Gambling Age in Illinois

The legal gambling age in Illinois is 21 for casino gaming and sports betting, while it is 18 for the lottery, charitable gaming, and pari-mutuel betting. Illinois has a diverse gambling landscape, including casinos, racetracks, and a state lottery.

You Must Be 21 to Gamble in Illinois

To gamble at casinos or participate in sports betting in Illinois, you must be 21. Illinois is home to several land-based and riverboat casinos offering slot machines, table games, and poker. For the lottery, charitable games like bingo, and horse racing betting, the minimum age is 18.

Illinois’s gambling history is marked by gradual expansion. The state introduced the lottery in 1974, followed by the legalization of riverboat casinos in 1991. In 2019, Illinois further broadened its gambling offerings with sports betting and additional casinos as part of a major gaming expansion bill. Each activity has its age requirements, strictly enforced to ensure compliance with state regulations.

For more information on Illinois gambling laws, visit Illinois Gaming Board.

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