Many people in Arizona, Nevada, and across the U.S. are surprised to learn that sports betting is still not legal in California — even in 2025. Despite multiple attempts to legalize it, California voters and lawmakers have not yet approved a framework for mobile or in-person sports wagering.
This article explains why sports betting isn’t legal yet, what efforts are underway to change that, and what residents and visitors in California should know before placing a bet.
The Short Answer: No, Sports Betting Is Not Yet Legal in California
As of October 2025, sports betting remains illegal in the state of California. That means:
- You cannot legally use FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, or Caesars within California’s borders.
- No tribal casinos, racetracks, or card rooms are currently licensed to accept sports bets.
- Any websites offering betting services to Californians are operating illegally or offshore — and are not regulated by U.S. law.
The only legal forms of gambling in California are:
- Tribal casinos
- State-run lottery
- Licensed card rooms
- Pari-mutuel horse race betting
Why Sports Betting Hasn’t Been Legalized Yet
California’s path to legalization is uniquely complicated because of its size, tribal influence, and political divisions.
Here’s what’s happened so far:
- 2022 Ballot Propositions (26 and 27):
- Prop 26 would have allowed in-person sports betting at tribal casinos and racetracks.
- Prop 27 would have allowed online sports betting via national operators like DraftKings and FanDuel.
- Both measures failed after record-breaking spending — over $400 million combined in campaign ads.
- Tribal vs. Commercial Interests:
California’s tribal casino groups and national sportsbook operators have not agreed on how to share the market. The tribes want control through physical casinos, while national operators want mobile betting. - Legislative Caution:
California lawmakers have avoided pushing new sports betting bills since 2022, waiting for a unified tribal proposal before trying again.
What About Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)?
While sports betting is illegal, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) operates in a legal gray area.
Companies like DraftKings and FanDuel continue to offer fantasy contests in California, claiming that DFS is a “game of skill” rather than gambling. The state has not officially banned or regulated DFS, so residents can still participate for money.
However, DFS is not the same as traditional sports betting — you’re building lineups, not betting on teams or outcomes.
Can Californians Use Offshore Betting Sites?
Technically, yes — but it’s not recommended.
Some offshore sportsbooks claim to accept California players, but they:
- Are not licensed in the U.S.
- Do not offer player protection for deposits or winnings
- Operate outside state and federal laws
If something goes wrong — like withheld payouts or identity issues — there’s no legal recourse.
It’s far safer to wait until California launches a regulated market like Arizona, New Jersey, or Nevada.
When Could Sports Betting Become Legal in California?
The earliest realistic timeline for legalization is 2026 or 2028, depending on ballot initiatives.
Here’s why:
- No active legislation is moving through the state assembly in 2025.
- Tribes are drafting new proposals for the 2026 ballot, likely focusing on in-person betting first.
- Voter fatigue from 2022’s failed campaigns means operators will have to rebuild trust and education.
If a new ballot measure succeeds in 2026, online betting could launch by 2027–2028.
What Legal Sports Betting States Are Near California?
Californians don’t have to travel far to bet legally. Neighboring states already offer full mobile sports betting:
| State | Legal Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | Legal since 2021 | Online & retail betting, major sportsbooks active |
| Nevada | Legal since 1949 | Requires in-person registration for some apps |
| Oregon | Legal, state-run monopoly | Only one legal sportsbook app |
Many Californians drive to Las Vegas or Yuma, Arizona, to place bets in person or via mobile apps while inside those state lines.
Will Tribal Casinos Lead Legalization?
Most likely, yes.
California’s tribal gaming groups control more than 60 casinos statewide and have powerful influence over gaming law. Future legalization efforts will almost certainly go through them first — probably focusing on:
- Retail sports betting inside tribal casinos
- Possible mobile expansion later through tribal-branded apps
Tribes argue that this model keeps betting revenue local and protects responsible gambling standards.
Final Thoughts
So, is sports betting legal in California? Not yet — but it’s coming eventually. The size of the state’s economy and its passionate sports fan base make it too big a market to stay dark forever.
For now, California residents should stick to Daily Fantasy Sports or travel to nearby states like Arizona or Nevada for legal betting options.
Stay tuned — when California finally legalizes sports betting, it’s likely to become the largest market in the U.S.