Gambling Age in West Virginia

The legal gambling age in West Virginia is 21 for casino gaming and sports betting, while it is 18 for lottery tickets, charitable gaming, and pari-mutuel betting. West Virginia offers a robust gambling market, including casinos, racetracks, and a state lottery.

You Must Be 21 to Gamble in West Virginia

In West Virginia, individuals must be 21 to gamble at casinos or participate in sports betting. The state’s casinos, such as Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races and Mountaineer Casino, offer slot machines, table games, poker, and sportsbooks. Online sports betting and iGaming (online casino games) are also legal and require users to be 21. For purchasing lottery tickets, participating in charitable gaming like bingo, or pari-mutuel betting on horse racing, the minimum age is 18.

West Virginia’s gambling history began with pari-mutuel betting on horse racing in the early 20th century. The state lottery was established in 1984, and casino gaming was introduced in 1994. Online gambling and sports betting were legalized in 2019, making West Virginia one of the first states to embrace these modern gaming options. Strict age requirements are enforced to ensure compliance with state laws and promote responsible gambling.

For more information on gambling in West Virginia, visit West Virginia Lottery or West Virginia Racing Commission.

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