Looking to start gambling at 18? You’re not alone. Many young adults are eager to try their luck but aren’t sure which casinos allow entry at 18. Where you can legally gamble at 18 in both the UK and USA, along with top casinos, laws, and expert tips to help you stay safe and informed.
Where Can You Gamble at 18?
| Country | Can You Gamble at 18? | Where Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK | ✅ Yes | All land-based & online casinos | Must verify ID |
| USA | ⚠️ Sometimes | Certain states only (e.g. MT, ID, OK) | Most states require 21+ |
In the United Kingdom, you can legally gamble at 18 years old in most forms, including:
✅ Online casinos
✅ Land-based casinos
✅ Betting shops
✅ Poker rooms
✅ Slot machines & bingo
Top 18+ Casinos in the UK:
Grosvenor Casinos
Genting Casinos
Admiral Casino Online
MrQ Casino (Online)
Paddy Power (Sportsbook + Online Casino)
Tip: Always carry valid photo ID when visiting a physical casino to prove your age.
Gambling at 18 in the USA: State by State
Unlike the UK, the USA has state-level gambling laws. In most states, the minimum age to enter a casino is 21. However, several states allow 18-year-olds to gamble under specific conditions.
US States Where You Can Gamble at 18:
| State | Gambling Type Allowed at 18 | Example Casinos |
|---|---|---|
| Montana | Casinos & poker | Magic Diamond Casinos |
| Idaho | Tribal casinos | Coeur d’Alene Casino |
| Oklahoma | Tribal casinos | WinStar World Casino |
| Minnesota | Tribal casinos | Mystic Lake Casino |
| Rhode Island | Slot machines | Bally’s Twin River |
| Wyoming | Tribal & parimutuel betting | Wind River Casino |
⚠️ Note: Not all games (e.g. alcohol-serving areas, table games) are allowed at 18 in some casinos.
Online Casinos for 18-Year-Olds
Online gambling laws also vary by region:
UK: You can legally join online casinos at 18. Popular options include Betway, 888casino, and LeoVegas.
USA: Only a few states (like New Jersey, Michigan, and Pennsylvania) allow online casinos – and most still require players to be 21+.
Tips Before You Gamble at 18
✅ Check local laws before you travel or register
✅ Use only licensed casinos with responsible gaming measures
✅ Set a gambling limit and avoid chasing losses
✅ Use secure payment methods
FAQ
Q1: Can I go to a casino at 18 in the UK?
Yes, 18 is the legal gambling age across the UK.
Q2: Can I gamble at 18 in Las Vegas?
No. In Nevada (including Vegas), you must be 21+ to gamble.
Q3: Are there online casinos for 18-year-olds?
Yes in the UK. In the US, most regulated states require 21+.
Q4: Can I enter a casino but not gamble at 18?
Some casinos allow under-21 visitors in certain areas, but gambling is restricted.
Final Thoughts
If you’re 18 and eager to gamble, the UK offers full access, while only select US states allow it. Always double-check your local laws and casino policies. Our guide ensures you know exactly where you’re legally allowed to play – without confusion or risk.