Is Online Gambling Legal in California in 2025? Latest Laws and Updates

Online gambling laws in California are often confusing for residents and visitors alike. With many new developments in the U.S. gaming industry, people often ask: is online gambling legal in California in 2025?
In this guide, we explain the current legal status, discuss safe alternatives, and share the latest updates you need to know.

Current Gambling Laws in California (2025)

As of 2025, California has not legalized traditional online casinos or online poker rooms.

• Land-based casinos: Gambling is legal at over 60 tribal casinos across California, including Pechanga Resort Casino, Morongo Casino, and Yaamava’ Resort & Casino.

• Sports betting: Propositions 26 and 27, which aimed to legalize online sports betting, failed in 2022. Although new proposals have been introduced, no online sports betting laws have passed yet in 2025.

• Online casinos: Playing real-money casino games online remains illegal unless operated under limited tribal gaming compacts.

• Online lottery: Buying lottery tickets online through the official California Lottery app or website is legal.

Key Update (2025):
California lawmakers are discussing new frameworks that could allow tribal organizations to offer online poker, but no full legalization for online casinos is expected before 2026.

Is Online Casino Gaming Legal in California?

Social casinos — Legal (games for entertainment without real-money gambling)
Sweepstakes casinos — Legal under federal sweepstakes laws
Real-money online casinos — Illegal in California

Some California residents access offshore casinos licensed outside the U.S. However, playing at offshore sites comes with risks because they are not regulated by U.S. or California law, and winnings may not be legally protected.

Important: Californians should proceed carefully and understand the legal risks before using any offshore gambling platform.

International Casino Options

Since real-money online casinos are not yet legally available in California, some players explore international platforms that operate under strict licenses.

One well-known option is 32red online slots, a platform licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. 32Red offers hundreds of online slot games with strong responsible gaming measures and secure player protections.
Note: We do not endorse any specific casino platform. Always gamble responsibly and check your local laws before participating.

Tip: Always verify the legality of online gambling in your region before joining any platform and ensure it holds a valid license from a trusted authority.

Read Also: Unibet Horse Racing Review 2025: Odds, Features, Bonuses & Mobile App

Latest California Gambling Updates (2025)

• March 2025: California lawmakers introduced a bill to allow tribal organizations to offer online poker exclusively to California residents.

• April 2025: The California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) confirmed that no real-money online casino licenses have been issued.

• Future Outlook: Experts believe full legalization of online casinos in California could happen by late 2026 or early 2027, depending on future voter initiatives and tribal negotiations.

Important Legal Disclaimer

This article is for educational and informational purposes only.
We do not promote, encourage, or facilitate online gambling or the use of any casino platform, including international gaming websites.
Our aim is solely to provide accurate and up-to-date information about the legal status of online gambling in California.

Gambling laws can change frequently, and regulations may vary depending on your location.
Readers are strongly advised to consult their local laws and seek legal advice if necessary before participating in any form of online gaming.

Helpful resources:

• California Gambling Control Commission

• California Department of Justice - Gambling Law

Conclusion

In 2025, real-money online gambling remains illegal in California.
Although residents can visit land-based tribal casinos or play on social and sweepstakes platforms, real-money online casinos have yet to be legalized. Until laws evolve, it’s important to stay informed, follow legal guidelines, and prioritize safety if you explore gaming options internationally.

Always check your local laws and gamble responsibly.

FAQs

1. Is online gambling legal in California in 2025?

No, real-money online gambling is not legal in California.

2. Can I bet on sports online in California?

No, online sports betting is not allowed in California.

3. Are social and sweepstakes casinos legal in California?

Yes, social and sweepstakes casinos are legal to play.

4. Is it safe to use offshore casino sites from California?

No, offshore casino sites are risky and not protected by law.

5. When will online casinos be legal in California?

Maybe in late 2026 or early 2027, but not yet.