Legal Online Poker in Montana

This article will explore the legality of online and land-based poker in Montana and the state’s current stance on gambling as a whole.

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

Montana has long held a reputation of being gambling-friendly, with 300+ small casinos scattered throughout the state. Unfortunately, MT hasn’t been that accommodating regarding internet-based gambling, as there are virtually no regulations concerning online poker or casino games. On the brighter side, the state did legalize internet-based sports betting, but that’s about it.

Poker enthusiasts in the Treasure State can access a range of tiny land-based rooms (the largest one has only four tables), whereas players who prefer to play online don’t have much choice at the moment. In fact, only one real money option is available — playing at offshore poker sites.

The short answer is no. There are no legislative pieces concerning internet-based poker, meaning there aren’t any state-licensed sites where you can enjoy playing the popular card game.

Poker is considered a gambling game in Montana, so it falls under the same category as casino games, which are available at brick-and-mortar casinos. Still, no bills have been introduced to legalize their internet-based variants. In fact, Montana passed an online gambling ban in 2005.

Poker Laws

LawThere aren’t any laws specifically related to poker in the state. The Montana Constitution recognizes internet gambling as the conduct of any “legal or illegal gambling enterprise through the use of communications technology” that allows a person to use various payment methods to place a wager.

Here are some of the relevant existing regulations related to gambling in general in Montana.

Best Legal Poker in Montana

Overall, playing poker in Montana is allowed at land-based gambling properties. Still, when it comes to enjoying the game online — it is impossible on paper, but there are some exceptions. Let’s find out more.

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Land-Based Poker in Montana

There are plenty of legal poker options in Montana. The last time we counted, 23 land-based casinos featured poker tables, although some of them are temporarily out of service.

The Poker Parlor at Gold Dust Casino is the only one that offers tourneys featuring popular card games. With four tables in total, it’s also one of the two largest poker rooms in Montana. Most other casinos are on the small side, offering up to three tables where you can only play cash games.

How to Register on a Legal Online Poker Site in Montana

As online poker is not currently legal in Montana, there are no internet-based poker sites that residents can join at this time. However, if you want to register at one of the offshore platforms, you can do that without much hassle. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it:

Pick a platform featured on this page

Our team of online poker experts has shortlisted the best sites you can access from Montana. Feel free to analyze the list and select one or more.

Signup

The registration process is usually quick and easy. You must provide your username, password, and email. If required, make sure to verify your account via your email.

Deposit & Play

Use one of the available deposit options to fund your new account. Don’t forget to check the welcome bonus at the site of your choice and claim it if you want.

Feel free to explore the available cash games and tournaments at the site of your choice and have a great time!

If you want to explore offshore poker sites on your own, we advise caution, as many of them fail to offer a safe and secure poker experience. Make sure that the one you choose is trustworthy and reputable.

Land-Based Casinos With Live Poker

The state has a relatively large number of land-based casinos in proportion to its population, with over 300 licensed establishments offering a variety of options, including slot machines, table games, and live poker.

Montana has a unique gambling structure in which most casinos are small businesses that are locally owned and operated. These establishments are typically located in bars and taverns, and many offer only a few machines or tables.

However, a handful of larger casinos in the state also offer a wider range of gaming options, amenities, and services. Here are a couple of popular ones:

  • The Poker Parlor at Gold Dust Casino — 1310 15th St W, Billings, MT 59102, United States
  • Cat’s Paw Card Room — 721 N 7th Ave, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States
  • Ike & Susan’s Lounge & Casino — 3716 2nd Ave N, Great Falls, MT 59401, United States
  • Montana Nugget Casino — 740 W Idaho St, Kalispell, MT 59901, United States
  • Nickels Gaming Parlour — 2100 N Last Chance Gulch STE C, Helena, MT 59601, United States
  • Queen of Hearts Card Club at Crystal Lounge Casino — 101 North 28th Street, Billings, MT 59101-2043, United States
  • VFW Poker Room — 245 W Main St, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

Other Resources

Final Thoughts

Montana’s lawmakers may have favorable views on gambling, but this mainly applies to land-based options. In terms of poker, you can play it at one of the small poker rooms located at various casinos, but at the moment, there are no legal ways to enjoy the game online in the state.

As an alternative, you can opt for one of the offshore online poker sites. Some of the best possibilities are featured on this page, so feel free to explore them to find the ones that meet your needs.

FAQ

Is online poker legal in Montana?

Unfortunately, online poker has not been legalized in Montana. You can either play legal land-based poker in one of the many casinos or play at offshore sites. Social poker apps are also an option if you are okay with not playing for real money.

Can I play poker on my mobile device on offshore sites?

Yes, you can. The majority of poker sites feature mobile apps. Even if they don’t offer a stand-alone app, they are likely to have a website optimized for users who like to play on the move.

Are there bonuses for new online poker players at Montana poker sites?

All online poker sites that offer their services in Montana feature bonuses for new and regular players. Make sure to read more about the available options to learn more.

What is the minimum legal age to play online poker at offshore sites in Montana?

You should respect the minimum gambling age in Montana when playing at offshore sites, meaning you should be 18 or older to participate.

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