Online Gambling in Maine: Legal Status, Options, and Regulations
Maine permits certain forms of online gambling, but the legal framework is specific and limited in scope. Residents and visitors should understand the state’s stance on different types of gambling, including online sports betting, casino gaming, poker, and lotteries, to remain within the bounds of the law.
Legal Online Gambling in Maine
As of now, online sports betting is legal and operational in Maine. The legislation was officially passed in 2022, and the market officially launched in 2023. However, only a limited number of operators are licensed to operate, and the tribal nations in Maine are granted exclusive rights to partner with sportsbook platforms. This means that major national sportsbook brands operate in Maine only through partnerships with tribal entities.
The Maine Gambling Control Unit oversees regulation and licensing, ensuring that all operators meet consumer protection standards. Players must be at least 21 years old to place wagers on licensed platforms and must be physically located within the state borders while betting.
Online Casino Gambling in Maine
Online casino gambling—including slots, blackjack, roulette, and live dealer games—is currently illegal in Maine. The state has not authorized any online casino platforms, and there is no regulatory framework to license or tax such operations. Therefore, any online casino offering services directly to Maine residents is operating in a legal gray area or is outright illegal.
While some residents may access offshore online casinos, these platforms are not regulated by Maine authorities, meaning players have no legal recourse if disputes or issues arise.
Online Poker in Maine
There is no regulated online poker market in Maine. Unlike states such as New Jersey, Nevada, or Pennsylvania, Maine has not passed legislation to legalize and oversee real-money online poker. Playing on offshore poker sites carries the same legal and consumer risks as online casinos.
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)
Daily Fantasy Sports contests are permitted in Maine. In 2017, the state passed legislation that legalized DFS, making it one of the early adopters of legal fantasy sports regulation. Operators such as DraftKings and FanDuel are active in the state and must comply with consumer protection rules set by the state.
Online Lottery
The Maine State Lottery allows players to buy tickets online for certain draw games. However, this service is limited and typically requires creating an account through the official Maine Lottery website. Online instant-win games or scratchers are not broadly available, as Maine has not developed a full iLottery platform.
Tribal Gaming and Mobile Access
Maine’s four federally recognized tribes play a crucial role in the state’s gambling landscape. Under the 2022 sports betting law, tribes were granted exclusive rights to mobile sports betting licenses. This approach not only respects tribal sovereignty but also ensures that online gambling revenues benefit the tribal communities.
Gambling Age Requirements in Maine
- Online sports betting: 21+
- Retail casinos: 21+
- Lottery and DFS: 18+
These age restrictions are strictly enforced on licensed platforms through identity verification procedures.
Conclusion
While Maine has embraced online sports betting and fantasy sports, it remains cautious about fully legalizing online casino gambling and poker. Players can legally place bets on sports via tribal-affiliated mobile apps, participate in DFS contests, and purchase certain lottery tickets online. However, online casino gaming remains prohibited, and residents are advised to avoid unregulated offshore platforms to reduce the risk of fraud or legal trouble.
The future of online gambling expansion in Maine will depend on legislative momentum, tribal partnerships, and public demand. Until then, bettors should stick to licensed and regulated services for safe and legal online gambling experiences.
