Legal Online Poker For Texas Residents
If you live in Texas and you want to play online poker, it’s critical that you choose an online poker room for Texas residents that meets high standards of safety and security. The industry of online poker has caused quite a bit of controversy, and we can tell you that this is because of how many people participate in the games. In the state of Texas, you will not be prosecuted for playing poker online, so you will not be faced with any legal complications based on playing poker. We can't show you a single law that says online poker is illegal in Texas, so don't fret and be afraid to play. More importantly, only stick to the trusted poker rooms.
Our staff wrote this page to help you come away with a more complete understanding of the laws in your state, and specifically, your rights when it comes to playing online poker. Most Texas residents find that they had more than they initially bargained for! After that, we will point you towards our very favorited sites for legal online poker, where every resident of the Lone State State will be looked after.
Is Online Poker Legal In Texas?
If you're looking to play online poker in Texas then know that it is legal as long as the online poker site is not based in the state of Texas or within the United States. That is because laws in place at the federal level effectively ban such gambling websites from operating. This was determined under the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act back in 2006. This law strikes at the heart of an online poker website because it makes it much tougher for users to fund their accounts…players can’t make money playing poker unless they are able to put money in their accounts.
And while Texas residents might not be able to find a site based in Texas that they can play, that doesn't mean there are no options. You see, the UIGEA does not ban the playing of online poker. Because of this, the player still has freedoms to play Internet poker.
From here, we insert offshore poker sites that accept American players, including the state of Texas. These sites do not have to conform to the UIGEA and are able to operate. Texas players are therefore able to legally sign up at these offshore sites which accept them.
Learn More: Is Online Poker Legal In The United States?
Legal Texas Poker Rooms | U.S.A | USA Poker BONUS | Poker REVIEW | PLAY NOW |
SportsBetting Poker | Yes - 50 States | Up To 25% Each Deposit | ||
BetOnline Poker | Yes - 50 States | Free 25% Match To $1K | ||
5Dimes Poker | Yes - 50 States | No Bonuses For Poker | ||
SportsBetting Poker Room - Best Texas Poker Site
SportsBetting Poker - SportsBetting is one poker room that we can assure you is totally safe. They provide their players with one of the more exciting gaming experiences. We have found that tables include Texas Hold 'em, Omaha and stud games. Tournaments and cash games alike are all available, and these have made it very easy to participate. Stakes range from low to high, so there is something for everyone.
If you want to play with SportsBetting, you will be able to collect a 25% match to $1,000. Not only is this one of the largest bonuses in poker, but it is also one of the few instant bonuses out there. SportsBetting gives 10% to $100 up front, with $1,000 coming after. SportsBetting is simply one of the most trusted poker rooms out there, and we recommend them above any other Texas legal poker site.
Overall Thoughts About Legal Poker In Texas
If you want to play live poker in Texas then you had better get some friends and organize a home game. Despite Texas presumably being the home of Texas Hold'em, the state only has one option located down by the Texas/Mexico board at Eagle Pass which is convenient for no one. Depending on where you live, the best option for live, regulated poker will be in Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas or New Mexico.
Knowing how sparse poker rooms are in Texas, even legends like Amarillo Slim and Doyle Brunson, the Texas Dolly, would be receptive to playing poker online. That's because hard core players like that know the dangers of land-based games and it doesn't always come from the law but rather outlaws. Simply put, playing online is a much safer and more convenient option which more and more Texas residents turn to whether they want cash games, tournaments or even just to practice playing.