Is Gambling Laws Legal in Virginia? (2026)
It depends. In Virginia, gambling laws is restricted. Gambling in Virginia is broadly legal with various forms permitted under state regulation, including casinos, sports betting, and skill games..
Key facts
- Status
- Restricted
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Virginia
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Gambling Laws laws in Virginia
Virginia has significantly expanded its gambling landscape in recent years. Land-based casinos are authorized in several cities (Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Richmond, though the Richmond casino is still under proposal) following successful local referendums, with minimum age for entry and gambling set at 21. Sports betting, both retail and online, was legalized in 2020 via the Virginia Lottery Board and Code of Virginia § 58.1-4033 et seq., allowing individuals 21 or older to place wagers through licensed operators. Skill games, which were previously outlawed then temporarily re-legalized for a period, are now permanently legal and regulated under Virginia Code § 18.2-325(A)(4) et seq. and § 58.1-4100 et seq., requiring licensing and specific tax structures. The Virginia Lottery oversees these activities. While many forms of gambling are now legal, unregulated or unlicensed gambling operations remain strictly prohibited. This includes illegal poker rooms, underground sports betting rings, and unlicensed online gambling platforms. Charitable gaming, such as bingo and raffles, is also permitted under specific regulations enforced by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Frequently asked questions
Is gambling laws legal in Virginia for travelers?
For travelers visiting Virginia, gambling laws is currently restricted. Virginia has significantly expanded its gambling landscape in recent years. Land-based casinos are authorized in several cities (Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Richmond, though the Richmond casino is still under proposal) following successful local referendums, with minimum age for entry and gambling set at 21. Sports betting, both retail and online, was legalized in 2020 via the Virginia Lottery Board and Code of Virginia § 58.1-4033 et seq., allowing individuals 21 or older to place wagers through licensed operators. Skill games, which were previously outlawed then temporarily re-legalized for a period, are now permanently legal and regulated under Virginia Code § 18.2-325(A)(4) et seq. and § 58.1-4100 et seq., requiring licensing and specific tax structures. The Virginia Lottery oversees these activities. While many forms of gambling are now legal, unregulated or unlicensed gambling operations remain strictly prohibited. This includes illegal poker rooms, underground sports betting rings, and unlicensed online gambling platforms. Charitable gaming, such as bingo and raffles, is also permitted under specific regulations enforced by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Do I need a permit for gambling laws in Virginia?
Virginia does not specifically require a permit for gambling laws, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport gambling laws through Virginia?
Transport laws for gambling laws in Virginia depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for gambling laws violations in Virginia?
Penalties for gambling laws violations in Virginia vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.