Sports-Betting-in-California

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. While major tribal casinos like Pechanga, Yaamava’, and Morongo do offer limited in-person sports betting, it’s not accessible to most residents.

Fortunately, California players can still bet legally and safely 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.

Quick California Facts

State California
⚖️ Sports Betting Laws Prohibited (no licensed operators; only offshore options)
👪 Population 39 Million
🎲 Min. Gambling Age 21 (casinos with alcohol/card rooms),
18 (horse racing, lottery, casinos without alcohol)
🏢 Retail Betting Not Available
🌐 Online Betting Not Available
📱 Mobile Betting Not Available
🐎 Online Horse Betting Available (pari-mutuel)
🏆 DFS (Daily Fantasy) Available (unregulated)

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.

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.

In the meantime, offshore sportsbooks remain the only option for Californians. 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.

Latest California Legal Betting Updates

Jul 02, 2025 07:54 AM

The Los Angeles Dodgers have named PrizePicks their official daily fantasy sports partner, marking a new partnership between the team and the DFS operator.

California Sports Betting Timeline

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:

2025

May 5, 2025 - Fanatics Sportsbook activated its Fair Play Policy, refunding more than $500,000 to bettors after Steph Curry was injured in Golden State’s Game 1 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
 
April 21, 2025 - The California Nations Indian Gaming Association and the Tribal Alliance of Sovereign Indian Nations released a joint statement clarifying that “the claim of an agreement between tribes and commercial operators is simply false."
 
April 1, 2025 - The Sports Betting Alliance reveals a proposal to legalize sports betting in California by having major operators like DraftKings and FanDuel collaborate with a unified tribal entity representing all 109 tribes in the state.
 
February 3, 2025 - FanDuel and Flutter Entertainment have donated $250K to support Los Angeles wildfire relief efforts following devastating fires in the area.
 
January 23, 2025 - High 5 Entertainment is facing a lawsuit in California, alleging that its sweepstakes site is being operated illegally.

2024

December 21, 2024 - Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie expressed confidence that Texas will legalize sports betting during its next legislative session. However, he remains less optimistic about California, citing ongoing hurdles that could delay progress.
 
November 13, 2024 - Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie believes sports betting legalization in Texas will happen next legislative session, but he's not as bullish on California.

September 23, 2024 - PlayCA reports that the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon near Bakersfield is set to open in 2025.
 
August 28, 2024 - California's tribal gaming landscape saw a notable change as Governor Gavin Newsom endorsed new gaming compacts. These agreements were forged between the state and two Native American tribes: the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe and the Elem Indian Colony of Pomo Indians of the Sulphur Bank Rancheria. This move marks a significant step in the evolving relationship between California and its indigenous nations regarding gaming rights.

July 27, 2024 - Google updated its advertising policy to permit daily fantasy sports (DFS) ads on web browsers in California. DFS operates in a legal gray area in the state, meaning it is neither explicitly legal nor illegal.
 
June 30, 2024 - The commencement of construction marked the inception of a novel high-speed rail network linking Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Scheduled for inauguration in 2028, the railway promises enhanced accessibility for Californians to legal sports betting, should it not debut within the state prior to its launch.

May 7, 2024 - Indian Gaming Association Chairman Victor Rocha said that “retail sports betting will be back on the ballot in California in 2026, with mobile to follow in 2028 if all goes to plan.”

April 20, 2024 - A betting scandal rocked California as renowned athlete Shohei Ohtani’s interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, was fired by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Ohtani’s legal team alleged that Mizuhara had stolen at least $4.5 million from the player to pay off gambling debts.

January 7, 2024 - The Sports Betting Alliance (SBA), comprising prominent US gambling operators, opposes two sports betting ballots in California and will not provide financial support for either initiative.

2023

December 1, 2023 - DraftKings introduced the DK Horse betting app in California, providing state bettors with a fresh mobile betting choice for major horse racing events.

November 2, 2023 - Tribal leaders in California have opposed the two ballot initiatives to legalize sports betting, openly criticizing the proposals.

October 5, 2023 - Golden Gate Fields racetrack in Berkeley will stay open until June 2024 to hold another year of horse races before closing down.

September 5, 2023 - Golden Gate Fields in Berkeley will cease operations permanently this December. The horse racing track's closure looks to increase the attendance at Santa Anita.

August 2, 2023 - Native American tribes in California advocated for legislation that would allow them to legally challenge card games such as blackjack offered at casinos.

July 3, 2023 - The 29 Palms Band of Mission Indians has launched a new social betting platform that allows users to participate in online sports wagering without real money. You can earn credits through the platform and use them at the tribe's casinos.

June 12, 2023 - The Oakland Athletics announced a preliminary agreement with Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, signaling their intention to move the team to Las Vegas.

May 5, 2023 - During a conference, Jason Robins, the CEO of DraftKings, expressed his belief that legalizing sports betting in California would take considerable time.

March 23, 2023 - As lobbyists advocate for the legalization of mobile betting, state representatives are analyzing its widespread success throughout the country.

February 28, 2023 - Will the pummelling of California sports betting in 2022 stop any upcoming ballot pushes in the future?

January 27, 2023 - It is expected that California will vote to approve online sports betting legal – what to expect.

2022

December 14, 2022 - With the clear rejection of Proposition 27, those in the industry need to change their strategy for working with tribes to legalize online sports betting in California.

November 23, 2022 - The future of sports betting looks bleak, given the lack of movement in 2022.

November 9, 2022 - Gambling giants are the losers following California rejecting a betting bill. There is hope for the industry to overturn a referendum outcome in the biggest US market in 2024.

November 8, 2022 - Both Proposition 26 and Proposition 27 failed to expand legal sports betting in California in the Midterm elections.

October 30, 2022 - Special interest in ballot propositions is making things complicated regarding sports betting legalization in California.

September 30, 2022 - Dueling California sports betting propositions appear headed for defeat, poll finds.

August 27, 2022 - California's sports betting propositions break state spending records.

August 8, 2022 - Analysts have predicted that both California sports betting ballot questions will be defeated.

August 1, 2022 - Just last week, a Tribe-Sponsored advert aimed at attacking opponents to Prop 27 was published, claiming those opposing the Prop liars.

July 28, 2022 - A recent lawsuit has come to light that could change gambling in casinos in California.

July 1, 2022 - In a sports betting spat, tribes tout big backers against online giants, with Dolores Huerta leading things.

May 18, 2022 - The General Election in the United States and local elections in California with local measures such as the Draft Kings, FanDuel and BetMGM-backed measure for legalizing sports betting in California and a competing measure from the California Native Tribes - both measures collected enough signatures to be on the ballot.

May 17, 2022 - The Golden State Warriors are the only California team left in either the NBA or NHL playoffs. The Edmonton Oilers eliminated the Los Angeles Kings in 7 games, and Dallas Mavericks beat Phoenix Suns also in 7 games. Mavericks and Warriors will now battle for the Western Conference title and the ticket to the 2022 NBA Finals against the winner of Eastern Conference Finals, Miami Heat or Boston Celtics.

April 15, 2022 - California voters get their opportunity to legalize sports betting in November, when the California Native Tribes' measure is on the ballot. This would legalize dice games and sports betting at Native American-operated casinos.

March 8, 2022 - A lawsuit to invalidate a retail sport betting ballot proposal has been filed because the Supreme Court declined to hear it.

February 25, 2022 - Over a fifth of California voters are undecided on sports betting, according to a survey from UC Berkeley. At least one sports betting option will be on November's ballot.

February 9, 2022 - Three tribes are looking to bring forward a sportsbook-backed ballot initiative to put mobile sports betting on the November ballot.

January 18, 2022 - The fight to control sports betting in California gets picked up by an article in the New York Times.

 

Best Sportsbooks In Each Category in California

Best-Sportsbooks-In-Each-Category

Best overallName of Bookie
Best bonusesBetUS
Most unique bonusesBetNow
Top VIP programMyBookie
Best reputationBovada
Best sportsbookBetOnline
Best casinoEveryGame
Best mobile appXbet
Best for new playersBovada
Best for high rollersBetUS
Best up-and-coming sportsbookXbet
Last updated on: July 2, 2025

Top 7 California Sports Betting Sites

Here’s a short list of the top 7 offshore sportsbooks for California bettors:

  1. BetUS - Extensive range of betting options across multiple sports.
  2. Bovada - User-friendly interface and reliable mobile betting experience.
  3. BetOnline - Competitive odds and early line releases.
  4. XBet - Quick payouts and responsive customer support.
  5. BetNow - Generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions for regular players.
  6. MyBookie - Innovative prop bets and creative wagering opportunities.
  7. Everygame - Long-standing reputation and multi-language support for international bettors.

#1 BetUS

BetUS Website Preview
Our score: 4.2/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on BetUS
Pros
Massive free-play bonuses
Deep betting menu
Cons
7-day expiration on free play
High rollover requirements
BetUS stands out for one reason: bonuses. Few sportsbooks come close. The sign-up offer can reach $2,625 in free play, while the referral bonus goes as high as $6,000. Most sites cap their bonuses at $1,000 or less, so this is a major edge. 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

Bovada Website Preview
Our score: 4.3/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on Bovada
Pros
Extremely trustworthy
Simple and clean betting experience
Cons
Site looks rather dated
Cheap bonuses
Bovada is one of the most trusted offshore sportsbooks. It has been around since the early 2010s and built a large user base by keeping things simple and reliable. 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

BetOnline Website Preview
Our score: 4/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on BetOnline
Pros
Huge sportsbook menu
Solid promotional bonuses
Cons
Could use more contests
Limiting rollover bonuses
BetOnline offers the most complete sportsbook on this list. If a sport exists, you can probably bet on it here. From Canadian football to Belarusian soccer to table tennis, the coverage is massive and always active. 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

Xbet Website Preview
Our score: 4/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on Xbet
Pros
Broad range of sports markets
Intuative mobile betting app
Cons
Rollover bonuses aren't great
XBet ranks high on our list for one simple reason: mobile betting. It has one of the best apps we’ve tested, and we’ve tested a lot. The design is sleek, modern, and built for today’s bettor. It’s a major step up from the clunky, outdated apps many other sportsbooks still use. The experience isn’t just about looks either. The app runs smoothly, even though it’s packed with features, bonuses and games. Navigation is fast and reliable with zero lag. Live betting, in particular, works flawlessly. Odds update quickly and in real time, which is rare in this industry. Deposits are supported through credit cards and multiple crypto options like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Withdrawals are fastest with crypto, often landing in your wallet within 24 hours. Traditional payout methods are also available but tend to be slower. If mobile is your go-to way to bet, XBet is one of the best platforms to roll with.

#5 BetNow

BetNow Website Preview
Our score: 4.2/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on BetNow
Pros
Wide-array of promotions
Only sportsbook rebate in the business
Cons
Sportsbook odds can be a little pricy than competitors
BetNow makes the list thanks to its creative bonus system. While most sportsbooks offer a single welcome promo, BetNow gives you four to choose from. Each one has different bonus limits and rollover terms, so you can pick the deal that fits your betting style. On top of that, there are three reload bonuses and three rebate programs. One of those rebates even applies to net losses in the sportsbook, which is something we haven’t seen anywhere else. In an industry full of copy-paste promos, BetNow actually brings something different. The site itself holds up well. The sportsbook covers all the major leagues, plus casino games and horse racing. There’s also a much-improved live betting section. Odds update quickly, even during fast-paced games like basketball, and the platform stays responsive. Deposits are available via credit card and crypto. Withdrawals are fastest through Bitcoin, usually processed in under 24 hours. Other options are available, but crypto is the best choice for speed and ease. For flexible bonuses and a polished live betting setup, BetNow is a smart pick.

#6 MyBookie

MyBookie Website Preview
Our score: 4.1/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on MyBookie
Pros
Excellent VIP program
Well-stocked casino and sportsbook
Cons
VIP program is invite only
Platform could use a new look
What makes MyBookie stand out is its exclusive VIP program. Unlike other sportsbooks that hand out loyalty points to everyone, MyBookie keeps its program invite-only. That may sound limiting, but it allows them to offer serious perks. 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

EveryGame Website Preview
Our score: 3.8/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on EveryGame
Pros
Awesome casino
Most soccer/football betting options around
Cons
Mobile app needs some catching up to do
Bonuses don't pay all that much
Everygame was once known as Intertops. When you backtrack that history, it’s one of the most tenured betting sites around. It ends up on this list because it’s a well-rounded experience. 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.

Where Are Sportsbooks Like Fanduel, DraftKings, Ceasars?

None of these betting apps are legally allowed to operate in California. Unlike offshore betting sites, these three companies — along with the likes of ESPN Bet and Fanatics Sportsbooks — have to play by the rules, and the rules specifically say they can’t operate in California.

Try the apps on your phone and they’ll geo-block you from betting. Each app has technology built-in that maps exactly where you are. If that tech pins you within state borders, it won’t allow you to lock in a bet. This tech is so that even VPNs can’t bypass it so don’t try to get cute with it.

Latest California Betting News

While the timeline for California sports betting remains uncertain, tribes already have a pretty firm idea of what they want it to look like.

Jun 26, 2025 05:52 AM

This is What California Sports Betting Could Look Like If Legalized...
The push for California sports betting remains ongoing, and despite reported progress, legalization isn’t expected anytime soon.

Jun 16, 2025 04:53 AM

The Latest California Sports Betting Update is the Mother of All Reality Checks
Though things appear to be looking up on the California sports betting front, key stakeholders readily admit that tensions remain.

May 15, 2025 11:38 AM

Tensions Remain Between Key California Sports Betting Stakeholders
It was starting to look like a California sports betting measure may not gain traction in time for 2026 elections. But that may not be true.

May 6, 2025 08:36 AM

California Sports Betting May Be On Track For 2026 Electoral Ballot After All

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.

Thankfully, no such restrictions apply to offshore betting sites. 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

These days, bettors prefer to use mobile apps to lock in sports wagers. Apps are easily available on your phone, and make it easy to bet on the move — anywhere and everywhere. Offshore betting sites are riding this trend too, including the seven we mentioned before.

We wrote up a special guide to California betting apps that covers this topic more in-depth. It’s a lengthy topic, which deserves its own guide. Check it out for a full look at mobile betting in California.

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.

Start-Betting-In-California-our-guides

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:

Payment Methods Available For California Sportsbooks

Offshore betting sites accept a full gamut of payment methods these days — 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.

Payment-Methods-Available-For-California-Sportsbooks

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.

California Casinos And Resorts

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.

NameCityTypePhone
Agua Caliente Casino Palm SpringsPalm SpringsTribal(800) 258‑2946
Agua Caliente Casino Rancho MirageRancho MirageTribal(760) 321‑2000
Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral CityCathedral CityTribal888‑999‑1995
Augustine CasinoCoachellaTribal(760) 391‑9500
Barona Resort & CasinoLakesideTribal(619) 443‑2300
Bear River CasinoLoletaTribal1‑800‑761‑2327
Divine Oak Casino Resort (Konocti Vista)FinleyTribal(707) 262‑1900
Mono Wind CasinoAuberryTribal(559) 855‑4350
Wanaaha CasinoBishopTribal(760) 873‑4150
Fantasy Springs Resort CasinoIndioTribal(760) 342‑5000
Cahuilla CasinoAnzaTribal(909) 763‑1200
Golden Acorn CasinoCampoTribal(619) 938‑6000
Havasu Landing Resort & CasinoHavasu LakeTribal(760) 858‑4593
Cher-Ae Heights CasinoTrinidadTribal(707) 677‑0211
Coyote Valley CasinoRedwood ValleyTribal(707) 485‑0700
Lucky Bear CasinoHoopaTribal(530) 625‑4211
La Jolla Trading Post & CasinoPauma ValleyTribal(760) 742‑0460
San Pablo Lytton CasinoSan PabloTribal(510) 215‑7888
Garcia River CasinoPoint ArenaTribal(707) 467‑5300
Twin Pine CasinoMiddletownTribal(707) 987‑0197
Feather Falls Casino & LodgeOrovilleTribal(530) 533‑3885
Morongo Casino Resort & SpaCabazonTribal(909) 849‑3080
Pala Casino Spa ResortPalaTribal(760) 510‑5100
Rolling Hills CasinoCorningTribal(530) 528‑3500
Casino PaumaPauma ValleyTribal(760) 742‑2177
Pechanga Resort & CasinoTemeculaTribal(909) 693‑1819
Chukchansi Gold Resort & CasinoCoarsegoldTribal(559) 661‑3033
Pit River CasinoBurneyTribal(530) 335‑2334
Quechan Casino ResortWinterhavenTribal1‑888‑777‑4946
Win-River CasinoReddingTribal(530) 243‑3377
Harrah's Resort Southern CaliforniaValley CenterTribal(760) 751‑3100
Robinson Rancheria Resort & CasinoNiceTribal800‑809‑3636
Hidden Oaks CasinoCoveloTribal(707) 983‑6896
Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San ManuelHighlandTribal(909) 864‑5050
Valley View Casin
Last updated on: July 2, 2025

Best Casinos Online in California

California best casinos online guide 2025

California is home to a thriving gambling scene, but when it comes to online casino California options, players must turn to international platforms. 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 safe and legal 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.

Top Online Casino Promotions & Bonus Codes

A laptop screen displaying an online casino website in California with a banner promoting "Slots Games" every week. The navigation bar includes categories like Slots, Blackjack, Roulette, and Live Dealer. Several casino game thumbnails are shown below.

Below is a list of some of the best online casinos California real money players can access, along with their latest promotions:

CasinoWelcome BonusBonus CodeWagering Requirement
BetOnline100% up to $1000BOLCASINO30x
BetUS150% up to $5000BETUS15035x
BetNow100% up to $1000BETNOW10030x
Bookmaker100% up to $1600BOOKMAKER40x
Bovada100% up to $3000BOVCASINO25x
EveryGame125% up to $1000EVERYGAME35x
MyBookie200% up to $1500MYBCASINO40x
Sportsbetting100% up to $1000SBCASINO35x
WagerWeb100% up to $1000WAGERWEB30x
Xbet200% up to $500XBET20050x
Last updated on: July 2, 2025

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 2026 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’s 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 Betting In California

As we’ve mentioned, casino betting is legal inside California — so long as it’s done on native-owned casinos. It’s not hard to find these establishments. Inside them, you’ll find a bevy of casino games, from slots to table games. Pretty much everything you’d find in a Las Vegas casino will also be offered here.

Daily fantasy sports betting IS allowed in California too. So technically speaking, DraftKings and FanDuel do operate in California, but not for their sportsbooks.

As for horse-race betting, this too is allowed in California — and actually online too. Several apps, including DraftKings and FanDuel, take in bets for it inside their horse-racing platforms. Of course, horse-race betting can also be done in-person at one of the few racetracks in the state.

California Betting Resources

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

Last thing before we let you go: if you’re going to be gambling in California (or elsewhere), please do so responsibly. This should be a fun hobby— not a life-changing issue.

California’s tribal casinos certainly take this topic seriously. By state law, these casinos have to offer a wide-range of features for bettors that lose their track. Features include an ability to self-ban from gaming and posters or signs that give resources (a free hotline, for instance) for those struggling to control their gaming habits, among others.

We sure hope it never gets that bad for you reading this, but just know, help is available if you look for it.

"For those seeking additional resources on responsible gaming, consider these organizations: 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.