Texas is a big place with a big personality. Tall hats, tall hair, and tall tales are what the state is known for.

1. When Will Online Gambling Be Legal In Texas
2. When Will Gambling Be Legal In Texas
3. Is Gambling Legal In Texas

Gambling laws in Texas, however, are not so grand. If you are interested in knowing, “Is online gambling legal in Texas?” read on.

When Will Online Gambling Be Legal In Texas

As The Chronicle points out, however, casino gambling is barred by the Texas Constitution. This means even if HB 494 passes and is signed by Gov. Greg Abbott, Texas voters would have the final say. The American Gaming Association, a major lobbying organization for the gambling industry in Texas and across the United States, said the ruling was a win for American sports fans and promised to.

Texans use the word “freedom” quite a bit. They tend to use it in terms of 2^nd Amendment gun laws that were created to help militias muster quickly against invading armies.

Despite the existence of several military branches and a National Guard, this constitutional amendment has come to be equated with personal freedom, not just in Texas, but across the nation.

However, you can’t play poker with friends in Texas. Not even in your own home, not with your own money, and not even if the curtains are closed.

When it comes to gambling, TX has less freedom than nearly any other state. There are, however, Texas online poker rooms that do accept players from the Lone Star State.

There is one casino on tribal lands within the state, owned by the Kickapoo tribe. There are other federally-recognized tribes in the state, but TX has fought assiduously against them opening their own gambling sites.

Federal discussion of the issue is now pending. Thus, many Texans turn to online casinos to play slots, roulette, baccarat, and other games.

And Yet…There Is Gambling in Texas

The state lottery is very popular in the state. Lotteries are the purest form of gambling available, involving no skill to win, unlike many casino games where a player can hedge his or her bets or watch the play and enter at optimal times.

Furthermore, betting on dog races and horse races in Texas is not only legal, but this betting activity attracts big crowds.

There is no rhyme or reason as to why these betting activities are legal in the state but other games are not. Even carnival games are forbidden from using stuffed animals to lure elementary school-aged players!

There is hope on the horizon for sports bettors. A lengthy bill was introduced to the legislature in 2019 to allow for and create parameters around legal sports betting in the state. The decision has not been made yet, but we suspect we will see some forward movement on this legislative proposal in 2020 or 2021.

If and when the bill is passed, sportsbook operators will need to pay a fee of a quarter-million dollars. The number of licenses that would be authorized is unknown.

As to daily fantasy sports, state legislators have made confusing remarks about the pastime. Is it legal or not? There was an attempt several years ago to declare DFS illegal, but DFS is still an active reality in the state.

There are DFS sites licensed and regulated elsewhere that do accept Texas residents, but be aware that, given the confounding state of TX gambling laws, you do so at your own risk.

Is Online Gambling Legal in Texas?

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.

When Will Gambling Be Legal In Texas

We have researched and ranked all of the online gambling sites for Texas, should players choose to explore the gaming at online casinos and sportsbooks.

We rank these sites based on the quality of key criteria. First, we look to customer satisfaction with the site. Is it easy to navigate? Are wins paid promptly?

Next, we look to the state of the site’s internet security and how well funds and information are safeguarded. Is the security at the online casino cutting-edge and constantly monitored?

We are online gamblers, so we know that these are important factors in enjoying online play comfortably and with confidence.

Texas is an old territory with a proud heritage. Changes—to the law, to styles, to views—are often viewed with suspicion. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” seems to be the legislative approach to proposed changes in the law. However, there are some brave voices in the state that are working to legalize gambling.

Stay on top of evolving gambling news to know if changes are coming to Texas; it’s the best way to stay safe as you play.

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.

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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

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.

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?

Is Gambling Legal 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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