The feature allowing card trading in Pokémon TCG Pocket has finally been launched. However, there are several important rules you should be aware of before diving into the process. Alongside the introduction of the Space-Time Smackdown card set, the ability to exchange cards with friends has become available.
While trading may initially appear straightforward, it is governed by various rules that complicate the process. If you’ve got your eye on a rare card from a friend and are eager to propose a trade, follow this guide for exchanging cards in Pokémon TCG Pocket.
Trading Rules in Pokémon TCG Pocket
Before you proceed with trading in Pokémon TCG Pocket, familiarize yourself with the key regulations. Understanding these rules is crucial as some may affect your trading experience.
- Cards can only be traded if they share the same rarity.
- Each trade costs one Stamina point. You accumulate one Stamina every 24 hours or can buy additional Stamina using Trade Hourglasses or Poké Gold.
- To trade rare cards (those with three diamonds or more), Trade Tokens are necessary. You can earn these tokens from duplicate rare cards.
- Trades are limited to one card at a time.
- If one of the traded cards has flair, the counterpart must also have flair.
- Cards with a rarity of two stars or higher are not eligible for trading.
How to Initiate a Trade in Pokémon TCG Pocket
If you're the one starting the trade, follow these steps:
Step 1: Go to the Social Hub and hit the Trade button. Ensure that you have sufficient Stamina, and then click the next Trade button.
Step 2: Select the friend you wish to trade with, and choose which of your cards you want to offer for trade.
Step 3: Wait for your friend to respond to your trade offer. Continue once you see the "Trade response received" notification.
Step 4: Review your friend's trade proposal, then choose whether to accept or reject it.

Responding to a Trade
Step 1: Access the Trade menu and wait for the notification about the trade offer.
Step 2: Evaluate whether the trade terms are satisfactory. Decide whether to accept or decline the trade.
Step 3: Choose the card from your collection that you are willing to trade.
Step 4: Wait for your friend's decision on the trade. If they approve, a message will appear confirming the trade was successful. When completed, click the Trade button to finalize your new card acquisition.