Sports Betting
Casino Gambling
Online Casino / iGaming
State Lottery
Horse Racing / Racetracks
Virginia moved from having almost no gambling to having an active market in a short span. The state legalized sports betting in 2020, and the mobile market launched in January 2021 with more than two dozen licensed operators — one of the most competitive mobile sports betting launches in the country. Commercial casinos were approved through local referenda, and several have opened: Hard Rock Bristol, Rivers Casino Portsmouth, and Caesars Virginia in Danville, among others. Additional properties in the Richmond and Norfolk areas are in development.
The lottery has operated since 1988 and is well-established. Horse racing at Colonial Downs in New Kent operates under a mixed live-racing and historical horse racing machine framework. Historical horse racing terminals were a significant political issue that preceded broader gambling expansion.
For residents, Virginia has transformed quickly. Mobile sports betting works statewide with a wide operator selection. New commercial casinos have opened in multiple parts of the state. Northern Virginia and the DC suburbs do not yet have a nearby commercial casino, though that may change as development continues. Online casino gambling is not currently legal in Virginia. The regulatory environment has been active, and the market has grown faster than most states that started at the same time.
New commercial casinos opened 2022-2024 (Bristol, Danville, etc.). Sports betting mobile since 2021.
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People Also Ask
Is gambling legal in Virginia now?
Under Virginia law, casinos may be operated only by licensed casino gaming operators in cities meeting certain demographic requirements. Only one casino may operate in each eligible host city. The Lottery manages the licensing process.
What is the new gambling law in 2026?
However, as of tax year 2026, taxpayers can only deduct up to 90% of their gambling losses against gambling winnings. Prior to 2026, gamblers could deduct up to 100% of their winnings based on losses. For example, you bet $100 on 10 NFL games during the regular season and lost each bet.
What two states prohibit gambling?
If state-run lotteries are included, then 48 states allow some form of gambling. The exceptions are Hawaii, where gambling was outlawed prior to statehood, and Utah, which bans gambling in its state constitution. Casino-style gambling, however, is much less widespread than lotteries.
Is the legal gambling age 18 or 21?
CLegal-Age Gambling Opportunities and Restrictions
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In the News
- Virginia Sports Betting: Best VA Sportsbook Promos & Apps - FOX SportsJun 30
- Virginia sports betting 2026: Best VA sportsbook promos and betting apps - CBS SportsJul 3
- Virginia sports betting handle reaches $581.3 million in May, down 2.3% from last year - YogonetJul 3
- When Could Online Casinos Launch in Virginia (July 2026 Update) - Sports Betting DimeJul 1
- Virginia Lottery Changes Rules to Let All Winners Stay Anonymous - Casino.orgJul 5
Full Virginia profile
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Sources: American Gaming Association 2024, Legal Sports Report, NCSL. Gambling laws change frequently — verify current status before wagering.