Legal Gambling Ages

Gambling Ages FAQ's

When did the legal gambling age become 21?

The basic idea was that gambling was an adult activity, and casinos, by and large, all served alcohol. Because of this, the minimum age to get into a casino became 21 in 1984, when the minimum drinking age was raised, and it’s simply stuck since then. States can set their own guidelines, but they tend not to deviate too heavily from 21.

Is the legal online gambling age different than my state?

There are situations where this can happen, such as if you are playing online poker, a lot of those websites are headquartered outside the United States, and as such are bound by the restrictions of their jurisdiction. Generally, however, we recommend being above the age of legality no matter where the website you’re using is located.

What happens if I get caught gambling underage?

Anything from confiscation of profits to jail time via felonies. It’ll depend on what state you’re in, but the only thing you really need to know is it’ll be very bad for you, so don’t do it.

Are there any casinos where I can gamble at 18?

There are some Native American casinos where you can gamble at 18 due to the agreements with the tribes that gave them the right to establish these casinos in the first place. This is certainly something worth looking into if you are 18 and would like to gamble – making sure you are doing it legally is incredibly important.

Why is the legal gambling age 21?

That is generally regarded as the age of majority for things like this in the United States. For example, alcohol consumption age is also 21. I could speculate here about the United States’ puritan beginnings, or point out that it’s weird that you can sign up to go to war before you can drink and gamble, but I’m sure you’ve already heard that.

What is different about Native American casinos?

Well, basically, the agreements signed with the Native Americans entitled them to certain things, and in some cases, entitled them to open casinos with specified legal gambling ages that were not overseen by state agencies, and existed on tribal land. Thus, the laws are slightly different. Also, the majority (if not all) of tribal casinos do not serve alcohol if they let 18-year-olds in the door.

What is the legal gambling age in sports stadiums?

In a sports stadium, you’d simply need to refer to the legal age for sports betting. Many sports stadiums are working on implementing in-stadium betting, and it will obey the same laws as sports betting anywhere else would.

Why don’t they lower the legal gambling age?

Generally, the reasons boil down to concern for the welfare of children, which is a fair concern to have. That said, it’s worth noting that the age to join the military is 18 years old. Still, this would have to happen on the state level and legislators are definitely too focused on other higher priority changes.

What is the legal gambling age on cruise ships or in international waters?

On cruise ships or in international waters, the gambling age is whatever jurisdiction you are in. If you are in Costa Rica, you are subject to the laws and regulations of Costa Rica, for example. Over international waters, the age is set at 18.

Why is there a legal gambling age?

Because gambling is a risky activity, and we regulate certain risky activities by restricting them to people who are of a certain age. Gambling can influence the lives and welfare of people so governments ensure those who are old enough to make their own responsible decisions are the only ones who can gamble.