Can You Keep Your Phone at a Chess Tournament? FIDE Rules Explained

Quick answer: Under the FIDE Laws of Chess, a player generally may not have an electronic device that the arbiter has not specifically approved in the playing venue during a game. If a phone is found on a player’s person in the venue, the usual FIDE penalty is loss of the game, although event regulations may specify a less severe penalty.

Can a phone be kept in a bag?

FIDE Article 11.3.2.1 allows event regulations to permit electronic devices to be stored in a player’s bag if the device is completely switched off and the bag is placed where the arbiter agrees. Players may not access that bag without the arbiter’s permission. Check the tournament’s own regulations before you arrive; do not assume silent or airplane mode is enough.

What happens if a phone is found during a game?

If it is evident that a player has a non-approved electronic device on their person in the playing venue, Article 11.3.2.2 says the player loses and the opponent wins. The event regulations may set a less severe penalty. The arbiter applies the rules and may require an inspection in private under the conditions described by the Laws.

What does FIDE mean by the playing venue?

The playing venue is broader than the board area. FIDE defines it to include the playing area, rest rooms, toilets, refreshment areas, smoking areas and other places designated by the arbiter. Tournament-specific instructions can therefore matter even when you step away from your board.

Frequently asked questions about phones in chess tournaments

Can I leave my switched-off phone in my bag?

Only if the event regulations allow it and the bag is stored where the arbiter agrees. The device must be completely switched off.

Will I automatically lose if my phone is in the playing venue?

The FIDE default is loss if a non-approved device is evident on your person in the venue, but event rules may provide a less severe penalty. Ask the arbiter before the round.

Can I check my phone in the bathroom during a game?

The playing venue includes areas such as rest rooms and toilets. Follow the arbiter’s instructions and the event’s device policy throughout the venue.

Source: FIDE Laws of Chess, Articles 11.2–11.3. Read the official FIDE Handbook.