Can you look at your tiles during the deal?
By Jerry Chen. Checked and updated November 1, 2026
Short answer: allowed, but wait
No written rule forbids it, but it is wiser to wait until the deal is finished.
The detail
If something goes wrong in the deal, a player who has already looked at tiles meant for the wall or for someone else can cause hard feelings at the table.
Tom Sloper recommends waiting until the deal is complete.
Sources
These follow standard National Mah Jongg League rules. House rules vary; agree on them before you play.
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See more questions in Seats and turns, the complete rules, or all 52 rule questions.