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Mexican Train questions and answers
Quick answers to the questions families ask most. For the full rules, see how to play Mexican Train.
How many dominoes do you start with in Mexican Train?
With a double-12 set: 15 tiles each for 2 to 4 players, 12 for 5 or 6 players, and 10 for 7 or 8 players.
Some groups adjust these numbers. Any count works as long as everyone draws the same number and a good pile is left to draw from.
What happens if you can't play in Mexican Train?
Draw one tile. If it fits, play it; if not, put a marker on your train and pass.
While your marker is out, anyone can play on your train. Play on your own train again to take the marker off.
Do you have to cover a double in Mexican Train?
Yes. Under standard rules, a double must be covered before anyone plays anywhere else.
If you play a double, you play one more tile. If no one can cover the double, players draw and put out markers until someone does. Some families skip this with a house rule.
Can you play on other people's trains?
Only when their train has a marker on it, or on the Mexican Train, which is always open.
A marker goes out when a player can't play. It comes off when they play on their own train again.
What is the Mexican Train?
It's an extra train that belongs to everyone.
Any player can start it with a tile that matches the engine, and anyone can add to it on their turn.
How do you score Mexican Train?
Add up the dots on the tiles left in your hand when the round ends. Lowest total after all rounds wins.
The player who goes out scores 0. Many families count the double-blank as 50 points instead of 0.
How many players can play Mexican Train?
2 to 8 players with a double-12 set.
It plays best with 4 to 6. With a double-6 set, stick to 2 to 4 players.
What domino set do you need for Mexican Train?
A double-12 set (91 tiles) is standard.
You can play with a double-9 set (10 rounds) or a double-6 set (7 rounds). Colored dots make matching easier for kids and grandparents.
How many rounds are in Mexican Train?
13 rounds with a double-12 set, from double-12 down to double-blank.
Short on time? Play fewer rounds and still go by the lowest total.
What is the engine in Mexican Train?
The engine is the double in the middle that starts each round.
Round one uses the double-12, round two the double-11, and so on down to the double-blank.
Is Loco Motion free?
Yes! Loco Motion is free to play in your web browser.
You can play against the computer without an account. To play with family and friends online, you'll just need a free account. An iPhone app is coming soon, too.
Can I play Mexican Train with family who live far away?
Yes. Start a game in Loco Motion, tap Invite and text the link. Everyone plays at the same table from their own phone.
Each player makes a free account to join (you'll need to be 13 or older). You can also play against the computer anytime, no account needed.
What is the Daily Deal in Loco Motion?
It's one deal a day, and everyone gets the same tiles. You get one try, and whoever has the fewest dots left wins.
A new deal comes out every night at midnight Central time. When you finish, text your result to the family and see who did best. A shared Daily Deal link opens that day’s deal. Play today’s deal.
Is Loco Motion OK for kids?
Yes! Kids can play against the computer without an account.
You'll need to be 13 or older to make an account and play with family and friends online, so a grown-up can set up those games. See our Privacy Policy for how we handle information.
Can I use my family's house rules in Loco Motion?
Yes. Turn on rules like a 50-point double-blank, a big first turn or starting your own train first.
In games with friends, everyone plays by the host's rules. See the full list of house rules.
Want to give it a try? Play Mexican Train free on your phone, tablet or computer.
Try it free
Play against the computer, or invite the family to play with you wherever they are.