All forms of casino gambling are illegal in Texas. Every game on offer in a casino, from slot machines to poker, blackjack, and roulette, is categorized as gambling and is considered illegal.

Gambling Laws in Texas: When and Where Texans Can Gamble

• June 14, 2017
• The Law Office of Greg Tsioros
• Comments Off on Gambling Laws in Texas: When and Where Texans Can Gamble

1. Relevant Legal Statutes on Gambling in Texas. The minimum legal gambling age in Texas depends upon the gambling activity: Land-Based Casinos: 21; Poker Rooms: 21; Bingo: 21 in casinos, 18 in churches, and less than 18 with an adult; Lottery: 18; Pari-Mutuel Wagering: 18.
2. But Texas’ gambling laws aren’t by any means the strictest in the nation, and there are some forms of legal gambling that do take place. Texans may buy lottery tickets or place bets on horse.
3. It’s not legal for any Texas-based operator to offer real money online gambling to Texas residents. However, there are sites outside the state that are licensed and regulated and accept players from Texas.

U.S. Gambling Overview

Americans have embraced gambling by for centuries. Before our country fought the Revolutionary War, settlers enjoyed European card games and participated in simple lotteries. As the country grew, gambling halls and saloons were gathering places. In the 20th century, local, state, and the federal government got involved. Some states sought to restrict gambling activities while others legalized gambling. Today, many states have brick and mortar casinos, sports betting outlets, lotteries, and race tracks.

Nevada (Las Vegas) was the first to legalize many types of gambling in 1931. New Jersey (Atlantic City) followed decades later in 1977. With the passage of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act in 1988, reservations throughout the U.S. were permitted to offer gambling and gaming to generate revenues. To complicate things a bit, the Federal Wire Act of 1961 limited sports wagering between the states.

Online gambling has caused the states to review their positions on online casino games, including video poker, baccarat, roulette, keno, blackjack, faro, slots, craps, etc. If you’re accused of a gaming or gambling crime, or another party has offered illegal gambling in Texas, contact an experienced criminal attorney now.

When and Where is Gambling Legal in Texas and Throughout the U.S.

Gambling is legal for those who are 21 years of age or older at Eagle Pass in Texas (Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino). People in Texas can also legally participate in the Texas Lottery or make pari-mutuel wagers on greyhound and horse racing. Raffles, charitable bingo, and pull-tab bets are also considered legal in Texas.

In comparison, some states allow 18-year-olds to gamble. Today, Alaska, Arkansas**, California (some locations), Connecticut***, Delaware (horse racing only), Florida**/***, Idaho, Indiana**, Louisiana**, Maine**, Maryland**, Minnesota**, New Mexico, New York (by casino), Ohio**, Oklahoma (by casino), Oregon***, Pennsylvania**, South Dakota ***, Washington** (some casinos), Wisconsin***, and Wyoming allow some gambling to 18-year-olds.

**Pari-mutuel wagers only (short duration events, such as horse racing, jai alai, or greyhound racing, or any event with ranked order participation)
***Bingo only

All other states require gamblers to be at least 21 years of age. It’s impossible to get around the age requirement at brick and mortar casinos. If you attempt to gamble before you’re 21 years old, you may be arrested, incur fines, or have your money confiscated by law enforcement.

The point of confusion for many would-be gamblers concerns online gambling. For instance, there may be a difference in the age required by the site and the age required by Texas to gamble. If the site says you can gamble at age 18 but Texas state law requires you to be at least 21 years old, you must comply with Texas state law. Don’t risk jail time and fines for gambling or gaming arrests.

Texas Gambling Laws

Texas gambling laws are some of the strictest in the nation. For instance, Texas Hold ‘Em card game bets are illegal in Texas. Gamblers must be 21 years old. They may be on greyhound or horse racing, social gambling (like office pools), charitable raffles, and bingo. The law says that gambling on other games of chances is against the law in Texas.

Under Code Section PEN 47.01 et seq. and Civ. St. 179e, gambling, or agreeing to win or lose money or something of value based on chance, or keeping a casino (other than one casino on Indian lands) is prohibited. Promoting any form of gambling (other than pari-mutuel wagers), maintaining a place of gambling, communicating information about gambling, or owning gambling devices are illegal in Texas. For that reason:

• Card games, sports bets, and scratch tickets (other than those legally offered by the Texas Lottery) are illegal.

• Casinos, other than Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino, are illegal in Texas. As a casino on native lands, the Lucky Eagle location is permitted.

• Social gambling, like bingo games, private card games, or charity auctions are allowed unless the organizer takes a portion of the proceeds. The law in Texas says that gambling may occur in a private place as long as the chance of losing and winning are evenly distributed.

• Slot machines with cash payouts are illegal in Texas. If the prizes are inexpensive and not cash items, such as a coffee pot, the law says it’s okay to play.

Slot Machines with Cash Payouts Are Illegal in Texas

According to a New York Times article, illegal slot machines are cropping up around Texas, especially in some Rio Grande Valley border towns. The problem has captured the attention of enforcement professionals of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It’s estimated that illegal slots machines generate approximately $1.9 billion per year (up to 150,000 illegal units).

Recognize that gambling at slot machines with cash payouts can mean arrest and legal consequences in Texas. If you or someone you know has been arrested for illegal gambling or gaming in Texas, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney at your side. If you or a loved one has been exploited because of gambling addiction in Houston, Harris County, or throughout Texas, you need a professional attorney to assist in the recovery of your money now. Don’t go it alone. Call Greg Tsioros to discuss your matter now at 832-752-5972 now. We’re standing by 24/7 to take your call.

Texas lawmakers have expressed interest in domestic sports betting, but so far nothing has been passed or enacted. Despite the current legislation, Texans can access sports betting lines offered from offshore sportsbooks that operate legally to the United States.

Texas has recently presented two sports betting bills that seek to authorize legislation and provide a framework for domestic sports betting. While nothing has been enacted yet it looks like the Lone Star state is considering the possibilities.

Is Sports Betting Legal In Texas?

Only offshore sports betting is allowed in the state of Texas at this time. Offshore sportsbooks have been servicing the United States for nearly a decade and offer competitive betting lines for college, professional, and some international sporting leagues.

Texans have been taken advantage of prop bets, game lines, in-game bets, and other betting types offered by offshore sites for many years now. Until the state legalizes and offers domestic sports betting, offshore sites are sure to thrive.

Texas Gambling Bills

There are several TX sports betting bills before the committee but none that seem to be gaining enough traction to stick. Our bill tracker tool is a great resource for keeping up with pending bills that could have an effect on your state.

Legitimate Online Sportsbooks that Accept Texas Residents

The brands listed in our table below have been in the business for years and built up positive reputations upheld by industry analysts and bettors alike. You can browse through the sportsbooks for yourself by clicking on the links in the table.

If you are still looking for more information about the brands listed below, check out our USA sportsbook reviews page for an unbiased review of today's top industry professionals.

Is Bovada legal in Texas?

Yes, bettors in Texas can place bets online at Bovada Sportsbook without violating any domestic gambling laws. Bovada operates legally within the industry under the credentials of its parent company, Bodog. There are no state or federal laws that prohibit Texans from placing bets at Bovada.

• Welcome Bonus of 50% up to $250 or $750 with Bitcoin deposit
• Owned and operated by the trusted Bodog brand
• Same Day Payouts with Bitcoin
• Accepts Players From All States Except: NJ, NV, DE, MD

Texas Sports Betting Details

Below are Texas sports betting details. Since there are no state licensed services at this time the following facts are based on offshore sites and their services.

• Legal Sports Betting: Offshore
• Minimum Sports Betting Age: 21 years old
• Land-Based: No
• Online: Offshore
• Mobile: Offshore
• In-Play: Offshore
• Estimated Revenue: N/A
• Eligible Operators: N/A
• Commission: N/A
• Licensing Fee: N/A
• Tax Rate: N/A
• Tax-Funded: N/A

What You Can Bet On In Texas:

• Offshore sportsbooks offer betting lines on college, professional, and international sports. You can find the game lines on Longhorn football or bet on basketball games in the Philippines. The online sports betting options are so plentiful that they almost seem unlimited.

What You Can't Bet On In Texas:

• Texans are not allowed to place bets with illegal bookies operating within state lines. If caught you could face hefty fines or jail time depending on the severity of the operation.

Where Can I Bet On Sports In Texas?

As of now, Texans have one primary option and that is offshore sportsbooks. Offshore sportsbooks have more betting lines and wagering options than most domestic sportsbooks operating in other states and offer more substantial perks, such as bonuses and seasonal promotions.

Is it Legal to Bet on the Super Bowl in Texas?

Absolutely. The key to legally placing your bet is to only do so at a state-regulated or offshore online sportsbook that is operating legally within the industry, such as the betting sites we've listed on this page.

Unless you are willing to travel to another state that has already launched state-based sports betting destinations, your best option is to place your bet at a reputable online sportsbook. We've created a page specifically focused on the best Super Bowl betting sites. This page covers the legalities, bet types and wagering options, and trusted sportsbooks that offer Super Bowl 54 betting lines and welcome bettors from Texas.

Biggest Sports Betting Cities in Texas

Sports Betting In Dallas, TX

Dallas holds 3 major professional franchises in the Dallas Cowboys (NFL), Dallas Stars (NHL), and Dallas Mavericks (NBA). The Cowboys play in the NFC East and are among the favorites to reach the Super Bowl this season. The Mavericks won a championship several years back, but have since been towards the bottom of the Western Conference standings.

To be fair, the Western Conference is more difficult than the Eastern, but the Mavericks have not much of an impact as of late. They are not expected to reach the postseason this year. Residents can bet on their favorite Dallas teams through the licensed sportsbooks listed in this guide.

Sports Betting In Houston, TX

When Will Online Gambling Be Legal In Texas

Houston has 3 major sports franchises in the Houston Rockets (NBA), Houston Astros (MLB), and Houston Texans (NFL). The Rockets are the most successful out of all 3 teams, qualifying for the Playoffs in the Western Conference for the past few seasons. Some offseason changes put them in position to be one of the better teams again, so betting on them should be a solid option throughout the season.

The Texans play in the AFC South and are one of the better teams within the division. The Astros qualified for the postseason and are currently challenging for a World Series Title. You can bet on all the Houston-area teams via licensed offshore sportsbooks.

Sports Betting In San Antonio, TX

San Antonio contains the best Texas-based NBA team in the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs have been one of the best teams in the NBA’s Western Conference, losing only to the Golden State Warriors in the Playoffs.

Even with several Western teams making significant roster changes and additions, the Spurs are still projected to be one of the best teams—showcasing their depth and talent. You can find Spurs betting lines in any of our recommended sportsbooks.

Is Gambling Legal In Texas

Sports Betting In Austin, TX

Austin is the capital city of the Lone Star State and home to the University of Texas Longhorns. The Longhorns play in the Big 12 Conference and are one of the most prolific college football programs in the country. Fans of the Longhorns can bet on their games all season long through any of our provided sportsbooks.

Sports Betting In Arlington, TX

The Texas Rangers play out of Arlington, TX. The Rangers finished third in the American League West. They will likely alter their roster in the offseason and attempt to make a better finish in the next season. Bet on the Rangers throughout the regular season in our online betting destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sports Betting In Texas

Will I get arrested for betting on sports in Texas?

As long as you only bet online with a licensed offshore sportsbook you will have nothing to worry about. Placing a bet with an illegal bookie operating inside of texaas state lines could land you in some trouble.

Are mobile sports betting apps legal in Texas?

Only offshore sportsbooks can legally operate in Texas at this time. Our team of advanced gambling professionals has already vetted the sites listed above in the table. Those sites are the best online sportsbooks for Texas residents at this time. They offer a trusted service that is backed by a stellar reputation and other legal operating documents.

What teams can I bet on in Texas?

Offshore sportsbooks offer betting lines on just about any sport you can think of. You can find betting lines for college sports, professional leagues, international sports, and specific games.

What is the legal minimum sports betting age in Texas?

Texas residents must be at least 21 years of age to gamble online without the fear of prosecution.

Texas Legislative Resources

Texas Gambling Resources

If you or someone you know is suffering from a gambling addiction you can reach out to the Texas National Council on Problem Gambling to seek help. The TNCPG has been helping people overcome their addictions for over a decade and are here to help assist you on your road to recovery.

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