Virginia Gambling Laws 2026: Casinos, Sports Betting & Online Options
Virginia has transformed its gambling landscape in recent years, introducing regulated commercial casinos, mobile and retail sports betting, and expanded lottery offerings. While real-money online casinos and poker remain prohibited statewide, land-based casino gaming operates at five approved venues with on-site mobile options. The Virginia Lottery oversees sports betting and iLottery, the Virginia Racing Commission regulates horse racing and historical horse racing (HHR) machines, and charitable gaming falls under the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Offshore sites exist in a gray area but lack state protections.
Overview of Gambling in Virginia
Virginia Code § 18.2-325 defines gambling broadly, but exceptions now include licensed casino operations (§ 58.1-4100 et seq.), sports betting (§ 58.1-4030 et seq.), pari-mutuel horse wagering, the state lottery, and charitable activities. Violations for unauthorized gambling typically result in Class 1 or 3 misdemeanors, with harsher penalties for operators. Enforcement prioritizes illegal providers over individual players, and no widespread prosecutions target offshore users. Five commercial casinos operate or are under development, generating revenue for localities and education.
Land-Based Casinos in Virginia
Virginia legalized commercial casino gaming in 2020, with voter referendums approving facilities in specific cities. As of 2026, operational casinos include:
- Bristol Casino (Bristol): Features slots, table games, and on-site sports betting.
- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol: Integrated resort with full casino floor.
- Rivers Casino Portsmouth (Portsmouth): Offers slots, tables, and poker variants.
- Caesars Virginia (Danville): Major venue with extensive gaming and entertainment.
- Additional developments in Norfolk and Petersburg approved, with openings progressing.
Casinos permit on-site mobile betting but no statewide online casino access. Historical horse racing (HHR) machines—slot-like devices tied to past races—operate at racetracks and venues like Rosie’s Gaming Emporiums.
Online Gambling and Offshore Sites
Real-money online casinos and poker are not legalized or regulated in Virginia as of 2026. Legislation for iGaming was deferred to 2026 sessions, with concerns over impacts on lottery revenue, existing casinos, and regulatory capacity. Offshore platforms accept Virginia players, but participation carries risks including no state recourse, potential federal issues, and enforcement exposure. Sweepstakes and social casinos offer legal alternatives with virtual play and prize redemptions.
Poker in Virginia
Poker is permitted at licensed casinos (e.g., Rivers Portsmouth, Caesars Virginia), classified partly as skill-based under prior reforms. No standalone poker rooms exist outside casinos, and real-money online poker is unavailable intrastate. Offshore sites provide access but remain unregulated.
Sports Betting in Virginia
Sports betting launched online in January 2021 and retail in 2022, regulated by the Virginia Lottery. Mobile wagering is available statewide via operators including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, bet365, and others (13+ active as of 2025). Retail books operate at casinos. Bettors must be 21+, with geolocation required. College sports wagers are allowed except on in-state teams/events. Revenue supports education and problem gambling programs.
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)
Virginia pioneered DFS legalization in 2016, with major platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel fully operational. No significant restrictions beyond age 18+ apply, and contests continue as skill-based activities.
Virginia Lottery and Bingo
The Virginia Lottery offers draw games (Powerball, Mega Millions), scratchers, and iLottery (online instant games since 2020), available via retail and digital channels. Proceeds fund K-12 education. Charitable bingo, raffles, and poker are permitted for qualified nonprofits, regulated by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services with permits, prize limits (e.g., $1,000 jackpots), and session restrictions.
Virginia Gambling FAQ
What gambling is legal in Virginia?
Regulated options include five commercial casinos (slots, tables, on-site betting), statewide mobile/retail sports betting, horse racing/pari-mutuel wagering (including HHR), state lottery (retail and iLottery), DFS, and charitable bingo/raffles.
Is online casino gambling legal in Virginia?
No. Real-money online casinos and poker are prohibited; iGaming legislation remains under study for potential 2026 consideration. Offshore access is common but unregulated and risky.
Do offshore gambling sites accept Virginia players?
Yes, most major offshore platforms do, supporting credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and wire transfers. Players should use only reputable sites and gamble responsibly, as no state protections apply.
Will Virginia legalize online casinos soon?
Prospects exist for 2026, but delays stem from revenue concerns, regulatory burdens, and impacts on land-based venues. No confirmed timeline; focus remains on existing markets.