Amelia Walker, a J.D. holder and senior content writer at Betting.us, is a legal expert in responsible gambling. Initially skeptical, she now has over six years in professional gambling. She’s studied gambling law and currently educates gamblers on our site in legal and safe play.
Texas Sports Betting
By Amelia Walker
Senior Content Writer at Betting.us
Updated: December 14, 2023
Options regarding Texas sports betting are pretty limited at the moment. Despite the fact that numerous bills have been proposed, the Texas law still prohibits this gambling activity. Nevertheless, citizens can choose between other forms of wagering, which we'll discuss further in our review. Additionally, we'll provide information about all operating Texas sportsbooks.
Full List and Map of Texas Sports Betting Locations
Even though Texas sports betting is strictly prohibited, gambling enthusiasts can still take their chances with other activities, such as pari-mutuel wagering. There are several racetracks located in the state allowing guests to bet on live and simulcast horse and greyhound racings. What's more, there are a few fully legal casinos that feature numerous amusing games.
The Best Texas Sportsbooks
Even though there aren't any Texas sportsbooks at the moment, we're about to mention a few legal gambling establishments. They'll provide you with the possibility to bet on live and simulcast racings. At the casinos, on the other hand, you'll be able to play poker and try out a few quite fascinating electronic machines. Below, we’ve shared our top three recommendations. We've chosen these establishments in particular because they're equipped with everything a Texas punter may need. Additionally, they promise great payouts.| Name | Type | Website | Full Address | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lone Star Park | Racetrack, Off-Track | www.lonestarpark.com | 1000 Lone Star Pkwy, Grand Prairie, TX 75050, USA | Read Review |
| Retama Park | Racetrack, Off-Track | www.retamapark.com | 1 Retama Parkway, Selma, TX 78154, USA | Read Review |
Betting Locations by Type
Texas citizens have been holding the hope that sports gambling will become legal in the state this year. Unfortunately, however, Texas Law is still certain about its decision not to legalize this activity in The Lone Star State. Nevertheless, this, in any way does not mean that people from the state will not be able to try their luck with alternative wagering activities.
There are 6 gambling establishments in the state, including race tracks, casinos, and poker rooms. Race tracks allow both live and simulcast pari-mutuel wagering, and usually, they're open almost every day of the week. You'll find gambling facilities in many cities in Texas; however, the best options are unquestionably Houston.
Casino Resorts
The number of casinos in Texas is really not substantial. In fact, there are only two fully developed gambling houses, none of them providing off-track or sports betting opportunities. Nevertheless, there are a few casino-like locations that allow their visitors to place bets on poker games and other electronic machines resembling the classical slots.
Tourists can also spend a few nights in the only casino resort in Texas. It has a sufficient number of rooms and provides several amenities, which we'll list in the following table. One thing you should remember is that the legal gambling age for pari-mutuel bets in Texas is 18. However, when it comes to gambling at casino establishments, visitors must be at least 21 years old. If you're younger than this, you'll not be allowed to enter the grounds of the club.
Racetracks
As has been said, the only activity similar to sports betting that's fully legal in the state is wagering on horse and dog races. Any resident or tourist can legitimately place bets on events hosted in the state. There are several racetracks in Texas that allow not only for live wagering but for simulcast betting, as well.
Online horse betting, similar to sports wagering, is strictly prohibited. Anyone who happens to break this law will have to face the respective consequences, which may include a hefty fine or even a prison sentence. If you're into gambling, you can consider visiting one of the authorized race tracks listed below.
| Racetracks | Types of Racing | Review link |
|---|---|---|
| Sam Houston Racetrack |
Horse Racing
|
Read Review |
| Retama Park |
Horse Racing
|
Read Review |
| Gulf Greyhound Park |
Greyhound Racing
|
Coming Soon |
| Gulf Coast Race Track Bet By The Bay |
Greyhound Racing
|
Read Review |
| Lone Star Park |
Horse Racing
|
Read Review |
| Valley Race Park |
Greyhound Racing
|
Read Review |
| Gillespie County Fairgrounds |
Horse Racing
|
Read Review |
Off Track Betting
As some of you know, off-track betting refers to an activity that involves betting on horse racings outside a racetrack. Simulcast betting is also considered an off-track betting activity even though there are several race tracks in Texas that provide their guests with the opportunity to wager not only on real-time racings but on live-streamed events, as well.
Off-track betting is perfectly safe and legal in the US state, and oftentimes it offers very attractive payouts. Just like any other form of gambling, this one also requires the players to be at least 18 years of age. All locations provided in the following listing are absolutely lawful, so you don't have to worry about anything legal-related.
- Gulf Greyhound Park
- Gulf Coast Race Track Bet By the Bay
- Retama Park
- Valley Race Park
- The Race Barn
- Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie
- Sam Houston Race Track
Cruise Ships and Riverboats
While there are cruise ships in the state of Texas, there is none that provide any kind of sports or off-track betting.
List of Legal Land-Based Sportsbooks in Texas
The Texas sports betting locations include race tracks, off-track betting establishments, poker rooms, and a few casinos. It's an undeniable fact that gambling activity in the state is quite restricted. Nevertheless, the punters will still be able to find a place to try their luck. To find the best one for you, we advise you to take a look at our table provided below.
It consists of details about all active facilities resembling Texas sportsbooks. We can say that the most popular establishment is Lone Star Park near Houston.
Search for Sportsbooks in Texas
| Casino Name: | Address: | Secure Link: | City: |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | |||
| Sam Houston Race Park | 7575 North Sam Houston Parkway West, Houston, TX 77064, USA | ||
| Gulf Coast Race Track Bet By The Bay | 5302 Leopard St, Corpus Christi, TX 78408, USA | ||
| Gillespie County Fairgrounds | 530 Fair Dr, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, USA | ||
| Lone Star Park | 1000 Lone Star Pkwy, Grand Prairie, TX 75050, USA | ||
| Valley Race Park | 2601 S Ed Carey Dr, Harlingen, TX 78552, USA | ||
| Retama Park | 1 Retama Parkway, Selma, TX 78154, USA | ||
Texas Sports Gambling - All Leagues and Bet Types
Unfortunately, sports betting is strongly prohibited in the state. There have been numerous debates, bills, and meetings regarding the legislation of this activity. Even though it's allowed in many US states, Texas is still against its permission. The only form of sports betting that's absolutely allowed in The Lone Star State is wagering on horse and greyhound racings.
Offshore betting is practically not illegal for Texas residents. However, many experts advise gamblers to be extremely careful when choosing a website to participate in this activity. The platform should promise full protection of your data. Offshore sites allow Texas citizens to place bets on various sports, such as football, basketball, tennis, and many more.
- SPORTS
-
See AllFootball - (NFL)National Football League
- (AFL)Australian Rules Football
Tennis - (US Open) United States Open Tennis Championship
- (WTT) World TeamTennis
Basketball - (NBA)National Basketball Association
- (NBL)National Basketball League
Volleyball - (NVA)National Volleyball Association
- (VLA)Volleyball League Of America
Rugby - (USARL)USA Rugby League
- (NRL) National Rugby League
Hockey - (AHL)American Hockey League
- (NHL)National Hockey League
-
Bet Types:
- Horses and Dogs
-
- Standardbred racing
- Greyhound
Bet Types: - Off-Track (Simulcast) Betting
-
The State Law Allows Off-Track Betting
Where Can I Check the Current Betting Odds and Lines?
As you already know, sports betting is prohibited in the state. However, pari-mutuel wagering is fully legal, and you can place your stakes on several race tracks in the state. If you wish to receive additional information about a particular racing, you can always visit the website of the respective track.
There, you'll find all details that may be of interest to you. Furthermore, if you've never tried this activity before, you can get familiar with the specific rules with respect to the discipline. It's highly advisory to find out which are the possible bet types you can make. Pari-mutuel betting has several peculiarities you may not be aware of. To avoid any potential mistakes, we'd recommend you to spend an hour or so reading its basic rules.
Legal Sports Betting in Texas
Betting on sports is not legal in Texas. The closest form to sports betting you can legally participate in is pari-mutuel wagering on horse and greyhound racings. Additionally, playing poker, blackjack, and a few other casino games is also permitted. Many specialists predict that sports betting will remain a mirage for Texas citizens in the next few years.
Until then, people will have to be content with the abovementioned forms of gambling. In addition, Texas residents can join numerous offshore websites providing extraordinary selections of sports and bet types. Below, we've answered several popular inquiries with respect to Texas sports betting. We recommend you take a look at each of the precise answers.
Is sports betting legal in Texas?
No, unfortunately, sports betting has not yet been legalized in Texas. Experts believe that this activity will remain illegal for the next few years.
Legal age for sports betting?
If you wish to try your luck with some popular casino games, you should keep in mind that the legal gambling age in Texas is 21. However, individuals who are 18 years of age are lawfully permitted to place pari-mutuel bets.
Can you bet online in Texas?
Online sports betting is also prohibited in Texas. However, betting on offshore websites is not illegal, and many residents choose to place their stakes on popular platforms outside of the US.
Is fantasy sports betting allowed?
Betting on fantasy sports on offshore betting websites is allowed. Gamblers can take their chances with various sports, such as football, tennis, racings, and many more.
Is off-track betting allowed?
Yes, off-track betting is absolutely allowed in Texas. There are several establishments allowing guests to place bets on simulcast horse and dog racings.
Are there any restrictions?
There are numerous restrictions regarding Texas sports betting. Residents cannot bet on sports whether online or offline. Additionally, there are only two full-blown casinos in the state.
Who regulates TX sports betting?
At present, many gambling activities are banned by the Texas Constitution. Therefore, we cannot predict whether or not sports betting will be legalized, and who will be in charge of its regulation.
History of Sports Betting in Texas
As you already know, betting on sports is still illegal in The Lone Star State. Texas is one of the most rigorous American states when it comes to gambling. The owners of the very first gambling facility in Texas had had to go through numerous negotiations with the state in order to be allowed to provide classic casino games.
Due to these facts, the Texas sports betting history is quite short. In the next table, you'll find curious details concerning the gambling chronicles of the state. We've listed the respective year and a short description of each significant event that is somehow related to the current status of wagering in Texas.
| Year | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1919 | The 18th Amendment of the US Constitution | The 18th Amendment in the US prohibited the production, sale, and transportation of any alcoholic beverages. Additionally, it also affected the gambling activity in the American states, making it illegal. After a few years, however, some of the states legalized gambling. Texas, however, was not one of those states. On the contrary, the highly conservative state was strongly against any form of hazard. |
| 1933 | Legalization of Pari-Mutuel Wagering | In 1933, the state decided to remove the ban regarding horse racing betting. The reason for this happening was the major losses during the Great Depression. A few years later, however, pari-mutuel wagering was banned again. Fortunately, in 1987 after a referendum, pari-mutuel wagering was legalized again. Simulcast betting became authorized in 1991. |
| 1980s | Legalization of Indian Tribe Gambling Facilities | In the 1980s, Indian tribes were given the lawful right to operate gambling facilities within the state. The Tiguas were the first to make an attempt to build and operate their own gambling club. They wanted to give visitors the opportunity to bet on poker, blackjack, machines, etc. However, in 2002 the casino was permanently closed due to a lawsuit against the tribe. Speaking Rock re-opened in 2016 as an entertainment center rather than a gambling club. |
| 2021 | Sports Gambling Future | On the 8th of February, some of the most popular sports teams in Texas united in an effort to persuade the respective authorities to legalize sports betting. A few answers were quick to follow; however, they were all highly discouraging. The end of May will be the date we'll all find out the future of sports wagering in Texas. If the bill gets rejected, people will need to wait a few additional years for a possible change in the gambling law of the state. |
How to Bet on Sports in Texas
Unfortunately, if you're a sports betting enthusiast, you'll probably be disappointed to find out that you're not actually allowed to place bets on sports in Texas. However, you can bet on horse and greyhound racings at some of the great race tracks located in the state. Most of them even allow for simulcast wagering, as well.
If this discipline is foreign to your area of expertise, we'd certainly suggest you spend some time reading the basic rules of the game. Additionally, it'd be good to pay special attention to the different bet types proposed in horse and dog racings. Alternatively, you can try your luck on a dependable offshore website.
General Rules
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Betting on sports is prohibited in Texas with the exception of betting on offshore sites.
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You're only allowed to bet on authorized and legal facilities.
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All winnings from gambling should be reported.
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The legal gambling age in Texas is 18. If you're 18, you'll be able to place pari-mutuel bets.
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To participate in tribal casino activities, you must be at least 21 years of age.
Are Exchanges and Pari-Mutuel Betting Available in Texas?
In betting, an exchange is a term that refers to a marketplace that allows users to bet on the outcome of certain events. However, they can not only bet but also sell the outcome. In other words, they have the opportunity to trade in real-time with other bettors. Unsurprisingly, this activity is prohibited in Texas.
Pari-mutuel wagering, on the other hand, is completely legitimate, and residents of the state have the right to place various bets on horse and dog racings. There are several racetracks in Texas that hold frequent events, and allow their guests to bet on simulcast races, as well. Pari-mutuel wagering was endorsed back in 1933.
Taxation of Winnings
Similar to all other US states, Texas, too, obliges its residents to report their winnings made from gambling. After all, Texas operates a state lottery many people choose to try their luck with. Additionally, all winnings you make from casino games, live racetrack bets, and simulcast bets are also taxable.
If you gain earnings from any gambling activity in the state, you are required to fill in the Form W-2G for Certain Gambling Winnings. The law states that all residents of Texas should report their gambling winnings on their annual income tax returns. This rule, however, applies only to players who have won sums exceeding $600.
Federal Law:
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$600 or more - the payor is obliged to provide you with a W-2G form
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Gambling winnings are generally subject to a flat 24% tax.
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IRS considers any money made from gambling as taxable income.
Additional State Rules:
-
The tax withholding rate for the Texas lottery is again 24% for prizes exceeding $5,000.
To learn more about the subject matter, feel free to take a look at our thorough guide on gambling taxation in the United States, which can be found on our homepage.
About Texas
Texas is the second-largest American state by population and by area. Its capital is Austin, and the largest and most populous city is Houston. The Lone Star State got its nickname because of its long history of struggle for independence from Mexico. The state is known for its incredibly sultry weather, Country music, and cowboy boots.
Unfortunately, the state’s gambling industry is not really spectacular. The reason being is that in 2021 sports betting is still outlawed in Texas. People are only allowed to bet on horse and dog races being held in racetracks. Also, individuals who are of legal age can visit and wager real money at the few casinos located in the state.
| Capital | Austin |
|---|---|
| Largest City | Houston |
| Population | 29 million |
| Area | 695,662 km2 |
| Time zone | CDT and MDT (El Paso) |
| State Nickname(s) | The Lone Star State |
| Motto | Friendship |
| Teams | Sport | League |
|---|---|---|
| Dallas Cowboys | Football | NFL |
| Austin FC | Soccer | MLS |
| Dallas Mavericks | Basketball | NBA |
| FC Dallas | Soccer | MLS |
| Dallas Stars | Ice Hockey | NHL |
| Houston Astros | Baseball | MLB |
| Dallas Wings | Basketball | Women’s NBA |
| Houston Dash | Soccer | National Women’s Soccer League |
| Houston Texans | Football | NFL |
| Houston Dynamo | Soccer | MLS |
| San Antonio Spurs | Football | NFL |
| Houston Rockets | Basketball | NBA |
| Texas Rangers | Baseball | MLB |
| Huskies | Basketball | NCAA Division I |
| Tigers | Cross Country | NCAA Division I |
| Aggies | Tennis | NCAA Division I |
Helping Hand for Gamblers in Texas
All Texas residents are able to contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline at any time for free. You'll be able to share anything that concerns you and will receive online support. Alternatively, you can consider joining the Gamblers Anonymous fellowship, which was found to serve help to individuals who experience gambling addiction.
Help for Compulsive Gambling in Texas
- Hotlines National Problem Gambling Helpline 1-800-522-4700
- Help centres Gamblers Anonymous, 10900 Northwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77092, United States +1 713-684-6654
Sports Betting Lawyers in Texas
- Greg Gladden 713-880-0333www.greggladden.com
FAQ
Can you bet on sports in Texas?
No, unfortunately, you cannot bet on sports in Texas. The only exception is pari-mutuel wagering on horse and dog racings. You can participate in this activity by visiting one of the racetracks located in the state. Some of them also give their guests the opportunity to try out simulcast betting.
Is sports betting legal in Texas?
Sports betting in Texas is strictly outlawed, and it will probably remain like this for the next few years. The laws regarding gambling in The Lone Star State are extremely stringent, and there are very few forms of wagering that are allowed.
Who can apply for a Texas sports betting license?
Since sports betting is still not allowed in Texas, we cannot give precise answer to this particular inquiry. Nevertheless, we suspect that anyone who wishes to grant such license should be obliged to apply through a special Gaming Commission.
How much revenue does sports betting generate in Texas?
A massive number of Texans choose to take advantage of the opportunity to bet on offshore betting websites. Therefore, we can only suspect how huge the revenue from sports betting in Texas will be if the activity becomes legal one day.
How many sportsbooks are in Texas?
Even though betting on sports is not allowed in the state, there are 14 gambling establishments that allow guests to place real money bets on casino games and horse and greyhound races. All facilities are legal and absolutely secure.
What is the minimum age to place sports bets in Texas?
The minimum age to place pari-mutuel bets in Texas racetracks is 18. Additionally, if you're 18 or older, you're allowed to buy lottery tickets and play charitable bingo. Nevertheless, individuals must be 21 or older to visit and wager in tribal casinos in the state.
Is there online sports betting in Texas?
Online sports betting is also prohibited in the state. Nevertheless, there isn’t a law that explicitly prohibits betting on offshore websites. That's the reason why many residents of the state choose to try their luck on non-US betting sites.
How much does Texas make on sports betting?
As we've previously stated, this form of gambling is still forbidden in The Lone Star State. Nevertheless, knowing how many people visit the gambling facilities, we believe that Texas will certainly make loads of money on betting on offline and online sportsbooks.
What are the best sportsbooks in Texas?
Even though there still aren't any Texas sportsbooks you can visit, we genuinely hope for this to change in the future. In the meantime, you can take a trip to some of the wonderful racetracks, poker rooms, or casinos in the state. In one of the sections on this page, we’ve listed all operating facilities.
What is the biggest sportsbook in Texas?
One of the biggest and most prominent gambling facilities in Texas is the Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie, which welcomes hundreds of visitors anytime there's a horse or dog racing. Alternatively, you can visit the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino and take your chances with some of the exciting games available there.