John Ford | August 31, 2023 | Updated on: October 24th, 2023
If you’re interested in online sports betting in California, this guide has been crafted with you in mind.
The authority over sports betting has rested with individual states since 2018, following the overturning of PASPA (federal law that prohibited sports betting). Although an increasing number of states are moving towards its legalization, the endeavors made by California in this regard have faced consistent setbacks.
We shall delve into a selection of options for California sports betting that are fully sanctioned for registration by US bettors. All of this can be achieved without running afoul of any Californian regulations.
It’s worth noting that each of our endorsed betting platforms operates from offshore locations and welcomes bettors from the United States.
Best Sportsbooks for California 2023
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in California?
Sports betting remains prohibited within the borders of California. Nonetheless, companies have the legal freedom to operate if they establish their operations beyond the confines of the United States. To put it differently, these entities are offshore organizations outside the jurisdiction, granting them the lawful capacity to conduct their operations.
How to bet on sports online California
Currently, the avenue through which individuals can engage in betting activities within California involves accessing offshore online sportsbooks. These offshore platforms serve as the sole means for California residents to participate in sports betting. It’s important to note that the legal age gambling age in California sports betting is set at 18 years or older. This ensures that only individuals who have attained adulthood are legally eligible to place wagers and engage in sports betting activities. As such, those who meet the minimum age criterion can explore the opportunities presented by offshore sportsbooks to indulge in responsible and lawful betting experiences within California.
Betting on sports online in California involves a few key steps to ensure you engage in legal and responsible betting. Here’s a general guide:
- Research and Choose a Reputable Sportsbook: Research and select a reputable online sportsbook. Look for platforms that are licensed and regulated by recognized authorities. Make sure the sportsbook offers a variety of sports and betting options that suit your preferences.
- Check Legal Requirements: While online sports betting is accessible in California through offshore sportsbooks, it’s important to understand the legal requirements and restrictions. Ensure you are of the legal betting age, typically 18 years old in California.
- Create an Account: Once you’ve selected a suitable sportsbook, visit their website and create an account. You’ll need to provide your personal information, including your name, date of birth, and contact details.
- Deposit Funds: After creating an account, you must deposit funds into your betting account. Reputable sportsbooks offer a range of deposit options, such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers.
- Claim Bonuses (Optional): Many sportsbooks offer welcome bonuses or promotions for new users. These can include free bets, deposit matches, or other incentives. Be sure to read and understand the terms and conditions of any bonuses you choose to claim.
- Explore Betting Markets: Browse the available sports and betting markets. You can bet on various sports, including popular options like football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and more. Different types of bets are available, such as moneyline, point spread, over/under, and prop bets.
- Place Your Bets: Add your selections to your bet slip once you’ve chosen a sporting event and a bet type. Enter the amount you want to wager and review your selections before confirming the bet.
- Manage Your Bets: After placing your bets, you can monitor them in your account’s “My Bets” or “Bet History” section. Keep track of the outcomes and potential winnings.
- Withdraw Your Winnings: If your bets are successful, you can withdraw your winnings. Most sportsbooks offer various withdrawal methods. Make sure to follow the specified withdrawal process and provide any necessary documentation if required.
What Sports Can You Bet on Online in California?
California is home to 19 professional sports franchises. Navigating the realm of online sports betting in California opens up a world of exciting possibilities. Our recommended online betting platforms offer a comprehensive array of sports, each with opportunities for enthusiasts to test their predictions, knowledge, and luck.
Common Types of Sports Bets for California
Daily Fantasy Sports Betting in California
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) presents an exciting avenue to immerse yourself in the world of major league sports teams and players. With prominent DFS platforms accessible within California, you can put your sports knowledge to the test.
You can participate in fantasy games that involve selecting prop contests across various sports events, including NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, soccer, and beyond. Through DFS, you can exercise your sports insights, assemble winning lineups, and enjoy the thrill of competing against fellow enthusiasts. Dive into the realm of DFS and discover a dynamic way to engage with your favorite sports while potentially reaping the rewards of your strategic selections.
California Legal Sports Betting Legislation Timeline
California is the most populous state in the nation. The anticipation surrounding the legalization of mobile and online sports betting within the state is palpable. This burgeoning market is poised to be colossal, involving billions of dollars, thus igniting passionate debates that underscore the intensity of the discourse over the legitimacy of sports wagering.
- April: Four prominent California prominent football teams have secured coveted spots. Nevertheless, the absence of legal sports betting options remains glaring. Millions of California residents are compelled to resort to dubious offshore websites, a concerning alternative to legitimate California-based sports betting operators.
- March: A mere three months into the new year, Massachusetts makes its decisive move, officially embracing legal mobile and online sports betting. In contrast, California grapples with slow progress. Undeterred, sports enthusiasts in the state continue to rally for the realization of legal California sportsbooks.
- January: As the curtain rises on 2023, Ohio enters the fold, launching its own legal sportsbooks and making its mark on the burgeoning online sports betting landscape. However, the beacon of hope for California sports betting remains distant, casting shadows of uncertainty on its future prospects.
- November: A monumental decision unfolds as both Prop 26 and Prop 27 encounter resounding rejections on Election Night. “No on Prop 26” garners a staggering 70% of votes, while “No on Prop 27” secures an even more impressive 83% of votes. This turn of events forces sports betting enterprises to retrace their steps, paving the way for preparation towards 2024 and the potential introduction of a new online sports betting initiative.
- October: Governor Gavin Newsom of California makes his stance clear, officially opposing Prop 27. He cites concerns that this proposition would detrimentally affect the state’s Indian Tribes, escalate the risk of underage gambling, and divert substantial funds out of California into the coffers of out-of-state corporations.
- October: Amidst expert predictions that Prop 26 and Prop 27 face uphill battles, Jason Robins, the CEO of DraftKings, offers his perspective at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) conference. He envisions a higher likelihood of the legalization of legal California sports betting in 2024 as opposed to 2022.
- September: Kansas joins the ranks of states legalizing sports betting, embracing both mobile and in-person retail betting. Yet, California’s journey remains marked by delays, lagging behind states such as Massachusetts, Ohio, and Maryland in this transformative endeavor.
California Mobile Sports Betting Apps
The recommended offshore sportsbooks allow for sports wagering, offering convenience, accessibility, and a dynamic betting experience directly from the palm of your hand. As the state navigates the path towards legalizing mobile sports betting, the potential array of apps promises to cater to diverse preferences and interests. These apps are designed to provide a user-friendly interface, a wide range of betting options, and seamless integration with your mobile device.
Online Sports Betting in California FAQs
1. Bovada
2. BetOnline
3. MyBookie
4. SportsBetting.ag
5. Intertops