Bonus Action: choose between competing options

SRD 5.2.1 · Turns

At the table

1. Find the feature, spell or item that explicitly allows the Bonus Action.
2. Check its timing and prerequisites before using it.
3. Once one Bonus Action has been used this turn, reserve other options for a later turn unless a specific rule changes the limit.

Example decision

Two features each let a character take a Bonus Action. The character meets both prerequisites and has already used one feature this turn. Can they use the other as another Bonus Action?

No; the usual limit is one Bonus Action per turn.

The general rule limits the character to one Bonus Action on a turn. Two features provide two possible uses of that resource. Meeting both prerequisites does not multiply it. The player chooses which available use fits the current turn, while retaining any separate action or Reaction they can take.

Watch for this mistake

A spare action does not automatically authorize an extra Bonus Action. Look for explicit permission before changing the type or number of actions a feature uses.

Ask the table

Which of the available Bonus Action uses matters most this turn?

Source rule

A Bonus Action is a special action that you can take on the same turn that you take an action. You can’t take more than one Bonus Action on a turn, and you have a Bonus Action to take only if a rule explicitly says so. See also “Playing the Game” (“Actions”).

Source: SRD 5.2.1, 177. Online guide.