Idaho Gambling Laws – All About State Regulations

Like many other states in the US, the Idaho gambling laws allow specific gaming products, while  not all forms of betting are considered legal. The Gem State was like a hotbed for gambling back in the day. Those times have changed since the gold rush. Nowadays, the legalized opportunities are not many — more on those details in a bit.

When we talk about online betting options, the laws on gambling in Idaho lack specific legislation banning it. However, the ID definition of gambling is broad enough to effectively cover internet bets within its all-encompassing terms. In other words – it is not allowed.

Gambling in Idaho – Covered Products and Their Legal Status

Gambling in Idaho is legal for some activities and illegal for others. All gambling-related matters are covered by the ID Statutes 18-3801 et seq., and the horse racing part is covered by the 54-2501 et seq. The Idaho gambling laws tightly regulate pari-mutuel horse race betting, state lottery games, tribal gaming, charitable games of chance, off-track betting, and past horse racing games. Here are all of the betting actions in the Gem State:

The table is quite detailed, presenting the current situation with sports gambling in Idaho, casino games, and other games of skill and chance. The only legal way to play traditional casino games is at legal gambling destinations on Tribal land. A handful of those are spread over the state. Keep in mind that poker is illegal in any form in the state of Idaho. It is also one of the few regions left prohibiting operators from offering paid daily fantasy sports to locals.

Legal Gambling Age in Idaho

Players from the Gem State must be of legal age to gamble or participate in any gaming activities. Keep in mind that the legal gambling age in Idaho differs depending on the activity. This is a common practice in the US, and you can learn more about the different age restrictions across the country in our US legal gambling age article. You have to be 18 or older in Idaho to bet on bingo, lotteries, and pari-mutuel events.

At the same time, land-based casinos owned only by Indian tribes allow only players who are 21 years of age or older. The US laws in the legal gambling age limit department are similar to countries around the world. It is good to be aware of the restrictions in your location in detail because the consequences of underage gambling can be critical.

Idaho Gambling History

Many towns in Idaho in the late ’80s and early ’90s offered various legal gambling options attracting celebrities and business people. State regulation of the gambling industry began shortly after WWII. In 1949, gambling was declared illegal in the state of Idaho. Several years later, the voters outlawed slot machines. That ban quickly spread across the state, and 1953 marked the end of gambling machines. Other betting opportunities took place after that. Here is how it all happened:

The gambling history of the Gem State is dynamic and shows how strict the local law enforcement is regardless of the gaming situation in the US. The tribes are very active in adding new ways of gambling, but not all are approved. With the firm hand of the Attorney General, many are skeptical of any sports betting and casino gambling changes in the future.

Online Gambling Idaho – Available Optinos

While Chapter 38, 18-3801 makes no direct reference to the online gambling Idaho websites, for now, there are no certified legal online betting options. The legislation also prohibits games of chance that include elements of skill. The document explicitly mentions poker, which tends to generate the most significant discussion in the skill-versus-luck debate.

Locals can enjoy social online casinos filled with popular games like slots, roulette, video poker, and blackjack. Keep in mind that these websites don’t offer monetary prizes. Still, the current situation legally bans online gambling sites within the state. You can enjoy an exciting gaming adventure online using legally regulated platforms outside the state or the US. They must be within governing jurisdictions that have specifically legalized online gambling, like the top casino sites in the US.

Idaho Land-Based Casinos & Racetracks

Two types of gaming establishments provide the betting diversity in the Gem State. One represents the sports gambling in Idaho and is the oldest form of gambling in that region – the racetracks. The other is in the hands of the tribal casinos. Each of the establishments offers slots and video poker. Below, we have gathered a detailed list of legal Idaho casino locations.

These Idaho gambling destinations offer a diversity of over 3500 slot machines in seven cities. The state territory is also the home of several horserace establishments in several cities like Blackfoot, Emmett, Jarome, Pocatello, Malad City, and others. This old and respected industry is protected by the Horse Racing Act and overseen by the self-funded Idaho State Racing Commission. The fees this agency collects are used per Idaho Statute 54-2515.

Conclusion on the Gambling Laws in Idaho

Local laws are kind of strict regarding gambling in the state. Basically, you can only play legally at Native American locations. That covers Indian casinos, horse racing, state lottery, and bingo. The latest change in ID follows the steps of its neighbours. The Washington gambling laws recently opened up to online sports. In both states, gambling is related to the local tribes. On the other hand, the Oregon gambling laws and Tribal casinos lack interest in such online activities.

FAQ about Gambling in Idaho

Here, you will find structured information containing essential inquires related to the Idaho gambling laws and legislation. It is always a plus to get familiar with the restrictions related to betting before starting the process. Is gambling legal in Idaho? Check out these frequently asked questions about gambling in Idaho and their brief but informative answers.

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