Washington Online Gambling

Online gambling is legal in Washington, but it is only legal to use a tribal casino’s sports betting app on their grounds to place a bet online. This sets big limits on what you can and cannot do. The only sites outside the tribes you can gamble online or via mobile app are: TVG and TwinSpires. And these are only for horse racing.

Can you gamble online in WA?

WHEN it comes to online sports betting, the laws in Washington State are constantly under review but best described as complicated. There is no law on the books that allows for state-wide online betting but it is legal to bet online at a tribal casino using the venue’s own app. 

The problem appears to be that many of the sportsbooks operating at casinos in the state are unlikely to utilise an app on the basis that bettors must be at the casino to use the app, so can just as easily place any bets in-house. 

While the laws on sports betting have been relaxed, not all casinos have taken up the option and applied for sportsbooks licences. Sports betting is available at retail casinos and it may be best to check what gambling facilities are available at one of the 30-plus venues in Washington state. Along with sports betting, you can wager on horse racing and play the lottery.  

Washington betting

In-house sportsbooks at the state’s casinos are legal, but many of the casinos in the state choose not to have them. Online state-wide betting remains illegal with changes in online gambling laws expected at some point this year. 

Washington casinos

Online casinos are outlawed in the state but in-person gambling on roulette and a range of table games can be found at a number of venues including the Oaklawn Casino at the race track in Hot Springs, and Southland Casino at West Memphis. 

Washington poker

The state has some of the strictest laws in the US with regards to online poker, which is illegal with little interest from lawmakers to change that position. The options are to play in-person at several of the state’s casinos, with the Southland venue attracting competitors from across the state. 

Washington horse racing

There is extensive live racing at Emerald Downs with racing also at Sun Downs and you can bet on races in the US and across the world at the casinos who have sportsbooks. You can use advance-deposit wagering, ADW, operators, allowing gamblers to bet on horse racing using phones and laptops.

Washington lottery

A state-wide event has been run since 1982, with ticket purchasing allowed in person from retailers. At present, you cannot buy Washington lottery tickets online.  

Washington DFS

Unfortunately, Washington is one of the few states where entries from residents are not accepted.  

Washington Gambling FAQs: 

Is it legal to gamble in WA?

The legal age for casino gaming and sports betting is 18, but certain venues have a 21-age limit. Washington is one of the many states in the US expected to update their online gambling laws in 2022.

How can I get help with a gambling problem?

If you are worried about your gambling, or a friend is struggling to cope, help is available. Washington – National Council on Problem Gambling (ncpgambling.org).