Online gambling is legal in Virginia. The only sites you can gamble online or via mobile app are: TVG and TwinSpires.
Can you gamble online in Virginia?
| Online casino | Not legal |
| Sports betting | Legal |
| Horse racing online betting | Legal |
| Poker | Legal in physical venues |
VIRGINIA has opened its doors to legal sports betting, one of only three states in the US to offer online only sportsbooks. The reasoning behind the decision to limit sportsbooks to online versions is a simple one – there are no land-based casinos in the state, although there are plans in place to create at least five in-person casinos.
There is a vibrant sportsbook market in the state, with the likes of DraftKings, PointsBet and BetRivers offering a variety of incentives for customers to choose their service, including free bets and deposit matching commitments. Once you have chosen your sportsbook, registration is quick, with the only requirement that you are able to verify you’re aged over 21.
For those who prefer in-person gambling options, they must cross state borders to the likes of West Virginia and Maryland to place their bets. However, the online gambling revolution in the state has not extended to casinos or poker, with both still outlawed.
Betting in Virginia
Sports betting has been legal since January 2021, with the state one of only a few in the US to offer online-only services.
Virginia Online Casinos
Despite the online commitment to sports betting, and the lack of any land-based casino facilities in Virginia, there has been no legislation introduced to allow online casino play in the state.
Virginia Poker and Card Rooms
Online poker is also outlawed, and there are no legal land-based venues offering poker play. There are offshore sportsbooks offering online poker that accept US accounts, including those from Virginia, but these are operating outside US law, and offer no consumer protection.
VA Horse Racing Betting
The state has one track, Colonial Downs, with on-site betting as well as a number of off-track sites where bets can be placed in person. Advance-deposit wagering operators like BetAmerica and TwinSpires are also available to Virginians.
Lottery Games in Virginia
The state lottery has been running since 1988 and along with a host of retail outlets offering ticket sales, online purchases are allowed; the minimum age to play is 18.
Virginia DFS
The state was the first in the US to regulate daily fantasy sports betting, with a minimum age of 18 for entries in events operated by the likes of FanDuel and DraftKings.
VA Online Gambling FAQs
Is Online Gambling Legal in VA?
Yes, gambling websites are legal in VA. Virginia is one of only three states to offer sports betting in an online-only format, due to the fact that there are no physical casinos or gambling venues in the state yet.
How to start betting in Virginia?
Sports betting is legal in the state but you must register for an online account to take part, with no in-person facilities in the state. responsible for overseeing the state’s gambling industry.
What is the legal gambling age in VA?
The legal age to register at an online sportsbook is 21 with the Virginia Lottery
Who regulates VA online gambling?
The Virginia Lottery has the regulatory responsibilities for land-based casinos and internet sports betting.
I think I have a gambling addiction in VA, what should I do?
The VA Council on Problem Gambling has with the VA Lottery a confidential and free 24-hour helpline: (888) 532-3500. They also run an option for self-exclude (Voluntary Exclusion Program) from gambling in the state, find out more here.
Where in VA can I get help with problem gambling?
Gambling is enjoyable for most who take part, but for some it can become a serious problem. If you’re struggling, or a friend or relative cannot cope, help is available. Virginia – National Council on Problem Gambling (ncpgambling.org).