Gaming Laws in New Hampshire

Gambling is illegal in New Hampshire according to State Code Section 647.2 that defines it as “risking something of value upon a future contingent event not under one's control or influence, upon an agreement or understanding that something of value will be received in the event of a certain outcome.”

Illegal gambling is punishable with a misdemeanor charge for anyone who allows it in a place under their control, gambles themselves, loans money or aids someone in gambling, possesses a gambling machine or runs a business involved with it. A felony charge results when operating for 10 days or more continuously or accumulating more than $2,000 in gross revenue in any one day or taking wagers in excess of $5,000 during a 30-day stretch on future events.

Tribal Casinos

There are no tribal casinos in the state of New Hampshire.

Sports Betting in New Hampshire

Sports betting is not allowed in the state of New Hampshire.

Online Sportsbooks

Even though there are no sportsbooks available at physical locations or online in the state of New Hampshire, bettors still have the opportunity to choose from many offshore options. Offshore 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 New Hampshire

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

Online Poker

Because poker rooms are banned in the state of New Hampshire, online games may appeal to interested players who can pursue offshore poker websites in order to participate.

Other Gaming Options in New Hampshire

The New Hampshire Racing and Charitable Gaming Commission oversees other gaming options in the state, including horse and dog racing, on-track parimutuel wagering, bingo, Lucky 7 and other games of chance. The Commission regulates and licenses all activities.

New Hampshire Lottery

The New Hampshire Lottery is the oldest legal lottery in the United States, starting as a sweepstakes bill that finally passed in 1963 to help raise money for education. The lottery of today includes scratchers and lotto-type games that have generated sales reaching nearly $276 million in 2014. All of the revenue continues to benefit local communities through contributions for public education, totaling more than $1.7 billion since the lottery began.