Intermediate tactic · 3 of 12
The double check
Two pieces give check at once. The king has to move, because one move cannot stop both.
- Learn how it worksThree examples with Capra. You play each one yourself.Three examples with CapraStart the lesson
- Practise on real puzzlesPractise on puzzles80 double check puzzles, from easy to very hard.0 of 80 solvedGo to the puzzlesGo to the puzzles
Two checks at once
A double check is a discovered check where the piece that moves gives check as well.
Knight and rook
The knight and the rook both check the king. It is mate.
Bishop and rook
The bishop and the rook both check the king. It is mate.
Nothing can be taken
Both checking pieces are attacked, and neither can be captured.
Double checks in numbers
Counted from the 440 double checks in our puzzle library, all taken from real games- 1 in 650
of our puzzles has a double check. It is rare, and it is strong.
- 3 in 4
double check puzzles end in checkmate.
- 47%
of them start with a knight move.
Which piece makes the first move
- Knight47%
- Rook17%
- Pawn14%
- Bishop13%
- Queen9%
What the double check wins
- Checkmate74%
- Queen9%
- Rook9%
- Bishop2%
- Knight1%
Good to know
Double checks: common questions
What is a double check in chess?
A double check is a move that puts the king in check from two pieces at the same time. One piece moves and gives check, and it uncovers a second check from a piece behind it.
How do you get out of a double check?
Only by moving the king. A capture or a block deals with one of the two checks and leaves the other, so neither is allowed.
Why is a double check so strong?
Because it takes away two of the three ways to answer a check. Your opponent cannot capture and cannot block, even when both of your checking pieces are attacked.
Is a double check always checkmate?
No, but it often is. If the king has a safe square it steps there, and you usually get to keep attacking with an extra move in hand.