Online Gambling in Virginia: What You Need to Know
Online gambling in Virginia is a relatively new and evolving industry. While the state historically had strict gambling laws, recent legislative changes have opened the doors for certain types of online betting. However, not all forms of internet gambling are legal, and understanding what is permitted is essential for residents and visitors alike.
Legal Forms of Online Gambling in Virginia
Online Sports Betting
As of January 2021, online sports betting is fully legal in Virginia. The state passed legislation allowing licensed sportsbooks to operate via the internet without the need for physical casinos. Major operators such as FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars have entered the market under regulation from the Virginia Lottery Board. Bettors must be at least 21 years old and physically located within Virginia’s borders to place bets.
Sports bettors can wager on professional sports, college games (excluding Virginia-based college teams), and major events such as the Super Bowl or March Madness. In-play betting and mobile wagering are also allowed, offering a modern and accessible experience for sports fans.
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)
Virginia was one of the first states to formally legalize daily fantasy sports in 2016. DFS platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings operate legally under the “Fantasy Contests Act.” Participants can join contests for real money, including head-to-head matchups and large multi-entry tournaments.
Prohibited Online Gambling Activities
Online Casino Games
Online casino gambling, including slots, table games, and live dealer games, is currently illegal in Virginia. No licensed operators are authorized to offer virtual casino games. Residents looking to play online slots or roulette must travel to nearby states where it is permitted or use sweepstakes-style platforms that operate under different rules.
Online Poker
Similarly, real-money online poker is not yet legal in Virginia. There have been discussions among lawmakers about expanding online gambling laws, but as of now, online poker rooms such as PokerStars or WSOP are not available within the state.
Online Lottery Sales
While Virginia offers a state-run lottery, it also provides online ticket sales and instant-win games through its official website and mobile app. This makes it one of the few states to fully embrace digital lottery offerings. Residents can purchase draw tickets, play scratchers, and claim winnings online.
Land-Based Gambling Expansion and Its Impact
Virginia is in the process of opening several commercial land-based casinos in cities such as Norfolk, Portsmouth, Bristol, Danville, and Richmond (pending approval). These brick-and-mortar establishments are expected to feature table games, slots, and poker rooms. While the casinos will bolster the gambling economy, there has not yet been legislation linking these developments to online casino legalization.
Age and Location Requirements
To gamble legally online in Virginia:
- You must be at least 21 years old for sports betting.
- You must be at least 18 years old for lottery and DFS.
- You must be physically located within the state, verified through geolocation technology.
Enforcement and Penalties
Unlicensed gambling operators are prohibited, and promoting or running unauthorized gambling websites can result in criminal charges. Players who use offshore or illegal sites may not be prosecuted, but they do so at their own risk, including potential fraud, lack of consumer protection, and non-payment of winnings.
Future Outlook
There is growing interest in expanding Virginia’s online gambling offerings. As more neighboring states move to legalize iGaming (online casinos and poker), Virginia may follow suit to remain competitive and increase tax revenue. Legislative proposals and public support will play a key role in shaping the state’s gambling landscape over the next few years.
Conclusion
Online gambling in Virginia is legal only in specific areas: sports betting, fantasy sports, and lottery games. Online casinos and poker remain prohibited, though this could change as the industry evolves. Virginians interested in legal online gambling options should stick to licensed operators regulated by the Virginia Lottery to ensure safety and compliance.
