Online Gambling in Virginia: What You Need to Know
Virginia has made significant strides in modernizing its gambling laws over the past few years, and this includes the realm of online gambling. While the state has embraced some forms of digital wagering, its legal landscape remains specific and partially restricted. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what types of online gambling are allowed in Virginia and what remains off-limits.
Online Sports Betting Is Legal
The most prominent form of legal online gambling in Virginia is online sports betting. In January 2021, Virginia officially launched its regulated sports betting market, allowing licensed operators to offer online and mobile sports betting to residents. As of 2025, there are over a dozen sportsbooks legally operating in the state, including major platforms such as FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars.
These sportsbooks allow users to wager on professional sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and international competitions. However, betting on Virginia-based college teams is strictly prohibited, whether the game is in-state or out-of-state.
Online Casinos Are Not Legal
While online sports betting is thriving, online casino gambling remains illegal in Virginia. This means residents cannot legally play online versions of slots, blackjack, roulette, or poker for real money. There are no state-licensed online casinos, and operating one within state lines would violate Virginia law.
Although some residents may access offshore casino sites, these platforms operate in a legal gray area and do not offer the same level of consumer protection as regulated domestic operators. Virginia officials discourage the use of these unregulated sites.
Online Poker Is Not Authorized
As with online casinos, online poker is not legalized in Virginia. The state has not passed any legislation to allow peer-to-peer real-money poker games on the internet. Players looking for poker options must wait for potential future changes in state law or travel to neighboring states that permit regulated poker rooms or online platforms.
Daily Fantasy Sports Are Permitted
Virginia was actually the first state in the U.S. to formally legalize daily fantasy sports (DFS) back in 2016. Companies like FanDuel and DraftKings operate DFS contests legally in the state, allowing users to assemble fantasy teams and compete for cash prizes based on real-life player performances.
Online Horse Racing Betting Is Allowed
Residents of Virginia can legally place bets on horse races online. The Virginia Racing Commission authorizes platforms like TwinSpires, TVG, and Xpressbet to offer pari-mutuel betting on horse racing events. These sites are fully licensed and regulated within the state.
No Online Lottery Sales Yet
Virginia has an official state lottery, and while it offers a wide range of instant win games and draw games at physical retailers, it does not currently sell traditional lottery tickets online. However, the Virginia Lottery does offer a mobile app where users can check tickets, enter promotions, and access information, which may be a precursor to future digital expansion.
In-Person Casinos Are Emerging
While online casinos are not yet permitted, Virginia is in the process of opening its first physical casinos. Legislation passed in 2020 allows for the development of land-based casinos in cities such as Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth. Some of these casinos have launched temporary gaming facilities while construction of permanent venues continues.
Conclusion
Online gambling in Virginia is a mixed bag. Sports betting, fantasy sports, and horse racing are fully legal and accessible online through licensed operators. However, online casino games and poker are still prohibited, with no clear timeline for legalization. As the state’s gambling infrastructure evolves, future reforms may expand these offerings, but for now, Virginians interested in online gambling must stick to the legally sanctioned categories.
