Beginner Flag Football Guide

How to Play Flag Football

New to flag football? Start here. This guide explains the basic 5v5 format, field layout, downs, scoring, no run zones, equipment, and rules so players and families can understand the game before the first snap.

Flag Football Field

Understand the field before the first snap

The current NFL FLAG rulebook provides two standard field options: 25 yards wide by 70 yards long with 10 yard end zones, or 25 yards wide by 64 yards long with 7 yard end zones. Five yard no run zones are marked before midfield and before the end zone. An offense encounters two no run zones during a drive.

Field Size25 yards wide and either 70 yards long with 10 yard end zones or 64 yards long with 7 yard end zones.
End ZonesEnd zones are 10 yards deep on the 70 yard field or 7 yards deep on the 64 yard field.
No Run ZonesDuring each drive, the offense encounters a five yard no run zone before midfield and another before the end zone.
Line to GainCross midfield for a first down, then advance toward the end zone to score.

Typical 5v5 flag football field layout. Field dimensions and markings may vary by league, age group, location, and event format.

How a Game Works

Move the ball and cross midfield

  • Each team starts with four downs to cross midfield.
  • After crossing midfield, the offense gets three downs to score.
  • There are no kickoffs in standard youth NFL FLAG play.
  • A flag pull ends the play.
  • Teams switch direction after halftime.

Basic Rules

Non contact football

  • No tackling.
  • No blocking or screening.
  • No stiff arms, charging, or holding.
  • No flag guarding.
  • Forward passing is allowed from behind the line of scrimmage.

Scoring

How points are earned

  • Touchdown: 6 points.
  • Extra point from the 5 yard line: 1 point.
  • Two point conversion from the 10 yard line: 2 points.
  • Safety: 2 points.

Learn More

Keep learning the game

Flag Football RulesReview complete youth game rules and guidelines. Flag Football PositionsLearn each position and its role. Flag PlaybookPlays and strategies for coaches and players. Flag Football DrillsPractice skills and fundamentals. Flag Football SafetyPlayer safety information and guidance. Uniform & EquipmentWhat players need for league play. Find a Youth Flag Football LeagueView United Sports locations and current youth league options. Girls Flag FootballExplore current girls flag football opportunities. Adult Flag FootballFind 5v5 adult leagues for teams and individual players.
This guide summarizes the current NFL FLAG youth rules and field dimensions. League and division adjustments may apply. View the official NFL FLAG Rulebook and Quick Rules Sheet.