Online poker in the United States has come a long way since its early days of legal ambiguity and offshore platforms. In 2025, the landscape is clearer, more regulated, and increasingly accessible—though still fragmented across state lines. Poker Online For players seeking a legal, secure, and enjoyable online poker experience, knowing where and how to play is essential. This guide breaks down the current state of legal online poker in the U.S., highlighting the states where it’s permitted, the platforms available, and what players can expect when logging in.
As of now, six states offer fully regulated online poker platforms: Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Delaware, and West Virginia. Each state has its own licensing authority and approved operators, meaning the experience can vary depending on where you play. Additionally, Rhode Island and Connecticut have legalized online poker, but no operators have launched in those states yet.
Nevada was the pioneer, launching its first legal online poker site in 2013. Today, WSOP.com remains the sole operator in the state, offering cash games, tournaments, and access to online bracelet events. Thanks to the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), Nevada shares player liquidity with New Jersey, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, creating larger player pools and more competitive games.
New Jersey is one of the most vibrant online poker markets in the country. Players here can choose from multiple platforms, including PokerStars NJ, WSOP.com, BetMGM Poker, and Borgata Poker. The state’s regulatory framework allows for a diverse ecosystem of games, from micro-stakes cash tables to high-roller tournaments. New Jersey also participates in MSIGA, enhancing its player pool and tournament prize pools.
Pennsylvania joined the online poker scene in 2019 with the launch of PokerStars PA. Since then, WSOP.com and BetRivers Poker have entered the market, offering players more options. Pennsylvania’s inclusion in MSIGA has further boosted liquidity, making it a prime location for tournament grinders and cash game enthusiasts alike.
Michigan has quickly become a powerhouse in online poker. With operators like PokerStars MI, WSOP.com, and BetRivers, the state offers a robust selection of games and promotions. Michigan’s participation in MSIGA means players enjoy larger tournaments and more active cash tables, rivaling those in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Delaware is unique in that its online poker offerings are managed by the state lottery in partnership with 888poker. While the platform is more limited in scope, Delaware shares liquidity with Nevada and New Jersey, giving players access to a broader network. BetRivers Poker is also available in Delaware, expanding the options for residents.
West Virginia legalized online poker in 2019, but it wasn’t until recently that platforms began launching. BetRivers Poker is currently the only operator in the state, offering regulated games and access to the MSIGA network. While the market is still developing, West Virginia players now have a legal avenue to enjoy online poker.
For residents of Rhode Island and Connecticut, the legal groundwork has been laid, but no operators have launched yet. This means players in these states must wait for platforms to go live before participating in regulated games.
Outside of these regulated states, players often turn to sweepstakes poker sites like Global Poker and ClubGG, which operate legally across most of the U.S. These platforms use virtual currencies and sweepstakes models to comply with federal and state laws, offering a legal alternative for players in non-regulated states.
It’s important to note that using offshore poker sites—those not licensed in the U.S.—comes with risks. These platforms may lack proper oversight, offer limited player protections, and pose challenges with deposits and withdrawals. While many Americans still use them, experts strongly advise against it in favor of regulated or sweepstakes-based options.
To play legally, users must be physically located within a regulated state at the time of play. Geolocation software is used to verify location, and players must be at least 21 years old. Registration typically involves identity verification, and deposits can be made via bank transfer, credit card, or e-wallets.
The future of online poker in the U.S. looks promising. More states are considering legislation, and the success of MSIGA has demonstrated the benefits of shared liquidity. As the market grows, players can expect better software, larger tournaments, and more competitive games.
In summary, if you’re looking to play online poker legally in the U.S., your best bets are Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Delaware, and West Virginia. Each state offers regulated platforms with secure gameplay, reliable payouts, and a variety of stakes and formats. For those outside these states, sweepstakes sites provide a legal alternative until broader legislation is adopted. With the right platform and a bit of strategy, your next big win could be just a few clicks away.