Texas Sports Betting: Your Complete Guide

⚡ Fast Take: You cannot legally bet on sports in Texas right now. But 2025 could be the year everything changes! Governor Abbott and other leaders have shown strong support for legalization.

What’s allowed now?

• ✅ Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) contests are legal.
• ❌ All other forms of sports betting are prohibited.

Short Answer: No

Texas law currently bans all forms of sports betting, including online and in-person wagering.

Texas vs. Other States

What’s Illegal in Texas?

• Sports betting on phones, computers, or at physical sportsbooks
• Betting on professional or college games
• Most casino-style gambling

⚠️ Important: Placing illegal bets can result in fines or other legal trouble.

What’s Legal?

• Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) contests (e.g., DraftKings, FanDuel)
• Horse racing (at licensed racetracks)
• Lottery and charity bingo

DFS is considered a game of skill and has been legal since 2016.

Texas has some of the strictest gambling laws in the U.S.

• Most gambling restrictions are written into the state constitution.
• This means any changes must be approved by voters, not just lawmakers.

Why Is This Important?

• In other states, legislators can pass sports betting bills directly.
• In Texas, voters must approve a constitutional amendment.

Types of Gambling in Texas

2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for sports betting supporters.

New Bills in Play

Voter Approval Is Required

Even if both chambers approve, Texans must vote on the measure in November 2025.

Governor Abbott’s Support

Governor Abbott’s backing is a game-changer:

• He is a powerful Republican figure.
• His support encourages other Republicans to support legalization.
• GOP backing is essential for passing the two-thirds majority required.

How Laws Get Made in Texas

• House and Senate: Both must pass the same bill by a two-thirds majority.
• Voter Approval: Texans vote to amend the constitution.
• Implementation: Lawmakers establish regulations, licenses, and tax rates.

Note: Even if voters approve in 2025, sports betting likely won’t launch until 2027.

Timeline: When Could This Happen?

• 2025 – Legislature votes; voters decide in November
• 2026 – Rules, regulations, and licensing
• 2027 – Possible first legal bets

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)

DFS contests allow Texans to legally compete for cash prizes.

Avoid Offshore Sites: Unregulated sportsbooks operating outside U.S. law pose significant risks, including non-payment of winnings and lack of player protections.

NFL

• Dallas Cowboys
• Houston Texans

NBA

• San Antonio Spurs
• Dallas Mavericks
• Houston Rockets

MLB

• Houston Astros
• Texas Rangers

NHL

• Dallas Stars

College Teams

• Texas Longhorns (UT)
• Texas A&M Aggies

College Betting Restrictions? Many states prohibit bets on in-state college teams or player props. Texas lawmakers will need to address this question.

Projected Annual Figures

• Handle (Total Wagers): $10+ billion
• Sportsbook Profits: $1 billion
• State Tax Revenue: $100+ million
• Jobs Created: 3,000+

Texas could immediately become the largest sports betting market in the U.S., surpassing New York.

Where Would the Tax Money Go?

Types of Bets to Know

Bankroll Management Tips

• Never risk more than 1–5% of your bankroll on a single wager.
• Track your bets to identify strengths and weaknesses.
• Bet only what you can afford to lose.

Responsible Gambling Features

When Texas legalizes sports betting, expect tools like:

• Deposit and spending limits
• Self-exclusion programs
• Reality checks and session time reminders
• Access to support programs for problem gambling

Technology in Sports Betting

Expect advanced mobile betting apps with:

• Live streaming
• Personalized odds
• AI-driven recommendations
• Secure transactions and player protections

The Current Situation

Sports betting remains illegal in Texas, but momentum is strong heading into 2025.

What You Can Do Now

• Play DFS contests
• Learn about betting types
• Practice responsible bankroll management
• Follow the latest Texas sports betting news

The Future

If approved, Texas could become the largest sports betting market in America, delivering major economic benefits while offering fans safe and regulated options.

⚠️ Disclaimer: Laws change rapidly. Always check the current status before betting, and never wager more than you can afford to lose. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, contact the National Council on Problem Gambling for help.