The men's coxless pair competition at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia took place at Lake Lanier, Georgia.

All other boats progress to the repechage round, which offers a second chance to qualify for the semi-finals.

The best three boats in each of the two semi-finals qualify for final A, which determines places 1–6 (including the medals).

Unsuccessful boats from semi-finals A/B go forward to final B, which determines places 7–12.

The first finisher of each heat advanced to the semifinals, remainder goes to the repechage.