Online casinos are not legal in California
California has not legalized real-money online casinos, and sweepstakes casinos are banned. Here is the law as of October 2026, and what to watch for.
No casinos we rate accept players in California
That is because of state law. Be cautious of offshore sites that claim to accept California players: they are not licensed in the US, and you would have no regulator to turn to if they refuse to pay. How to spot an unsafe casino.
California gambling law, in plain English
Real-money online casinos
California has not legalized real-money online casino games. Any site offering them to California residents is operating without a California license.
Sweepstakes casinos: banned
AB 831 signed by Gov. Newsom Oct 11, 2025; effective Jan 1, 2026. Bans dual-currency online sweepstakes casinos; misdemeanor up to $25,000 fine and/or 1 year jail; reaches payment processors, geolocation providers and affiliates (affiliates promoting to CA players are exposed).
Getting help
California helpline: 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738). The National Problem Gambling Helpline, 1-800-MY-RESET, is free, confidential, and available 24/7 by call or text.
California questions
Are online casinos legal in California?
No. California has not legalized real-money online casino games. Sweepstakes casinos are also banned.
Are sweepstakes casinos legal in California?
Banned. AB 831 signed by Gov. Newsom Oct 11, 2025; effective Jan 1, 2026. Bans dual-currency online sweepstakes casinos; misdemeanor up to $25,000 fine and/or 1 year jail; reaches payment processors, geolocation providers and affiliates (affiliates promoting to CA players are exposed).
Is sports betting legal in California?
No, California does not currently have legal sports betting.
Where can I get help with problem gambling in California?
Call 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738). The National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-MY-RESET, call or text) is also free, confidential, and open 24/7.