[RPG] Who can use magic scrolls

dnd-5emagic-itemsspellcasting

I'm confused about who can use scrolls in 5e. In the DMG, p139 under Magic Item Categories: Scrolls, it states that:

Any creature that can understand a written language can read the
arcane script on a scroll and attempt to activate it.

This implies that anyone can try to cast a spell using a scroll. However, on p.200 in the Spell Scroll entry it states that:

If the spell is on your class's spell list, you can use an action to read the scroll and cast its spell without having to provide any of the spell's components. Otherwise, the scroll is unintelligible.

Then there is the bit about a DC 10 + scroll spell level ability check if the spell is higher than a spell slot that you can cast.

If the spell is on your class's spell list but of a higher level than you can normally cast, you must make an ability check using your spellcasting ability to determine whether you cast it successfully. The DC equals 10 + spell's level. On a failed check, the spell disappears from the scroll with no other effect.

So, which is it? Can anyone who can read a language use a scroll (like a fighter) if they make an arcana check, or just a PC with that specific spell in their spell list (only spell casters)?

Best Answer

Remember in D&D RAW, specific overrides general.

The general rule for scrolls "any creature that can understand a written language can read the arcane script on a scroll and attempt to activate it" is overridden by the specific rule for Spell Scrolls: "if the spell is on your class's list you can use an action to read it...otherwise the scroll is illegible". So if it's a scroll anyone can read it and use it unless it is part of the specific category of spell scrolls then it must be on your class list to a) read it and b) use it.