Online Gambling in Florida: Laws, Forms, and Player Behavior

As of 2025, real-money online poker is not legal in Florida. The state has not enacted legislation to regulate or license online poker platforms, and major operators do not offer services to residents. While online poker for real money is prohibited, Floridians can legally play free-to-play poker games that do not involve wagering. Some residents also turn to offshore poker sites, but these platforms operate outside U.S. jurisdiction and are not regulated by Florida authorities, posing potential risks regarding fairness, security, and consumer protection. In summary, real-money online poker remains illegal, while free games are allowed, and offshore options carry legal and safety risks.

Yes, the Florida Lottery is legal and has been operational since 1988. Established through a constitutional amendment approved by voters, its primary mission is to generate revenue for public education in the state. The Florida Lottery offers a variety of games, including scratch-offs, Powerball, Mega Millions, and state-specific games like Florida Lotto and Fantasy 5. Proceeds from ticket sales are allocated as follows: 50% to prize payouts, 39% to the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund, and the remaining 11% to administrative expenses.

Bingo is legal in Florida, but it is regulated under state law and primarily allowed for charitable purposes. Organizations such as churches, veterans’ groups, and nonprofit associations can operate bingo games to raise funds for their activities, provided they obtain the proper licenses and comply with state regulations. The games can be conducted at licensed facilities and must follow rules regarding prize limits, frequency of play, and record-keeping. Commercial bingo for profit is generally prohibited, keeping the activity focused on community and charitable support rather than private gain.

Charity gambling is legal in Florida, but it is strictly regulated and limited to certain activities. Nonprofit organizations, such as churches, veterans’ groups, and charitable associations, can conduct games like bingo, raffles, and pull-tab games to raise funds for their causes. These events require proper licensing from the state or local authorities and must adhere to rules on prize limits, frequency of play, record-keeping, and reporting. The revenue generated must go directly to the charitable purpose, and operators cannot profit personally. This framework ensures that gambling conducted for charity benefits the community while maintaining transparency and accountability.

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) are legal in Florida and occupy a unique position in the state’s gambling framework. Platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel operate legally by classifying contests as skill-based competitions rather than pure gambling, allowing residents to participate without violating state laws. Players create fantasy lineups and compete for cash prizes based on real-world player performances in professional sports. While DFS is widely accessible online and via mobile apps, it remains regulated to ensure fairness, prevent underage participation, and maintain compliance with state regulations regarding prize distribution and contest structure.

Social gambling is generally legal in Florida as long as it occurs in a private setting and meets specific conditions. Games played among friends or in private clubs, where participants contribute to a common pot and winnings are shared without the organizer profiting, are typically allowed. Online social casinos that use virtual currencies—where players cannot directly wager real money but may redeem virtual prizes under sweepstakes rules—also operate legally. The key distinction is that the activity must be based on skill or chance without commercial exploitation; organizers cannot take a cut of the proceeds, and the primary purpose cannot be profit.

Land-based casinos in Florida are primarily operated by the Seminole Tribe under federal and state compacts. These tribal casinos offer a wide range of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, poker rooms, and sports betting at designated sportsbooks. Non-tribal commercial casinos are largely prohibited, so Florida’s land-based casino market is dominated by tribal operations. These casinos are regulated through agreements that set rules for revenue sharing with the state, operational standards, and game types. They serve as the central hub for legal casino gambling in Florida, attracting both residents and tourists while providing significant contributions to the state’s economy and public programs.