You do not have to place an additional bet to participate. In 3 Card Poker online, you will get a bonus payout for holding certain hands when playing the Ante bet. However, if the dealer's hand does not contain a queen or better, then all players who are still active in play will have their Play bet returned to them, plus even money for their Ante wager. You win even money on your Play and Ante bets if you beat the dealer’s hand.

If the dealer has a high card queen or better, he automatically 'qualifies' his hand. The dealer will then reveal his three cards after you have made your decision on your own 3 Card Poker hand.