide.
Oversight is provided by the UDF Board of Directors and the Rules Committee, which review all amendments, disputes, and interpretations to maintain fairness and credibility.
Together, these entities uphold UDF’s founding principle—to grow darts as both a social and professional sport, honoring the game’s heritage while building its future.
USADA Official Competitive Formats
USADA currently recognizes the following Official Formats, with additional formats to be introduced as the League expands:
• Format A — Bar-Team Soft Tip League (Current Format)
• Format B — USADA Singles Match Play (Coming Soon)
• Format C — USADA Fixed-Team Match Play (Coming Soon)
ARTICLE I – NAME, PURPOSE, AND AUTHORITY
1. The official name of this organization shall be the United Darts Federation (UDF).
2. The Federation shall operate as a nonprofit 501(c)(6) sports trade association incorporated in the State of Tennessee.
3. The purpose of UDF shall be to promote the sport of darts, establish and maintain uniform standards of play, sanction leagues and tournaments, and foster national and international growth of the sport.
3A. The United Darts Federation establishes and governs standardized rules applicable across multiple darts formats and divisions. Specific rules for individual formats, divisions, or competitive pathways shall be set forth in designated Articles or appendices and shall operate under the authority of this Rule book.
4. The UDF Rules Committee shall have sole authority to interpret, modify, or enforce these rules as necessary to preserve fair play and consistency.
5. All UDF-licensed organizations, including the United States Amateur Darts Association (USADA), and any future state, regional, or international affiliates, shall operate under these rules and apply the standardized UDF Bonus Achievement Scoring System, unless granted written exemption by the UDF Rules Committee.
ARTICLE II – EQUIPMENT STANDARDS
1. The official dartboard for sanctioned play shall be an electronic soft-tip board with standard scoring segments and automatic score registration. Equipment standards set forth in this Article apply to formats utilizing electronic soft-tip dartboards unless otherwise specified by division-specific rules approved by the UDF Rules Committee.
2. The maximum permitted dart weight shall be 22 grams. No minimum weight is required.
3. Players must use commercially available soft-tip darts compatible with electronic boards.
4. Boards must be securely mounted at a height of 5 feet 8 inches (center of bullseye to floor).
5. The throw line (oche) shall be positioned 8 feet from the face of the board.
6. All equipment used in sanctioned play must meet UDF specifications and be subject to inspection by the Rules Interpreter.
ARTICLE III – PLAYING AREA AND MATCH SETUP
1. Each participating venue shall maintain a clearly defined playing area, free from obstructions and distractions.
2. Adequate lighting must be provided for visibility of the dartboard and throwing area.
3. Players and teams must ensure the score displayed on the machine is accurate before each match begins.
4. Only authorized players may be inside the throwing area during a match.
5. Spectators and non-participating players must remain behind the designated line.
ARTICLE IV – RULES OF PLAY
1. UDF adopts standard game formats, including 501 and Cricket, for sanctioned events. Format- specific match sequences (e.g., 501 → Cricket → 501 tiebreaker) shall be defined by the applicable division or format rules.
2. Matches shall consist of a predetermined number of legs or sets as announced by the Tournament Director.
3. All throws must be made overhand and released before the player’s foot crosses the oche.
4. Machine malfunctions must be reported immediately to the Rules Interpreter or venue coordinator.
5. Scores registered by the machine are final unless proven inaccurate due to mechanical error.
ARTICLE V – PACE OF PLAY
1. Players shall be prepared to begin their matches promptly when called.
2. Excessive delay—including wandering, extended conversation, or leaving the area—may result in a warning or forfeit.
3. Players shall complete their throws within 30 seconds of approaching the line.
4. Breaks between legs shall not exceed two minutes unless approved by the captain or Tournament Director.
ARTICLE VI – PLAYER CONDUCT AND ETIQUETTE
Intoxication and Player Decorum
UDF recognizes that sanctioned league and tournament play may occur in licensed venues where alcoholic beverages are served. While moderate consumption is permitted, players must maintain composure and sportsmanlike behavior at all times.
- (a) Warning Standard. A player who becomes visibly intoxicated to the point of distraction, agitation, hostility, or disruption of play shall receive a formal warning from the Rules Interpreter or Tournament Director.
- (b) Second Warning – Match Forfeiture. Upon a second warning, the player (and/or team, if applicable) shall forfeit the current match. Bracket advancement shall proceed according to standard double-elimination procedure:
- Forfeiture in the Winners Bracket shall be recorded as a match loss and shall place the player/team into the Losers Bracket.
- Forfeiture in the Losers Bracket shall be recorded as a match loss and shall eliminate the player/team from the event.
- (c) No Double-Thrower in Disciplinary Cases. The Special Exception “Double-Thrower Provision” (Article XIV, Section 9) shall not apply in cases of disciplinary forfeiture or removal for cause.
- (d) Removal and Suspension. Further misconduct after forfeiture, or refusal to comply with an official’s direction, may result in removal from the venue and may be referred for disciplinary action under Article XII (Disciplinary Process and Appeals).
- (e) Purpose. These standards are enforced in the spirit of UDF’s mission: promoting fair play, safety, and respect within the social environment of the sport.
ARTICLE VII – TEAM STRUCTURE AND CAPTAINS
1. Teams may consist of any number of registered players as specified by local league rules.
2. Each team shall designate a captain or spokesperson responsible for communication with officials.
3. Only captains may raise disputes or protests during a match.
4. Substitutions are not permitted , except as expressly provided under Article XIV, Section 9 (Weekly League Nights Only).
5. Captains are responsible for ensuring all players meet eligibility and membership requirements.
ARTICLE VIII – RULES INTERPRETERS AND CERTIFICATION
1. Each sanctioned venue shall have at least one certified UDF Rules Interpreter.
2. Interpreters are trained by UDF and authorized to make on-site rulings.
3. All disputes must first be presented to the local Rules Interpreter before escalation to UDF.
4. UDF maintains authority to review, overturn, or uphold local rulings as necessary.
ARTICLE IX — MEMBERSHIP AND ELIGIBILITY
1. Participation in higher-level sanctioned play conducted through the United States Amateur Darts Association (USADA)—including County, Regional, State, and National events, All-Stars, and official USADA tournaments—requires active USADA player membership.
Local bar-level league play conducted under USADA may, at the discretion of the program and the United Darts Federation (UDF), be open to non-members as outlined in this Article.
UDF serves as the governing body for rules, standards, and sanctioning, while USADA administers player membership and league operations.
2. Membership may be individual or team-based.
3. Players under 18 may participate only with parental consent and venue approval.
4. All members agree to abide by UDF’s Code of Conduct and Rules of Play.
5. Membership may be suspended or revoked for rule violations or misconduct.
6. Minimum Age Requirement
USADA-sanctioned league play is restricted to players 18 years of age or older, unless both of the following conditions are met:
1. Local and state laws permit minors (ages 16–17) to be present in the establishment during league hours, and
2. The minor provides a signed parental/guardian consent form approved by USADA. Players under age 16 are not permitted to participate in any USADA-sanctioned league or tournament.
7. Players are not required to hold USADA Membership to participate in local bar-level league play. However, USADA Membership will be required for advancement beyond the local level, including County, Regional, State, and National Championships, All-Stars, and any official USADA Tournaments. Membership also provides additional benefits such as eligibility for end-of-season rankings, awards, discounts, verified stats tracking in eligible formats (see Article X, Section 7), and other perks.
8. Non-Member Participation — Local League Eligibility
UDF and USADA recognize that local weekly bar leagues serve as the entry point for new players and the foundation for sport growth. Therefore:
- Non-Members MAY participate in weekly USADA-sanctioned bar league play.
- Non-Members MAY earn nightly finish points, accumulate weekly totals, and receive pot payouts, just like regular members.
- Non-Members are NOT eligible for:
- 6-Week Season Champion titles
- End-of-Season awards
- Regional, State, or National qualifiers
- All-Star selection
- Any official USADA or UDF ranking lists
- Only active USADA Members may:
- Advance beyond the local level (County → Regional → State → Nationals)
- Earn certified ranking points
- Qualify for All-Stars
- Access Member-only benefits, programs, or discounts
- Players may join USADA at any time, with membership becoming effective immediately for eligibility purposes.
Purpose:
This hybrid system grows the sport, fills weekly leagues, supports local venues, and encourages new players — without compromising the integrity of official advancement pathways.
9. Membership Requirements for Weekly Play, Advancement, and Championships
- Weekly Participation (Local Bar League)
Weekly USADA-sanctioned league nights are open to all eligible players.
USADA Membership is not required for weekly participation.
Non-member players may receive nightly “pot” payouts and are fully eligible to compete in all weekly matches. - Limitations for Non-Members
Players who are not active USADA Members may participate in weekly league matches but are not eligible for:- Season Championship titles
- All-Stars selection
- Advancement to County, Regional, State, or National competitions
- Official USADA ranked statistics or performance records
- Season awards or recognitions
- Membership Requirement for Advancement
To qualify for any advancement beyond weekly play — including All-Stars, County, Regional, State, and National Championship events — a player must hold an active USADA Membership no later than Week 4 of a standard 6-week season, unless otherwise approved in writing by USADA. - Purpose of This Policy
UDF and USADA maintain this structure to promote broad participation at the weekly level while ensuring that all pathways to higher-level competitive play are standardized, verified, and consistent with national ranking systems.
ARTICLE X – SCORING AND RANKINGS
1. Eligible individual and team results from sanctioned events contribute to official UDF rankings, subject to the membership and eligibility requirements set forth in Article IX.
2. Rankings are calculated based on win–loss records, leg averages (where available), points accumulated and tournament finishes.
3. Within a competitive year, league points earned during individual seasons accumulate continuously and reset at the conclusion of the competitive year.
4. Players may track progress through the official UDF or USADA digital platform or published standings.
5. In the event a dart strikes and sticks visibly within a numbered scoring segment or the bullseye area but fails to register on the electronic scoring system due to mechanical or sensor error, the score shall count if:
◦ The dart is clearly embedded within the scoring zone corresponding to a legitimate score; and
◦ All players (both teams or sides) acknowledge the physical placement.
◦ Darts lodged in the rim but visibly inside the scoring zone shall be awarded the full value of that segment (e.g., 25 or 50 points for bullseye).
Any dispute shall be referred to the local Rules Interpreter or Tournament Director, whose decision is final for that event.
6. Bonus Achievement Points (UDF/USADA Standard Rule)
To recognize exceptional performance while maintaining fairness across all skill levels, the United Darts Federation (UDF) and the United States Amateur Darts Association (USADA) award the following individual bonus points during league or tournament play:
6.1 A Hat Trick is defined as three (3) bullseyes scored in a single turn during a 501-format game.
Bonus Rules:
- Awarded only in 501-format games.
- Not awarded in Cricket.
- Awarded only to the individual player throwing the darts.
- A player may earn only one (1) Hat Trick bonus per individual 501 game.
- Additional Hat Tricks within the same 501 game do not earn additional bonus points.
- Since an official USADA match may contain a maximum of two (2) 501 games, the maximum Hat Trick bonus a player may earn in a single match is two (2) points.
- Machine scoring must verify all three bullseyes for the bonus to apply.
Rationale:
This rewards legitimate elite shots while preventing point-stacking in a single match.
✔ EXAMPLE OF HOW THIS WORKS
| Match | Player hits… | Bonus earned? |
|---|---|---|
| Match 1 vs Team A | 1 Hat Trick | +1 |
| Match 1 vs Team A | a second Hat Trick | No additional bonus |
| Match 2 vs Team B | 1 Hat Trick | +1 |
| Match 3 vs Team C | no Hat Trick | 0 |
So in this scenario the player earns 2 total bonus points for the night.
6.2 180 Bonus (+2 Points)
A 180 is defined as three (3) triple-20s in a single turn, totaling 180 points.
◦ Awarded only in 501-format games.
◦ Not applicable to Cricket or any non-501 game type.
◦ Machine scoring must confirm the 180.
6.3 White Horse Bonus (+1 Point)
A White Horse is defined as:
- one Triple 20,
- one Triple 19,
- and one Triple 18,
thrown within the same turn during a Cricket-format game.
Bonus Rules:
- Awarded only in Cricket-format games.
- Machine scoring must verify all three triples.
- Awarded only to the individual player throwing the darts.
- Only one White Horse bonus may be earned per match.
- Additional White Horses within the same match do not earn additional bonus points.
6.4 No Other Bonus Achievements Recognized
To preserve competitive balance, no additional bonuses (e.g., tons, low-tons, marks, nine-marks, out shot bonuses, or Cricket-specific achievements) shall be awarded unless authorized by amendment of this Rule book.
6.5 Maximum Bonus Limit
There is no nightly cap, as the achievements are rare and cannot be exploited or repeated strategically.
6.6 Impact on Standings
Bonus points are added to the individual player’s weekly and season cumulative totals but do not alter match results or team progression in double-elimination formats.
7. USADA Stat Tracking Policy
USADA tracks player and team statistics based on the format being played and the capabilities of the scoring system being used.
1. Verified Individual Stats
USADA will track Verified Individual Stats (such as 3-dart average, checkout percentage, high scores, and other individual performance metrics) only in formats where each player throws all of their own darts, such as:
• USADA Singles Match Play
• Any future format where individual tracking is supported
2. Team-Based Formats
In team formats where players alternate or rotate turns (including the Bar-Team Soft Tip League), machines do not attribute score totals to specific players. Therefore:
• Individual stats are not recorded
• Team-based standings and outcomes are used for rankings
These include:
• Wins / Losses
• Legs Won / Lost
• Match Points
• Team performance metrics
USADA reserves the ability to add additional individual stat tracking as scoring systems evolve or new formats are introduced.
ARTICLE XI – LEAGUE AND TOURNAMENT OPERATIONS
1. Leagues and tournaments must be sanctioned by UDF or its licensed affiliate (e.g., USADA).
2. Tournament Directors shall follow all UDF match, conduct, and dispute procedures.
3. Entry fees and prize funds must be disclosed before competition begins.
4. Results must be reported to UDF headquarters within three (3) days of event completion.
5. All bonus achievements must be verified through the electronic scoring machine. Achievements not recorded by the machine, or requiring manual judgment, are not eligible for bonus points.
6. Results Review and Correction Authority
(a) Weekly league and tournament results, including brackets, finishing positions, and points, shall be submitted to USADA/UDF in the format and time frame specified by the League Director or Tournament Director.
(b) USADA/UDF reserves the right to review all reported results and correct any obvious clerical, scoring, or reporting errors, including but not limited to:
• Misapplied finish points
• Incorrect bonus achievement entries
• Player name or team assignment errors
(c) If a correction materially affects standings, rankings, or prize/payout determinations, USADA/UDF shall notify the affected venue(s) and players as soon as reasonably practicable. All corrected results shall be deemed official for purposes of rankings and advancement.
7. League Night Director Role
- Each sanctioned venue shall have a League Night Director (“LND”), who may also compete as a player.
- The LND is responsible for blind draw procedure, bracket flow, result reporting, and basic dispute routing.
- The LND may compete under the same rules as a player and shall earn competitive points and placement based solely on bracket performance. The LND shall not receive any additional competitive points, placement adjustments, or ranking advantage by virtue of serving as LND.
- A venue or USADA may elect to cover the LND’s administrative and/or machine portion of entry during the season served, provided the TD continues to contribute the pot portion and remains fully eligible for competitive points based solely on bracket results.
- Substitute assignment and Double Throw procedures are governed by Article XIV, Section 9.
8. Player Verification and Blind Draw Procedure
- Prior to the blind draw, all participating players must:
- (a) sign the official player sign-in sheet,
- (b) confirm participation with the League Night Director (“LND”), and
- (c) verify payment status.
- Only verified players may be included in the blind draw and official tournament bracket.
- Once the blind draw has been completed and the bracket generated, participating players shall be considered officially entered into competition for that event or league night.
- The League Night Director retains authority, prior to first match play, to correct clerical errors, payment misunderstandings, participation-status mistakes, or bracket-entry issues in the interest of fairness and tournament integrity.
- No player may intentionally alter, conditionally accept, or manipulate participation status after blind draw completion in a manner intended to gain competitive advantage or undermine bracket fairness.
- The League Night Director may participate as a player when necessary to maintain an even field of competition, avoid byes, support league participation, or preserve bracket structure, provided such participation occurs prior to blind draw commencement.
ARTICLE XII – DISCIPLINARY PROCESS AND APPEALS
1. Alleged violations shall be reported to the UDF Rules Committee.
2. The accused shall have the right to respond in writing within ten (10) days.
3. Disciplinary actions may include warnings, suspensions, or permanent bans.
4. Appeals must be submitted in writing to the UDF Board of Directors within thirty (30) days.
5. If a player is removed for misconduct and no substitute is available, the Double-Thrower
Provision (Article 14 Section 9) may apply to the innocent partner. If a substitute is available and
willing to play, the remaining player must either accept the substitute or forfeit their participation
for that night; no refund of entry fees shall be provided.
6. Tournament format, bracket progression, and placement determination are procedural elements of
competition and are not subject to appeal.
ARTICLE XIII – COMPETITIVE PATHWAY
1. UDF establishes a tiered competition system advancing from local pub leagues to national tournaments.
2. Licensed state and regional associations may conduct qualifiers for advancement.
3. Winners of state events earn invitations to the UDF National Cup Championship.
4. The “From Pub to Cup” model ensures every player has a clear path to higher-level play.
5. Venue-Based Advancement (USADA League Play)
For venue-based league play administered by the United States Amateur Darts Association (USADA), advancement eligibility for inter-venue or regional competition shall be determined by cumulative league points earned during the competitive year.
Unless otherwise announced by USADA, the top four (4) eligible point earners at each sanctioned venue shall qualify to represent that venue in inter-venue or regional events.
ARTICLE XIV – SINGLES AND TEAM FORMATS
This Article recognizes multiple formats of play administered under UDF and USADA authority. Additional format-specific rules may be adopted and published as addenda or supplemental sections may be added without requiring amendment of the Core League Structure.
1. Both Singles and Doubles/Team competitions are recognized.
2. Singles leagues must have a minimum of six players to qualify for ranking.
3. Team events may feature Blind Draw or Set Pair formats.
4. All eligible players accumulate ranking points regardless of format; however, detailed individual statistics are only recorded in formats that support individual tracking as described in Article X, Section 7.
5. Blind Draw Partner Acceptance
Any player participating in weekly local or sanctioned doubles events using a blind draw system must accept the partner drawn by the official process (number, letter, or equivalent). A player who refuses to participate with the drawn partner shall be ineligible for that day or evening’s competition and must sit out. Acceptance of blind draw partners applies only to verified participating players entered pursuant to Article XI, Section 8.
6. Refusal Accommodation Rule
If an accommodation or substitution is arranged to satisfy a non-accepting player, the non-accepting player forfeits all points for that day or evening’s play. The player’s originally assigned partner shall retain points based on the team’s final standing for that match session.
7. Purpose of the Blind Draw System
The blind draw process promotes fairness, inclusivity, and camaraderie among all UDF participants. Consistent acceptance of draw results is a condition of good sportsmanship and league integrity.
8. Bonus Achievements in Team Formats
Bonus achievements earned by an individual player in blind-draw, doubles, or team formats shall be awarded solely to the individual who threw the darts, regardless of team outcome.
9. SPECIAL EXCEPTION RULE – DOUBLE-THROWER PROVISION
(Weekly League Nights Only)
The procedures set forth in this Section apply to all participants in weekly league play, regardless of USADA membership status.
If a player leaves mid-event or is unable to continue, the League Night Director (“LND”) shall first seek a substitute from among eliminated players still present that evening, or a willing participant.
If more than one eliminated player volunteers, the substitute shall be determined by random draw conducted by the LND.
The remaining original player must accept the assigned substitute or forfeit remaining play.
Active bracket participants may not serve as substitutes.
If no eliminated player exists at the time a partner departs, the LND shall, in their reasonable discretion, continue other available matches within the bracket and temporarily postpone the affected team’s next scheduled match until an eliminated player becomes available to serve as substitute.
The lone player may elect to withdraw and receive a full entry refund, provided the player has not yet competed in any match during that event. Once the player has begun match play, no refund shall be issued, and the procedures set forth in this Section shall control.
If no eliminated player is willing to substitute once available, the remaining partner may continue for the duration of the night as a Double-Thrower, subject to the conditions designed to preserve fairness, match integrity, and machine accuracy as set forth below.
A. 501 Format – Handicap Adjustment
- The opposing team shall begin the leg with a sixty-point (60) advantage.
▪ Practically: Opponent begins at 441; Double-Thrower begins at 501.
▪ The LND shall adjust the machine accordingly before the first dart is thrown.
- After the handicap is set, all darts thrown count normally on the machine.
▪ No turn skipping.
▪ No “dead darts.”
▪ No manual corrections after the initial setup.
B. Cricket Format – Pre-Closed Numbers
- Before the leg begins, the opposing team may select two (2) Cricket numbers (15–20 or Bull) to be pre-closed in their favor.
- The LND shall manually close those two numbers on the machine at the start of the leg.
- After this adjustment, Cricket proceeds normally with no further intervention.
C. League Points & Achievements
- A Double-Thrower who is eliminated while playing alone shall receive no fewer than three (3) league points for that night.
- The Double-Thrower is not eligible for achievement bonuses (Hat Trick or 180).
- Earned statistics (Marks Per Round – MPR, Points Per Dart – PPD) count normally for ranking and record keeping purposes.
D. Pot Eligibility
The team remains fully eligible for pot payouts (1st or 2nd), as pot distribution is venue-based and predates USADA league scoring. Distribution of winnings between teammates, including substitute participants, is voluntary and not governed by USADA.
E. Restrictions
- This Special Exception applies only to weekly league nights.
- This Special Exception is not permitted at All-Star, Regional, State, or National events. Full teams are required at all advanced levels.
- Bars, bar staff, venue management, or individual participants may not override, modify, or block the implementation of this rule.
10. Optional Tiebreaker – Random Cricket
In place of the standard 501 tiebreaker, Random Cricket may be used as the official tiebreaker game for that league night only if all the following conditions are met:
- Every player participating that night agrees to the alternate format.
- If even one (1) player objects, the standard 501 tiebreaker remains mandatory.
- All players must be informed of the option before the blind draw begins.
- The same tiebreaker format must be used for the entire bracket (cannot mix 501 and Random Cricket).
- The venue’s machines must support Random Cricket.
- The Tournament Director must approve it for that league night.
Random Cricket is the only permitted alternate tiebreaker in USADA-sanctioned Format A league play.
ARTICLE XV – THE UDF CUP SERIES
1. The UDF Cup Series operates as a national points-based ranking system.
2. Points are awarded for performance in sanctioned tournaments throughout the season.
3. The top-ranked players qualify for inter venue tournaments and year-end playoff events.
ARTICLE XVI – RULES AMENDMENTS AND REVIEW
1. Rules may be amended annually by the UDF Rules Committee.
2. All proposed changes must be submitted in writing thirty (30) days before the annual review meeting.
3. Approved amendments shall be published in the next edition of the Official Rules & Regulations.
4. Updated rules take effect on January 1 of each calendar year.
ARTICLE XVII – ADOPTION
These rules are adopted by the United Darts Federation, Inc., effective upon publication, and supersede any previous editions or policies. All sanctioned events and participants are bound by these standards.
ARTICLE XVIII – TOURNAMENT RANKING AND ELIMINATION ORDER
Elimination Standard (Double-Elimination Events)
In any double-elimination tournament, a team is eliminated from competition upon receiving its second (2nd) match loss.
- Placement Determination
Final placement is determined by bracket elimination in accordance with the tournament structure. Teams are ranked based on when they are eliminated from the bracket (i.e., after the second loss), producing a complete finishing order. - No Timing-Based Adjustment
Match scheduling order, machine availability, match duration, or the timing of when a match concludes shall not affect placement. Tournament progression and final standings are determined solely by match results and bracket advancement. - Grand Final Reset Rule
In double-elimination formats that culminate in a Grand Final, the Losers Bracket finalist must defeat the Winners Bracket finalist twice to win the tournament (bracket reset).
This Area Left Blank Intentionally
APPENDIX A – BOARD DIAGRAM AND MEASUREMENTS
1. Standard Board Type
UDF-sanctioned play shall use an electronic soft-tip dartboard with regulation 20-segment layout and automatic score registration.
2. Mounting Height
The center of the bullseye shall be positioned 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 m) from the floor.
3. Throw Line (Oche)
The front edge of the oche shall be 8 feet (2.44 m) from the face of the board, measured horizontally at floor level.
4. Lighting Requirements
Boards must be illuminated uniformly, providing clear visibility of all scoring areas without shadowing or glare.
5. Playing Zone Clearance
A minimum radius of 4 feet (1.22 m) around the player must remain free of obstacles and spectators.
6. Reference Diagram
The official diagram illustrates:
◦ Board height and oche distance
◦ Safety zone boundaries
◦ Mounting hardware positions
(Diagram to be included on publication or digital download.)
This Area Left Blank Intentionally
APPENDIX B – EQUIPMENT REGISTRY AND INSPECTION FORM
Each venue operating sanctioned boards shall complete a UDF Equipment Registry.
UDF EQUIPMENT REGISTRY & INSPECTION FORM
Required for all sanctioned venues. Must be submitted before league activation and renewed annually.
SECTION 1 — VENUE INFORMATION
| Field | Entry |
|---|---|
| Venue Name | _________________________________ |
| Venue Address | _________________________________ |
| City / State / ZIP | _________________________________ |
| Venue Contact Person | _________________________________ |
| Contact Phone | _________________________________ |
| Email Address | _________________________________ |
SECTION 2 — DART MACHINE INFORMATION
| Field | Entry |
|---|---|
| Machine Manufacturer | _________________________________ |
| Model Number | _________________________________ |
| Serial Number | _________________________________ |
| Number of Boards in Use | _________________________________ |
| Date of Last Calibration | _________________________________ |
| Lighting Adequate? (Y/N) | ______ |
| Throw Line Marked & Accurate? (Y/N) | ______ |
| Bull Height Verified (5’8″)? (Y/N) | ______ |
| Throw Line Distance Verified (8 ft)? (Y/N) | ______ |
| Machine Free of Sensor/Segment Issues? (Y/N) | ______ |
SECTION 3 — SAFETY & ENVIRONMENT CHECK
| Requirement | Pass | Fail |
|---|---|---|
| Playing area clear of obstacles | ☐ | ☐ |
| Adequate lighting / no shadows | ☐ | ☐ |
| Safe space behind the throw line | ☐ | ☐ |
| Spectator area defined | ☐ | ☐ |
| Electrical cords safely positioned | ☐ | ☐ |
| Machine anchored / stable | ☐ | ☐ |
SECTION 4 — COMPLIANCE
Is the venue in full compliance with UDF standards?
☐ YES — Venue approved
☐ NO — Corrections required before sanctioning Describe any issues noted:
SECTION 5 — CERTIFICATION
Inspected By (Certified Rules Interpreter): Venue Representative
Name: _____________________________________________ Name: ______________________________________
Signature: __________________________________________ Signature: ___________________________________
Date: ______________________________________________ Date: _______________________________________
FOR UDF OFFICE USE ONLY
| Item | Status |
|---|---|
| Documents Received | ☐ Yes ☐ No |
| Added to UDF Venue Database | ☐ Yes ☐ No |
| Inspection Notes | _______________________________________ |
| Approved By | _______________________________________ |
| Approval Date | _______________________________________ |
APPENDIX C – OFFICIAL MATCH SCORE SHEET
Used when an electronic board is unavailable or malfunctioning.
Match Information
• Venue Name / Date / Match Type (501 – Cricket – 501)
• Team A: _________ Team B: _________
• Game Format (Best of ___ legs)
Scoring Table
Leg No.
Player / Team A Score
Player / Team B Score
Winner
1
2
3
Verification
Player A Captain Signature __________
Player B Captain Signature __________
Rules Interpreter Signature __________
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APPENDIX D – GLOSSARY OF TERMS
An official USADA Format A match consists of: one game of 501, one game of Cricket, and, if necessary, one 501 tiebreaker game.
• Bullseye – Center circle; 501 outer/inner = 50 pts – Cricket outer = single mark, inner = double mark.
• Cricket – Popular darts game using numbers 15–20 and bullseye.
• Double Elimination – Tournament format allowing one loss before elimination.
• Leg / Set – A single game (leg); a group of legs determining a match (set).
• MPR – Marks Per Round; average scoring measure in Cricket.
• PPD – Points Per Dart; average scoring measure in 501/701.
• Oche – The throw line behind which players must stand.
• Rules Interpreter – Certified official authorized to rule on disputes.
• Sanctioned Event – Tournament or league approved and recorded by UDF.
• Blind Draw – Random partner assignment for doubles or team play.
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APPENDIX E – ANNUAL RULE AMENDMENT LOG
Year
Article Affected
Section
Summary of Change
Approved By
Effective Date
2025
2026
This log shall accompany each edition of the handbook for historical accuracy and transparency.
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APPENDIX F – PLAYER CLASSIFICATION POLICY
1. Purpose
To define Amateur, Semi-Professional, and Professional classifications based on skill, competition level, and intent—not prize value.
2. Amateur Player
◦ Competes in UDF / USADA-licensed leagues.
◦ Plays primarily for rankings, trophies, or open-event prizes.
◦ May earn sponsorships or prize funds of any amount.
◦ Not under employment or appearance contract with UDF.
3. Semi-Professional Player
◦ Demonstrates higher statistical performance (MPR ≥ 2.81 or PPD ≥ 66).
◦ May receive limited sponsorships or endorsements.
◦ Eligible for both Amateur and Professional events per tournament rules.
4. Professional Player
◦ Holds a UDF Professional License or equivalent status.
◦ Receives compensation or contract for appearances, sponsorship, or competition.
◦ Maintains averages (MPR ≥ 3.5 or PPD ≥ 85) or meets qualifying criteria set annually.
5. Intent Over Income
Classification is determined by declared intent and competitive level, not by prize money earned.
6. Reclassification and Review
Players may request reclassification at season end or upon qualifying event. The UDF Rules Committee retains final authority on status determinations.
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APPENDIX G – CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICS
1. Integrity and Respect
Members shall conduct themselves with honesty, fairness, and courtesy toward players, officials, and venues.
2. Substance and Behavior
Moderate alcohol use is permitted per venue rules; drug use is strictly prohibited. Harassment or abuse of any kind will result in immediate disciplinary review.
3. Conflict of Interest
Officials must disclose relationships or interests that may compromise impartiality.
4. Social Media and Representation
Members representing UDF or USADA online must uphold professionalism and refrain from derogatory or inflammatory posts.
5. Enforcement
Violations are subject to disciplinary action per Article XII (Disciplinary Process and Appeals).
APPENDIX H – LICENSING AND SANCTIONING PROCEDURES
1. Eligibility for Sanctioning
Any bar, venue, or league may apply for UDF sanction if it meets equipment, safety, and conduct standards.
2. Application Process
Submit application form with venue details, equipment list, and Rules Interpreter certification.
3. Fees and Renewal
Annual license fee as determined by the UDF Board. Renewal requires updated inspection form (Appendix B).
4. Compliance Audits
UDF may conduct inspections to verify adherence to federation standards.
5. Revocation of License
Licenses may be suspended or revoked for repeated rule violations or failure to maintain equipment standards.
APPENDIX I – DIRECTOR AND OFFICIAL CERTIFICATION STANDARDS
1. Certification Levels
◦ Level I: Local Rules Interpreter
◦ Level II: Regional Tournament Director
◦ Level III: National Inspector / Rules Committee Member
2. Training Requirements
Completion of UDF online or in-person training covering:
◦ Rules of Play
◦ Conflict Resolution
◦ Safety and Conduct Standards
◦ Event Reporting
3. Renewal
Certifications are valid for 24 months; renewal requires a review exam or refresher session.
4. Revocation
Failure to maintain professionalism or impartiality may result in certification suspension.
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APPENDIX J – BRANDING AND SEAL USAGE POLICY
1. Ownership
The UDF and USADA seals, logos, and insignia are the exclusive property of UDF Inc.
2. Authorized Use
◦ Official publications, certificates, and marketing approved by UDF.
◦ Licensed venues and leagues may display marks only while in good standing.
3. Prohibited Use
◦ Altering, recoloring, or distorting the seal or logo.
◦ Using marks for personal profit or unsanctioned events.
4. Embossers and Digital Watermarks
◦ Authorized embossers shall reproduce the seal in metallic gold (UDF) or silver (USADA).
◦ Digital watermark versions must maintain full circular integrity and legible text.
5. Violations
Unauthorized use may result in disciplinary action or legal remedy under trademark protection.
© 2025 United Darts Federation, Inc.
Tennessee Nonprofit Corporation (501(c)(6))
All Rights Reserved. UNITED DARTS FEDERATION (UDF)
UDF EQUIPMENT REGISTRY & INSPECTION FORM
Required for all sanctioned venues. Must be submitted before league activation and renewed annually.
SECTION 1 — VENUE INFORMATION
| Field | Entry |
|---|---|
| Venue Name | _________________________________ |
| Venue Address | _________________________________ |
| City / State / ZIP | _________________________________ |
| Venue Contact Person | _________________________________ |
| Contact Phone | _________________________________ |
| Email Address | _________________________________ |
SECTION 2 — DART MACHINE INFORMATION
| Field | Entry |
|---|---|
| Machine Manufacturer | _________________________________ |
| Model Number | _________________________________ |
| Serial Number | _________________________________ |
| Number of Boards in Use | _________________________________ |
| Date of Last Calibration | _________________________________ |
| Lighting Adequate? (Y/N) | ______ |
| Throw Line Marked & Accurate? (Y/N) | ______ |
| Bull Height Verified (5’8″)? (Y/N) | ______ |
| Throw Line Distance Verified (8 ft)? (Y/N) | ______ |
| Machine Free of Sensor/Segment Issues? (Y/N) | ______ |
SECTION 3 — SAFETY & ENVIRONMENT CHECK
| Requirement | Pass | Fail |
|---|---|---|
| Playing area clear of obstacles | ☐ | ☐ |
| Adequate lighting / no shadows | ☐ | ☐ |
| Safe space behind the throw line | ☐ | ☐ |
| Spectator area defined | ☐ | ☐ |
| Electrical cords safely positioned | ☐ | ☐ |
| Machine anchored / stable | ☐ | ☐ |
SECTION 4 — COMPLIANCE
Is the venue in full compliance with UDF standards?
☐ YES — Venue approved
☐ NO — Corrections required before sanctioning
Describe any issues noted:
SECTION 5 — CERTIFICATION
Inspected By (Certified Rules Interpreter):
Name: _____________________________________________
Signature: __________________________________________
Date: _______________________________________________
Venue Representative:
Name: _____________________________________________
Signature: __________________________________________
Date: _______________________________________________
FOR UDF OFFICE USE ONLY
| Item | Status |
|---|---|
| Documents Received | ☐ Yes ☐ No |
| Added to UDF Venue Database | ☐ Yes ☐ No |
| Inspection Notes | _______________________________________ |
| Approved By | _______________________________________ |
| Approval Date | _______________________________________ |