Texas, the second-largest state in the U.S. by both population and land area, has long had a complicated relationship with gambling. Despite the rapid expansion of sports betting across the country since the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018, Texas remains one of the few states that have yet to legalize sports wagering. However, this has not stopped sports betting enthusiasts from participating in the market through offshore sportsbooks, daily fantasy sports (DFS), and neighboring state betting options.
This article will explore the current status of sports betting sites in Texas, legal and offshore options, the potential future of regulated sportsbooks, and what bettors can expect moving forward.
The Current Legal Status of Sports Betting in Texas
As of 2025, sports betting remains illegal in Texas. The state’s constitution prohibits most forms of gambling, and while efforts have been made to change this, no Texas Sports Betting Sites legislation has been successfully passed. Texas only permits limited forms of gambling, including:
- The Texas Lottery, offering lottery tickets, scratch-offs, and multi-state jackpot games.
- Pari-mutuel betting on horse and greyhound races at licensed racetracks.
- Charitable gaming, such as bingo and raffles run by nonprofit organizations.
- Tribal casinos, which operate under federal law but are limited to Class II gaming (such as electronic bingo) rather than traditional slot machines or table games.
Despite these restrictions, Texas residents have found ways to engage in sports betting through offshore sportsbooks, social betting platforms, and travel to neighboring states that have legalized it.
Offshore Sports Betting Sites in Texas
Since Texas does not have legal sportsbooks, many residents turn to offshore betting sites to place their wagers. These platforms operate outside of U.S. jurisdiction and are not regulated by Texas law. While some offshore sportsbooks are reputable, they lack consumer protections provided by state-regulated betting markets.
Popular Offshore Sportsbooks Available in Texas
- BetOnline
- One of the most widely used offshore sportsbooks by Texas bettors.
- Offers betting on major U.S. sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and college sports.
- Provides competitive odds, live betting, and various promotional offers.
- Bovada
- A longstanding offshore betting platform known for its reliability.
- Offers a variety of betting markets, including sports, casino games, and poker.
- Provides cryptocurrency-friendly payment options.
- MyBookie
- Features an extensive sportsbook with competitive odds.
- Offers prop bets, futures, and in-game betting.
- Has regular promotions and welcome bonuses for new users.
- BetUS
- Known for its large sign-up bonuses and loyalty rewards.
- Provides a user-friendly interface with diverse sports betting options.
- Has a strong customer service reputation.
Risks of Using Offshore Sportsbooks
While offshore sportsbooks provide an option for Texas bettors, they come with several risks:
- Lack of Regulation: Since they are not overseen by Texas or U.S. authorities, players have little recourse in the event of disputes.
- Payment Issues: Some bettors have reported difficulties withdrawing winnings from offshore platforms.
- Security Concerns: Offshore sites may not have the same security measures as licensed U.S. sportsbooks, increasing the risk of fraud or data breaches.
Neighboring States with Legal Sports Betting
For Texans who prefer legal sports betting options, traveling to neighboring states is an alternative. Several nearby states have legalized sports betting, allowing Texas residents to place wagers while visiting.
Louisiana
- Sports betting is legal at retail casinos and online sportsbooks.
- Popular sportsbooks include DraftKings, FanDuel, and Caesars.
- Texas residents frequently cross the border to place bets.
Arkansas
- Sports betting is permitted at retail casinos and through select mobile apps.
- Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort offers sports betting to visitors.
New Mexico
- Limited sports betting is allowed at tribal casinos.
- No state-regulated online sports betting is available.
With Texas being a sports-loving state, many residents take advantage of these nearby legal markets to place bets on their favorite teams.
The Push for Legal Sports Betting in Texas
Several factors are fueling the push to legalize sports betting in Texas, including economic benefits, public demand, and the potential for responsible regulation.
Economic Benefits
- Legal sports betting could generate billions in revenue for Texas, providing significant tax income for public programs such as education and infrastructure.
- Thousands of jobs could be created in sportsbook operations, customer service, and technology development.
Growing Public Support
- Polls suggest that a majority of Texans support sports betting legalization.
- Many professional sports teams in Texas, including the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, and Dallas Mavericks, support legal sports betting and have partnerships with sportsbook operators.
Legislative Efforts
- Recent legislative sessions have seen multiple sports betting bills introduced, but none have passed.
- Key figures, such as Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban and Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta, have publicly supported legal sports betting.
- The next major opportunity for legalization will come in the 2025 Texas legislative session.
Potential Texas Sports Betting Sites if Legalized
If Texas legalizes sports betting, several major sportsbook operators are likely to enter the market, offering both online and retail betting options.
Projected Sportsbook Operators in Texas
- DraftKings Sportsbook
- Already operational in multiple states.
- Offers an intuitive app, a wide range of betting markets, and strong promotions.
- FanDuel Sportsbook
- Known for competitive odds, same-game parlays, and strong user experience.
- Likely to partner with Texas-based sports franchises.
- BetMGM
- Offers betting promotions, live streaming, and high-quality customer service.
- Strong presence in other major U.S. betting markets.
- Caesars Sportsbook
- Would likely partner with casinos if Texas allows retail sportsbooks.
- Offers extensive promotions and a VIP rewards program.
- Barstool Sportsbook
- Popular among younger bettors.
- Features unique promotional offers and social media engagement.
If sports betting becomes legal, Texas is expected to implement regulatory measures similar to other states, including responsible gambling initiatives, age verification, and fair play protections.
The Future of Texas Sports Betting
While sports betting remains illegal in Texas today, the future looks promising. With growing public support, pressure from professional sports teams, and increasing economic incentives, lawmakers may eventually be forced to reconsider their stance.
Several key developments to watch:
- Upcoming legislative sessions: The 2025 session will be crucial for any sports betting bills.
- Political shifts: If key politicians change their stance, legalization could gain momentum.
- Success in neighboring states: As Louisiana and Arkansas continue to benefit from sports betting revenue, Texas may follow suit to remain competitive.
Conclusion
Texas sports betting remains in a gray area, with offshore sportsbooks providing options for bettors while lawmakers debate legalization. Although legal sports betting sites are not yet available in Texas, the demand is growing, and significant efforts are being made to change the landscape.
If Texas legalizes sports betting, major sportsbooks like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM are expected to enter the market, offering safe and regulated platforms. Until then, Texas bettors must rely on offshore sportsbooks or travel to neighboring states to place their bets legally.