
California may be one of the biggest sports markets in the country, but legal betting is still off-limits. Voters rejected both Prop 26 and Prop 27 in 2022, leaving the state without any regulated online or retail sportsbooks. Major tribal casinos like Pechanga, Yaamava’, and Morongo offer casino gaming, but not regulated sports betting in California.
Fortunately, California players can still bet through offshore sportsbooks like BetOnline, Bovada, and MyBookie. These sites operate outside state jurisdiction, offering secure platforms with fast payouts, full odds coverage, and mobile access without restrictions.
This page breaks down where the law stands, how to visit the tribal sportsbooks in person, and which offshore sites are trusted by Californians looking to bet today.
Can I bet online in California? No. California does not license online or retail sportsbooks, and there are no state-regulated online casinos. The only fully legal online betting option is horse racing through approved advance deposit wagering platforms. Many residents use offshore sportsbooks and online casinos that accept California players, but these sites are not licensed or regulated by California authorities; learn more in our offshore sportsbooks hub.
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Quick California Facts
| State | California |
|---|---|
| ⚖️ Sports Betting Laws | Prohibited (no licensed operators) |
| 👪 Population | 39 Million |
| 🎲 Min. Gambling Age | 21 (casinos and cardrooms that serve alcohol) 18 (horse racing, state lottery, and certain tribal casinos without alcohol, see our gambling laws and cardrooms guide for full details) |
| 🏢 Retail Betting | Not Available |
| 🌐 Online Betting | Not Available |
| 📱 Mobile Betting | Not Available |
| 🐎 Online Horse Betting | Available (pari-mutuel) |
| 🏆 DFS (Daily Fantasy) | Legal gray area |
Is Sports Betting Legal In California?
Sports betting is not legal in California, and won’t be anytime soon. Despite multiple attempts, the state has failed to pass any legislation allowing online or retail sportsbooks. The most notable effort came in November 2022, when two competing ballot measures, Proposition 26 and Proposition 27, aimed to legalize sports betting under tribal oversight or through commercial operators.
TL;DR
- Tribal gaming groups and national sportsbook operators remain divided.
- Competing ballot measures in 2022 confused voters.
- Over $500 million in negative advertising hurt public support.
- Many voters distrust large out-of-state gambling companies.
Both failed by a wide margin. Prop 26, backed by Native American tribes to allow retail betting at tribal casinos, was rejected by 67% of voters. Prop 27, which proposed mobile sports betting backed by major operators like DraftKings and FanDuel, did even worse, earning only 17% support. Over $500 million was spent campaigning on both sides, but voters made it clear: there’s little public appetite for legal betting in the Golden State.
Since then, legislative momentum has stalled. Lawmakers remain hesitant to revisit the issue, given how decisively the measures were defeated. One possible workaround could involve tribal groups negotiating directly with the state government, similar to how Florida's Seminole Tribe secured exclusive betting rights, but that route comes with legal risks and political resistance.
| Product | State-licensed? | Typical online options? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sportsbook | No | Offshore sportsbooks only (not state-regulated) | California has no legal, state-licensed online sports betting. |
| Online casino | No | Offshore casinos only (not state-regulated) | Online casino gaming is not licensed by the state; legal casino play is primarily in tribal casinos in-person. |
| Horse racing | Yes | Licensed ADWs (online horse betting) | Pari-mutuel horse racing wagers are legal in-person and via approved advance deposit wagering platforms. |
| Lottery | Yes | Retail ticket purchase (online play limited) | California Lottery is legal statewide; ticket sales are generally through authorized retailers. |
| DFS | No | Some DFS operators still accept CA players | Considered illegal sports wagering under 2025 AG opinion; status contested. |
| Sweepstakes casinos | No | Sweepstakes-style sites/apps using “coins” or “sweeps” models | Not regulated as real-money casinos in California; availability and compliance vary by operator and may change. |
California has specifically targeted online sweepstakes casinos that mimic real-money gambling under Assembly Bill 831 (AB 831). Lawmakers have moved to restrict platforms that use dual-currency or “sweeps coin” models designed to replicate traditional casino play without formal gambling licenses. For a full breakdown of the law and how it affects players, see our sweepstakes casinos guide.
In the meantime, offshore sportsbooks are widely used by Californians due to the lack of licensed state options. Sites like BetOnline, Bovada, and MyBookie operate legally outside U.S. jurisdiction, making them accessible from California despite the state’s ban on local operators. These platforms offer full betting markets, reliable payouts, and mobile access, without requiring state approval.
Top 7 California Sports Betting Sites
Here’s a short list of the top 7 offshore sportsbooks for California bettors:
- BetUS - Extensive range of betting options across multiple sports.
- Bovada - User-friendly interface and reliable mobile betting experience.
- BetOnline - Competitive odds and early line releases.
- XBet - Quick payouts and responsive customer support.
- BetNow - Generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions for regular players.
- MyBookie - Innovative prop bets and creative wagering opportunities.
- Everygame - Long-standing reputation and multi-language support for international bettors.
#1 BetUS
The sportsbook itself covers everything from NFL and NBA to UFC and golf, with competitive odds and a clean interface.
For deposits, BetUS accepts credit cards, crypto (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin), and person-to-person transfers. Crypto is also the fastest withdrawal method, usually within 24 hours and with no fees. Bank wire is slower and may include a fee.
Big bonuses, fast payouts, and solid sports coverage. BetUS is a strong pick for any bettor.
#2 Bovada
The platform is easy to use, which makes it perfect for beginners. Everything loads fast and the layout is focused purely on betting. You’ll find odds on all major sports along with niche options like rugby, curling, cricket and esports.
Deposits are available through credit cards and crypto, including Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin. Withdrawals work best with crypto, usually arriving in under 24 hours. Other options like checks and bank transfers are slower and may include fees.
For a smooth, no-fuss betting experience, Bovada is a dependable choice.
#3 BetOnline
The variety of bets is just as strong. You get moneylines, spreads, and totals, plus a deep selection of props and futures. This is where BetOnline stands out. Special markets are available for almost every event, and the odds are competitive across the board.
Deposits are easy with credit cards, crypto, and bank transfers. Bitcoin and Ethereum are both accepted and often come with extra bonuses. For withdrawals, crypto is the fastest and most reliable option. Payouts usually arrive within 24 hours. Traditional methods like checks and wires are available too, but they take longer.
If you want variety, speed, and solid pricing, BetOnline is one of the best choices out there.
#4 XBet
One of XBet’s strengths is its clearer, more manageable rollover requirements on many bonuses compared with other offshore books. New users can claim a welcome bonus and there are ongoing reload rewards and crypto incentives as well. Payouts, especially via crypto, tend to be fast, and 24/7 support in English and Spanish adds to the platform’s appeal. That said, the minimum deposit for some bonuses is higher than at rivals, and the overall number of available sports isn’t as extensive as at the biggest offshore books.
#5 BetNow
Payment options cover crypto and traditional methods, with fast Bitcoin payouts being one of the standout features. Customer support is responsive, and users generally report smooth verification and payout experiences. However, some bonuses come with confusing or relatively high rollover requirements, and the lack of a native mobile app can be a drawback for bettors who prefer app-based wagering.
#6 MyBookie
VIP members get access to unique bonuses, including risk-free bets, free spins, and cashback on losses — up to $1,000 in some cases. They also get faster payouts with prioritized processing. It’s one of the few reward programs that actually feels rewarding.
Getting in takes commitment. You need to bet regularly and at a decent volume. It’s not for casual players, but if you’re consistent, the benefits stack up quickly.
Deposits are available through credit cards and popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Withdrawals are fastest with crypto, usually within 24 hours. Traditional options like bank transfers are available too, though slower.
For high-volume bettors who want more than just standard promos, MyBookie is a strong choice.
#7 Everygame
A lot of the things we’ve mentioned about the previous sites — diverse bonuses, a large betting menu, a slick mobile app — also apply here. It’s not that Everygame does any of these exceptionally well, but they all have a place on site. Added together, it really makes for a top-end experience.
If there is one area in which Everygame stands out to us is in its casino offerings. First of all, there are multiple casinos here, and even a live dealer one. Gaming options are absolutely everywhere, whether you’re on a computer or mobile phone. Casino betting is a perfect complement to the sportsbook.
Speaking of which, the Everygame sportsbook holds up pretty damn well too. Everygame is European-based, which means the football (soccer if you’re American) betting selection here is almost second to none. Often, Everygame will marry their promos based on the sport — a double-whammy for football bettors.
Offshore Sportsbooks Explained
Offshore sportsbooks are betting sites that are licensed in foreign jurisdictions but are not licensed in California or anywhere in the United States. They operate legally under the laws of their home country, yet they function outside California’s regulatory framework. While not state-regulated, they remain available to Californians.
Pros:
- Broad access for California residents
- Wide range of betting markets and props
- Often accept cryptocurrency payments
Cons:
- No California state consumer protections
- Dispute resolution depends on the operator’s internal policies
- Players must rely on brand reputation and track record
California Sports Betting Timeline
Legal Timeline Snapshot: Earliest realistic launch: 2027+ (subject to tribal–operator negotiations and potential new ballot measures). Nothing is imminent.
Even without legal sports betting, there’s still plenty of news happening in the state of California around the issue. Here are some recent headlines you should be most aware of:
Latest California Legal Betting Updates
Mar 04, 2026 11:14 AM
California still has no legal sports betting market, with tribal groups and commercial operators continuing discussions while the next potential legalization effort is expected to target a future ballot rather than the immediate election cycle.
Best Sportsbooks In Each Category in California
Why FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars & ESPN Bet Don’t Work in California
Major U.S.-regulated sportsbooks like FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, ESPN Bet, and Fanatics Sportsbook are not legally permitted to operate in California because the state does not authorize online or retail sports betting. These companies must comply with state-by-state gambling laws, and California is not an approved market.
If you open one of these apps while located in California, you will be geo-blocked. The apps use precise location verification technology to detect your physical position before allowing a wager. Trying to bypass this with a VPN is not a reliable solution and typically violates the operator’s terms and conditions, which can result in account suspension or closure.
Latest California Betting News
Feb 17, 2026 03:11 AM
California Came to a Crushing Realization About Sports Betting Laws During NFL Super Bowl
Jan 9, 2026 03:34 AM
Tribes Just Got a New Reason to Push for California Sports Betting Legalization
Betting On Politics, Esports, And Entertainment In California
Even if betting were 100 percent legal in California, you wouldn’t be able to throw money on outcomes like politics or entertainment in a licensed betting app. You see, when you get a state license, you also get regulated. One of the most common regulations found in the country is that only sports can be bet on.
Some offshore sites offer additional markets not permitted in regulated U.S. sportsbooks. Everything, and we mean everything, is on the betting table here including presidential results, entertainment show outcomes, WWE endings (yes, even though it’s scripted), and more.
Betting Apps In California
There are currently no California-licensed sports betting apps. The state does not regulate online sportsbooks, which means you will not find any legal, state-approved betting apps available for download within California.
Instead, the real mobile betting option for residents is offshore sportsbooks that offer mobile-optimized websites and dedicated apps. These platforms are licensed outside the United States and remain available to Californians, even though they are not regulated by California authorities.
Some of the most established offshore betting apps available to California players include:
- Bovada
- BetOnline
- MyBookie
- BetUS
- Sportsbetting.ag
These sites offer full mobile functionality, including live betting, parlays, player props, and crypto deposits. Most do not require a separate app download, as their mobile websites function like native apps directly in your browser.
For a deeper comparison of features, bonuses, and mobile performance, see our California betting apps guide.
Start Betting In California Today — Our Guides
If you’ve somehow landed on this page as an inexperienced (or first-time) bettor, then you’re in good hands.

We have in-depth guides to all things betting. At first, it may seem confusing, but we can assure you, it’s not that bad, especially if you read through our writings. The following five guides are good starting points in your betting journey too:
- Top Betting Tips — want to make money wagering? Read this!
- Best Sports Betting Strategies — the above article is a college 101 class to this one, which take your betting to the next level!
- How Do Odds Work — self-explanatory here, learn everything there is to know about understanding betting odds.
- Types of Sports Bets — a complete primer to the various types of sports betting forms.
- Betting Odds Calculator — calculate how much money a bet or parlay pays out
Payment Methods Available For California Sportsbooks
Offshore betting sites accept a full gamut of payment methods these days, including credit cards, debit cards, checks, and crypto.. The latter is unique because again, regulated bookmakers can’t touch crypto with a ten-foot pole. Only offshore betting sites support crypto coins. Here are some reasons why crypto is so popular:
- Card declines are common: Some California banks block gambling transactions, which is why debit or credit card deposits may fail even when the sportsbook accepts them.
- Why many players use crypto: Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are popular because they face fewer banking blocks and often come with faster payout processing.
- Typical payout speeds: Crypto withdrawals can process within a few hours to 24 hours, while bank wires and checks may take several business days.
- Test small withdrawals first: We recommend making a small withdrawal after your first deposit to confirm processing times before wagering larger amounts.

Here are quick links to more pages on offshore payment methods:
- VISA — the co-most popular card accepted on betting sites.
- Mastercard — the other co-most popular card across the betting landscape.
- Bitcoin — the payment method that'll earn you the most free play.
- Bank wire — the tried-and-true payment method.
For a full breakdown of deposit limits, fees, and processing times, see our sports betting payment methods guide.
California Casinos And Resorts

There are several tribal casinos serving California. A lot! But then again, the state has a large land mass so they end up spread out, from South to North.
| Name | City | Type | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs | Palm Springs | Tribal | (800) 258‑2946 |
| Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage | Rancho Mirage | Tribal | (760) 321‑2000 |
| Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City | Cathedral City | Tribal | 888‑999‑1995 |
| Augustine Casino | Coachella | Tribal | (760) 391‑9500 |
| Barona Resort & Casino | Lakeside | Tribal | (619) 443‑2300 |
| Bear River Casino | Loleta | Tribal | 1‑800‑761‑2327 |
| Divine Oak Casino Resort (Konocti Vista) | Finley | Tribal | (707) 262‑1900 |
| Mono Wind Casino | Auberry | Tribal | (559) 855‑4350 |
| Wanaaha Casino | Bishop | Tribal | (760) 873‑4150 |
| Fantasy Springs Resort Casino | Indio | Tribal | (760) 342‑5000 |
| Cahuilla Casino | Anza | Tribal | (909) 763‑1200 |
| Golden Acorn Casino | Campo | Tribal | (619) 938‑6000 |
| Havasu Landing Resort & Casino | Havasu Lake | Tribal | (760) 858‑4593 |
| Cher-Ae Heights Casino | Trinidad | Tribal | (707) 677‑0211 |
| Coyote Valley Casino | Redwood Valley | Tribal | (707) 485‑0700 |
| Lucky Bear Casino | Hoopa | Tribal | (530) 625‑4211 |
| La Jolla Trading Post & Casino | Pauma Valley | Tribal | (760) 742‑0460 |
| San Pablo Lytton Casino | San Pablo | Tribal | (510) 215‑7888 |
| Garcia River Casino | Point Arena | Tribal | (707) 467‑5300 |
| Twin Pine Casino | Middletown | Tribal | (707) 987‑0197 |
| Feather Falls Casino & Lodge | Oroville | Tribal | (530) 533‑3885 |
| Morongo Casino Resort & Spa | Cabazon | Tribal | (909) 849‑3080 |
| Pala Casino Spa Resort | Pala | Tribal | (760) 510‑5100 |
| Rolling Hills Casino | Corning | Tribal | (530) 528‑3500 |
| Casino Pauma | Pauma Valley | Tribal | (760) 742‑2177 |
| Pechanga Resort & Casino | Temecula | Tribal | (909) 693‑1819 |
| Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino | Coarsegold | Tribal | (559) 661‑3033 |
| Pit River Casino | Burney | Tribal | (530) 335‑2334 |
| Quechan Casino Resort | Winterhaven | Tribal | 1‑888‑777‑4946 |
| Win-River Casino | Redding | Tribal | (530) 243‑3377 |
| Harrah's Resort Southern California | Valley Center | Tribal | (760) 751‑3100 |
| Robinson Rancheria Resort & Casino | Nice | Tribal | 800‑809‑3636 |
| Hidden Oaks Casino | Covelo | Tribal | (707) 983‑6896 |
| Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel | Highland | Tribal | (909) 864‑5050 |
| Valley View Casin | Valley Center | Tribal | (760) 291-5500 |
Best Casinos Online in California

California is home to a thriving gambling scene, but when it comes to online casino California options, players must turn to international platforms. The state primarily targets local illegal bookies and unlicensed sites operating within California, while offshore sportsbooks are based abroad; they remain available to residents but are not regulated or protected by California authorities and still carry risk.
While the state has yet to legalize online casino gaming, residents can still enjoy real-money gambling at international casinos like Bovada, BetOnline, and BetUS. These offshore sites provide a way to access slots, poker, blackjack, and live dealer games, allowing players to experience the excitement of casino gaming from anywhere in the state. With user-friendly platforms, mobile compatibility, and secure payment methods, these California online casinos offer a seamless experience for both casual and high-stakes players.
For those seeking the best online casino California real money experience, these platforms offer generous welcome bonuses, frequent promotions, and a vast selection of games. Whether you're into online slots real money California or enjoy classic table games, these international casinos provide everything needed for an immersive gambling experience.
There are no California-licensed online casinos, as the state does not authorize or regulate real-money online casino platforms. Players who want to gamble online typically use offshore sites operating under foreign licenses, which are not regulated by California authorities and carry risk; for a full breakdown of offshore casino options and risks, see our online gambling and casinos guide.
Top Online Casino Promotions & Bonus Codes

Below is a list of some of the best online casinos California real money players can access, along with their latest promotions:
| Casino | Welcome bonus | Promocode | Wagering requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100% up to $1000 | POKER1000 | 30x | |
| 200% up to $4000 | CAS200 | 35x | |
| 200% up to $2500 | CASINO200 | 25x | |
| 100% up to $1600 | BOOKMAKER | 40x | |
| 100% up to $3000 | CAWELCOME100 (1st deposit) / BV2NDCWD (2nd and 3rd) | 25x (1st) / 50x (2nd and 3rd) | |
| EveryGame | 125% up to $1000 | SIGNUP1000 | 35x |
![]() | 150% up to $750 | MYB150 | 40x |
| 100% up to $1000 | NEWSB | 35x | |
| 50% up to $500 (progressive) | - | - | |
| XBet | 200% up to $500 | XBC200 | 40x |
History Of California Legalization Efforts
The progress with legal sports betting in California has been a relatively short journey. Here's how things broke down over the years.
First progress with the amendment in 2020
Within days of the PASPA ruling, California Assembly member Adam Gray announced his desire for a pro-sports betting amendment. Shortly after, California State Senator Bill Dodd joined the movement, planning to shape a bill for inclusion on the November ballot. The first sports betting hearing in California was held in January 2020, and it didn’t seem promising in terms of approval in 2020 at least.
Other states have a different approach toward sports betting. You can check out the full list of US states here.
It’s projected that sports betting in California could be worth $2.5 billion per year (including online betting revenue) in California, which is wild to think that there is even an ounce of hesitation from elected officials. There are a number of great sportsbooks near Los Angeles operating today, which provide a great range of betting markets and very competitive odds.
An initiative backed by 18 Native American tribes wants to limit sports betting to physical casinos and racetracks and ban online gambling in California. This is not a shared viewpoint shared with supporters of online sports betting websites.
2024 and looking forward
It’s assumed that sports betting won’t be legalized until at least 2027+ after two ballot measures in favor of sports betting were rejected in November 2022 and then none appeared during the 2024 state legislature meetings So, Californian sports bettors still have a little way to go before they can legally bet on sports in Californian casinos or sportsbooks.
Currently, gambling in the state is regulated and limited to card rooms, tribal casinos, the state lottery, horse racing, and charitable gaming. California has 69 Native American casinos, hosting 70,000 slot machines and more than two thousand table games.
The California State lottery includes Mega Millions and Powerball, which is always well received.
Horse racing is a big deal in California, which is home to Del Mar, Hollywood Park and Santa Anita tracks, making horse betting a huge revenue stream.
California's Tribal Initiatives to Legalize Sports Betting
The last ballot initiative that faced voters in November 2022 was a tribal initiative. It would have allowed for sports betting at tribal casinos and horse tracks throughout the state.
However, one of the major drawbacks of this initiative was that it would not allow for any online sports betting sites to be licensed in the state. Bettors would still have needed to use the same offshore sportsbooks they have been using, but no new ones would be licensed. The timeline set out by this initiative for mobile sports betting would be five years.
The problem is that California is huge, so getting to a tribal casino is not always practical. Plus, it would not extend sports betting to card rooms, which the tribes have argued violate their compacts. With all of this said, a November 2022 online sports betting bill also appeared on the California ballot. Both of these measures were rejected. Fast forward to 2024, and the legalization of California sports betting still appears to be years away.
Betting On California Sports Teams
As we said at the top, there’s no shortage of pro and collegiate teams in the Golden State. All the ones we were about to mention are widely available at the best offshore sportsbooks. Here’s what California teams are out there:
Betting On California NFL Teams
The NFL commands the most betting action by a large margin. Among the three California-based NFL teams, it’s the San Francisco 49ers that get the most looks. Los Angeles-based Rams and Chargers are getting there, but they don’t have the privilege of calling California home as long as the Niners have.
Betting On California MLB Teams
When it comes to all of California, the most popular team might just be the Los Angeles Dodgers. Therefore, they command their fair share of action in MLB betting. There’s also the San Francisco Giants, the San Diego Padres, and the Los Angeles Angels. The Oakland A’s will soon be leaving the state and going to Las Vegas.
Betting On California NBA Teams
Los Angeles Lakers, LA Clippers, Golden State Warriors, and Sacramento Kings all fight for attention in California. But make no mistake about it, this state is divided in half, Lakers for the South and the Warriors in the North.
Betting On California NHL Teams
Hockey might not seem like a sport that would be popular in a cool-and-sunny weather state like California, but the sport has surprisingly caught on. Here, the LA Kings, Anaheim Ducks, and the San Jose Sharks all fight for attention and betting dollars.
Betting On California NCAA Teams
There are dozens upon dozens of college programs in California. No way we’re going to name them all, however, just know the USC Trojans and the UCLA Bruins are the “top dogs” among fans and bettors alike.
Other Types of Gambling in California
California does not allow state-regulated online sports betting, but residents still have access to several other legal gambling options. Below, we break down what is permitted, how it works, and where the limits are.
Tribal Casinos
California is home to dozens of federally recognized tribal casinos operating under compacts negotiated with the state. These properties offer full-scale casino gaming, including slot machines, blackjack, baccarat, and other house-banked table games.
Well-known examples include:
- Pechanga Resort Casino
- Morongo Casino Resort & Spa
- San Manuel Casino
These casinos operate legally under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and approved tribal-state agreements. However, they do not offer statewide online casino gaming.
Cardrooms
Cardrooms are legal throughout California and are regulated at the state and local level. Unlike tribal casinos, cardrooms cannot offer traditional house-banked table games in the same way. Instead, they operate player-banked games where third-party providers cover the bank.
Major cardrooms include:
- Commerce Casino
- Hustler Casino
Cardrooms primarily focus on poker and modified table games that comply with California gambling law.
California State Lottery
The California State Lottery is fully legal and widely available. Players can purchase tickets for draw games like Powerball and Mega Millions, as well as scratch-off tickets at authorized retailers across the state.
Lottery proceeds support public education funding in California.
Horse Racing and Online Betting (ADW)
Horse race betting is legal in California, both in person and online through approved advance deposit wagering platforms, commonly known as ADWs. Bettors place pari-mutuel wagers at licensed racetracks or through state-authorized apps operating under California Horse Racing Board oversight.
Live racing takes place at venues such as Santa Anita Park and Del Mar Racetrack.
Online horse betting platforms allow users to fund accounts and wager on races remotely, and they represent the only clearly authorized form of online sports-related betting in the state. For a full breakdown of locations, rules, and OTB options, see our California horse racing and OTB guide.
Charitable Gaming
Certain nonprofit organizations are permitted to run bingo games and limited raffles under California law. These activities must follow strict rules regarding prize limits, frequency, and operational control. Profits must support charitable or community purposes.
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)
Daily Fantasy Sports contests are currently considered illegal sports wagering under a 2025 opinion issued by the California Attorney General, which concluded that both pick’em-style and traditional draft-style DFS contests fall within the definition of prohibited sports betting under California law. Several major DFS operators dispute this interpretation and have continued operating in the state, but the legal landscape remains unsettled and enforcement is still evolving.
Players should understand that DFS is not explicitly authorized under California gambling statutes, and under the Attorney General’s interpretation it aligns more closely with prohibited sports wagering. For a detailed breakdown of the opinion, operator responses, and what it means for players, see our DFS in California guide.
Offshore Gambling Sites
Because online sports betting is not regulated at the state level, many Californians turn to offshore sportsbooks and casino sites. These platforms are based outside the United States and are not licensed by California regulators.
While offshore sites accept California players, they operate in a legal gray area. They are not subject to California consumer protections, and disputes are handled according to the laws of the jurisdiction where the company is registered.
As always, we recommend understanding the legal and financial risks before signing up with any offshore operator.
How Californians Bet Online Today
While California does not license online sportsbooks, many residents who want to place sports bets use offshore sites that are available to Californians. These platforms are licensed outside the United States and operate outside California regulation. The typical process looks like this:
- Choose an offshore sportsbook that accepts California players.
- Register an account and complete basic verification.
- Make a deposit, usually by debit card, bank transfer, or cryptocurrency.
- Pick a sport and select your bet type, such as moneyline, spread, or total.
- Confirm the wager and place the bet.
This reflects how people currently bet online from California, even though these sportsbooks are offshore and not licensed by the state. For a full walkthrough with examples, see our How to Bet on Sports in California guide.
Important Note on VPN Use
Some players consider using a VPN to bypass geo-blocking restrictions, but this is typically against an operator’s terms and conditions. If a sportsbook detects VPN usage that violates its rules, it can suspend or permanently close the account and, in some cases, confiscate funds. Before attempting to access any betting site with a VPN, understand the risks involved and review the platform’s policies carefully.
For a full breakdown of how VPN use affects sports betting in the state, see our VPN sports betting in California guide.
Sports Betting Rules In Each State
Want a guide just like this for the other 49 states in the United States? We got you! Here are quick links to our most popular guides:
Responsible Gaming In California
Gamble responsibly: Gambling should be fun, not harmful. California tribal casinos provide responsible gaming tools like self-exclusion and support resources. If you need help, call the California Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) or the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-522-4700). Learn more at California problem gambling help.
For additional responsible gaming resources, consider: BeGambleAware, Problem Gambling Coalition, Gambling Therapy, and Addiction Center. You may also find the following websites helpful:
Gamble Aware (https://www.gambleaware.org/)
A non-profit organization providing resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
International Center for Responsible Gaming (https://www.icrg.org/)
The International Center for Responsible Gaming (CRG) is a research institution dedicated to promoting safe gambling practices and addressing gambling-related issues.
24/7 Gambling Support Line (https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/about-the-national-problem-gambling-helpline/)
A round-the-clock helpline offering immediate assistance and guidance for those experiencing gambling-related problems.
California-specific ones:
California Council on Problem Gambling - https://calpg.org/
An organization to help gamblers escape via a variety of different help channels.
State of California Gambling Help - https://oag.ca.gov/gambling/responsible
A range of helpful documentation and organizations to help gamblers in the state.
National Problem Gambling Helpline - https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/help-by-state/california/ -
A few numbers that can help gamblers find help.

