From the source rules
Who goes first in Checkers?
American Checker Federation official rules (English)
Players choose colours by random selection, such as a coin toss. The player with the Red (dark) men makes the first move. In later games, players alternate colours.
Source & edition
- The Official Rules of CheckersAmerican Checker Federation · "Order of Play" section and its note on random selection · Checked 2026-10-01
If your rules call for a random choice, use the player picker.
Rule details
The dark pieces are sometimes called Black in checkers books.
If there’s a tie
The rulebook doesn’t say. If you need a tie-break, pick a player at random.
Game night gear
More starting rules
Browse available game rulesGames with a similar starting rule
VikingsPlayers choose a start player; the rules give no selection method.
Survive: Escape from Atlantis!Choose a first player, or select one at random. That player begins the game, and turns proceed clockwise.
EmberleafChoose a starting player; the rulebook recommends that the bravest player go first.
Cóatl: The Card GameChoose a starting player; the rules suggest the person who last used a paintbrush.
AgricolaPlayers choose the starting player, who takes the starting player marker and two food. The other players each receive three food.
Found a different instruction in your edition? Send a correction with the game, edition, and source.