While some states offer a wide variety of regulated online platforms for sports betting, casinos, and poker, Georgia continues to maintain tight restrictions. In this article, we explore what betting sites are legal in Georgia , what alternatives exist, and how the landscape could shift in the coming years.
Are Betting Sites Legal in Georgia?
As of 2025, Georgia does not allow any state-licensed betting sites for:
- Sports betting
- Casino games
- Online poker
The state constitution strictly prohibits most forms of gambling, and legalizing any form of betting site would require a constitutional amendment — a long and complex process involving both legislative approval and a public vote.
The only exceptions include:
- Georgia Lottery's official website and app
- Sweepstakes-based gaming sites
- Daily fantasy sports (legal gray area)
Legal Online Betting Options Available to Georgians
While traditional betting sites are banned, Georgians can still access some legal platforms that operate within federal or state-specific loopholes.
- Sweepstakes Betting Platforms
These mimic the experience of real-money casinos and betting sites but use a sweepstakes model:
- Chumba Casino
- LuckyLand Slots
- Global Poker
These sites use two virtual currencies:
- Gold Coins (for fun)
- Sweeps Coins, which can be used to play games and redeemed for real cash prizes
Because these platforms don’t involve direct wagering of money for prizes, they are legally accessible in Georgia.
- Georgia Lottery Online
The Georgia Lottery offers an official platform where residents can:
- Buy lottery tickets
- Play digital scratchers
- Enter second-chance drawings
It’s not a traditional betting site, but it does allow legal money-wagering activities online.
Risky Territory: Offshore Betting Sites
Some Georgians use offshore betting sites that accept U.S. players. These sites offer everything from sports betting to online poker, but they are not regulated or licensed by U.S. authorities.
Using these platforms poses several risks:
- No consumer protection if winnings aren’t paid
- Higher potential for fraud
- Possible legal ambiguity (though individual prosecution is rare)
The Push for Legalization
Georgia lawmakers have introduced several bills over the past few years aiming to legalize sports betting, either online or through retail locations. Although none have passed, momentum is growing.
Key arguments for legalization include:
- Millions in potential tax revenue
- Consumer safety through regulation-
- Competitive pressure from neighboring states like Tennessee and North Carolina, where sports betting is legal
In 2024, a promising sports betting bill failed in the House, but similar legislation is expected to resurface in 2025.
Conclusion
At present, Georgia residents have very limited access to betting sites , restricted to legal sweepstakes platforms and the state lottery. Traditional sportsbook and casino sites remain off-limits, and offshore platforms carry serious risks. But with growing public support and mounting legislative pressure, the future could bring significant changes. Until then, players should be cautious, informed, and choose legal platforms that offer safe entertainment.