Legal Online Poker For California Residents
On the west-coast in California, there are no shortage of activities that can be done. With that said, online poker happens to be pretty popular as well, thanks to the fact that there are a number of sites that California residents can visit. These sites operate around the world, and Californians can play without the fear of breaking the law. Online poker and the United States has had a fickle relationship, but that doesn't mean that there are not places to play legally.
Specific to California residents on this page, learn about the legality surrounding online poker in the state, what legislation is in place, and furthermore, what legal poker sites those who live in the state can visit. Read further below to find out exactly what we mean, and the important information that we want to get across to you.
Is Online Poker Legal In California?
To answer this question rather simplistically, yes, the playing of online poker is legal in California. Residents who live in the state, and meet the legal gambling age requirements at both the poker site and within California are able to play. California does not have any state regulations for the operation of online poker sites within its borders. This is because no legal online gambling sites operate in California. But the reason that online poker can be played legally in California is because residents can join offshore sites that are based somewhere other than in the U.S.
When it became effectively illegal to operate an online gambling site under the Unlawful Internet Gambling Protection Act, online poker players in the U.S., including California, had to seek other means. Insert high quality offshore poker sites. These sites cater to USA players and fulfill the demands met by allowing them to sign up and play. This is not against the law, so California will have many options.
Legal California Poker Rooms | U.S.A | USA Poker BONUS | Poker REVIEW | PLAY NOW |
BetOnline Poker | Yes - 50 States | 15% to 25% / $900 Each | ||
SportsBetting Poker | Yes - 50 States | Up To 25% Each Deposit | ||
5Dimes Poker | Yes - 50 States | No Bonuses For Poker | ||
BetOnline Poker Room - Best California Poker Site
There will be several online poker rooms that you will find in your search, but in our estimation, BetOnline is right at the top of the list in terms of the quality of services, and poker that is offered. This poker site accepts California poker players, allowing them to legally create a new account at BetOnline. The legal online gambling age in California is 21, though at this site players need be at least 18. As such, California residents will need to meet the legal demands of the 21 years of age.
Upon creating an account, California players can deposit to play for real cash using VISA credit and debit cards as well as some international gift cards with VISA logos. In addition, a Rapid & Money Transfer are payment methods which work as a normal cash wire would.
A bonus option of up to $1,000 on the first deposit is also an option that players can take. Bovada provides players with a variety of different poker table games, limit tables, and tournaments to play. Also, players can take advantage of satellite tournaments to get into various WSOP events!
Overall Thoughts About Legal Online Poker In California
It's important to know that if you live in California you will be able to play online poker legally. That is because there are some great choices for offshore poker sites where USA players are accepted; California being included in that category. These sites welcome California residents, and will make it easy to complete the signup process. The poker sites are regulated by various parties, and ensure quality and trust. Therefore, there will be plenty of legal options to choose from if you live in California.