US Gambling Age: How Old do You have to Be

Are you eager to roll the dice and try your luck at a casino, but uncertain about the legal gambling age in the United States? Maybe you're planning a trip to another state and are unsure of the legal requirements for gambling in that state. 

This article will provide all the information you need about the legal framework for gambling in the U.S. From pari-mutuel betting to casinos, this piece will take a comprehensive dive into the legal landscape of the U.S. market.

Legal Gambling Age By State

While gambling is generally considered a legal activity in the U.S. (at the federal level), each state has the autonomy to set its own rules regarding the various forms of gambling. For example, the legal age for betting in poker rooms in Florida is 18; almost half the minimum age for engaging in the same activity in Michigan (32). 

In states like Maine, Ohio, and Oklahoma, the minimum age for playing the Bingo game is 16. North Carolina, on the other hand, has stricter age restrictions. Players must be at least 28 years old to play the Bingo game. 

New Mexico has no minimum age requirement for engaging in Bingo games. The state does however stipulate that bettors be at least 21 before participating in Casino games. 

The table below outlines some of the most popular gambling markets in the U.S.  and the legal age requirements in all 50 states. 

Gambling Opportunities and Restrictions

As technology continues to grow and more people embrace the web, bookmakers are coming up with new and innovative games to thrill and entertain bettors while offering them a chance at scoring big wins. However, with these opportunities come restrictions. 

In this section, we will discuss some of the gambling opportunities bettors can take advantage of and some of the regulations new players should know about before wagering on the outcome of various events.

Opportunities

Brick-and-mortar casinos

There are about 500 commercial casinos scattered across the U.S. These establishments provide an immersive gambling experience and offer a wide range of events including slot machine tournaments, poker tournaments, craps, table games, and more.

Online gambling

The internet has revolutionized numerous aspects of human life, and the world of gambling is no exception. Legally-sanctioned individuals can wager on various gambling events from the comfort of their homes. 

Users also receive numerous bonuses from gambling online. Most online casinos offer mouthwatering bonuses to new and loyal users of their platforms. These include deposit bonuses (or multipliers) and risk-free spins. 

Sports betting

Sports fans who have always wanted to add an extra layer of excitement to their favorite games will love this one. Examples of sports betting options include moneylines, point spreads, parlays, totals and props.

Lotteries and scratch cards

Lotteries and scratch cards offer instant thrills of chance. Lotteries involve purchasing tickets and waiting for drawing results.

Scratch cards provide immediate gratification, as players scratch off symbols or numbers for instant cash prizes. Both games create anticipation and excitement, with lotteries supporting public initiatives. 

Restrictions 

Age Restrictions 

Casino gaming areas in the United States are usually restricted to individuals 18 years and older, though that number varies from state to state. For example, the minimum age for using slot machines or playing table games at a casino in places like New York, Minnesota, Maryland, and Montana is 18. In South Dakota, Colorado, Delaware, Nevada, and Missouri, the minimum age for casino gambling is 21.

Geolocation restrictions

Every state has been given the sovereignty to regulate gambling activities within its territory. Currently, there are only two states that ban residents from participating in such activities; Utah and Hawaii. 

Residents in these states are banned from accessing online gambling platforms and casinos. In fact, if a resident of Utah were to be caught gambling online, it could result in serious legal consequences for both the individual and the operator. 

Risk of addiction/problem gambling

Gambling can be a very immersive and entertaining activity. It can also result in substantial losses.

Some online casinos use advanced systems to monitor user activity on their platforms. These systems are designed to track a player's gambling behavior, including the amount of time spent gambling, the frequency of bets placed, and the size of wagers. The objective is to identify potential signs of problem gambling and provide necessary interventions to support responsible play.

Why do Americans have to wait until 21?

So how did states come up with these numbers?

The main goal is to protect minors. Allowing them to participate in a high-risk activity like gambling could pose significant concerns. 

It is generally believed that individuals below that age range are still in the process of developing their personal, emotional, and social skills. Exposing them to adult-oriented activities like gambling could interfere with their growth. 

Minimum gambling age for other countries 

In Britain, individuals must be at least 18 to play casino games (whether online or in physical locations). The same applies to residents in Australia. The only difference here is that online casinos are banned in Australia.

In countries across Europe, like France and Germany, the legal age for gambling is 18. Some areas in Asia also use this age limit. For example in Hong Kong and Macau, minors (individuals under 18 years old) are prohibited from playing casino games and buying lottery tickets.

Conclusion

Just as gambling has a lot of advantages, it also has its disadvantages. Minors are at a greater risk of suffering from these concerns, so requirements are in place to protect them. 

Make sure you familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations in your region and understand the specific guidelines governing gambling activities. 

FAQs

What states can you gamble at 18?

The states that consider 18 the legal gambling age are Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, Oklahoma, and Washington. While many other states allow 18-year-old individuals to participate in some gambling activities, the seven listed above consider 18 a legal age for playing casino games.

Can I gamble at 18 in Vegas?

No, the minimum age requirement for gambling in Las Vegas is 21 as stipulated by the state of Nevada.

Why are some casinos 18 and others 21?

The age requirements in casinos vary due to differences in state laws and regulations. 

Who regulates the gambling industry?

While gambling in the U.S. is regulated at the federal level, each state retains the authority to establish its own specific laws and regulations.

Does the gambling age differ for online gambling?

In most cases, the legal gambling age is consistent across all platforms.

What happens if I’m an underage gambler?

If you're an underage gambler, you may face legal consequences. It's important to refrain from gambling until you reach the legal age and understand the associated risks.

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