Journal
Courtesy Pass vs Blind Pass in American Mahjong
Courtesy pass and blind pass sound similar because both can reduce the number of tiles you must choose from your own rack. They happen for different reasons and should be announced clearly.
Quick answer
A courtesy pass is negotiated with the player across from you after the Charleston, often for zero to three tiles. A blind pass occurs during an eligible Charleston pass when you pass one or more received tiles without looking at their faces.
How the courtesy pass works
Partners across the table agree on a number from zero to three. Each passes that many unwanted tiles to the other, and both players should exchange the same number.
The courtesy pass is optional. If either player wants zero, no tiles are exchanged.
How a blind pass works
A blind pass lets a player avoid choosing all three tiles from the rack on an eligible pass. One or more tiles just received can be passed onward without viewing them, within the rules used by the group.
Keep blind tiles face down and separate from selected rack tiles so no one accidentally sees them.
Why beginners mix them up
Both practices can protect a developing hand when there are not three clear discards. The difference is that courtesy is an across-the-table agreement, while blind passing belongs to a directional Charleston pass.
Teachers should say the pass name and direction aloud. Clear language prevents a player from looking at a tile that was meant to remain blind.
Beginner checklist
- Announce the pass type
- Confirm the direction
- Negotiate courtesy from zero to three
- Keep blind tiles unseen
- Complete the exchange simultaneously
Compact and travel-table note
On a small mat, reserve a neutral center spot for face-down blind tiles. This keeps them away from mini racks and prevents accidental mixing with the player’s hand.
Rules note: American Mah Jongg groups may use local table conventions. Use the current official card and rules for tournament or league play, and agree on house rules before the first deal.
Rules authority
The National Mah Jongg League publishes the American version of the rules and the annual Standard Hands and Rules card. Check the current card and official materials when a tournament-level ruling matters.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the courtesy pass required?
No. It is optional, and either player may choose zero.
Do courtesy partners pass the same number?
Yes. They agree on one number from zero to three.
Can you look at a blind pass tile?
No. A blind pass tile is passed onward without viewing its face.
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