For residents of the Lone Star State, the idea of spinning reels or placing bets on a phone or computer may seem straightforward. But when it comes to online casinos in Texas, the reality is shaped by some of the strictest gambling laws in the nation.
Unlike states that license online casinos or mobile sportsbooks, Texas still prohibits most forms of real-money gambling, both online and offline. That doesn’t mean there’s no gaming activity or no choices for Texans, but it does mean understanding how the law works and what alternatives exist in 2026.
This guide walks through the legal landscape, the relevant statutes, what’s allowed and what’s not, and how Texans who choose to play online navigate those boundaries.
Texas takes a broad and traditional approach to gambling regulation.
Under Texas Penal Code Chapter 47, making a wager on the outcome of a game, contest, sporting event, or a game of chance is a criminal offense. That includes using money or anything of value on games involving cards, dice, balls, or other gambling devices.
The state constitution also includes provisions requiring the Legislature to prohibit lotteries and similar gift enterprises and to provide limited exceptions.
What this means in practice:
Many people assume online casinos exist in a legal gray area. But under current law, they are treated the same as physical casinos: wagering money on games of chance is a prohibited activity.
This broad definition includes placing bets on games even from your own home, so accessing a site hosted outside Texas doesn’t change the legal status.
Despite the strict stance on traditional gambling, a few limited exceptions exist:
These legal forms of gambling are tightly regulated and do not include online casino games.
Unlike states such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Michigan, Texas has never enacted legislation to license online casino gaming, whether for slot games, table games, or online poker.
Legislative efforts have come and gone, particularly around sports betting, but none have succeeded. Bills introduced in recent sessions to legalize sports wagering or iCasino games have stalled or been blocked by strong opposition in the Legislature.
Some lawmakers and the governor have voiced support for legalizing sports betting, arguing it could bring significant revenue to the state. But opposition, particularly from Senate leadership, has kept these proposals from advancing.
Without a licensing framework in place, Texas does not allow online casino operators to operate legally or to offer regulated, consumer-protected games to residents.
Some Texas residents do choose to play on offshore real-money gambling sites, platforms licensed in other countries like Curaçao, Malta, or Panama. These offshore casinos operate outside the U.S. and Texas jurisdiction and, in many cases, accept players from Texas and other restricted states.
From a legal standpoint:
That means Texans who choose to play on offshore sites may technically be violating state law, even if enforcement against individual players is rare.
Because traditional real-money online casino games are illegal, some Texans turn to alternatives that operate within U.S. promotional or entertainment frameworks.
Both of these alternatives provide gaming entertainment without crossing into prohibited real-money gambling, but they offer different experiences and value propositions.
Online gambling laws continue to evolve across the United States. States such as Virginia and Ohio have legalized online casino gaming, showing the momentum behind iGaming growth.
In Texas, discussions about expanding gambling have grown louder over the years, particularly around sports betting. Major sports franchises, industry groups, and business coalitions have lobbied for legalization, pointing to potential economic benefits.
But until the Texas Legislature enacts a licensing framework and, potentially, voters approve constitutional changes, real-money online casinos and sportsbooks will remain prohibited.
It’s worth watching legislative sessions, as future bills could shift the legal framework. The next major opportunity for action typically arises when the Legislature convenes in odd-numbered years.
For Texans who enjoy gaming entertainment, knowing the boundaries is part of responsible participation.
Even in states with legal online gambling, rules vary widely; for example, some allow online sports betting but not online casinos, or vice versa.
Texas residents should:
Online gaming environments change quickly. Staying informed helps players enjoy their interests while avoiding legal pitfalls.