Is Online Gambling Legal in Hawaii? (2026)
No. In Hawaii, online gambling is prohibited. Hawaii prohibits all forms of gambling, including online gambling, sports betting, casinos, and lottery. Hawaii is one of only two states (with Utah) that bans all gambling. There are no exceptions for online wagering..
Key facts
- Status
- Prohibited
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Hawaii
- Last reviewed
- 2026-02-21
Online Gambling laws in Hawaii
Hawaii law explicitly prohibits all forms of gambling, with no exceptions for online wagering. While specific statutes directly addressing "online gambling" are not codified, the state's comprehensive ban on gambling encompasses all activities associated with it. This prohibition is rooted in Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) §712-1210 through §712-1217, which criminalize various forms of gambling and lotteries. The absence of any mention or allowance for online gambling within the state's legal framework indicates its unequivocal prohibition. Violations of Hawaii's gambling laws are generally classified as misdemeanors. HRS §712-1210 makes promoting gambling a misdemeanor. Promoting gambling in the second degree, as defined in HRS §712-1211, can result in fines and/or imprisonment as prescribed by law. While specific penalties for online gambling offenses are not enumerated separately, they would fall under these general provisions, carrying potential fines and jail time. For individuals participating in or operating online gambling platforms within Hawaii, these penalties would apply. There are no notable exceptions or exemptions that permit online gambling in Hawaii. The state maintains one of the strictest anti-gambling stances in the United States, alongside Utah, and there has been no significant legislative movement towards legalization of any form of gambling, including online. Therefore, both residents and travelers in Hawaii must be aware that engaging in or facilitating online gambling within the state's jurisdiction is illegal and subject to criminal penalties. This strict prohibition means no legal online sportsbooks, casinos, or poker sites operate within Hawaii.
Frequently asked questions
Is online gambling legal in Hawaii for travelers?
For travelers visiting Hawaii, online gambling is currently prohibited. Hawaii law explicitly prohibits all forms of gambling, with no exceptions for online wagering. While specific statutes directly addressing "online gambling" are not codified, the state's comprehensive ban on gambling encompasses all activities associated with it. This prohibition is rooted in Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) §712-1210 through §712-1217, which criminalize various forms of gambling and lotteries. The absence of any mention or allowance for online gambling within the state's legal framework indicates its unequivocal prohibition. Violations of Hawaii's gambling laws are generally classified as misdemeanors. HRS §712-1210 makes promoting gambling a misdemeanor. Promoting gambling in the second degree, as defined in HRS §712-1211, can result in fines and/or imprisonment as prescribed by law. While specific penalties for online gambling offenses are not enumerated separately, they would fall under these general provisions, carrying potential fines and jail time. For individuals participating in or operating online gambling platforms within Hawaii, these penalties would apply. There are no notable exceptions or exemptions that permit online gambling in Hawaii. The state maintains one of the strictest anti-gambling stances in the United States, alongside Utah, and there has been no significant legislative movement towards legalization of any form of gambling, including online. Therefore, both residents and travelers in Hawaii must be aware that engaging in or facilitating online gambling within the state's jurisdiction is illegal and subject to criminal penalties. This strict prohibition means no legal online sportsbooks, casinos, or poker sites operate within Hawaii.
Do I need a permit for online gambling in Hawaii?
Hawaii does not specifically require a permit for online gambling, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport online gambling through Hawaii?
Transport laws for online gambling in Hawaii depend on the specific item and your route. Since this is prohibited in Hawaii, transporting through the state carries legal risk. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for online gambling violations in Hawaii?
Penalties for online gambling violations in Hawaii vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.