In recent years, Louisiana has seen significant developments in the realm of online gambling. The state’s approach to regulating various gambling verticals has created an interesting landscape for bettors. This article delves into the current legal status of online gambling in Louisiana, covering different gambling verticals, including examples of legal sites, and addresses frequently asked questions.
Louisiana Gambling Site and Options
Sports betting is live in Louisiana and it is also possible to bet on horse racing and play Daily Fantasy Sports within state lines. Find the best online gambling sites and offers we have selected for you.
| Gambling Vertical | Legal Status in Louisiana |
|---|---|
| Sports Betting | Legal |
| Online Casinos | Unregulated |
| Online Poker | Unregulated |
| Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) | Legal |
| Lottery | Offline only |
Louisiana’s legal landscape for online gambling is a mix of regulated and unregulated verticals. While sports betting and DFS have found a legal foothold, online casinos and poker remain in a gray area. As the state navigates through these complexities, it is crucial for residents to stay informed and cautious, especially when engaging with unregulated platforms. With potential changes and developments always on the horizon, the future of online gambling in Louisiana remains an area to watch closely.
TOP Louisiana Online Sports Betting Sites Reviewed
BetMGM LA – The Best for Betting Markets and Options
The self-proclaimed “king of sportsbooks” betMGM launched in Louisiana on January 28, 2022, partnering with Sam’s Town Casino in Shreveport. The operator has subsequently brought its vast selection of sports and betting markets to Louisiana natives alongside a raft of innovative wagering features and promotions.
BetMGM Louisiana sportsbook app provides comprehensive coverage of the NBA, NFL, and MLB, for example, while offering ante-post and in-play markets across international tournaments like the UEFA Champions League and English Premier League. The site also features an ‘Edit My Bet’ feature, which extends the classic ‘Cash Out’ concept and enables you to amend your wager selections and add more legs during games.
This feature is particularly beneficial to in-play bettors while readily available through the BetMGM app. This software is also rated 4.8/5 and 4.4/5 on iOS and Android, respectively, further highlighting its accessibility and ease of use.
BetRivers Louisiana Sportsbook
BetRivers is a similarly iconic, all-American brand, and one that also entered the Louisiana marketplace in January 2022. It quickly entered into a strategic partnership with the Coushatta Casino Resort in Kinder while introducing its generous ‘iRush Rewards’ program to LA natives.
We also like the simple signup process at BetRivers LA, which starts when you hit the ‘Join Now’ button on the home page. Then, you’ll have to confirm your gambling state, unique username, and account password before verifying this securely via email. The next stage is to enter identification details such as your name, DOB address, and the final four digits of your SSN.
If you input this information accurately, your identity and account should be verified immediately. You can also enter the data securely over a couple of screens and in virtually no time.
BetRivers also has a ‘winners’ feed’ in the main lobby, which displays the biggest online wins and is visible through desktop and mobile devices. The BetRivers app also scores an average of 4.8/5 and 4.2/5 on iOS and Android.
FanDuel Louisiana – The Best Mobile Betting App
FanDuel entered the newly regulated LA marketplace at the same time as BetMGM and BetRivers while choosing the popular Amelia Belle Casino as its land-based partner. It has previously served Louisiana natives with its outstanding DFS vertical, so it has been able to claim a significant share of the LA sports betting handle since its launch.
See also Arizona Gambling, Top Sites and Online Casinos 2025
At the heart of its appeal is an exceptionally well-designed and high-performance app, which features noticeably intuitive menus that are fast-loading and easy to navigate. These menus also make it incredibly easy to build comprehensive same-game parlays, as you can seamlessly switch between different screens and markets in real time.
Of course, the app also unlocks the popular FanDuel TV for live streaming, while the software has an impressive average rating of 4.8/5 on iOS. The Android app is similarly highly thought of, with an average score of 4.7/5.
DraftKings Louisiana – The Best for In-Play, Micro, and Prop Betting
DraftKings was among the first sportsbooks to launch in the ‘Pelican State’ in January 2022, initially partnering with the iconic Golden Nugget casino in Lake Charles. Like FanDuel, it has also built on its DFS offering to emerge as one of the most innovative sports betting brands in the marketplace.
The operator is perhaps best known for its in-play and micro-wagering options, particularly across NFL, NBA, and MLB markets. Here, you’ll find more than 2,300 micro-betting markets on average, along with many live player and team prop wagers. DraftKings’ creative ‘Betting Carousel” also enhances the in-play betting experience by recommending specific wagers and parlays based on your previous activity.
These features are all available through the DraftKings app, too, which has a heavenly rating of 4.8/5 on iOS and 4.7/5 on Android!
ESPN Bet LA – The Best for Convenient and Secure Banking
Yes, ESPN BET is legal in Louisiana. The sportsbook launched on Nov. 14, 2023. It’s also partnered with the land-based Boomtown Casino in Bossier City, while the site currently offers a variable selection of banking methods and rapid payout times.
You can credit your account using Visa, MasterCard, Discover, online banking, ACH, eCheck, and PayPal. At the same time, the latter four options enable you to process secure and consistently quick withdrawals, too. Then there’s the branded Barstool Sportsbook & Casino Play+ card, which can be easily applied online and allows for instant withdrawals through participating ATMs.
The ESPN Bet LA app is highly recommended on iOS, with an average rating of 4.7/5. The Android app scores 4.2/5 while offering access to the site’s sportsbook and casino platforms.
There are now seven licensed sportsbooks in Louisiana, with WynnBET having ceased their operations in the state. While Betway and Betfred are both expected to launch there in the near term, here’s the full list of sites where you can wager for now!
TOP-Rated Mobile Sportsbook Apps in Louisiana
- ESPN Bet Sportsbook – new in Louisiana
- BetMGM LA Sportsbook App
- BetRivers Sportsbook App
- Caesars Bet App Louisiana
- DraftKings Sportsbook
- FanDuel Sportsbook
- PointsBet Sportsbook (Soon rebranded to Fanatics Sportsbook)
Each of the seven licensed sportsbooks in LA is secure, reputable, and well-respected, including Caesars and PointsBet. However, we’d still recommend that you wager at one of the five sites we reviewed in detail due to the range of features that they offer and their average app ratings on iOS and Android.
Professional Teams in Louisiana
Louisiana is home to several professional sports teams, including the New Orleans Saints (NFL), the New Orleans Pelicans (NBA), and the LSU Tigers (NCAA). Sports bettors in Louisiana can place bets on these teams and their games at Louisiana online sportsbooks.
New Orleans Saints: The New Orleans Saints are one of the most successful NFL teams, having won one Super Bowl and five division championships. Sports bettors can place bets on the Saints’ games, including point spread bets, moneyline bets, and over/under bets.
New Orleans Pelicans: The New Orleans Pelicans are an NBA team that has made the playoffs several times in recent years. Sports bettors can place bets on the Pelicans’ games, including point spread bets, moneyline bets, and over/under bets.
LSU Tigers: The LSU Tigers are one of the most successful college football teams, having won three national championships and numerous conference championships. Sports bettors can place bets on the Tigers’ games, including point spread bets, moneyline bets, and over/under bets.
Retail Sportsbooks in Louisiana
Land-based sportsbook betting in Louisiana hasn’t taken off other than on-track horse racing. There are 25 casinos and ‘racinos’ in the Bayou State. The latter may soon offer you sports betting:
- Delta Downs Racetrack outside of Vinton looks a suitable locale for this with its casino.
- Harrah’s Louisiana Downs in Bossier City is another obvious candidate for a sportsbook
- Fair Grounds Race Course, owned by Churchill Downs, in New Orleans may add this too.
FAQs About Louisiana Sports Betting
What are the top sportsbooks in Louisiana?
The top sportsbooks in Louisiana include BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Bet365. For instance, BetMGM is well-known for its user-friendly mobile app and excellent same-game parlays, while Caesars offers competitive odds and substantial bonus bets for new users.
Do I need a promo code to claim bonuses?
Some bonuses require a promo code, while others do not. For example, BetMGM requires the promo code to claim up to $1,500 in bonus bets, whereas DraftKings’ welcome offer does not require a code.
Can I withdraw bonus bets?
Bonus bets cannot be withdrawn. They can only be used to place bets, and any winnings from those bets can be withdrawn. For instance, if you win $100 using a bonus bet, you can withdraw the $100 winnings but not the original bonus bet amount.
How long do I have to use my bonus bets?
The validity period for bonus bets varies by sportsbook. Typically, you have between 7 to 30 days to use them. For example, BetMGM’s bonus bets expire after seven days, while BetRivers’ bonus bets are valid for 30 days.
What happens if my bonus bet loses?
If your bonus bet loses, you do not lose any of your own money. The bonus bet amount simply expires. For example, if you place a $50 bonus bet and lose, the $50 bonus bet amount will be deducted from your account without affecting your cash balance.
Are there bonuses for existing customers?
Yes, many Louisiana online sportsbooks offer ongoing promos, reload bonuses, and loyalty rewards for existing customers. For instance, Bet365 frequently offers odds boosts and early payout promotions for their regular bettors.
Can You Bet on Louisiana-based teams in the State?
If you’re within state boundaries, who can access any LA-licensed sportsbook to bet on local franchises such as the New Orleans Saints (NFL), the New Orleans Pelicans (NBA), and the New Orleans Breakers (United States Football League.) Some operators even offer enhance the odds for punters betting on local sides.
What is the Legal Betting Age in Louisiana?
While the minimum age to gamble at in-person bingo, horse, or dog racing is 18 in Louisiana, you must be 21 or over to place online sports bets or wager at an online casino.
LA Sports Gambling
Louisiana has embraced sports betting with open arms. As of 2025, mobile and land-based sports betting is legal in most of the state. This development allows sports enthusiasts to place bets on various sports through platforms like BetMGM and DraftKings. These sites offer extensive betting options on major league sports and events, ensuring a dynamic betting experience for users.
LA Online Casino Gambling
While Louisiana has numerous land-based casinos, the state does not regulate online casino gambling. This means that while residents can access online casino games, these are hosted on offshore sites. These unregulated sites provide a range of casino games, including slots, blackjack, and roulette, but users should be cautious due to the lack of state oversight.
Online Poker
Similar to online casinos, online poker in Louisiana remains unregulated. Poker enthusiasts have the option to play on offshore platforms. These platforms offer various forms of poker games, tournaments, and live play options, attracting a significant number of poker players. However, the unregulated status means players must carefully choose reputable platforms.
Daily Fantasy Sports
DFS is legally recognized and regulated in Louisiana, providing an engaging platform for fantasy sports fans. Sites like DraftKings and FanDuel lead the market, offering a variety of sports and contest types. Players can assemble virtual teams based on real players and earn points based on their performances in actual games, making DFS a popular choice among sports fans.
Lottery
The Louisiana Lottery offers state and multi-state draw games, but it remains an offline affair. Online ticket sales for the lottery are not available, which means purchases must be made at licensed retail venues. This traditional approach to the lottery keeps it straightforward but less accessible compared to other states with online options.
Louisiana Online Casino Sites & Offers
Louisiana is famed for its gambling, but are you allowed to play mobile or online casino games in the Bayou State? Find answers to all your questions here.
You can gamble at several locations across the state, but you can’t play online casino games in Louisiana.
Gambling is entrenched in Louisiana’s history, with the state eventually accepting its importance by legalizing, licensing, and regulating a bustling casino scene. Now, legalized casino gaming is one of the major draws of cities like New Orleans in the tourism business.
However, likely to preserve the appeal of its riverboat, land-based, and Native American casinos, the Bayou State explicitly outlaws online gambling. So, while you’re welcome to play slots and cards in several venues, you can’t use an online casino in Louisiana.
Online Casino Sites in Louisiana
It is illegal to gamble at an online casino in Louisiana. For a state that now revels in its gambling heritage and extensive range of top-class venues, Louisiana is very clearly against online casino gaming. Not only is the activity not permitted over the internet here, but the state has also shown that it’s willing to pursue outside and Louisiana gambling businesses that attempt to introduce online casino games to the state.
Based on the current laws in Louisiana and the overall market in nearby states, BetMGM, Caesars, and BetRivers Casino are among the first casinos expected to go live in the state.
Louisiana Online Casino Site Expected in 2025:
- BetMGM Casino
- Caesars Casino
- Hard Rock Casino
- DraftKings Casino
Best Online Casino Games in Louisiana
In Louisiana, it is illegal to play online casino games. Just as you can’t access a legal Louisiana online casino, you can’t dig into the best online casino games that have been popularized across the internet. The state seemingly sees the online options as a hefty competitor to the thriving, in-person Louisiana gambling industry, which stands to reason if you experience the live casino titles being released.
Best Online Casino Apps in Louisiana
In Louisiana, it is illegal to gamble via the best online casino apps. The Bayou State upholds its stance on casino websites being illegal through to the mobile space. Mobile casinos are the same as online casinos, but with better compatibility for the small screen, as are apps. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Louisiana online casino apps are included under the rule of internet gambling being illegal.
Top Land-based Casinos in Louisiana
In Louisiana, you can find high-quality casino establishments almost everywhere. There are 20 casino gaming establishments dotted around the state, with Baton Rouge and Bossier City boasting the highest number of casinos. Bossier City is also home to the highest-rated venue that you can find in the state, with Margaritaville Resort Casino taking the crown. If you’re on your way down to The Big Easy, though, you can’t go wrong with Harrah’s Casino New Orleans.
Tax When Gambling in Louisiana
In Louisiana, you must report gambling as income on federal and state returns. Gamblers across the United States, even those who enjoy casino games in Louisiana, are subject to the IRS’ 24 percent flat tax rate on gambling winnings. In the Bayou State, gambling winnings are also taxable income.
Louisiana Online Gambling FAQs
Are online casinos legal in Louisiana?
Online casino gambling is currently unregulated in Louisiana. While there are no state-regulated online casinos, residents can access offshore sites at their own risk.
Can I legally gamble on sports online in Louisiana?
Yes, online sports betting is legal in Louisiana. Platforms like BetMGM allow users to place bets on various sports events legally.
Can I wager on all Louisiana sports teams?
You can bet on all the major league sports such as NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, European basketball leagues, cricket and rugby, college football, and basketball.
Do I need to file a Louisiana return if I win money in the state?
Yes. Gambling winnings from a Louisiana venue are considered state-sourced income, so even non-residents must file a Louisiana return.
Where can I find Louisiana’s famous riverboat casinos?
Baton Rouge is the home of riverboat casinos, but you’ll also find some in Bossier City, Lake Charles, and Shreveport.
What is the Legal Gambling Age in Louisiana?
You must be at least 21 years old to play casino games in Louisiana. While horse racing and bingo can be enjoyed by 18-year-olds, casino gaming, poker, and playing the lottery require you to be at least 21 years old.
What are my options for playing poker online in Louisiana?
While the state does not regulate online poker, players can access offshore poker sites. Caution is advised due to the lack of local regulatory oversight.
Can I participate in Daily Fantasy Sports in Louisiana?
Yes, DFS is legal in Louisiana. Platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel offer DFS contests to residents legally.
Is gambling legal in Louisiana?
Both online and land-based sports betting is legal in 55 of the 64 parishes in Louisiana. It is not yet possible to play online casino or poker games. View horse betting options in Louisiana here.
Do you have to pay taxes if you win at casinos in Louisiana?
Yes, casino winnings in Louisiana are taxed at a rate of 21.5%.
Who regulates LA online gambling?
Gambling in the state comes under the jurisdiction of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board.
Where in Louisiana can I get help with problem gambling?
While gambling can be enjoyable, it can also become a problem for some people, and can spiral out of control. If you, or a friend or relative, is struggling to cope with their gambling, help is available. Louisiana – National Council on Problem Gambling (ncpgambling.org).
View the complete Offers.bet guide to the best sportsbook promos and pick the top sportsbook to place your bets. Gamble responsibly. 21+. If you want to play games for real money, check out our online casino list.
