Legal Online Poker in Alabama

In this guide find out the Legality of Online Poker in Alabama

Last Updated on February 15, 2024 by Avatar Author Adrian Sterne
Fact checked by Dusan Jovanovic

Although the Heart of Dixie is known for its Southern hospitality, that doesn’t exactly transfer to online gambling. In fact, Alabama is one of the US states with the most stringent laws and no state lottery.

However, AL isn’t entirely devoid of legal gambling. The state counts four racinos, three tribal casinos, and electronic bingo. Don’t get your hopes up, though — these land-based casinos feature no card games, slot machines, or poker rooms. Although we’ve seen some movement toward expanding the casino and sports betting landscape, none of the bills have been signed into law.

So, if you’re looking for online poker in Alabama, you’ll find limited options. However, other ways of playing your favorite online poker game exist. Read on to learn more.

Online gambling, and online poker for that matter, is still illegal in Alabama. The only exception is DFS betting, which was legalized in 2019 thanks to HB361. But we’re not here to talk about daily fantasy sports.

Most gambling forms are regulated by the Alabama Constitution, enacted in 1901. However, the antiquated language and rules don’t include modern developments, including online poker. As a result, several progressive movements are trying to update the current laws. Still, since Alabama has a deep connection to Judeo-Christian values, many opposing forces want to stop any further developments.

At the same time, many use the absence of special online gambling regulations to interpret the laws differently and participate in online gaming activities. The same goes for offshore online poker rooms. These sites fall under the gray area but still accept AL players and feature fantastic gambling opportunities.

So, if you want to play online poker, check out the best international operators featured on this site.

Poker Laws

LawWhile the state constitution doesn’t criminalize games of skill, it prohibits games of chance. For some reason, many states with similar regulations, like Alabama, consider poker a game of chance.

As a result, you won’t find any poker-specific laws or rules in Alabama Code or any other legislative document.

Nevertheless, to learn more about Alabama’s gambling laws, you should read the Code of Alabama, Title 13A, Chapter 12, Article 2. It’s the only piece of legislation pertaining to gambling.

In 2021, SB319 was presented during the legislative session. It would legalize slot machines and the state lottery, bringing Alabama one step closer to creating a regulated gambling market. We are still waiting for news on any further developments.

Best Legal Poker Rooms in Alabama

All this talk about failed bills and a strict anti-gambling environment disappoints anyone who wants to know more about online gambling in Alabama. However, we’ve already mentioned that, despite not having a regulated iGaming scene, the Heart of Dixie offers other options.

My list of the best poker sites which I consider to be the best rooms to play in 2024:
  • 100% Legal & Licensed
  • Verified Bonus
  • Mobile Friendly
  • Advertiser Disclosure

    Kindly be aware that some links on Top 10 Poker Sites are affiliate links, for which we may earn a commission. Find out more on our terms & conditions

  • Must be 18+ to participate.
crown # 1  Poker Site
BetOnline Poker
5
5.0 / 5.0

100% up to $1000

18+. T&Cs Apply

Regulated by Panama

  • 100% First deposit bonus
  • Top 3 in US player traffic
  • Great selection of games
  • Banking through cryptocurrencies
Payout speed 1-3 days
Deposit options
Mastercard Visa Bitcoin Credit Card Bitcoin Cash Cash App +10

Exclusive bonus

100% up to $1000

18+. T&Cs Apply

Displayed 3 of 8 rooms

The following paragraphs discuss how you can enjoy online and land-based poker sessions in Alabama.

How to Register at a Legal Online Poker Site in Alabama

Here’s how you can become a member at one of the recommended online poker rooms:

Choose A Poker Room

Choose an operator from our list.

Use one of the links to visit the casino’s website.

Signup

Click on the option to register.

Set up an account by filling out the form with the necessary information.

Verify your account if required.

Deposit & Play

Load the Cashier, pick your preferred payment method, and make a deposit.

Wait for the funds to appear on your balance, load the game lobby, and find the poker title you want to play.

Land-Based Casinos With Live Poker

As mentioned, the three land-based tribal casinos and four racinos offer no table games. Therefore, we suggest a road trip to Mississippi if you want to play live poker in a real casino setting. Here are the best land-based casinos close to the border with fantastic live poker games:

Other Resources

Final Thoughts

Although it seems like AL residents won’t see online or land-based poker rooms any time soon, it’s good to know that other options exist. The sites we’ve presented on this page offer plenty of high-quality poker games and tournaments suitable for players of all levels and budgets.

So, until a major reform comes through and introduces legal online poker rooms, you know what to do. Scroll to the top of the page, pick a site, sign up, and enjoy everything it offers.

FAQ

Is online poker legal in Alabama?

According to the Alabama Constitution, no forms of online gambling are legal, including online poker. On the other hand, no laws prohibit you from joining offshore online poker sites and testing your poker skills. However, pick a licensed and trustworthy site, like the ones featured on this page.

What poker sites are legal in Alabama?

Sweepstakes and social casinos are the only legally recognized gambling sites you can play on. Poker fans can access Global Poker, a sweepstakes-based poker room with plenty of ring games, Sit’n Gos, and multi-table tournaments.

Are home poker games legal in Alabama?

They are but under certain conditions. Alabama residents can host private poker games as long as they don’t profit from them. This means no entrance fees, rakes, or real money wagers.

What’s the legal gambling age in Alabama?

You must be 21 or older to go to any of the few existing gambling venues in the Heart of Dixie.

Will Alabama legalize online poker?

There’s no way of knowing if and when Alabama will legalize online poker. The state saw several bills to legalize sports betting in 2021, but the attempts were futile. Although there’s still some movement toward legalizing casino gaming, it doesn’t involve online poker.

  Contact Me

Hi, I am the Chief Editor of top10pokersites.net, this site is dedicated to all thing poker. I have been working around the poker industry for the last 15 years, with different brands. The main purpose of this site is to keep you uptodate with the industry and offer you the best deals around.