Sports betting is live in 38+ states plus Washington D.C. as of 2025. That's a lot of green on the map. But several major states still sit on the sidelines — and if you live in one of them, your options are limited. Here's where things stand and what bettors in those states should know right now.
Which states still block online moneyline betting in 2025?
The big ones: California, Texas, Georgia, Alabama, and Florida. California and Texas alone account for tens of millions of sports fans with nowhere legal to bet online. Florida's situation is its own saga — an online market launched briefly under a Seminole Tribe compact, but it remains legally blocked pending ongoing court disputes. Georgia has come close to passing legislation more than once. Alabama hasn't moved much at all. If you're in any of these states, no licensed app — not DraftKings, not FanDuel, not BetMGM — can legally take your moneyline wager. For a full breakdown of where wagering is and isn't permitted, see Where Is Moneyline Betting Legal? State-by-State Overview.
Can you use a VPN to access sportsbooks in restricted states?
Short answer: don't. Using a VPN to bypass geolocation restrictions violates operator terms of service and may carry legal consequences. Sportsbooks use sophisticated geolocation tools. Getting caught typically means a permanently closed account and forfeited funds. It's not worth the risk.
Why are these states still blocked years after PASPA fell?
The Supreme Court struck down PASPA in 2018 with the Murphy v. NCAA ruling. That gave every state the right to legalize sports betting on its own terms. Most moved quickly. Others haven't — usually due to tribal gaming compacts, competing legislative interests, or voter-approval requirements. California, for example, requires ballot initiatives for major gambling expansions. Those initiatives have failed at the polls. Texas faces a conservative legislature that hasn't prioritized the issue. These aren't quick fixes.
What should bettors in these states do in the meantime?
Wait and watch your state legislature. Advocacy groups push bills in Texas and Georgia nearly every session. California could revisit a ballot measure. Things can move fast once political will aligns. In the meantime, brush up on how moneyline wagering actually works so you're ready to bet smart the moment a legal market opens. Start with What Is a Money Line Bet? The Straight-Win Wager Explained and then walk through How to Place a Moneyline Bet on a Legal Sportsbook App so the process feels familiar from day one.
What about age requirements when legal markets do open?
Most legal states set the minimum age at 21. A handful — including Wyoming, New Hampshire, and Montana in some formats — allow betting at 18. Check your state's specific rules when the time comes. Lying about your age to access a sportsbook violates terms of service the same way a VPN does.
Is there anything else to prepare for?
Absolutely. Understanding the risks before a market opens is smarter than learning on the fly with real money. Moneylines are straightforward, but the vig works against you on every bet. Responsible habits matter from the very first wager. Review Responsible Gambling for Moneyline Bettors: Limits, Resources & Red Flags before you ever place a bet.
21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.