Before choosing the best online casino sites, it is essential to ensure that players are allowed to play on the platform they wish to use. Some eligibility requirements that users may have to fulfill include their state, the amount they deposit, and their minimum age. The legal age of a casino player is a key factor when trying to enter an online casino site.
This minimum age will vary state by state, so our team of experts at CasinoTop10 has provided a simple breakdown of the legal gambling ages for each US state. Keep reading to learn more.
The Basics
Before we get into too many legal specifics, let’s start off with the basics, like what is that an average player actually needs to know when it comes to the gambling age. Once we’ve gotten that part down, everything else will feel like a breeze.
What there is to know about Gambling Age:
- Different US states have varying legislation;
- The legal gambling age may differ according to the gambling category;
- There may be differing restrictions for online gambling and land-based gambling.
The table below shows the different minimum gambling ages in different US states and any particularities and obligations that might come with them. Within this table, you’ll notice that the legal age generally tends to be between 18 and 21. Still, in rare cases, it is as low as 16. This goes for US states such as Maine and Oklahoma, where the legal gambling age for bingo is set at 16.
While going through the table, you’ll notice a few other peculiarities as well, so let’s break them down. For one, the table illustrates the legal gambling age for casinos and poker rooms separately and there’s a good reason for this. In most cases, these two ages will coincide, there are expectations – and we’re covering all our bases here. Additionally, you’ll notice that the table also shows the minimum age for Bingo, Lottery, and Dog and Horse Racing. The gambling age for these categories is also essentially similar. However, as there are a few pesky expectations, we’ve decided on a more comprehensive table. On a final note, you may find the symbol N/A on the table. This simply means that no information about these legal ages is available.
| U.S. Region | U.S. State | Casinos | Poker Rooms | Bingo | Lottery | Dog/Horse Racing |
| West | Alaska (AK) | 21 | N/A | 19 | N/A | N/A |
| West | Arizona (AZ) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 21 | 21 |
| West | California (CA) | 18/21 | 18/21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| West | Colorado (CO) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| West | Hawaii (HI) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| West | Idaho (ID) | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| West | Montana (MT) | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| West | Nevada (NV) | 21 | 21 | 21 | N/A | N/A |
| West | New Mexico (NM) | 21 | 21 | No Limit | 18 | 18 |
| West | Oregan (OR) | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| West | Utah (UT) | 21 | 21 | 18 | N/A | N/A |
| West | Washington (WA) | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| West | Wyoming (WY) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Midwest | Illinois (IL) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Midwest | Indiana (IN) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Midwest | Iowa (IA) | 21 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 21 |
| Midwest | Kansas (KS) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Midwest | Michigan Gambling(MI) | 18/21 | 18/21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Midwest | Minnesota (MN) | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Midwest | Missouri (MO) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Midwest | Nebraska (NE) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 19 | 19 |
| Midwest | North Dakota (ND) | 18/21 | 18/21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Midwest | Ohio (OH) | 18/21 | 18/21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Midwest | South Dakota (SD) | 18 (Indian Casinos) | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Midwest | Wisconsin (WI) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | N/A |
| North East | Connecticut (CT) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| North East | Maine (ME) | 21 | 21 | 16 | 18 | 18 |
| North East | Massachusetts (MA) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| North East | New Hampshire (NH) | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| North East | New Jersey Gambling (NJ) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| North East | New York Gambling (NY) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| North East | Pennsylvania Gambling (PA) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| North East | Rhode Island (RI) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| North East | Vermont (VT) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | N/A |
| South | Alabama (AL) | 21 | 21 | 18 | N/A | 18 |
| South | Arkansas (AR) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| South | Delaware Gambling (DE) | 21 | 18/21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| South | Florida (FL) | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| South | Georgia (GA) | 18 (only Cruises) | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| South | Kentucky (KY) | N/A | N/A | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| South | Louisiana (LA) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 21 | 18 |
| South | Maryland (MD) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| South | Mississippi (MS) | 21 | 21 | 18 | N/A | 18 |
| South | North Carolina (NC) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | N/A |
| South | Oklahoma (OK) | 18 | 18 | 16 | 18 | 18 |
| South | South Carolina (SC) | 21 (only Cruises) | 18 | 18 | 18 | N/A |
| South | Tennessee (TN) | N/A | N/A | 18 | 18 | N/A |
| South | Texas (TX) | 21 | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 |
| South | Virginia (VA) | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| South | West Virginia Gambling (WV) | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
Online Casinos vs. Landbased Casino Gambling Age
The legal gambling age varies across the U.S., with distinctions between online and land-based casinos. While many states set the minimum age at 18 or 21, the specific requirements depend on state regulations and the type of gambling involved. Online casinos typically follow state-imposed age restrictions, with most requiring players to be at least 21. These platforms clearly outline age requirements in their terms and conditions, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
In contrast, land-based casinos have stricter enforcement, with physical ID verification required before entry. Some states allow 18-year-olds to participate in certain forms of gambling, such as pari-mutuel betting or tribal casinos, while others enforce a strict 21+ rule across all gambling activities. Even pari-mutuel wagering, online slots, table game, video game machines and pull tabs could vary with regard to the minimum legal gambling ages. Understanding these differences is essential to avoid legal consequences, as violating gambling age laws can lead to account suspension, loss of winnings, or even legal action. Always check state laws before engaging in any form of gambling.
Types of Gambling
Casino
You will find land-based casinos everywhere. There are places which are the top gambling destination, such as Las Vegas, Macau, Monte Carlo and Atlantic City. Now, with the gambling regulations being adjusted for the booming online gambling market, you can find many legal online casino sites where players can enjoy all sorts of online casino games. Some popular games include Slots, Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat, Craps and many more. You can find table games at live casinos too. If you are interested in trying out some games, head to our free casino games page!
Poker Rooms
Online poker rooms bring competitive poker action to players worldwide, offering various game formats such as Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Seven-Card Stud. Many platforms feature tournaments with massive prize pools, including freerolls and high-stakes events. Players can join cash games at different stakes, allowing for flexible betting options. Advanced features like multi-table play, hand tracking, and player statistics enhance the experience. With live dealer poker and mobile apps, online poker rooms cater to both recreational players and serious professionals looking for strategic, skill-based gameplay.
Bingo
Bingo has transitioned seamlessly into the online gambling space, offering players a variety of game formats with different ticket prices and jackpot sizes. Online bingo sites host multiple game variations, including 75-ball and 90-ball bingo, allowing for diverse gameplay experiences. Many platforms also feature chat rooms, fostering a sense of community among players. Promotions like free bingo tickets and loyalty rewards add to the appeal, making online bingo an exciting and accessible option for those looking to enjoy a social gambling experience.
Lottery
Online lottery platforms give players access to state and international lotteries without needing to visit a retail location. Players can purchase tickets for significant draws like Powerball and Mega Millions, as well as instant-win scratch cards and daily draws. Some platforms even offer syndicate options, allowing multiple players to pool their tickets for a higher chance of winning. Automated ticket purchasing and notifications ensure players never miss a draw, making online lottery services a convenient and secure way to participate in major jackpot games.
Racetrack & Sports Betting
Sports and racetrack betting have a long history in some countries. Nowadays, the majority of online casinos offer sportsbooks on their sites too. In the US, online sports gambling is now legal. You can make many types of bets on different international and local leagues. You can make bets on NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, or even the Champions League, the Euro Cup, World Cup, and hundreds more!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Old Do you Have to Be to Gamble in the US?
The minimum gambling age in the US depends on the state where a player resides, as each state has its own laws. Most US states where gambling is legal require a minimum age of 21 to play online or at a land-based site. Some, however, require a minimum age of 18. Always check the terms of your chosen site.
Where is Online Gambling Legal in the US?
Currently, online gambling is legal across the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
Who Regulates the Gambling Industry?
The U.S. gaming industry is regulated at the state level, with each state overseeing its casinos through gaming commissions or lottery boards. Tribal gaming is federally authorized under the 1988 Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Online gambling legality varies by state, with regulated sites offering stricter security and licensing.
What is the Minimum Gambling Age in Las Vegas?
In Las Vegas, the minimum gambling age is 21. This applies to any location in the state of Nevada.
