Betting in Texas: A Frustrating Puzzle

Ever found yourself deep in a rabbit hole wondering, “Is sports betting legal in Texas?” That’s been me for the past few weeks. A good friend of mine moved to Austin, and I figured I'd surprise him with a fun wager on the next big game through DraftKings. Turns out, things aren’t as straightforward in the Lone Star State.

From what I’ve dug up, sports betting in Texas is a no-go. It’s frustrating because other states like Colorado or Louisiana are already embracing platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel. But when I asked, “Is DraftKings legal in Texas?” I learned that the platform isn't allowed there, and neither is FanDuel. This led me to spiral into other questions like, “What sports betting apps are legal in Texas?” and “How to sports bet in Texas?” Spoiler alert: the answers weren’t promising.

DraftKings and Its Limits​

It seems that DraftKings Texas is still a dream far from reality. I mean, you can’t use DraftKings for sports betting in Texas at all. I even looked up, “DraftKings states not allowed” and found Texas on the list. It’s wild because other states like Pennsylvania or New Jersey are thriving with legal sports betting apps.

But it’s not just DraftKings. If you’re curious, “Can you use FanDuel in Texas?” or “Is FanDuel legal in Texas?” the answer is the same—nope. PrizePicks? Also not legal. For a state so proud of its independence, you’d think they’d allow us to make a friendly wager now and then.

Legal Alternatives?​

The silver lining is platforms like Bovada and Underdog Fantasy. I had to dig into whether “Is Bovada legal in Texas?” and “Is Underdog Fantasy legal in Texas?” to find out they are technically accessible since they operate offshore or in a legal gray area. But even then, I’d hesitate. It feels like you’re walking a tightrope when exploring how to bet on sports in Texas legally.

For anyone wondering, “Can I use PrizePicks in Texas?” or “Does PrizePicks work in Texas?”—unfortunately, it’s the same story. And if you’re thinking about online gambling in general, asking, “Is online gambling legal in Texas?” or “Can you gamble online in Texas?” the answer is largely no, with very few exceptions.

Does Texas Allow Sports Betting?​

The short answer? Not yet. Efforts to legalize sports betting Texas-style are gaining momentum, but we’re not there. You can’t bet online, and “What betting apps are legal in Texas?” is met with a pretty short list. It’s frustrating when you think about how states like Michigan or Illinois have taken the plunge, yet Texans are left out in the cold.

Your Thoughts?

If you’ve figured out how to navigate the maze of Texas betting laws or know more about DraftKings states allowed, drop your insights. Does DraftKings work in Texas through a loophole I missed? Or maybe you’ve cracked the code for how to use FanDuel in Texas? Share your experiences!

Couldn’t have said it better myself: Texas is a bit of a mystery when it comes to gambling laws. Let’s hope things change soon.

 

[PercyTheIII]

Texas really does feel stuck in the past with these restrictions. Bovada’s a decent workaround, but you’re right—it’s not ideal. Hopefully, the push for legalization gains traction soon.

 

[BoldSpirit]

Bovada is good but its far from the only game in town. There are dozens of sportsbooks that are safe and take Texas players. Ive played at a lot of them first hand.

This is a good one for football, definitely my go to during college and NFL season. You can also play here if your worried about safety - they have an A+ rating. Never had a problem with either site - cashed out plenty of times at both.

There are a lot more but I dont feel like typing them all out right now. Just lmk if you want more suggestions and I can add more.

 

[HorsesDontFly]

Man, people keep askin' if sports gambling is legal in Texas, but c'mon, you already know the answer Online sports betting in Texas ain't happening anytime soon. But that don’t mean you can’t gamble in Texas, just gotta use the right sites. BetOnline, Bovada, plenty of options.

 

[7Sinister]

If they ever legalize it, Texas gonna tax the hell outta winnings anyway. Might as well stick to Bovada Texas and the offshore books.

 

[PforPyros]

If people wonder why gambling is illegal in Texas, just look at how strict they are with everything. No online betting in Texas, no chance. Abbott ain't budgin'.

 

[DanielBro]

So, is bovada legal in texas? heard really good things about it, but not sure whether you guys can access it from there

 

[MisterMiyagi]

So, is bovada legal in texas? heard really good things about it, but not sure whether you guys can access it from there

Man, every week someone asks can you sports bet in Texas and the answer's still a big nope. The laws are stuck in the stone age. But if you're tryna work around it, Bovada Texas is an option. Not legal, but people use it.

 

[PercyTheIII]

Texas keeps shutting down sports betting while states like Colorado and Arizona are thriving with it. Makes no sense. If FanDuel Texas was allowed, people would sign up in droves.

 

[Scanl@n]

Texas keeps shutting down sports betting while states like Colorado and Arizona are thriving with it. Makes no sense. If FanDuel Texas was allowed, people would sign up in droves.

they would be cash cows, but nope, lawmakers keep saying no. meanwhile, folks just vpn their way in....