For poker fans in Idaho, finding a seat at the table isn’t always easy. With no licensed poker rooms and limited gambling options, many players are used to making do — whether that means organizing home games or traveling out of state for real action. But these days, more Idahoans are logging on instead of driving out.
While Idaho law doesn’t regulate online poker, offshore platforms provide a practical and accessible way to play. This guide breaks down your best options, explains how online poker fits into Idaho’s legal landscape, and helps you play smart — no matter your experience level.
Online Poker Legality Snapshot
Online Poker
Available (Offshore Only)
Land Based Poker
Available
Legal Gambling Age
18+
Poker Regulator
No state regulatory body/ The tribal gaming commission
Can You Play Online Poker for Real Money in Idaho
Yes — although you won’t find any state-licensed poker sites in Idaho — at least not yet. But that hasn’t stopped people from playing. Online poker is widely available through offshore sites that legally accept U.S. players, and Idaho residents regularly use them without legal consequences.
These sites operate outside of state and federal oversight, which means you’ll want to stick to well-established platforms with a track record of fair play and fast payouts. The good news? There are several that fit the bill.
Top Sites for Online Poker in Idaho
Choosing the right poker site matters — especially when you’re playing from a state without regulated options. The sites below have been vetted for reliability, game quality, and ease of use. They offer a range of features, from soft competition and anonymous tables to crypto-friendly banking and solid loyalty rewards.
Whether you’re looking to play casually on a weeknight or grind your way into a big Sunday tournament, these platforms offer a safe and straightforward way to play from anywhere in Idaho.
Bovada Poker - Best Poker Software and Graphics
Sportsbetting Poker - Best for Excellent Poker Bonuses
Everygame Poker - Best for Seamless Multi-Platform Gaming
Large player pool, especially for cash games and tournaments
Best customer support and prompt payouts
Soft games
Min Deposit
10
Payout Speed
15 days
Best Poker Software and Graphics
Poker fans in Idaho will appreciate Bovada’s well-designed software, offering a clean, intuitive interface. The platform supports various table styles and features like Rabbit Cam and adjustable animation speed, ensuring smooth performance on both desktop and mobile. Anonymous seating enhances fairness, while flexible options provide control over sessions. The software allows up to four tables simultaneously, with features like quick seat and session-based notes. It’s a polished experience, perfect for longer multi-table runs, with reliable payouts and a casual-friendly interface.
Multiple cryptocurrency deposit and withdrawal options
Good for low-stakes and recreational players
Min Deposit
20
Payout Speed
1-2 days
Best for Excellent Poker Bonuses
Idaho poker fans who prioritize bonuses will feel at home at SportsBetting. New signups can claim a $1,000 deposit match and earn up to 21 entries into the $100K GTD Sunday Showdown just by playing. The 40% VIP rakeback option sweetens the deal further. While rake percentages run slightly higher than average, the overall value for bonus-focused users is hard to ignore. The site is part of the Chico Poker Network, offers a 100% match up to $1,000, and features a 24/7 live chat for support.
Idaho users who like variety in one place will appreciate Everygame’s all-in-one platform. A single login gives you access to poker, casino games, and sports betting without switching apps. Poker players get a 200% welcome bonus up to $1,000, a 36% rakeback option, and steady access to freerolls, satellites, and low-stakes tournaments. Traffic is lighter than on major US-facing sites, but that also means fewer grinders. It’s a smooth, flexible choice if you like to keep everything under one roof.
Comparing Online Poker Rooms Available in Idaho
If you’re still deciding which poker site is right for you, this breakdown can help. Whether you’re just starting out or hunting for top-tier promotions, the table below highlights key features from each of our top recommendations.
How We Select the Best Online Poker Sites in Idaho
Finding the right online poker site is essential for Idaho players, and we’re here to help you make that choice confidently. Safety is our top priority, and we thoroughly evaluate each platform to ensure a fair and trustworthy gaming environment. Below are some of the key features we take into account:
Availability in Idaho: We verify that the operator accepts players from Idaho and operates legally within applicable jurisdictions.
Player Traffic & Competition Levels: We check if the site has enough active players at different stakes, so you won’t have to wait forever for a game.
Poker Bonuses and Promotions: We examine the value and fairness of welcome bonuses, loyalty programs, and ongoing promotions offered to players.
Game Variety and Availability: We also evaluate the selection of poker variants and the availability of cash games and tournaments to cater to diverse player preferences.
Deposit and Withdrawal: We look for platforms that support various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and cryptocurrencies.
Idaho’s Online Poker Laws
Idaho has clear laws on gambling, but no specific statute directly addresses the topic of online poker. Whether playing poker online for real money is legal or not legal in Idaho is a question that does not seem to have been tested by any arrests or trials, so the ultimate answer has yet to be written. But what about the practical answer?
In this section, we aim to outline the law from a layperson's perspective, based on Idaho statutes.
Idaho law is one of the few state laws that specifically mentions poker as a form of prohibited gambling. The statutory definition of gambling per Idaho law reads
“risking any money, credit, deposit or other thing of value for gain contingent in whole or in part upon lot, chance, the operation of a gambling device or the happening or outcome of an event, including a sporting event, the operation of casino gambling including, but not limited to, blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, bacarrat [sic] or keno” (Section 18-3801).
It is a misdemeanor to engage is such activity as a player (Section 18-3802).
Interestingly, Idaho has relatively few penalties (when compared to other states) for operating illegal gambling businesses. This may be a result of the lack of commercial casinos in the state.
While not a direct reference to the Internet, the Idaho constitution does forbid a class of game that would seem to include online casinos. Even if regulated, operators are not allowed to
“employ any electronic or electromechanical imitation or simulation of any form of casino gambling” (Section 20).
The complete Idaho gambling statutes can be accessed below. It’s always a good idea for everyone to know their state laws, especially if you’re involved in an activity the law is likely to address.
Will Idaho Legalize Online Poker Sites?
While players from Idaho would no doubt love to have a locally regulated online poker room available, it doesn’t look as if Idaho is interested is doing the legislative work that such a room might require.
There hasn’t been any real movement on the issue among Idaho lawmakers, but that doesn’t necessarily mean legal online poker in Idaho is an impossibility. For example, Idaho could easily decide to tag along with a neighboring state that regulates poker. We could also see a federal bill that offers revenue to states like Idaho – revenue that will be hard for cash-strapped Idaho to pass up. The point, however, is that Idaho doesn’t look as if they’re planning to take independent action to regulate online poker in the status quo.
Play Online Poker Responsibly in Idaho
Poker should always be an enjoyable and responsible activity. A healthy approach to gambling includes setting limits, managing your bankroll wisely, and ensuring that play remains fun and stress-free. Simple habits like tracking your time, taking breaks, and gambling only with what you can afford to lose help keep the experience positive.
If you ever feel that gambling is affecting your well-being, Idaho provides resources to support responsible gaming. Below are organizations that offer guidance, tools, and assistance to help you maintain a balanced and enjoyable gaming experience.
Idaho Council on Problem Gambling: Provides education, prevention programs, and referrals for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Visit idahocpg.orgor call (208) 378-6798 for confidential assistance.
National Problem Gambling Helpline: A 24/7 confidential support line for individuals and families affected by gambling issues. Call 1-800-522-4700 or visit ncpgambling.org for live chat and additional resources.
Gamblers Anonymous Idaho: Offers peer support meetings and self-help programs for those recovering from gambling addiction. Find a local meeting at gamblersanonymous.org.
Self-Exclusion and Gambling Blockers: While Idaho does not have a formal self-exclusion program for online poker, players can use tools like Gamban or BetBlocker to restrict access to gambling websites.
Poker Players From Idaho
While Idaho may not have a large poker scene, a few skilled individuals have made a mark in the game. Despite the state's strict gambling laws, these players have competed in major tournaments, earning impressive winnings. This table highlights notable poker players from Idaho and their total earnings.
Player Name
Total Live Earnings
Mike Allis
$1,032,461
Victorino Torres
$586,659
Mike Kinney
$1,155,805
Walter Browne
$271,533
Chad Wassmuth
$863,361
Online Poker and Idaho
While Idaho’s laws limit traditional poker opportunities, offshore platforms continue to give players a way to enjoy real games online — safely and securely.
We've highlighted the top poker sites that accept Idaho players, each with its own strengths — whether you're into low-stakes sit & gos or chasing big tournament guarantees.
Take a few minutes to explore your options, compare bonuses, and find the platform that fits your playing style. Once you're ready, claiming your seat at the table is just a few clicks away.
Jennifer Newell is a freelance writer at LegalUsPokerSites. She has two decades of experience in the iGaming industry. She is a respected poker media member, contributing to publications and websites like USA Today, PokerStars, and PokerScout. Her knowledge spans gambling legislation and the broader online gaming world. She has spent years advocating for diversity, most notably gender equity in the traditionally male-dominated poker sphere.
Sources & Citations For This Article on Idaho Online Poker
