Is Poker legal in California? Online & Live Poker Laws in CA

Wondering if poker is legal in California or asking “is online poker legal in California?” You’re not alone.

In this guide, we break down the state’s current poker laws and answer where to play, whether you’re looking for action at California’s famous live cardrooms or hoping to play online.

What Is the Situation with Poker in California?

California has always been a powerhouse in the American poker scene. From the legendary cash games at Commerce Casino to the vibrant tournament circuits at The Bike and beyond, live poker is deeply woven into the state’s gambling culture. Today, dozens of licensed cardrooms and tribal casinos offer regulated live poker games across a wide range of stakes.

However, real-money online poker remains unavailable. Despite multiple attempts to legalize it, political disagreements between stakeholders, including cardrooms, tribal operators, and lawmakers, have stalled progress. While public support for poker remains strong, California players currently have to stick to live games or free-to-play poker sites online, such as the WSOP Poker App.

Is Live Poker Legal in California?

Yes, live poker is 100% legal and thriving in California. The state is home to more poker tables than anywhere else in the U.S., with around 80 licensed cardrooms and dozens of tribal casinos offering poker across a wide range of stakes and formats.

Live poker has been a staple of California’s gambling scene for decades, with formal regulation introduced under the Gambling Control Act of 1998. Oversight is provided by the California Gambling Control Commission and the Bureau of Gambling Control, ensuring licensed venues operate fairly and responsibly.

California players enjoy access to some of the most iconic and action-packed poker rooms in the country. Whether you’re playing $1/$2 cash games or chasing a six-figure tournament score, there’s no shortage of options, which we'll cover in more detail shortly.

Is Online Poker Legal in California?

No, real-money online poker is not currently legal in California, despite being one of the most talked-about markets in the US. Over the past decade, lawmakers have introduced multiple bills aiming to regulate online poker, but none have passed due to disagreements between tribal casinos, cardrooms, and racing interests.

While some offshore poker sites are technically accessible, they operate outside US regulation and cannot be recommended for safe or legal play.

For now, California players can still enjoy the game online through free-to-play social poker apps such as the WSOP Social App, Replay Poker, and GTO Wizard’s Play mode. These platforms offer a great way to practice and enjoy poker—without the risk of playing for real money.

Is Online Poker Likely to Become Legal in California?

Our take here at PokerNews is that it's possible but not imminent. Online poker legislation continues to face strong opposition from within the state. While there’s public interest and occasional movement in the legislature, competing interests among stakeholders have stalled progress.

When Will Online Poker Be Legalized in California?

There’s no official timeline, but 2026 or later is a reasonable estimate, although it also wouldn't be a surprise to see the conversation to rumble on. New bills could gain traction if California joins a broader push for regulated online gaming, but until that happens, players will need to stick to live poker or social apps.

Live Poker Rooms in California

California offers some of the most prominent live poker venues in the nation, from legendary Southern California cardrooms to bustling Northern California clubs. Here’s a closer look at the best live poker action available.

Top 10 Best Live Poker Rooms in California

Major Poker Tournament Series in California

California hosts several major poker series each year, attracting both local grinders and national players. These events offer structured, multi-day formats across various buy-in levels and poker formats, ideal for both recreational tournament players and serious competitors.

Here’s a look at the top ones you shouldn’t miss.

How Live Poker Rooms Work in California

Live poker rooms in California operate legally by following state rules that prohibit the casino from acting as the "house." Instead of taking a traditional rake, these card rooms classify poker as a player-versus-player game and often work with third-party providers to manage the games and collect fees.

Cash games are often spread continuously throughout the day, with stakes ranging from $1/$2 up to high-limit action, while Tournaments usually require same-day registration. Rake is capped and varies by venue but generally falls between 10% and 15% per pot, with bad-beat jackpots or promotional drops included.

Situation of Online Poker in California

Online poker remains illegal in California, with no licensed or regulated real-money sites available. Despite repeated legislative efforts over the past decade, lawmakers have failed to pass a bill due to disagreements between tribal casinos, cardrooms, and other stakeholders.

While some offshore sites accept California players, these platforms are unregulated and come with legal and financial risks, so we don’t recommend them. The only legal way to play online poker in the state is through free-to-play platforms. Until regulation is passed, real-money online poker is off the table in California.

Legal History of Online Poker in California

• Bill to Legalize Online Poker Unsuccessful (2012)
  SB 1463, introduced by Senators Steinberg and Wright, aimed to authorize intrastate internet poker, but never advanced past committee. It quickly faded without further action.
• Momentum Builds (2014–2015)
  California saw a resurgence in online poker efforts. In 2014, bills like SB 1366 and AB 2291 were introduced, with Assemblyman Hall spearheading hearings. Though momentum grew, no vote occurred. In 2015, AB 431 by Adam Gray passed committee unanimously, marking a rare breakthrough, but ultimately didn’t reach the House floor.
• Stalled Progress, Despite Heightened Interest(2016)
  Adam Gray returned with AB 2863, a stricter framework for licensing intrastate poker. Despite support from cardrooms and racing interests, tribal opposition stalled the bill before a full vote.
• Sports Wagering Takes Focus (2022)
  Online poker efforts largely paused as sports betting took precedence, including a successful 2022 ballot measure.
• Optimistic Outlook (2025 onwards)
  Legislators have hinted that expanded iGaming could follow. Optimism remains that California will eventually legalize online poker, however, no bills specific to intrastate online poker have resurfaced since 2016.

Online Poker Sites in California

While real-money online poker sites like PokerStars, WSOP, and BetMGM are not currently available in California, they could launch here if legislation is passed. This section looks at the top brands players hope to see in the Golden State once online poker becomes legal.

Can You Play PokerStars in California?

No, you cannot play real-money PokerStars in California right now. Online poker is not yet regulated in the state, so major operators like PokerStars are not licensed to offer games here.

If California legalizes online poker, it’s highly likely that PokerStars would enter the market. The brand already operates in several regulated US states, including Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

Can You Play BetMGM Poker in California?

No, BetMGM Poker is not currently available in California. Since the state has yet to regulate online poker, BetMGM has no legal pathway to operate its real-money platform here.

BetMGM is expected to be among the first operators to enter the California market if online poker is legalized. The brand already runs licensed poker sites in Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, and is well-positioned to expand into new states.

Can You Play GGPoker in California?

No, GGPoker is not available in California. The state does not currently allow real-money online poker, and GGPoker has not obtained a license to operate here.

If California eventually legalizes online poker, GGPoker could seek to enter the market, but its US legal plans remain unconfirmed. While GGPoker owns the WSOP brand globally, it does not currently run WSOP.com in any US state, which in Nevada and others is still operated under Caesars’ license.

How to Play Real Money Online Poker in California Legally

While traditional online poker sites are not yet legal in California, players do have alternative options. The best legal way to play online poker for real prizes is through social and free-to-play poker platforms. Next, we'll look more closely at some of the best options.

Best Sites to Legally Play Real Money Online Poker in California

California poker players looking for safe, legal alternatives can enjoy free-to-play poker apps. These platforms are free to access and legally available in California, offering a fun and competitive poker experience while real-money legislation remains on hold.

WSOP Poker App

The WSOP Poker App delivers an authentic World Series of Poker experience in a free-to-play format, making it one of the most popular social poker options for California players. It offers a robust mix of ring games, sit & gos, and multi-table tournaments, all without the need for a deposit or real-money stakes.

Players earn chips through gameplay, daily bonuses, and challenges. Seasonal promotions, missions, and leaderboards help keep the app engaging, while a smooth mobile experience ensures easy access from anywhere. Although no real-money prizes are available, the app provides a fun and competitive way to sharpen your skills while enjoying the prestige of the WSOP brand. Join through PokerNews to get a special sign-up bonus.

Replay Poker

Replay Poker is a browser-based, play-money poker platform designed for players who take their game seriously, without risking real cash. The site is fully legal in California and features a wide range of poker variants including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Stud.

Known for its active community and regularly scheduled tournaments, Replay is ideal for players who want a realistic poker experience with structured games and competitive formats. The clean, user-friendly interface makes it accessible to both beginners and seasoned grinders. With leaderboards, leagues, and achievement tracking, there’s a real sense of progression, even without real-money rewards.

GTO Wizard Play Mode

GTO Wizard Play Mode isn’t your average poker site. It’s a training tool designed for strategy-driven players. In this free mode, you can play out simulated hands and instantly see how your decisions align with Game Theory Optimal (GTO) solutions.

For California players looking to improve their game without risking a cent, this is an invaluable resource. It’s particularly suited for tournament and cash game grinders preparing for real-money action down the line. The interface is sleek, educational, and highly customizable, offering instant feedback and analysis to help sharpen your edge. It’s poker learning through doing, which is perfect for ambitious players.

California Poker Legality FAQs