Gaming Laws in Georgia

Georgia Code Section 16-12-20 from 2009 states that betting upon the final result of any game or contest, or upon games played with cards, dice, or balls, in order to win money or other things of value is prohibited. This includes horse racing, dog racing and off-track betting. In addition, maintenance of gambling places or equipment is prohibited. Other kinds of gambling such as election wagering, commercial gambling, and dogfighting are also banned.

Tribal Casinos

Like all casinos, tribal casinos are not allowed in the state of Georgia.

Sports Betting in Georgia

Sports betting is not allowed in the state of Georgia in accordance with Code Section 16-12-20 that states betting upon the final result of any game or contest is prohibited.

Online Sportsbooks

Even though there are no sportsbooks available at physical locations or online in the state of Georgia, bettors still have the opportunity to choose from many offshore options. Online sports betting sites are widely considered to be a much safer option than local bookmakers. In addition to having the convenience of placing bets right from a personal computer or mobile device and a variety of options, online bettors can trust reputable and well-reviewed offshore books to always offer lines and pay out, which may not always be the case for local bookies.

Poker and Casino in Georgia

Poker and other casino games of any kind are not allowed in the state of Georgia.

Online Poker

Because poker rooms are banned in the state of Georgia, online games appeal to interested players who must choose to pursue online poker websites in order to participate.

Other Gaming Options in Georgia

Raffles that raise money for charitable organizations are allowed in the state of Georgia.

Georgia Lottery

The Georgia Lottery was created in 1992 to help fund education in the state and began selling tickets in 1993. The Georgia Lottery Corporation (GLC) oversees and operates the lottery, and in the first 21 years has been able to transfer more than $16 billion to the State Treasury’s Lottery for Education Account. The lottery proceeds are used specifically to fund tuition grants, scholarships and loans to undergraduate college students for attendance at eligible Georgia colleges, universities, or technical colleges; the Georgia Prekindergarten Program for all four-year-olds; and capital outlay projects, including computer and other technological upgrades for schools, technical institutes, colleges and universities in the state.