Is Sports Betting Legal in Texas? Complete Report for 2025

Sports betting in Texas is a hot topic. Big names want in, local businesses see the revenue potential, and some lawmakers are even pushing for a shift.

Yet still, Texas is one of the few states without legal online sportsbooks or casinos.

All the while, neighboring U.S. States that once resisted betting have embraced it, reaping the financial benefits in the process.

So when is it Texas’ turn? When can we expect to see change?

Here’s what you need to know.

Is Online Gambling Legal in Texas?

No, online gambling is not legal in Texas.

Even though The Supreme Court repealed the 2018 Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), Texas has yet to do so.

This means that Texas law continues to ban online casinos, poker, and sports betting. There are a few exceptions, but they’re limited.

Here’s a snapshot of the legal status of online gambling sectors in Texas:

As you can see, no major sportsbook operates legally in Texas. So far, discussions about any such expansion often meet strong resistance from certain groups. If you see one advertising, it’s probably an offshore (and unregulated) sportsbook.

This can be confusing for bettors who see promotions for sites they assume are legal.

Texas lawmakers have debated changes, but no meaningful progress has been made. Many argue that legalizing sports betting could bring in tax revenue, fund public programs, and curb illegal gambling.

Opponents counter that gambling expansion could increase addiction problems and create social issues.

The History of Online Gambling Laws in Texas

Contrary to the image of hard-betting settlers in Wild West saloons, Texas has actually long resisted gambling expansion.

The state has a few casinos, but they operate under tribal or lottery-based laws. When the federal ban on sports betting was lifted in 2018, many states moved fast to legalize it.

Texas didn’t. Here’s why:

2018: PASPA Repeal in the United States

The Supreme Court struck down the federal ban on sports betting. Many states rushed to legalize it. Texas? No major action.

Lawmakers weren’t ready to take on the issue, and the state’s strong anti-gambling stance held firm. Some officials dismissed legalization discussions entirely, citing moral and economic concerns.

2021: Bill HB2070 – The First Big Push

In 2021, a coalition of Texas sports betting operators came together to push a new proposal for legal wagering in the state.

This was backed by sports franchises like the Dallas Cowboys, FC Dallas, Texas Rangers, Dallas Stars, and Dallas Mavericks.

The proposal put forth a $500,000 application fee, a $50,000 retail operating license, and a 10% tax on gross gaming revenue.

It was shot down the next day. Powerful political groups, including some tied to local businesses, opposed it.

Later in the year, lawmakers introduced Bill HB2070 to allow online sports betting – it didn’t even reach the floor to be voted on.

2023-2024: Bills HB 1942 and SB 715 – Renewed Interest

Two bills (HB 1942 and SB 715) backed by major sportsbooks gained more traction this time.

In fact, they both cleared the State House of Affairs Committee and were eligible for a vote on the House floor. However, progress eventually stalled, and their status has remained unchanged.

These bills proposed online sports betting with more strict regulations, this time with the licenses to be held by major sports teams in the state. The conversation grew louder over this time, but still, no progress was made.

2025: What’s Happening Now?

In preparation for the 2025 legislative session, Texas lawmakers have pre-filed bills aimed at legalizing sports betting.

However, these proposals currently lack the strong backing needed to advance, leaving their chances of passing uncertain. Despite this, Governor Greg Abbott has expressed support for legal sports betting in Texas.

In a recent podcast, he acknowledged that many Texans are already finding ways to bet and stated that if the right legislation is introduced, he would work to bring legal sports betting to the state.

His endorsement could influence future discussions and increase the chances of legalization.

Neighboring States and Texas’s Sports Betting Market Potential

Texas borders several states with legal sports betting:

• Louisiana – Online and retail sports betting are legal.
• New Mexico – Limited sports betting allowed at tribal casinos.
• Arkansas – Online and retail betting are legal.
• Oklahoma – No legal online sports betting, but discussions continue.

If Texas legalizes, the market could be massive.

Some estimates suggest billions in potential revenue. With a population of nearly 30 million, Texas would immediately become one of the biggest sports betting markets in the country.

But with neighboring states already offering options, Texas loses out on tax dollars as residents cross state lines to place bets. The state’s unwillingness to legalize betting doesn’t mean Texans aren’t wagering – it just means the money is going elsewhere.

Texas residents simply use offshore sites or take advantage of mobile betting apps when traveling to states where it’s legal.

Who’s Influencing Texas’s Gambling Laws?

Several groups shape the debate:

• Tribal Casinos: Some tribes like the Eagle Pass-based Kickapoo Tribe vehemently oppose expanded online gambling to protect their business.
• Major Sportsbooks: Major legitimate sportsbooks are lobbying hard for legalization.
• Pro Sports Teams in Texas: The Dallas Cowboys, FC Dallas, Texas Rangers, Dallas Stars, and Dallas Mavericks have all backed pro-online sportsbook legislation.
• Local Business Groups: Some fear competition, while others see revenue potential.
• Politicians: Some push for regulation, others want Texas to remain gambling-free.
• Religious and Conservative Groups: Many oppose gambling on moral and social grounds.

Recent bills have seen support from sports teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Rockets. But major political opposition still exists.

The powerful influence of conservative lawmakers keeps the state’s stance unchanged. If they shift, things could move quickly.

That said, Texas’s political structure, with its conservative stronghold in state leadership, makes legalization an uphill battle.

Responsible Gambling in Texas

Even though online gambling isn’t legal, gambling addiction is real whether it’s legally operated sites or offshore sites.

Thankfully, Texas still has valuable resources for those who need help:

• National Problem Gambling Helpline – 1-800-GAMBLER
• Texas Council on Problem Gambling – Offers support and self-exclusion options.
• Local Support Groups – Various organizations provide education and help for problem gamblers.

If sports betting becomes legal, expect new responsible gambling programs.

Most states with legal betting require operators to offer deposit limits, self-exclusion, and other tools to prevent problem gambling. Texas would likely follow similar guidelines.

Normally, states allocate a portion of gambling tax revenue to fund addiction treatment and public awareness campaigns, but without legalization, these programs remain hypothetical.

What’s Next for Sports Betting in Texas?

Texas isn’t likely to legalize sports betting in 2025, but pressure is mounting.

Public support is strong, major sportsbooks are ready, and local teams and businesses clearly see the benefits.

The next step? Lawmakers will debate new bills in upcoming sessions. If enough political momentum builds, Texas could finally join the list of states with legal sports betting.

Until then, Texans eager to place a legal bet will have to look beyond state lines.

We get it. You’re looking for reliable odds, fast payouts, and bonuses that actually boost your sports betting experience in Texas.

We want the same, and that’s why we tapped our resident sports betting experts – John and Peter – to craft this guide to the best sports betting sites in Texas.

They’ve explored, tested, and ranked the top platforms for betting on your favorite sports, so you can skip the research and get straight to capping your favorite teams.

Let’s dive into their findings and help you find your next sports betting site in Texas!

Texas Sports Betting Sites

Meet the Authors

John

John has been outsmarting the odds, or at least trying to, in sports betting for over 5 years – always seeking out the feeling of nailing a perfect parlay.

While he loves the fast-paced action of online sportsbooks, he’s just as comfortable placing bets at local spots when the urge to wager hits.

When he’s not capping the big game, you’ll likely find him digging into stats for the next one. His other passions include poker, blackjack, and writing about sports betting.

Peter

Peter once hit a 2393x parlay, and believe us, he’ll be the first to tell you even if it’s while sipping tea with your grandmother in a church basement.

He’s all about mobile live betting on the sports he’s attending in person, feeding off the thrill of juggling stakes as the action unfolds – with popcorn and a beer in the other hand.

In his downtime, he’s either messing around with crypto or doom-scrolling X.

How Our Review Process Works

To give you a clear picture of how our experts picked the top sports betting sites in Texas, we’ll break down our review process step by step.

By digging deep with a detailed approach, we confidently skipped over mediocre betting platforms and zeroed in on the ones that crushed it across a range of key factors.

Step 1: Research and Analysis

Our seasoned reviewers, John and Peter, kicked things off by pinpointing what matters most to Texas sports bettors: competitive odds, live betting options, mobile app performance, and payout reliability.

With these priorities in hand, we built review categories and put 25 Texas-friendly sports betting sites to the test, narrowing them down from a pool of over a hundred based on buzz from forums and online chatter.

Before moving forward, we double-checked that every site was legit – fully licensed and locked down with SSL encryption for secure betting.

Step 2: Signing Up for Multiple Sites

Our sports betting pros, John and Peter, created accounts on each platform.

If anything sketchy popped up like shady payment options or unrecognizable methods, that site was booted from the list instantly.

Step 3: Testing the Top Contenders

With bettors’ needs locked in, our experts dove into hands-on testing of the shortlisted sites.

They focused on killer mobile betting experiences, in-play wagering smoothness, and overall site speed.

They also snagged welcome bonuses and promos (especially ones tailored for sports betting), tried out every deposit and withdrawal method, and placed bets with both regular cash and crypto to clock payout times.

Drawing on their years of betting and testing know-how, John and Peter scored each site based on how it delivered for Texas sports fans.

Step 4: Crowning the Champs

After putting all 25 sites through the wringer, John and Peter ranked the standouts in each category.

Key stuff like sign-up speed, cashout times, and the overall vibe of the platform weighed heavily. For anyone hunting the best sports betting sites in Texas, these details can make or break your experience.

The duo then wrapped up their insights with sharp reviews, explaining why they crowned certain sites as the best for specific betting perks.

Our team’s Fact Checker, Marijana, then combed through it all to ensure every stat and detail was spot-on with no gaps.

See what John and Peter had to say about the top sports betting sites in Texas below!

All-Round Best Texas Sports Betting Site

John: BetWhale

When it comes to sports betting in Texas, BetWhale sort of flew under the radar for me, especially since I’d never heard of the brand before.

The 150% deposit boost is a major win, giving you more cash to play with right out of the gate than most other bookies. Keep in mind that it applies to both casino games and sports betting, with 125% going toward the sportsbook.

Combine that with a slick mobile interface, and you’ve got a site that’s perfect for betting on the go, whether you’re courtside or just kicking back at home.

With 25+ sports, including all of the major American leagues, there are endless betting options here. There’s also a full-on racebook for those days when you’re feeling the itch to bet on the ponies.

With solid customer service getting back to me in less than 30 seconds, it solidifies my stance that this is the best online sportsbook for Texas players.

Peter: BetOnline

BetOnline really won me over with their well-balanced package of sports betting options.

What really sets them apart for me is the payout speed: the withdrawals hit your account in as little as an hour, especially if you’re betting with crypto. For anyone who’s ever been stuck in cashout reversal hell, this lightning-fast turnaround is a game-changer.

Another reason I’m hooked is BetOnline’s same-game parlay feature, which runs smoother than a well-oiled pickup truck. Whether I’m stacking bets on a Rockets game or mixing it up with FC Dallas soccer outcomes, the interface makes it effortless to build and track.

The cherry on top? BetOnline’s payment flexibility and support seal the deal. They’ve got everything from credit cards and bank wires to 15 cryptocurrencies, so funding your account feels as easy as picking a winner – just be weary of the small credit card fees.

Top Texas Live Betting Site

John: BetUS

Live betting is where the action’s at, and BetUS absolutely nails it like no one else.

I’m seriously impressed by how seamlessly the real-time odds update and the variety of in-play options they roll out.

What stands out most is the slick execution of their live betting platform. The interface is sharp, bets are locked in fast, and there’s always something to wager on, no matter the time of day.

I’ve got to give props to BetUS for keeping the action flowing smoothly, whether you’re chasing a last-minute Mavericks over/under or jumping on a soccer prop bet mid-match.

Sure, a dedicated live betting bonus would be the icing on the cake, but BetUS still hooks you up with solid daily promos that pad your bankroll.

Peter: Sportsbetting.ag

SportsBetting.ag stood out for me on the live betting front.

Forget the on-the-nose name – this site’s live betting platform is a powerhouse, covering tennis, NFL, soccer, NBA, and pretty much everything else.

The live betting setup is next-level smooth. The platform’s quick to respond, bets lock in without a hitch, and there’s always a game to wager on, no matter when you log in from home or the nosebleeds at AT&T Stadium.

What also helped my live bets were the crypto reload bonuses. Very few Texas online sportsbooks offer you the chance to top up with an extra 100% up to $1,500. For bettors who hate going back to the cashier, this is a godsend.

Best Mobile Betting Site in Texas

John: Everygame

The moment I started betting at Everygame, it was crystal clear that it’d be my top pick for mobile sports betting. For me, the mobile experience is in a league of its own.

No need to fuss with an app download – you can dive right in through your mobile browser. I found it perfectly tailored for my smartphone, and I was able to place bets on the go without eating up my storage.

Best of all, you’ve got instant access to a slick betting lineup, from classic sports wagers to whatever’s hot at the moment.

For all you true degens, they also have plenty of casino and poker games to choose from, which both ran without a hitch.

Peter: Bovada

You might know this more commonly as a poker room, but the mobile experience for sports is pure gold.

There’s a downloadable version, but it’s only for poker and casino – sports betting sticks to the browser. Not a dealbreaker, though, because it runs slick and quick on mobile: no app needed, and no extra space taken up on your phone.

It’s optimized to perfection, so you can place bets anywhere, and I had no issues with odds updating – even from a crowded stadium in San Antonio.

Plus, you’re getting instant access to a killer lineup of bets, from your classic sports action to whatever’s lighting up the scene right now.

Best for Texas Football Bettors

John: MyBookie

MyBookie is my top pick for football betting with its deep markets, sharp odds, and exciting contests that heavily feature NFL and NCAA football games.

The odds are solid, often better than competitors, giving you more value on every bet. If you’re into futures, you can bet on everything from Super Bowl winners to player awards.

The real fun kicks in with MyBookie’s football contests. Their Survivor Pool and Pick ‘Em tournaments offer big cash prizes, keeping the action going all season.

I also love the Squares contest, where up to $10,000 is up for grabs. It pays out every quarter, and you can buy in for as little as $1.25.

Peter: BetWhale

I could’ve easily ranked BetWhale in the top sportsbook section, the top live betting section, and even the top mobile betting site – but I’m slotting it in here because I’m a big futures bettor.

I’ve found that the best NFL futures odds are here, which is a huge advantage for NFL fans like me who don’t necessarily want to bet on single games with lots of variance – the ball isn’t round, people!

My buddy also swears by their in-season football menu, not just from an odds standpoint but for the sheer number of player props available, which make watching the big game even more fun.

Just don’t get sucked in by the football eSports section – it’s European football!

Best Texas Sportsbook for Crypto Users

John: BetWhale

Admittedly, I’ve only recently dipped my toes into crypto, holding some Bitcoin and a bit of Litecoin.

Luckily, BetWhale welcomes both, alongside Ethereum and a few other of the big-boy coins. Sure, there aren’t a ton of altcoins to choose from here but 99% of people should be covered.

They’ve set the entry point low: $20 minimum ($40 for Tether, though), which means you don’t have to sweat about crypto fluctuations while it sits in your account.

Beyond that, I’m convinced a standout crypto betting platform needs serious cred. BetWhale’s been in the game with BTC longer than most, so you can bet your digital stash is in steady hands here.

Peter: Wild.io

For this crypto junkie, Wild.io caught my eye with its impressive lineup, including the usual suspects – Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, and Litecoin – plus my favorite altcoin Cardano, and a few others.

The minimums are super low, allowing you to jump in easily with amounts you might find in your couch, and there’s no ceiling to hold you back on most of these coins.

What really sold me, though, is how they handle withdrawals – automatic and typically wrapped up in 10 minutes flat, thanks to crypto. Back when I first started betting on sports with fiat years ago, that kind of speed was pure fantasy! No wonder Wild.io also ends up one of the top Bitcoin casinos online.

Best Sports Welcome Bonus

John: BetOnline

To be honest, I’m not a big bonus guy.

Of course, they often look great in ads, and I’ve been sucked into depositing a little more than I’d like on several occasions just to “get” the bonus – but what do you usually get?

A boat anchor on your deposit, that’s what.

I’m talking about a 20x rollover that forces you to run like god before you have any chance of cashing it out. Not here. At BetOnline, they actually offer a no-strings-attached welcome bonus – bet it once, and the winnings are yours.

That’s a bonus for betting in Texas that I can get behind.

Peter: BetOnline

John chose the same? Oh god, now I’m going to change mine!

Without risking sounding like a broken record, there aren’t many Texas sports betting sites that offer a no-strings-attached bonus, and if they did, I probably wouldn’t believe them.

Nothing to worry about here, though. BetOnline has a 25+ year reputation to hang their hat on, and with their 50% welcome bonus up to $250 – which turns into cold, hard cash after you’ve bet it once – there really isn’t anything else that comes close.

Sure, you’ll see bigger numbers out there, but be prepared to struggle through rollovers of 10x or more.

Texas Online Sports Betting Sites: Key Features to Consider

We’ve sized up the top sports betting sites based on specific perks like bonuses, crypto options, and how they handle mobile betting.

But when you’re picking a spot to wager on sports in Texas, there’s more to chew on than just the flashy stuff.

Bettors in the Lone Star State have their own needs and quirks – like wanting a site that feels tailored to the local vibe or even offers team-specific promos for the Cowboys, Spurs, Mavs, whatever.

Here’s what our betting pros, John and Peter, say matters most:

John’s Take

For me, it starts with the vibe of the site.

By vibe, I mean how it hits my screen. Is it a cluttered mess that makes me want to cash out without a bet, or is it clean and sharp, pulling me into the action?

Speed’s a big deal too, whether I’m on my laptop or phone, I don’t have time for lag when I’m trying to lock in a bet during the huddle of a Longhorns game.

Customer support is non-negotiable too. I don’t usually need to get in touch, but when I do, I want quick, solid answers – whether it’s through live chat, email, or even a phone call – so I’m not left hanging if something goes sideways.

A site that can’t deliver this doesn’t deserve my cash.

Peter’s Take

I like to bet big, so I’m all about flexible limits. The best Texas sports betting sites let me go small or swing for the fences without capping me just because I’ve hit a hot streak.

Like John, I lean hard on customer support as well. It’s the backbone of trusting a site with my money, and I’ll even go right into support with fake deposit questions before my money is live. Seeing how they deal with me may or may not convince me to continue on the site.

Another thing I zero in on is the betting odds. It sounds obvious, but who’d want to stick their money on a site that takes the house advantage even further than necessary? No thanks.

Types of Bets at Texas Online Sportsbooks

Whether you’re wagering at California sports betting sites or the ones in Texas, you’ll come across a variety of ways to play: spread betting, prop bets, live betting, moneyline bets, and more.

Each has its own spin, so here’s the scoop on four key types to get you up to speed:

Spread Betting

Spread betting is about the gap – wagering on whether a team will outperform the point spread set by the oddsmakers.

It’s you against a number, like betting that the Cowboys will win by more than 7 points against the Giants. The goal is straightforward: will the favorite dominate, or will the underdog hang tight? Spreads tend to have low entry bets and settle quickly once the game is over.

It’s great if you enjoy crunching numbers and pacing yourself.

John says: “When I’m eyeing a spread, I glance at past odds if it’s new turf. It’s like sizing up the edge – tighter lines boost my shot, but I don’t go wild since spreads can shift quickly.”

Moneyline Bets

Moneyline bets cut to the chase: pick the winner, no fancy math.

It’s the simplest call: team A or team B, period. You’ll see it everywhere, from baseball to UFC, with the flexibility to bet one game or string together a parlay of two bets or more.

The mission? Nail the outright victor. Moneyline bets usually start cheap and wrap up when the result’s official. If you like keeping it clean and betting on instinct, this is your lane.

Peter says: “Moneyline’s pure: no fluff, just who’s walking away champ. It’s dead simple, and that clarity hooks me every time I’m sizing up a Texas showdown.”

Prop Bets

Prop bets zoom in on the nitty-gritty: like a player’s yardage or if a penalty’s called.

They sidestep the final score, offering a side gig to the main show. You can keep it simple or pile a few props for a bigger swing.

The target is to peg those details right, with low minimums and speedy payouts. If you’re into laser-focusing on stats or gut calls, props let you dig in without a full game clock ticking.

John says: “For props, I scope the trends or matchup first. Juicy odds can sway me, but it’s no sure thing so I play smart and don’t overdo it.”

Live Betting

Live betting drops you into the thick of it, with odds flipping as the game rolls live. It’s active, streaming straight to you, and nails that sportsbook buzz.

The best live setups often mean higher stakes than spreads or props, and you might need to pounce at the right second when it’s busy. Options are tighter – same sports, just fresh angles like next-point bets or half-time totals – but some platforms mix in wild cards.

Peter says: “Live betting’s straight-up real, no dodging behind tech excuses. Jawing with other bettors and chasing the odds shift keeps it alive, like I’m on the sideline.”

Texas Sports Betting – FAQs

Before we wrap up, let’s tackle some of the top questions about betting on sports online:

Is It Safe to Bet on Sports Online in Texas?

Absolutely, it’s safe to bet at Texas online sportsbooks, but stick to ones that are licensed and regulated. Check the site’s homepage for that info, along with signs of legitimate security like SSL encryption, to ensure your money is in good hands.

Are Texas Online Sports Betting Sites Rigged?

Nope, legit sports betting sites in Texas aren’t rigged – the odds and outcomes are set by real-time data or fair systems, not tricks. Independent groups like eCOGRA often audit these platforms to make sure everything’s on the up-and-up.

What’s the Best Sports Betting Strategy?

There’s no one-size-fits-all, but a solid go-to is betting the spread when you’ve got a read on a team’s edge, like taking a favorite to cover after studying their form.

Use it wisely, though, and only pull the trigger when the matchup vibes with your gut and the stats.

What Bonuses Can I Grab at Texas Sports Betting Sites?

You can snag all sorts of sports betting bonuses, like welcome offers that match your first deposit with extra betting cash. Beyond that, look out for reload bonuses, cashback deals, contests, referral perks, or free bets.

So, What Are the Best Online Sports Betting Sites in Texas?

With input from our expert reviewers, John and Peter, we’ve pinned down the top online sports betting sites that shine for their standout traits.

John leaned toward BetWhale for its all-around vibe, while Peter picked BetOnline, both noting that a deep range of betting markets tipped the scales for them.

For crypto users, John again went with BetWhale, while Peter was blown away by Wild.io’s almost instant crypto cashouts.

Peter, vouched for BetUS as the best all-in-one for live sports fans, while John, on the other hand, went with Sportsbetting.ag.

In all, each site’s got its own edge, so whether you’re wiring in crypto or jumping on live odds, there’s a solid pick to hit your betting sweet spot.

John:

“I’d say sign up for any betting site that catches your eye, even if you’re not dropping cash right away. You don’t need to deposit to scope the layout, and having an account beats guest mode since some features stay locked otherwise.”

Peter:

“My top tip? Lean on the responsible gambling tools every good sportsbook offers: set your deposit or loss caps upfront because, trust me, you’ll appreciate it later. Oh, and always bet the favorite on a tight spread when the matchup is screaming value.”

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for entertainment purposes only. Online gambling comes with risks. There’s no guarantee of financial gain, so you should only gamble with what you can afford to lose.

While gambling can be fun, it can also be addictive. If you think you are developing a gambling addiction problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 to speak with a professional. 

For free online gambling addiction resources, visit these organizations:

• https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/
• https://www.ncpgambling.org/
• https://www.gamblingtherapy.org/