Best Online Poker Sites in the US

Online poker is legal in nine US states, though only six — Delaware, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia — currently have live, regulated poker sites. That means several others, like Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Maine, have passed laws authorizing online poker but have not yet launched active real‑money platforms.

Leading licensed operators — BetRivers Poker, PokerStars US, WSOP Online, BetMGM Poker, and DraftKings Poker — offer safe, legal, and trusted platforms for real‑money games, featuring combined player pools, strong bonuses, and top‑tier software.

Whether you’re new to online poker or a long‑time player, Pokerfuse is your trusted authority for accurate, independent coverage of the regulated US online poker market.

Drawing on over a decade of industry reporting and player insights, this guide showcases the best US‑licensed poker rooms for 2026 — where you can play responsibly, securely, and with complete confidence.

Key Points

• Online poker is legal in nine states but live in six.
• All listed sites are regulated and licensed by state authorities.
• Welcome bonuses available up to $1,000 for new players.
• Multi‑state networks expand tournaments and prize pools.

Is Online Poker Legal in the US?

Yes, real‑money online poker is legal in the US, but it’s regulated at the state level, not federally. Each state has the authority to create and enforce its own laws governing online gambling, including poker.

As of early 2026, nine states have legalized online poker: Delaware, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Maine. However, only six states currently have active, regulated poker sites — Delaware, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

Pokerfuse continuously tracks state legislation and new operator launches across the country to provide readers with the most accurate and current information on where real‑money online poker is legally live for US players.

Online poker laws have evolved gradually over the past decade. Each state listed below includes the year online poker was formally legalized — from early pioneers like Delaware (2013) and Nevada (2013) to more recent additions such as Pennsylvania (2017) and Michigan (2019). These milestones mark the steady expansion of fully licensed online poker across the US.

Legal Regulated Online Poker States

Delaware

A small and unassuming state, Delaware was the first to make online poker legal back in 2013.

After a long and arduous online poker blackout, June 2025 marked the comeback of online poker. BetRivers Poker launched in the state, offering real money online poker for the first time in 18 months. From launch it combined its network with those in West Virginia, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.

Nevada

The state of Nevada was one of the first to legalize online poker and offer licensed sites. Nevada online poker remains active today. WSOP Nevada is currently the only operator offering legal poker games in the state, but it connects with players in New Jersey, Michigan, and Pennsylvania through shared player pools, creating one of the country’s largest networks.

New Jersey

One of the most popular and established markets, New Jersey led the legal fight to bring online poker to America. Today, players in NJ can enjoy a variety of reputable licensed sites.

Players can take advantage of the best New Jersey online poker deposit bonus offers and play at WSOP NJ, PokerStars NJ, BetMGM Poker NJ, partypoker NJ, and Borgata Poker NJ.

WSOP players now compete in combined networks across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Nevada, while PokerStars NJ players share tables with PokerStars MI.

BetMGM Poker players can compete in a shared network with New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Michigan, and also join games with players on Borgata and PartyPoker.

Learn more about playing in the Garden State with our full guide to NJ online poker.

Pennsylvania

Since legalizing online poker in 2017, Pennsylvania has developed one of the most robust markets in the country, licensing several high‑end poker sites and apps.

Six brands now offer legal online poker apps in PA — BetRivers Poker, BetMGM PA, Borgata PA, PokerStars PA, WSOP PA, and DraftKings Poker.

As of April 2025, PA joined the Multi‑State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), allowing operators to share player pools with other regulated states. BetMGM Poker and WSOP were first to merge networks, and in June 2025, BetRivers Poker connected PA with MI, DE, and WV — forming one of the largest multi‑state networks in the US.

For more details, visit our full Pennsylvania online poker guide.

Michigan

With nearly 10 million residents, Michigan is one of the largest online poker markets in the US. BetRivers Poker MI, WSOP MI, BetMGM Poker MI, and PokerStars MI offer fully regulated online poker in Michigan. DraftKings also provides its unique lottery‑style SNG product, Electric Poker, in the state.

Michigan joined the Multi‑State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA) in May 2022, allowing shared liquidity with NV, DE, and NJ. In 2023, PokerStars MI connected with NJ, followed by WSOP and BetMGM linking Michigan to their national networks. Pennsylvania’s 2025 entry further strengthened these shared pools. BetRivers Poker now connects its MI platform with those in PA, DE, and WV, expanding player volume significantly.

West Virginia

West Virginia legalized online poker in 2019 and began issuing its first gaming licenses soon after. BetRivers Poker launched in June 2025, marking the state’s first regulated online poker site.

West Virginia participates in the multi‑state online poker agreement, meaning players can compete with those in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Delaware on BetRivers’ shared network.

States with Legal Online Poker — but Not Sites (Yet)

Connecticut

The law regulating real money online poker in CT was passed in May of 2021. Due to an intricate legal situation in the state, only two licenses are available, but these have not been issued as of yet. So, although online poker is technically legal in the state, no licensed platforms are live in CT as of right now.

However, we are still optimistic. Several potential developments would lead to the advent of the first poker sites in Connecticut.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island passed a set of laws regulating online poker in 2023, and these laws came into full effect on March 1, 2024. With this, it became the eighth US state to regulate online poker. However, it may still be some time before there are active sites in Rhode Island.

With a population of just 1.1 million, the state alone isn’t a large enough market to attract multiple operators. It will likely need to join the MSIGA before real movement occurs. Once that happens, we’ll likely see one or two operators launch games.

Maine

Maine formally legalized online poker in 2026, becoming the ninth US state to do so. The state is still developing its rules and licensing framework. Although no operators are live yet, BetRivers, PokerStars, and BetMGM have all indicated future interest.

Once launched, Maine is expected to join the Multi‑State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), linking its player pools with major states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey to ensure healthy traffic and competitive games.

US States with No Legal Online Poker Yet

Almost half of all US states still prohibit real‑money online poker, but legalization efforts continue to gain traction across many major markets. Pokerfuse tracks legislative progress in every state and regularly updates these guides with the latest information. Each article also highlights the best free‑play poker apps and sweepstakes poker sites available to players right now.

• Arizona Online Poker
• California Online Poker
• Florida Online Poker
• Georgia Online Poker
• Hawaii Online Poker
• Illinois Online Poker
• Indiana Online Poker
• Iowa Online Poker
• Maryland Online Poker
• Massachusetts Online Poker
• New York Online Poker
• Ohio Online Poker
• Tennessee Online Poker
• Texas Online Poker
• Virginia Online Poker
• Wyoming Online Poker

These state‑specific pages explain local legislative status, stakeholder positions, and realistic timelines for potential regulation — helping US poker players understand where online poker might expand next.

The Best US Online Poker Sites

Online poker is booming in the US, with new operators joining the market every year. Below are the top operators currently offering legal real‑money online poker games in the United States.

Each major US operator has carved out a unique space in the market. BetRivers Poker stands out for its low rake and excellent built‑in stats tools. WSOP Online is the only platform where players can win real WSOP bracelets and rings. PokerStars remains unmatched for tournament variety and mixed‑game formats. BetMGM Poker ties seamlessly into the BetMGM Rewards program across casino and sportsbook products. DraftKings Poker brings a fresh approach through its Electric Poker fast‑play option in MI, PA, and NJ.

BetRivers Poker — Our Number #1 Pick in the US

BetRivers Poker may be one of the newer names in the US online poker landscape, but it’s redefining what players expect from their online experience. With a low‑rake model, cutting‑edge technology, and a strong player‑first philosophy, BetRivers provides a fair, transparent, and high‑performance platform.

BetRivers is the first operator to combine networks across Pennsylvania, Delaware, Michigan, and West Virginia — a landmark moment for shared liquidity in US online poker. It also led the return of real‑money poker to Delaware and became the first live poker site in West Virginia, driving the next phase of regulated expansion.

The platform hosts Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and a wide mix of cash games and multi‑table tournaments. It also offers Cub3d, an exclusive fast‑play Sit & Go variant blending lottery‑style excitement with traditional poker gameplay.

What makes BetRivers stand out:

• HeroIQ integrated HUD for smarter tracking and decisions
• Dynamic avatars and variable timing for added realism and fair play
• Auto‑seating to ensure balanced gameplay and eliminate seat bias
• Lower rake helping players retain more winnings

Available on desktop (Mac & Windows) and mobile devices, BetRivers Poker pairs strong software performance with trusted, state‑licensed regulation — and continues to set the standard for legal online poker in the US.

For further information, read our BetRivers Poker Review.

WSOP Online — Best for Bracelet and Ring Events

WSOP Online remains one of the most prestigious brands in American poker. Operating in New Jersey, Michigan, Nevada, and Pennsylvania, WSOP.com connects players across states to form one of the largest shared player pools in the country.

WSOP is the only operator awarding official World Series of Poker online bracelets and running exclusive satellites into the live WSOP in Las Vegas. Players also compete for WSOP Circuit rings through online events.

Bonuses and promotions keep long‑term play rewarding, with reload offers, leaderboards, and seasonal series. While its welcome bonus isn’t the biggest, its prestige and shared liquidity make WSOP the go‑to site for serious tournament players.

Read our full WSOP Online Review or sign up to start playing

BetMGM Poker — Best for Welcome Bonus and Network Games

BetMGM Poker is a major online poker room backed by MGM Resorts, offering regulated games in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and New Jersey. Powered by partypoker software, it provides reliable performance and deep tournament offerings.

Players enjoy No‑Limit Hold’em, Pot‑Limit Omaha, and large MTT schedules featuring generous guarantees. BetMGM also offers SPINS jackpot Sit & Gos for quick‑play action with big potential payouts.

BetMGM pools its traffic across MI, PA, and NJ, connecting its network with sister brands Borgata Poker and partypoker for strong liquidity and busier cash games.

Discover more in our BetMGM Poker Review or join BetMGM Poker now

PokerStars — Best for Game Variety and Mixed Formats

A global poker leader, PokerStars US operates in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. As of January 2023, PokerStars MI and NJ share a combined player pool, enhancing traffic and tournament guarantees.

PokerStars offers the broadest selection of cash games, tournaments, and unique formats — from micro‑stakes Hold’em to high‑limit mixed games. It’s the only operator in the US running niche variants like Seven Card Stud, Razz, 2‑7 Triple Draw, and 8‑Game Mix.

Read our full PokerStars US Review or learn how rewards work on the PokerStars US Rewards page.

DraftKings Casino — Innovative with Electric Poker

DraftKings has introduced Electric Poker — a fast, lottery‑style real‑money poker format available through its casino platform in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

Each match sees four players competing in a winner‑take‑all Sit & Go lasting about six to twelve minutes. Randomized prize multipliers and fast‑paced blind levels make Electric Poker ideal for recreational players seeking quick and exciting sessions.

Buy‑ins start as low as $1, scaling up to $25. Electric Poker can be found directly in the DraftKings Casino lobby.

For details, check our DraftKings Poker Review or download the app and play

Borgata Poker — Ideal for BetMGM Network Players

Operating in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, Borgata Poker shares liquidity with BetMGM, using the same reliable software and offering identical tournaments and cash game options.

Backed by Atlantic City’s iconic Borgata Casino, the platform provides a trusted and well‑established environment perfect for existing BetMGM players wanting brand familiarity. The welcome bonus mirrors BetMGM’s offer, giving players strong value out of the gate.

Learn more in our Borgata Poker Review or sign up to play now

FanDuel Poker — A Future US Poker Contender

FanDuel, owned by Flutter (the same parent as PokerStars), is preparing an entry into the US poker market. Industry signals throughout 2024–2025 suggest the two brands may integrate under one platform to offer poker, casino, and sports to a shared player base.

Whether FanDuel Poker becomes a PokerStars‑powered skin or a distinct rebrand remains to be seen — but its arrival would represent one of the most significant expansions in regulated US online poker in years.

Learn more in our complete FanDuel Poker guide.

Choosing an Online Poker Site in US

Players in the US now have more choices than ever when it comes to real‑money online poker — from fully licensed operators in regulated states to unregulated offshore sites that operate outside US law. While some offshore sites still accept players, we strongly recommend playing only at legal, state‑regulated poker rooms for safety, fairness, and guaranteed payouts.

Here are the main factors to consider when choosing where to play:

• Regulated in Your State: Each US state regulates its own gambling market. Only sites licensed by your state gaming authority are legally allowed to offer online poker there. Always verify that your chosen operator holds an active license in your state before depositing.
• Games & Player Pool: Each operator attracts different traffic levels and offers unique formats. Check which cash games, tournaments, and variants they spread, and how many states are connected through their networks — this affects table variety and prize pools.
• Bonuses & Rewards: Legal poker rooms run welcome bonuses, loyalty programs, and recurring promotions that boost long‑term value. Compare offers and choose a site that rewards your play style and frequency.

Playing with a licensed US operator ensures games are fair, your funds are protected, and responsible‑gaming tools are available.

For a deeper breakdown of legal operators and safety guidelines, see our Independent Guide to Online Poker.

How to Get Started Playing US Poker Online

Are you ready to play real‑money online poker and set up your first account? Getting started with legal US poker sites is quick and straightforward. Just follow these general steps:

1. Choose Your Site: Each state that allows online poker hosts several licensed operators. Choose the poker room that best suits your preferences, using the comparisons and reviews on this page to guide your decision.
2. Register for an Account: Once you’ve picked your poker site, complete the short registration form. Enter your personal details, verify your email, and create your login credentials.
3. Confirm Your Identity: Regulated sites require all players to verify their identity. This ensures you’re playing under your real name and helps protect against fraud or underage gaming. You’ll need to upload or confirm identification details before depositing or withdrawing funds.
4. Download an App (Optional): Most operators offer mobile apps for iOS and Android. Download directly from your app store or the site’s homepage to play securely on your phone or tablet.
5. Make Your Deposit: Some sites offer a no‑deposit bonus to help you test games risk‑free. To access the full welcome bonus — often a 100% match on first deposits — fund your account with one of the supported payment methods and start playing for real stakes.

Geolocation Is Everything

While online poker is now legal in several states, it remains regulated on a state‑by‑state basis. Each operator must hold a valid license in every state where it operates, and real‑money play is restricted to users physically located within that jurisdiction.

In practice, this means you can register for an account with any legal US operator, but you can only play for real money while physically inside the state where that operator is licensed.

To comply, all regulated sites use advanced geolocation software to confirm your physical position before allowing real‑money play. This goes beyond basic GPS tracking — you’ll be asked for permission to install geolocation software on your device when downloading or launching a legal poker app.

This software verifies your location in real time and ensures compliance with state gaming regulations. Operators are legally obligated to keep this data fully private and secure, using it only for location verification. If you decline installation, you won’t be able to access real‑money tables until it’s enabled.

It’s important to remember that all licensed US online poker operators must track geolocation and verify that all play occurs within authorized boundaries — protecting both players and the integrity of regulated gaming markets.

If you ever receive a “location not verified” message when trying to play, don’t panic — it’s a common issue. Most legal poker rooms require a quick refresh of your geolocation plugin or mobile app permissions. Make sure Wi‑Fi is turned on (even if you’re using mobile data) and that any VPNs or location‑masking tools are disabled. Once the software verifies you’re inside a legal state, play should resume normally.

How to Tell if an Online Poker Room is 100% Legal and Regulated

With so many operators claiming to be “the best poker site for US players,” it can be difficult to tell which are truly legal and regulated. Here’s what to look for when identifying a legitimate site:

• The Regulator’s Seal: Every licensed operator displays the official seal of the state regulator on its website. You can verify its validity by checking the regulator’s own list of approved licensees to ensure the poker room is legally authorized in your state.
• Limited Availability by State: Legal online poker is only offered in a handful of US states. Any site open nationwide is unregulated and illegal for real‑money play. Check the operator’s state coverage before registering.
• US‑Based Operations: To earn a state license, poker operators must form and maintain a US‑based company. Even global brands like PokerStars and BetMGM operate through local subsidiaries that are accountable under US law.
• Land‑Based Casino Partnerships: Some state laws require that online poker sites partner with licensed land‑based casinos. Reputable operators will list their partner casinos — often well‑known brands you can recognize — further confirming legitimacy.
• Verified Support Channels: Regulated US poker sites provide customer support through phone or live chat. Offshore sites typically lack direct contact methods or transparent support access.
• Recognizable Rewards Programs: Rewards and loyalty programs at licensed US sites often tie directly to major casino brands. Compare programs like PokerStars Rewards or BetMGM Rewards — these are backed by state‑approved, trustworthy companies.

What Makes Legal Poker Sites Better?

We understand that offshore poker sites may seem convenient, but licensed US poker platforms offer significant advantages that elevate both safety and gameplay quality.

• Games are Fair: Licensed operators undergo regular audits and must certify that their software and random number generators meet strict regulatory standards, ensuring every deal and shuffle is provably fair.
• Your Funds are Safe: Regulated online poker rooms keep player balances in separate, protected accounts. Unlike offshore sites — which may freeze or disappear with your bankroll — licensed operators guarantee full access to your funds at all times.
• Major, Trusted Brands: Legal poker rooms are run by respected US gaming companies, including WSOP, PokerStars, and BetMGM. Playing at these platforms connects you with reputable brands and larger player networks.
• Player Protection: Every regulated site enforces responsible gaming measures, including deposit limits, session reminders, and self‑exclusion tools — features not typically found on offshore platforms.
• Privacy Is Protected: Legal US sites must comply with strict data‑protection standards. Your personal information and ID are encrypted, stored securely, and cannot be sold or shared.
• Tax Revenue Benefits Local Communities: Legal gaming operators pay taxes that fund education, infrastructure, and state programs — keeping your entertainment dollars within your community.

Playing through state‑licensed online poker rooms gives US players the confidence that their games are fair, their funds are protected, and their gameplay directly supports responsible, legal, and transparent online gaming.

When you play on a licensed US poker site, part of every rake or tournament fee goes toward supporting public programs through state taxes. These funds help local schools, community projects, and responsible‑gaming initiatives. While the amounts are small per player, collectively they make regulated poker a direct contributor to the same communities where players live and play.

Where to Play Free Online Poker in the US

Many players like to start with free poker before moving to real‑money games. Whether you’re learning the rules or just playing for fun, there are several safe ways to enjoy free online poker in the United States.

• Social Poker Apps — Free‑play platforms like PokerStars Play, WSOP Play, and Zynga Poker let you build chip stacks, join live tables, and play against friends with zero risk. These apps use virtual chips and are available nationwide.
• Sweepstakes Poker Sites — Legal sweepstakes poker models such as Clubs Poker, Global Poker and ClubWPT allow you to play poker with virtual currency. Players can purchase gold (free‑play) coins and receive sweepstakes coins as a reward, which can later be redeemed for cash prizes where allowed.
• Free Games on Licensed Sites — Most regulated US poker rooms offer no‑deposit freerolls or play‑money tables. It’s the best way to test software and table features before depositing.

Free‑play options are perfect for beginners, giving you a realistic poker experience and helping you practice without risking a cent.

US Online Poker Tournaments

Tournaments have long been the heart of online poker — the main reason millions of players started playing and continue to do so today. They remain the most exciting and potentially life‑changing form of online poker, giving players of all skill levels the chance to compete for major prizes.

In the US, all licensed operators offer strong daily multi‑table tournament (MTT) schedules, along with ongoing series that feature six‑ and seven‑figure guarantees. Buy‑ins range from freerolls and micro events to high‑roller tournaments above $1,000.

You will also find an abundance of satellites and feeder events, giving players with smaller bankrolls a fair chance to qualify for major championship tournaments for a fraction of the price.

The marquee events each year consistently attract large fields and significant guarantees, including:

• PokerStars: USCOOP and SCOOP (Spring Championship of Online Poker)
• WSOP: Online Bracelet Events, WSOP Circuit Series, Winter Series
• BetMGM: Online Poker Championships

Each series provides a festival‑like atmosphere, often spanning multiple weeks of daily play, special leaderboard races, and exciting side events — making tournament season the highlight of the US online poker calendar.

Extra Value — Bonuses and Promotions

Regulated poker sites in the US offer some of the biggest and most rewarding bonus programs in the world. As competition grows, players benefit from valuable welcome packages, reload offers, and long‑term promotional campaigns.

Welcome Bonuses

Nearly every licensed poker room greets new players with a welcome bonus — often up to $1,000 in total value. These bonuses are released gradually as you play and generate rake, effectively serving as rakeback rewards.

As you earn loyalty points, the bonus unlocks in increments (typically 5%–10%), maximizing your returns during your earliest sessions and giving you strong value for every hand you play at real‑money tables.

No Deposit Bonuses

Some legal US poker rooms also offer no deposit bonuses, letting players claim free tournament tickets or small cash bonuses just for registering. These promotions are great opportunities to try the software, explore game formats, and even win without making an initial deposit.

If you live in a state where online poker is legal, check which no‑deposit sign‑up offers are currently available before choosing where to play.

Scroll to the top of this page to compare the leading operators’ bonuses side by side.

Loyalty Programs and Rewards

All top‑tier operators — including BetRivers Poker Rewards, BetMGM Rewards and PokerStars US Rewards — provide loyalty programs and VIP reward systems that return value on every dollar of rake you contribute. These points can be redeemed for cash, tournament tickets, or exclusive merchandise.

A strong rewards program can make a significant difference in your bottom line, so always review how each operator’s system works before committing your play.

Freerolls

Freeroll tournaments are among the most appealing promotions at legal poker rooms. These events are free to enter but award real prizes — from cash to tournament entries, and even travel packages during special events.

Some freerolls are open to all players, while others are reserved for new depositors or top performers in certain game formats. Either way, freerolls remain a valuable way to build your bankroll risk‑free.

Banking Options

Fully licensed US poker rooms provide safe, fast, and transparent banking options for both deposits and withdrawals. Transactions are processed through trusted financial partners, and all player funds are kept separate from operating accounts for maximum protection.

Players can expect smooth functionality with several reliable methods:

• Major credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, AmEx)
• E‑wallets such as PayPal and Skrill
• ACH / e‑checks
• Direct bank transfers
• Cash deposits and withdrawals at partner casino properties

All regulated sites follow strict financial security standards to safeguard your payment details.

Deposits at licensed US poker sites are processed instantly using secure banking options like credit cards, PayPal, or e‑checks. Withdrawals usually clear within 24 to 72 hours once your identity is verified. All regulated sites must keep player balances in separate, protected accounts, ensuring your funds are never mixed with operating money. If a withdrawal ever takes longer, support can review it directly through your verified account portal — but delays beyond three days are extremely rare.

It’s also important to note that cryptocurrencies are not accepted on any licensed US poker site. If a site advertises Bitcoin or crypto deposits, it is not operating under state regulation and should be avoided for real‑money play.

Online Poker vs. Live Poker — Which is Better?

Live poker has always been a staple of the American poker experience, but online poker is rapidly becoming the more convenient and flexible way to play. If you’re deciding between online and in‑person poker rooms, here are several reasons players are moving to the virtual felt:

• Play Anywhere: To play live poker, you need to travel to a casino or cardroom, which can be time‑consuming and costly. Online poker allows you to play from anywhere within a legal state — no commute required.
• More Action: Brick‑and‑mortar casinos have limited tables and tournaments. Online sites host thousands of games daily across cash tables, sit‑and‑gos, and MTTs, so you’ll always find a seat.
• Available 24/7: Online poker never closes. Whether you prefer early‑morning microstakes or midnight tournaments, you can play anytime that suits your schedule.
• Bonuses & Promos: Land‑based rooms can’t compete with the volume of online rewards. Licensed poker sites offer welcome bonuses, reloads, freerolls, and loyalty programs that return real value to regular players.
• Big‑Field MTTs: Major live events are rare, but online poker offers daily tournaments featuring hundreds — even thousands — of entries, many with six‑figure guarantees.
• Lower Rake: Online games cost less to operate, which means lower rake percentages and more money staying in players’ pockets over time.
• Faster Help & Support: Legal online operators provide quick, professional customer support through live chat or phone. Resolving disputes or withdrawal issues is faster than at most brick‑and‑mortar venues.

For many players, the flexibility, volume, and rewards of online poker make it the clear favorite — though nothing will ever replace the atmosphere of a packed live table.

History of Online Poker in the US

The history of online poker in the US mirrors the global industry’s rise — from the early days of small, unregulated networks to today’s locally licensed and secure environments. Here’s how it developed over nearly three decades:

1. Online Poker Launches: The first online poker rooms, like Planet Poker and partypoker, appeared in the late 1990s, operating without formal regulation.
2. The Moneymaker Effect (2003): Chris Moneymaker’s stunning WSOP Main Event win after qualifying online at PokerStars sparked a global Poker Boom, inspiring millions of new players.
3. UIGEA (2006): The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) made processing online gambling payments illegal, driving several operators — including partypoker and 888 — out of the US market.
4. Black Friday (2011): On April 15, 2011, the DOJ seized the domains of PokerStars, Full Tilt Poker, and Absolute Poker, halting operations for US players and leaving many unable to access funds.
5. First State Regulations (2013): Nevada, Delaware, and New Jersey became the first states to pass laws authorizing online poker, launching the modern regulated era.
6. Expansion Continues: Pennsylvania joined in 2017, Michigan and West Virginia in 2019, and Connecticut in 2021 — setting the stage for nationwide growth.
7. Shared Player Pools (2015–2025): The Multi‑State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA) allowed operators to link poker sites across states. Michigan’s entry in 2022 and Pennsylvania’s in 2025 helped WSOP, PokerStars, BetMGM, and BetRivers expand multi‑state networks.
8. BetRivers Poker Becomes the Catalyst (2025): BetRivers launched a four‑state shared liquidity network across Pennsylvania, Michigan, West Virginia, and Delaware — reviving regulated play in Delaware and establishing the largest connected player pool in the country.

Shared Liquidity & Multi‑State Online Poker

Online gambling in the US remains governed by state law. Operators must obtain a license in each state they serve, and play is restricted to people physically located within that jurisdiction. However, several states have joined forces to let players compete across borders through shared liquidity agreements.

Shared liquidity — or multi‑state poker — allows regulated sites in multiple states to merge their player pools, boosting traffic, tournament guarantees, and overall site stability. This system operates under the Multi‑State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA).

Shared liquidity means that players in participating states play together in the same games, creating larger player pools, bigger tournaments, and faster‑filling tables. Thanks to the Multi‑State Internet Gaming Agreement, poker rooms in Nevada, New Jersey, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and West Virginia can now connect their platforms. This coordination not only boosts prize pools but also ensures healthier, more competitive games and a vibrant community across state lines.

The Wire Act and Its Role in US Online Poker Expansion

The Interstate Wire Act of 1961 was originally created to prevent cross‑border sports betting. Decades later, the DOJ applied it to online gambling, temporarily chilling interest in multi‑state poker compacts.

In 2018, a revised DOJ interpretation argued the Act covered all forms of online wagering, poker included, but subsequent legal challenges overturned that view, restoring confidence among regulators. By 2022, Michigan joined MSIGA, and more states began preparing to follow suit.

US Courts Ruling Against the DOJ Wire Act Interpretation

State governments, led by New Jersey and the New Hampshire Lottery Commission, challenged the DOJ’s stance. In 2019, a US District Court ruled that the Wire Act’s language applied only to sports betting, not poker or other forms of iGaming. After an appeal, the First Circuit Court upheld that ruling, effectively removing the final legal obstacle to interstate poker expansion.

Michigan Joining the MSIGA

Michigan became the fourth state to join the MSIGA in April 2022, joining Nevada, Delaware, and New Jersey. The move immediately allowed PokerStars, WSOP, and BetMGM to implement shared Michigan‑New Jersey networks, resulting in larger tournaments and faster‑filling games. With a population exceeding 10 million, Michigan became the second‑largest regulated poker state and a cornerstone of the US network.

Pennsylvania Joins MSIGA

On April 2025, Pennsylvania officially entered the MSIGA, marking a turning point for US online poker. WSOP, BetMGM, and BetRivers all connected Pennsylvania players to their existing multi‑state networks, creating unprecedented liquidity and tournament diversity. For the first time, players across four major states can play against each other legally and securely — with more states expected to follow soon.

Every licensed operator in the US must offer full responsible‑gaming support. Options include setting daily or weekly deposit limits, reality checks, and self‑exclusion tools for anyone who wants to take a break from play. All regulated sites prominently display links to state help lines and national support organizations. By keeping these controls clearly available, legal poker rooms ensure players can enjoy the game safely and responsibly at all times.

US Online Poker Sites FAQ

How can I play online poker in the US?

You can sign up with any regulated site by visiting the operator’s page and filling in the required details to open your account. While it’s possible to sign up from pretty much anywhere in the country, you should keep in mind that you will only be allowed to play for real money while physically present in the state where that particular room is regulated. So, for example, you can only play on PokerStars PA while in Pennsylvania.

Who regulates online poker in the US?

Every state has a regulatory body in charge of licensing and overseeing all online gambling. In the US, online poker rooms are regulated on the state level, and no overarching federal body oversees their operations.

How can I tell if a poker site is legal in the US?

The best way to know if a site is legal is by checking out its licensing information. This info is available on the page, usually in the footer, and it clearly indicates what organization is in charge of its licensing and regulation. In New Jersey, for example, this would be the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE).

On top of this, regulated sites are owned by well-known companies and do not cater to players from the entire country but rather from the individual states where the operator is licensed. Licensed US gambling sites also do not accept Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies.

Not all of them are available across all regulated states, but you can rest assured that these are your best and safest picks.

Are US online poker sites rigged?

No, US online poker rooms are not rigged. The United States has strict regulations in place to ensure that all games are fair and honest for players. The various state gaming commissions and regulatory bodies that oversee online gambling, such as the Nevada Gaming Control Board, conduct regular audits and inspections of the software and systems used by these sites to ensure that they are operating fairly and that all games are random and unbiased.

Are US online poker sites safe?

Regulated online poker rooms in the US have more robust security measures in place to protect player information and ensure fair gameplay. These sites are licensed and regulated by a reputable authority, such as a state gaming commission, which provides oversight and enforces regulations to ensure that the site is operating in a fair and safe manner.