Last Updated: February 6, 2026
West Virginia is now home to legal, regulated real‑money online poker. After several years with an approved legal framework but no active platforms, the Mountain State launched its first licensed online poker site with the arrival of BetRivers Poker.
The launch makes West Virginia the newest addition to the regulated US online poker market and allows the state to participate in a shared player pool with Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Delaware. By joining this multi‑state network, West Virginia players gain access to larger cash‑game liquidity and tournament fields than would be possible within a single state alone.
This guide explains how online poker works in West Virginia, how the market is regulated, and what players can expect when playing legally in the state. It also covers the current operator, player pool structure, and the key rules West Virginia residents should understand before playing online poker for real money.
BetRivers Poker is currently the only licensed online poker operator available to players in West Virginia. The platform operates under state regulation and participates in a shared, multi‑state player pool that includes Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Delaware.
By joining this four‑state network, West Virginia players are able to access a level of cash‑game liquidity and tournament participation that would not be possible within a standalone state market. Games run consistently throughout the day, with larger tournament fields and more reliable action across stakes.
As the state’s sole online poker platform, BetRivers provides West Virginia residents with access to a regulated real‑money poker environment that includes cash games, tournaments, and sit‑and‑go formats. The site runs on the Run It Once Poker software platform, which is designed to prioritize fair play and recreational‑friendly game dynamics.
Players can expect standard No Limit Hold’em cash games and tournaments, along with additional formats supported by the shared player pool. All gameplay takes place within a licensed and monitored framework, with player funds and operations subject to regulatory oversight.
BetRivers offers introductory poker promotions and an integrated rewards program that spans its poker, casino, and sportsbook products. Promotional terms, bonus structures, and loyalty benefits may vary over time and are subject to change. Full details are provided by the operator and should be reviewed before participating.
The BetRivers poker client includes built‑in features intended to create a balanced playing environment, such as anonymous seating and standardized buy‑ins. These systems are designed to limit player tracking and promote fair competition, particularly for casual players.
Game availability and stakes are supported by the four‑state player pool, allowing West Virginia players to participate in a broader online poker ecosystem while remaining within a fully regulated market.
West Virginia is a member of the Multi‑State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), a regulatory compact that allows participating states to share online poker player pools while maintaining their own licensing and oversight requirements. For smaller states like West Virginia, shared liquidity is a critical factor in sustaining a viable legal online poker market.
Under MSIGA, licensed operators can combine players across member states, creating larger cash‑game pools and tournament fields than would be possible within a single state alone. This arrangement helps ensure games run consistently throughout the day and supports more reliable tournament schedules.
As of 2026, MSIGA includes Delaware, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Membership in the compact allows West Virginia players to participate in a broader regulated poker ecosystem while remaining protected by state‑level rules and consumer safeguards.
Shared liquidity through MSIGA is a key reason online poker is able to operate successfully in West Virginia, despite the state’s relatively small population. By connecting to players in other regulated jurisdictions, West Virginia’s online poker market can offer a level of activity and stability that would otherwise be difficult to achieve.
Playing online poker legally in West Virginia follows a standard process used in regulated US markets. Players must meet age and location requirements and complete identity verification before wagering real money.
To play online poker in West Virginia, players must register with a licensed operator. Account creation requires providing basic personal information such as name, address, date of birth, and the last four digits of a Social Security number. This information is used to verify eligibility and comply with state and federal regulations.
After submitting the registration form, players must confirm their email address to activate the account. Identity verification is required before withdrawals can be processed and may involve uploading a government‑issued photo ID. Many players choose to complete verification during registration to avoid delays later.
West Virginia law requires players to be physically located within state borders while playing online poker. Licensed platforms use geolocation technology to confirm a player’s location automatically at login and during gameplay.
Players must be at least 21 years old to participate in real‑money online poker in West Virginia. Attempts to play from outside the state or without meeting age requirements will result in restricted access.
Once an account is verified, players can fund their poker balance using approved payment methods. Common options include debit cards, credit cards, and electronic wallets. Minimum deposit amounts and transaction limits vary by operator.
Withdrawals are typically processed using the same payment method used for deposits when possible. Processing times depend on the method selected and whether identity verification has been completed. Electronic payment options generally offer the fastest turnaround.
West Virginia online poker platforms are accessible on both desktop and mobile devices. Mobile apps and browser‑based play offer the same core functionality, including access to cash games, tournaments, account management, and banking features.
Players can choose the platform that best fits their preferences, with no difference in game availability or player pools between desktop and mobile versions.
Online poker in West Virginia operates under a regulated framework designed to protect player funds, personal information, and game integrity. Licensed operators must comply with state gaming rules, federal regulations, and ongoing oversight requirements as a condition of offering real‑money poker in the state.
Player accounts and transactions are protected using industry‑standard security measures, including encryption technology for financial and personal data. Operators are also required to maintain safeguards around player balances, ensuring funds are available for withdrawal and kept separate from operational accounts where required by regulation.
West Virginia regulators oversee licensing, compliance, and auditing, providing an additional layer of consumer protection. Dispute resolution processes and responsible gambling tools are part of the regulatory environment, giving players formal channels for support if issues arise.
Licensed online poker platforms in West Virginia offer a range of approved payment methods to accommodate different banking preferences. Common options include debit and credit cards, electronic wallets, and direct bank transfers. Availability of specific methods may vary by operator and can change over time.
Electronic wallets are often favored by players who value faster withdrawals and added separation from primary bank accounts. Card‑based payments provide convenience and typically allow instant deposits, while bank transfers may be preferred for larger transactions despite longer processing times.
Withdrawal requests are subject to review to ensure compliance with identity verification and anti‑fraud requirements. Players are generally required to verify their identity before withdrawing funds, which may involve submitting government‑issued identification and confirming personal details.
Processing times depend on the withdrawal method selected and whether verification has been completed. Electronic payment methods typically offer the fastest turnaround, while bank transfers may take several business days. Licensed operators do not usually charge withdrawal fees, though third‑party payment providers may apply their own charges.
Yes. Real‑money online poker is legal in West Virginia when offered by a licensed operator under state regulation. Players must be at least 21 years old and physically located within West Virginia while playing.
Yes. At present, BetRivers Poker is the only licensed online poker operator serving West Virginia players. The platform operates through a partnership with a licensed casino and is regulated by the state.
Yes. West Virginia participates in a shared player pool through the Multi‑State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA). This allows players to compete against opponents from other regulated states, resulting in larger cash‑game pools and tournament fields.
No. PokerStars, BetMGM Poker, and WSOP Online are not currently available in West Virginia. These operators are active in other regulated US states but do not offer online poker to West Virginia players at this time.
Players must be physically located within West Virginia to access online poker games. If a player travels outside the state, access to real‑money play will be restricted until they return to West Virginia. Account access and balances remain intact.
Licensed operators are required to follow strict regulatory standards related to player fund protection, data security, and financial integrity. This includes secure handling of deposits and withdrawals, identity verification, and ongoing regulatory oversight.