California Legal Online Poker Guide
California enjoys a rich poker industry that easily rivals Las Vegas in terms of popularity and offerings. Many players consider California to be the primary poker destination in the US, easily surpassing the Vegas Strip. California poker players enjoy a network of first class card clubs and poker rooms that are known for hosting high-stakes cash games and tournament action throughout the year.
Several professional players and celebrity players call the Golden State home, and in 2012, California's very own Antonio Esfandiari won the largest poker prize in history, bringing home $18,346,673 in the Big One for One Drop. The number of poker player in California is massive and easily supports the state's thriving poker industry. The state hosts the annual California State Poker Championship and it is one of the major poker tournament events in the country. California is undeniably synonymous with top rated poker action.
There has been a lot of activity surrounding the possibility of a state regulated online poker industry emerging within the Golden State, with strong personalities and influences on both sides of the debate. This guide will take a look at the legal status of offline and online poker within California, and how to access the top rated destinations for enjoying this type of gambling entertainment. We intend provide accurate and up to date information that enables CA residents to make informed decisions regarding their involvement in poker gambling both online and offline.
Top Online Poker Site Accepting California Players In 2024
Bovada Poker - 100% Bonus Max $500 Free Cash
When it comes to US friendly, premium online poker options, Bovada Poker is a preferred brand among players and industry professionals. Like most online poker software, a download is required, and their poker room is compatible with both PC and Mac computers. In addition, Bovada provides a nice mobile online poker room that delivers a high quality gaming experience to your tablet or smartphone.
The poker games offered at Bovada include Hold'em, Omaha, Omaha Hi-Lo, 7 Card Stud and 7 Card Stud Hi-Lo. Players who enjoy a fast paced game will want to check out their Zone Poker option that delivers faster game play and enhanced features. Bovada welcomes players in California and most others states. Your account will also give you access to their online casino, sportsbook, racebook and their additional mobile options such as their mobile casino, mobile sportsbook and mobile racebook.
More Top Rated Legal Online Poker Sites For California Players In 2024
| Poker Link | Welcome Bonus | USA Friendly | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bovada Poker | 100% Max $500 |  |  |
| Bovada Poker | 200% Max $1,000 | | |
Is it legal to play poker online in California?
California is not as diametrically opposed to all online gambling as other states. They already offer online horse betting and online lottery games, and are poised to implement state regulated online poker should the state's Indian tribes be able to reach a consensus. Several online poker bills have come and gone over the last few years in CA, with contention among the tribal parties being the primary source of failure for each attempt. As of this writing there is a new piece of legislation being proposed, AB 167, also dubbed the Internet Poker Consumer Protection Act of 2015, and unfortunately six of the state's most powerful tribes have united in opposition to it. There is dispute over the bad actor clause and the language it contains, among other concerns shared by the tribes. It is a surety that state regulated online poker will emerge in CA, the question is when.
In the mean time, California residents can enjoy online poker through legally licensed and regulated poker sites that are based outside of the United States. Their offshore location ensures that offering their services to residents of California is not in violation of any state or federal laws. This guide provides al listing of recommendations for accessing the industry's leading online poker gambling opportunities. All of these sites are verified to be operating legitimately within the industry and to be licensed, regulated and compliance certified. They each employ a stellar security profile for keeping your identity and financial information secure. They have each been placed through an intense review process to ensure they meet our stringent requirements for inclusion in this guide.
What is the minimum gambling age to play poker in California?
The state of California handles their minimum gambling age requirements a little differently than other states. The state actually allows gambling establishments to set their own minimum age requirements providing that it is at least 18 years of age. This is why the legal age to play poker in California ranges from 18-21 depending on the card club or poker room at which you are visiting. The minimum age therefor to enjoy online poker game play is 18, which is the age that most online poker sites we recommend accept players.
Is playing online poker in California safe?
This certainly is a question we hope all poker players will ask themselves. Concern over the safety of your identification information and financial information is paramount when engaging in any type of online gambling entertainment. The best way to ensure you are about to enjoy a secure online poker gaming session is to restrict your gaming action to only those destinations that have been vetted and approved by industry professionals, such as the poker rooms listed in this guide. We have verified their legitimacy and legal status, and have evaluated the quality of their operation, including their game selection, performance, banking suite and customer support, among many other elements of their business. Only the top rated and most secure poker sites are recommended in this guide.
What games are available at legal California online poker sites?
The range of games will vary from site to site, but the games you will typically see across the online poker industry include: Texas Hold'em, Omaha (all variations), 5 card stud, 7 card stud, Caribbean poker, RAZZ HORSE, and many others. The games are formatted in a variety of ways, including cash games, tournament games, free rolls, sit n' go's, guaranteed tournaments, and special events. Some sites offer multi-hand play, allowing you to play as many hands as you want simultaneously. Buy ins range from micro levels to high roller levels, and everything in between. This ensures the maximum range of budgets and preferences are addressed. The interface at each of our recommended poker sites offers a feature rich experience and sophisticated player tools.