Idaho Online Casinos and Gambling Sites
Idaho is one of the more restrictive states when it comes to gambling.
There are land-based casinos, but no online gambling operations are permitted within the state. However, Idaho residents and visitors can turn to online casinos and sportsbooks based offshore for wagering from home.
Here, we suggest some top online gambling sites for Idahoans. We chose these sites based on our experts’ broad industry knowledge and what gamblers look for.
This guide also explores each type of gambling available in Idaho and the legal and regulatory aspects.
Highlights
Check out the table below for an overview of the types of gambling that are legally permitted in Idaho, including online and land-based casinos and activities like the state lottery.
Is Gambling Legal?
Yes
Legal Gambling Age
18
Land-Based Casinos
Yes
Online Casinos
Grey Area
Land-Based Sports Betting
No
Online Sportsbooks
No
Legal State Lottery
Yes
Charitable Gambling
Yes
Table of Contents
Everything You Need to Start Playing at ID Online Casinos
Is Online Gambling Legal in Idaho?
Key Takeaways
- Idaho does not show much interest in online gambling, either regulating or banning it.
- Hundreds of online casinos, betting sites, and poker rooms serve Idahoans.
- State authorities have taken a hands-off approach towards offshore gambling sites.
- Nobody has faced prosecution for gambling online in the Gem State.
Idaho is one of the more limited states regarding gambling. It offers tribal casinos, lottery games, pari-mutuel betting, and charity gaming. However, it does not permit sports betting, social gambling, or poker.
Where does Idaho online gambling lie in this mixed bag of legalities? The Gem State does not specifically mention online gambling in its laws. It provides a broad definition of illegal gaming in the Idaho Statutes.
We look at precedents in the absence of clearly defined online gaming laws. Idaho has never prosecuted offshore gambling sites or players.
It has also not shown much interest in banning online gambling. Therefore, many online casinos, poker rooms, and betting sites serve this state.
Best Idaho Online Casinos in 2024
The following list can help you quickly find the top gaming options for Idaho State.
| RANK | CASINO | BONUS | PAYOUT SPEED | LICENSED | TOTAL GAMES | SLOTS | OUR RATING | CLICK TO PLAY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
DuckyLuck Casino |
BONUS 500% up to $7,500 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-5 Days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 699 | SLOTS 600 | OUR RATING 4 / 5 | Play Now |
| 2 |
Bovada Casino |
BONUS 125% up to $3,750 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-3 Days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 549 | SLOTS 435 | OUR RATING 4 / 5 | Play Now |
| 3 |
SlotsandCasino |
BONUS 500% up to $7,500 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-2 Days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 691 | SLOTS 594 | OUR RATING 3.9 / 5 | Play Now |
| 4 |
BetUS |
BONUS 150% up to $3,000 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-7 days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 491 | SLOTS 367 | OUR RATING 4.5 / 5 | Play Now |
| 5 |
Cafe Casino |
BONUS 350% up to $2,500 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-3 Days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 547 | SLOTS 384 | OUR RATING 3.5 / 5 | Play Now |
*Last Updated: November, 2024
Our Recommended Online Casinos By Category
DuckyLuck and Bovada are two of the best Idaho online casinos. As covered below, they excel in certain areas that stand out from other top ID casinos.
DuckyLuck – Top Site for Casino Games
You can choose from nearly 600 games at DuckyLuck Casino, with the slots category offering over 500+ titles. By comparison, most online casinos offer 150-200 online slots and 200-300 games overall.
DuckyLuck offers several other game categories, including live dealer, table games, video poker, and casual.
You can enjoy plenty of promotions when playing these games, such as free spins, daily cashback, and reload MEGABONUSES.
Features
- Nearly 600 online casino games
- Plenty of game types, such as live dealer and video poker
- One of the best online casinos at offering promotions
Bovada – Best Site for Sports Betting
Bovada is a top ID gambling site for casino games and sports betting. Regarding the latter, you can routinely expect 25-30 sports markets, while the average sports betting site offers 15-20 markets.
The Bovada Sportsbook also offers interesting features, including a props builder, a parlay booster, and many live betting markets. As for Bovada Casino, you can enjoy 300+ games and Hot Drop Jackpots.
Top Features
- Great gambling site for sports betting & casino games
- Offers 25-30 sports markets
- Sportsbook features like props builder & parlay booster
How We Choose Online Casinos
You can see the criteria we use to recommend top Idaho online casinos like DuckyLuck, Bovada, and others below.
Reputation
Reputable online casinos ensure a good experience through quality customer support, quick payouts, and fair gaming.Fast & Reliable Payments
We like online casinos that process payouts within 24 hours, but a 24-48 hour window is also acceptable.Security & Safety
We only take casinos seriously if they protect their websites with high-level encryption technology.Game Variety
Some of the best Idaho online casinos offer over 500 games. However, any game selection with over 300 titles is also worthwhile.Quality Bonuses
Huge Idaho casino bonuses are nice, but we also want the terms and conditions to be fair.
Top ID Online Casino Games for Real Money
Over a dozen types of online casino games are available to Idaho players. You can see the most popular game categories below.
Online Slots
Most real-money online casinos in Idaho feature hundreds of online slots, which vary by features, game type, and themes.
Common features include free spins, expanding wilds, mystery symbols, and stacked wilds. The game type can vary in 3-D slot, multiplier, progressive, video, classic, etc.
Land-based Idaho casinos cannot offer Class III slot machines like those available in commercial casinos.
They instead offer Class II slots, which generate results through communal bingo games instead of random number generators like Class III and online slots.
Online Poker
Live poker was briefly an option in Idaho in 2014. The Coeur D’Alene Casino Resort Hotel (Worley) offered Texas hold’em games until receiving an injunction from the state to stop. It lost a court battle in 2015, marking the end of Idaho live poker.
However, you can still play online poker in the Gem State. Some top Idaho online casinos also offer poker cash games and tournaments.
Common online cash stakes go from $0.02/$0.05 to $10/$20. You can find online tournaments with prize pools worth $100,000 or more.
Online Blackjack
Live blackjack is illegal at Idaho tribal casinos, making online blackjack the main option in this state.
Most online casinos offer multiple blackjack variations, with Classic 21, multi-hand, single deck, and Switch being common. Single deck is popular online because it has favorable rules that can lead to 99.5% RTP or better.
Blackjack machines are available at ID tribal casinos. However, the catch is that you must visit a land-based casino to play electronic blackjack.
Online blackjack is available through smartphones, tablets, and computers, meaning you don’t need to travel anywhere.
Live Dealer Games
All live table games like baccarat, craps, and roulette are illegal at Idaho casinos. You can only enjoy machine versions of these casino classics in the Gem State.
Online casinos provide the perfect substitutes for live dealer games, which stream action from land-based casino studios. They are the only way to enjoy live gaming in Idaho.
The most common live dealer casino games are baccarat, blackjack, and roulette. Some gaming sites offer other options like Lucky 7, Super 6, and Wheel of Fortune.
Common minimum stakes include $1 for roulette and $5-$10 for baccarat and blackjack.
Other Online Casino Games for Idaho
You can expand your online gaming horizons beyond slots, blackjack, and live dealer games like live blackjack. The following games are also available to Idahoans.
Idaho Online Casino Bonuses
You’ll be able to find different bonus types at online casinos of this state. Here are the most common ones.
Welcome Bonuses
Large introductory offers that nearly every online gambling site provides to new players.
Free Spin Offers
Promotional deals that give you a set number of free rounds on specific games.
Reload Deals
Get additional bonus cash when you deposit additional funds or top off your account.
Our Recommended Offers
You will find numerous online casino bonuses in Idaho, but which one(s) should you choose? The following offers are our top picks for ID players.
500% up to $7,500 + 150 free spins Bonus
DuckyLuck Casino offers a 500% up to $7,500 + 150 free spins welcome bonus for new players. This sign-up package is valid for your first three deposits.
The free spins are provided over three days, with 50 spins added to your account daily until you reach the full 150 free spins total.
Each segment of the bonus requires a $25 minimum deposit. Before withdrawing winnings, you must meet 30X wagering requirements (a.k.a. rollover) on the bonus plus deposit.
Craps, live dealer games, and progressive slots do not contribute to rollover.
125% up to $3,750 Welcome Bonus
Bovada sign-up promo provides three 125% up to $3,750 welcome bonus. It requires code BTCCWB1250 on the first deposit and BTC2NDCWB on the following two deposits.
You must meet 25X rollover on the first deposit bonus and 50x on the second and third bonuses.
Bovada Sports bonus is worth 75% up to $750 and requires code BTCSWB750. Rollover is 5X for sports betting and horse betting and 30X for casino.
Both Bovada bonuses require $20 minimum deposits through Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin SV, Ethereum, Litecoin, or Tether.
Idaho Casino Apps
No Idaho casino apps are available, but you can still play mobile casino games. The best ID online casinos are compatible with iOS and Android devices.
You start by visiting your preferred gaming site through an iPhone, iPad, or Android. Next, you register for an account, deposit (optional), and play games through your browser.
We have tried regulated casino apps in states like Pennsylvania and West Virginia. By comparison, offshore mobile casinos in Idaho run just as smoothly as gaming apps.
Facts About Online Casinos for ID Players
The Idaho Statutes do not mention online gambling, which can lead to questions. The following facts about ID online casinos provide more info on the subject.
- Idaho has not regulated online gambling forms like sports betting or casinos.
- State laws do not discuss online gaming and provide a broad definition of illegal gambling.
- Many offshore casinos, poker rooms, and betting sites accept Idahoans.
- State authorities have never prosecuted offshore gambling sites or their players.
- The Gem State prohibits daily fantasy sports sites.
- Due to the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA), offshore casinos and sportsbooks cannot accept Idaho bank transfers
- Online gambling sites in Idaho can accept cryptocurrency and credit card deposits.
Gambling Laws Summary
Idaho offers several forms of legal gambling, but it also outlaws a few games of chance. We will cover what is legal and illegal in the ID gambling market below. You can also see relevant legislation on each major form of gambling.
| Idaho Gambling | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Land-based casinos in Idaho | Tribal casinos are legal under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988. The Coeur d’Alene, Kootenai, Nez Perce, and Shoshone-Bannock Tribes have negotiated gaming compacts with the state. However, the state government has only approved tribal casinos for Class I and II gaming (bingo, drawings, pull tabs). |
| Online Gambling | The Gem State does not have any specific laws addressing online gambling. Therefore, offshore casinos, sportsbooks, and poker rooms have accepted Idaho players for 30+ years. |
| Sports Betting | Idaho has not legalized land-based sportsbooks or regulated online sports betting. Regarding the latter, many offshore sites take sports bettors. |
| State Lottery | 51% of Idahoans voted to repeal a constitutional ban on lotteries in 1988. The Idaho Lottery launched the following year and currently offers several in-state (e.g., 5 Star Draw) and multi-jurisdictional games (e.g., Powerball). |
| Charitable Gambling | Title 67, Chapter 77 of the Idaho Statutes allows qualified charities to offer bingo and raffles. Interesting charities can apply through a form on the Idaho Lottery website. |
| Poker | Poker is illegal in Idaho, meaning there are no available land-based poker rooms here. The Coeur d’Alene Tribe briefly offered Texas hold’em games in 2014 until losing a legal challenge. |
| Horse & Dog Racing | The Idaho legislature originally approved pari-mutuel betting in 1957, only for the governor to veto the bill. Another attempt passed and received governor approval in 1963. Title 54, Chapter 25 of the Idaho Statutes notes that horse racing is permitted but does not mention dog racing. |
| Fantasy Sports | Former state Attorney General Lawrence Wasden said in 2016 that daily fantasy sports are illegal under Idaho law. He then negotiated with DraftKings and FanDuel to exit the ID market. |
| Social Gambling | Illegal gambling Title 18, Chapter 38 does not provide an exemption for home games. However, state authorities are unlikely to bust an amateur social gambling function where nobody acts as the house. |
| Taxes on Gambling Winnings | Idaho taxes gambling winnings at a flat 5.8% rate. |
Disclaimer: The information on this page does not, nor does it intend to, constitute legal advice. This page is for learning purposes and may not have the most up-to-date information year-round. Readers should contact their attorney and/or accountant for advice concerning any particular legal matter. Do not take any action without first contacting a lawyer in your state.
Idaho Gambling Laws: A Deep Dive
The Gem State provides many gambling opportunities but is strict in other areas. We will provide more context on each major form of Idaho gaming so that you know what is safe to play.
Land-Based Casinos
Tribal casinos have been operating in Idaho since 1993. The year prior, multiple tribes negotiated with the state government for Class III slot machines (Vegas-style slots & table games).
However, then-Governor Cecil Andrus refused to budge and only permitted Class I and Class II gaming.
Idaho land-based casinos can only offer bingo-style slot machines, bingo, drawings, and pull tabs. Nevertheless, some gaming venues have succeeded on the strength of their Class II slot machines.
The Coeur D’Alene Resort is the largest Idaho casino, with 1,600 slot machines across a 100,000-square-foot gaming floor. The Shoshone-Bannock Casino (Fort Hall) is notable, with 900 slots and an 85,000-square-foot floor.
Horse & Dog Tracks
Horse races have been running in Idaho since 1964. The Gem State features seven tracks, running a short racing schedule lasting less than a week. These tracks include:
- Cassia County Fair (Burley)
- Eastern Idaho Fair (Blackfoot)
- Jerome Horse Racing (Gooding)
- Oneida County Fair (Malad)
- Pocatello Downs (Pocatello)
- Rupert Downs (Rupert)
- Sandy Downs (Idaho Falls)
Lawmakers approved 2011 legislation (SB 1133) to allow simulcast betting. Horse bettors can now place wagers on races happening anywhere at off-track locations.
Dog tracks have never existed in Idaho because they were not part of the 1963 pari-mutuel laws.
Bingo, Lottery and Charitable Gambling
Title 67, Chapter 77 of the state statutes lays the framework for Idaho charity gambling. It permits approved charities to use raffles and bingo for fundraisers.
Some charities must apply for a bingo or raffle license through the Idaho Lottery, with fees ranging from $100-$300.
A charity needs a raffle license to make over $5,000 and a bingo license when expecting over $10,000.
The Idaho Lottery launched in 1989 after receiving voter approval the year prior. It has generated over $1 billion for the state since launching. Some games it offers include Mega Millions, Powerball, 5 Star Draw, Idaho Cash, Pick 3, and Weekly Grand.
Social Gaming at Home
Unlike most states, Idaho does not exclude social gaming from its definition of illegal gambling.
You could take this to mean that social gambling is unlawful in the Gem State. However, we searched and found no cases where authorities raided a friendly gambling function.
State police are likely only interested in illegal gambling dens where the house takes a cut. Low-stakes games among friends where nobody banks the action are likely fine.
Poker Rooms and Clubs
The Coeur d’Alene Tribe briefly offered poker at its casino in 2014. The state sued, claiming that poker falls into unapproved Class III gaming.
A federal judge heard the case and sided with the state. The tribe appealed the ruling, only to be denied again.
Poker remains illegal in Idaho, with no sign of this situation changing anytime soon. Idahoans must cross into other states to enjoy live cash games and tournaments.
Sports Betting
Idaho is among the rare states that have taken no action to legalize sports gambling. Therefore, legal retail and online sports betting are unlikely prospects for the foreseeable future.
We cannot currently predict the Idaho sports betting market. Possible scenarios include tribal retail sportsbooks, a lottery-run market, or online betting only.
Offshore online sportsbooks are the only options for Idaho bettors right now.
Land-Based Casinos in Idaho
You can see the available Idaho casinos on the following map. These are all tribal gaming establishments located on Native American reservations.
Top Idaho Casinos
- Couer D’Alene Casino Resort Hotel
- Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel
- Clearwater River Casino & Lounge
ID Gambling Summary
- Total Casinos: 7
- Total Race Tracks: 6
Idaho Gambling vs. Neighboring States
Most Idaho neighbors offer multiple forms of legal gambling. The following table shows how the Gem State compares to bordering states.
| State | Is some form of Gambling Legal? | Legal Gambling Age | Legal Land-Based Casinos | Playing at Online Casinos | Legal Sports Betting | Legal State Lottery | Charitable Gaming |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | Yes | 18 | Legal | Grey Area | Not Legal | Legal | Legal |
| Montana | Yes | 18-21 | Legal | Grey Area | Legal | Legal | Legal |
| Nevada | Yes | 21 | Legal | Grey Area | Legal | Not Legal | Legal |
| Oregon | Yes | 18-21 | Legal | Grey Area | Legal | Legal | Legal |
| Utah | No | N/A | Not Legal | Not Legal | Not Legal | Not Legal | Not Legal |
| Washington | Yes | 18 | Legal | Not Legal | Legal | Legal | Legal |
| Wyoming | Yes | 18 | Legal | Grey Area | Legal | Legal | Legal |
Idaho differs from all six neighbors in at least one gambling category. Unlike Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming, it does not offer sports betting.
Meanwhile, it features some forms of gambling and differs from Utah, where all bets are illegal. The Gem State takes a hands-off approach towards online casinos, whereas Washington and Utah have banned them.
A Brief History of Idaho Gambling
The Idaho’s gambling history began when it gained statehood in 1890 and banned lotteries. It waited decades before legalizing any forms of gambling but has slowly approved more games of chance. You can see more on this history below.
2016
State Attorney Gen. Lawrence Wasden says DFS is illegal and negotiates for DraftKings’ and FanDuel’s exit.
2014
The Coeur d’Alene Tribe briefly ran a poker room until shutting it down after a court battle.
2011
Politicians approve simulcast betting.
2002
Tribal casinos add bingo-style slot machines after an associated measure passed a state vote.
1993
Multiple tribal casinos open.
1992
Local tribes negotiate with the state to open casinos; they only gain approval for Class II (not Class III) gaming.
1988
Voters repealed the 1890 lottery ban, enabling the Idaho Lottery to launch in 1989.
1963
A second Horse Racing Act passes through legislative and governor approval.
1957
The Horse Racing Act passed both houses, but the governor vetoed it.
1953
The Idaho Supreme Court declares slot machines unconstitutional and illegal.
1947
Lawmakers give municipalities the right to legalize slots.
1930s
Saloons exploit constitutional loopholes to offer unregulated slot machines.
1890
Idaho gained statehood and ratified its constitution, which banned lotteries and other forms of gambling.
Responsible Gambling Initiatives
The Idaho Lottery and State Racing Commission do not provide responsible gambling initiatives. They instead promote resources on the matter, including the following:
- Idaho CareLine (through the Department of Health and Welfare)
- National Council on Problem Gambling – Idaho (NCPG)
- Idaho Gambling Addiction Hotline
Summary: Idaho’s Gambling Journey
The Gem State had almost a dozen gambling milestones from 1947-2016, such as legalizing pari-mutuel betting, approving tribal casinos, and banning DFS. It has been quiet since 2016, even ignoring sports betting at a time when most states have legalized it.
We are shocked that no lawmaker has even introduced sports gambling legislation.
Most states begin with sports betting when regulating online gambling. A handful have progressed to regulating online casinos and poker sites afterward. Due to the lack of legislative efforts, we do not see any of this happening in Idaho’s near future.
That said, Idaho may not legalize any type of online gambling for 5-10 years. Offshore casinos, sportsbooks, and poker sites will remain popular among state residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following FAQs cover Idaho tribal casinos, online gaming, and no-deposit bonuses.
How do tribal casinos differ from commercial casinos in Idaho?
Tribal casinos are legal in Idaho, while commercial casinos are not.
What are the most popular casino games in Idaho?
Slot machines are the most popular games in Idaho casinos. Most ID tribal casinos feature hundreds of slots versus limited bingo games and drawings. Online casinos in Idaho also dedicate most of their game selections to slots.
Are there real money online casinos in Idaho with no-deposit bonuses?
Certain real-money online casinos in Idaho offer no-deposit bonuses. They typically provide new sign-ups with a small free chip (e.g., $20) or free spins. You can cash out winnings from Idaho no-deposit bonuses by meeting the associated terms and conditions.
Is there any risk of playing at online casinos regulated outside of Idaho?
No Idaho gaming regulatory body covers online casinos because they are unregulated. Therefore, you must deal with offshore casinos not subject to ID gambling regulations. We suggest choosing the more reputable and best Idaho online casinos to avoid potential problems.
