SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/vb-serve-end-line

When serving in volleyball, can you step on the end line as you hit the ball?

No, touching the end line at the hit is a fault.

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  1. Yes, the line is part of the service zone
  2. No, not until after the hit ✔
  3. Only on a jump serve

Why: At the moment of the serve, or the take-off for a jump serve, the server must not touch the court, and that includes the end line. After the hit, they may land inside the court.

Huh, didn't know that: The service zone is 9 meters wide and sits behind the end line.

The dad joke
Why did the server stand behind the line? It was the only way to make a good first impression.
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References

Answer: No, not until after the hit. At the moment of the serve, or the take-off for a jump serve, the server must not touch the court, and that includes the end line. After the hit, they may land inside the court.

  1. FIVB Official Volleyball Rules 2025-2028, Rule 12.4.3 www.fivb.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/FIVB-Volleyball_Rules2025_2028-EN-v05.pdf
    the server must not touch the court (the end line included) or the floor outside the service zone.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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Test yourself in the game

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