TL;DR: Idaho Sports Betting Quick Facts
- Legal status: Online and retail sports betting are both illegal
- Legislative attempts since 2018: Zero bills proposed
- Legal alternatives: Horse racing and seven tribal casinos
- Daily Fantasy Sports: Banned since May 2016
- Constitutional barrier: 1992 amendment deems gambling “contrary to public policy”
- Current landscape: Constitutional prohibition, lack of legislative interest, and concerns about consumer financial harm prevent serious talks about legalization
Top Idaho Sportsbook Recommendations
While Idaho doesn’t have legal in-state sports betting, these five sportsbooks accept Idaho players and have established reputations in the industry:
- BetOnline: Best overall for Idaho bettors
- Bovada: Best for crypto users
- BookMaker: The professional’s choice for betting
- Everygame: Longest operating history
- MyBookie: Best mobile experience
*This site contains commercial content, and OddsTrader may be compensated for the links provided on this site.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Idaho?
Let’s be crystal clear: sports betting is currently illegal in Idaho. There are no regulated sportsbooks operating within state borders. Idaho’s constitution specifically prohibits most forms of gambling, having been amended in 1992 to declare gambling “contrary to public policy.” The only exceptions are the state lottery, pari-mutuel betting on horse racing, and charitable gaming.
While Idaho doesn’t regulate sports betting, numerous offshore sportsbooks accept players from the Gem State. These are companies licensed in jurisdictions like Curaçao, Costa Rica, or Panama that operate outside U.S. regulatory frameworks. They’ve been serving American bettors for decades, long before states started legalizing sports wagering.
International vs Regulated Sportsbooks
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As it stands currently, the international route is your only option if you want to bet on sports while physically in Idaho. You won’t find DraftKings, FanDuel, or other U.S.-licensed books available in the state.
So Can You Bet on Sports in Idaho?
Yes, but here’s the honest truth: international sports betting carries risks that state-regulated books don’t have. You won’t have the same consumer protections, payment processing can be more complicated, and you’re operating in a legal gray area.
So we can’t make this decision for you, but here are some factors to consider:
- Idaho law prohibits sports wagering, but there’s no law targeting individual bettors.
- The betting sites we recommend have established track records and pay winners.
- You can always just travel to a neighboring state. Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming all have legal sports betting options.
That said, millions of Americans bet with these sportsbooks every year without issues. The key is sticking with established, reputable operators like the ones we’ve recommended. These books have processed billions in wagers over decades and have built their businesses on paying customers promptly.
You might consider offshore betting if:
- You’re comfortable with the legal gray area
- You understand and accept the risks
- You want to bet on sports without traveling to a neighboring state
- You’re looking for better odds and bonuses than regulated books offer
- You’re willing to use cryptocurrency for faster, more secure transactions
You might want to skip it if:
- You’re uncomfortable with any legal risk, however small
- You prefer the peace of mind of regulatory oversight
- You want to avoid the hassle of crypto
- You’re prone to problem gambling and need the responsible gaming tools state-regulated books provide
How to Bet on Sports in Idaho
Follow these steps to get started sports betting online:
- Pick a trusted online sportsbook that accepts players from Idaho.
- Go to the operator’s website and click on the button labeled “Register” or “Create Account.”
- Fill out the registration form with your personal information (typically your full name, email, and contact number).
- Choose to receive any welcome bonus or sign-up promotion offered to new users.
- Make your first deposit using an approved payment method.
- Verify that the bonus funds or any free play credits have been added to your account.
- Explore the available markets, including different sports, events, and bet types, and go ahead with your initial bet.
- Review all bonus terms carefully, including any playthrough requirements and expiration timelines, to avoid missing out on potential rewards.
Safe Betting Checklist for Non-legal States
Sports betting isn’t regulated in Idaho, which means players don’t have the same consumer protections found in legal U.S. states. If you choose to use an international sportsbook, it’s important to understand the risks and verify certain safeguards before placing a wager.
- Verify the sportsbook’s license (even if it’s not U.S.-based).
- Look for public payout history and independent reviews.
- Understand banking and withdrawal expectations.
- Know what to do if there’s a dispute.
- Set personal limits and use responsible gambling tools.
Be sure to protect yourself when betting online. Check out these simple tips to help mitigate risk:
- Use only OddsTrader-recommended operators.
- Start small and test withdrawals first.
- Use cryptocurrency for faster, more reliable transactions.
- Never leave large balances. Withdraw profits regularly.
- Diversify across 2-3 books.
And lastly, here are some red flags to avoid when choosing a new Texas sports betting site:
- Lack of HTTPS: If a site isn’t secure, it’s a big red flag.
- Vague terms & conditions: Ambiguity can lead to problems down the line.
- Poor customer support: Customer service should be front and center, responsive, and helpful.
- Unclear payout structures: If payout rules and timelines aren’t transparent, be wary.
Deep Diving Idaho’s Best Sportsbooks
1. BetOnline: Best Overall for Idaho Bettors
BetOnline has been in operation since 2001 and has established itself as one of the most trusted names in online betting. For Idaho players, it offers the best all-around experience. We recommend it because BetOnline strikes the perfect balance between generous bonuses, competitive odds, and reliable payouts.
Welcome Bonus: 50% deposit match up to $250 in free bets
2. Bovada: Best for Crypto Users
Bovada launched in 2011 and quickly became one of the most popular sportsbooks for American bettors. They’ve built a reputation for fast payouts and a clean, user-friendly interface. Bovada is particularly strong for cryptocurrency users, offering enhanced bonuses and faster withdrawal times for Bitcoin and other crypto deposits.
Welcome Bonus: Bovada offers two welcome bonuses depending on how you fund your account.
- Crypto deposit: 75% match of up to $750 for first deposits via Bitcoin
- Credit card deposit: 50% deposit match worth up to $250 for first deposits of at least $20
3. BookMaker: The Professional’s Choice for Betting
BookMaker has been operating online since 1996, making it one of the longest-standing sportsbooks available. Its betting lines tend to set the standard for other South Carolina betting sites and it offers sky-high betting limits, so sharp bettors will thrive here.
Welcome Bonus: BookMaker offers two welcome offers and it will be up to you to determine which better suits your betting style.
- 25% cash promo when depositing with credit card
- 100% free play bonus up to $400
4. Everygame: Longest Operating History
Everygame (formerly Intertops) placed the first legal online sports wager in 1996, making it the grandfather of online sports betting. They’ve been in business since 1983. Everygame’s longevity speaks volumes about their reliability and trustworthiness. They’re not the flashiest book, but they’re solid, dependable, and have never missed a payout in over 40 years.
Welcome Bonus: Everygame also offers two welcome bonuses depending on how you fund your account.
- 100% deposit match up to $500 for first deposits via credit/debit card
- 50% deposit match up to $1,000 for first deposits via crypto
5. MyBookie: Best Mobile Experience
MyBookie launched in 2014, making it the youngest book on our list, but they’ve quickly made a name for themselves with a focus on mobile betting and modern features. MyBookie was built with mobile-first design principles, resulting in one of the smoothest betting experiences on smartphones. They’ve embraced technology and modern betting trends better than some older competitors.
Welcome Bonus: 100% free play bonus up to $1,000
Comparing Idaho Sportsbooks Side-by-Side
| BetOnline | Bovada | BookMaker | Everygame | MyBookie | |
| Years Operating | 24+ | 14+ | 30+ | 40+ | 8+ |
| Payment Speed | 1-24 hrs (crypto) | 1-24 hrs (crypto) | 1-2 business days | 1-2 business days | 1-24 hrs (crypto) |
| Welcome Bonus | 50% deposit match | 75% deposit match on Bitcoin OR 50% deposit match on credit/cash | 25% cash promo OR 100% free play bonus | 100% deposit match up on credit/debit cards OR 50% deposit match on crypto | 100% free play bonus |
| Sports Leagues | 25+ | 25+ | 25+ | 25+ | 25+ |
| Products | Sports Casino Poker Racebook | Sports Casino Poker Racebook | Sports Casino | Sports Casino Poker Racebook | Sports Casino Racebook |
| Usability | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Good | Very Good |
Understanding Idaho’s Gambling Laws
Idaho has some of the strictest gambling laws in the United States, rooted in a constitutional amendment passed in 1992. Article III, Section 20 of the Idaho Constitution specifically declares that “gambling is contrary to public policy and is strictly prohibited”. This constitutional language creates a significant legal barrier to any gambling expansion, including sports betting.
Despite the strict gambling laws, some forms of wagering are permitted:
- Horse Racing: Pari-mutuel betting on horse races is legal at licensed facilities.
- Tribal Casinos: Seven tribal casinos operate in Idaho under federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) provisions.
- State Lottery: The Idaho Lottery offers draw games, scratch tickets, and participates in multi-state games like Powerball and Mega Millions.
- Charitable Gaming: Non-profit organizations can conduct raffles, bingo, and other small-stakes gambling under specific conditions.
Why Idaho Hasn’t Legalized Sports Betting
Idaho stands out as one of the few states that hasn’t even seriously considered sports betting legalization since the 2018 PASPA repeal. There are several reasons for this.
- Constitutional barriers
- Lack of legislative interest
- Conservative political culture
- Concerns about consumer harm
- Small market size
- No organized pro-legalization lobbying
Start Your Idaho Sports Betting Experience Today
Sports betting in Idaho exists in a legal gray area that requires careful consideration. While international sportsbooks provide access to betting markets on everything from Boise State football to the NFL, they come without the regulatory protections of state-licensed operators.
If you choose to bet with these books, stick with established, reputable operators like the ones we’ve recommended. Keep detailed records for tax purposes. Set limits and stick to them. And most importantly, understand what you’re getting into.
Offshore betting isn’t for everyone, and there’s no shame in deciding the risks aren’t worth it for you. The decision should be based on your personal comfort level, risk tolerance, and gambling habits.
Idaho Sports Betting FAQs
Is sports betting legal in Idaho?
Is sports betting legal in Idaho?
No, sports betting is illegal in Idaho. The state constitution, amended in 1992, specifically prohibits gambling with limited exceptions for the state lottery, pari-mutuel horse racing, and charitable gaming.
Can I use DraftKings or FanDuel in Idaho?
Can I use DraftKings or FanDuel in Idaho?
No. DraftKings and FanDuel do not accept customers from Idaho. Additionally, both companies previously offered daily fantasy sports in Idaho but ceased operations in 2016 after the state Attorney General declared DFS illegal.
Are offshore sportsbooks safe?
Are offshore sportsbooks safe?
Reputable international sportsbooks with long operating histories have established track records of paying customers and maintaining secure platforms. However, they lack the regulatory oversight of state-licensed books, which means you have limited legal recourse if problems arise.
Do I have to pay taxes on online betting winnings?
Do I have to pay taxes on online betting winnings?
Yes. Regardless of where you place your bets, gambling winnings are taxable income under federal law. The IRS requires you to report all gambling winnings on your tax return, whether from retail or online sources. International sportsbooks won’t withhold taxes or send you a W-2G form, so you’re responsible for tracking and reporting your winnings and losses.
Why is daily fantasy sports banned in Idaho?
Why is daily fantasy sports banned in Idaho?
In May 2016, Idaho Attorney General Lawrence Wasden issued a legal opinion determining that daily fantasy sports constituted illegal gambling under Idaho law. He concluded that DFS didn’t qualify for the exemption for games of skill because the element of chance played a substantial role.
Can I bet on Boise State games?
Can I bet on Boise State games?
Yes, the offshore sportsbooks we’ve recommended offer betting lines on Boise State Broncos football and basketball games. College football is actually one of the most popular betting markets.
What’s the legal gambling age in Idaho?
What’s the legal gambling age in Idaho?
The legal gambling age in Idaho is 18 for lottery and tribal casino gaming. For online sportsbooks, operators typically require users to be 18 or 21 depending on the jurisdiction and company policy.
Can I bet on horse racing in Idaho?
Can I bet on horse racing in Idaho?
Yes! Pari-mutuel betting on horse racing is legal in Idaho. This is one of the few forms of legal wagering available to Idaho residents within the state.
Which states near Idaho have legal sports betting?
Which states near Idaho have legal sports betting?
Will Idaho ever legalize sports betting?
Will Idaho ever legalize sports betting?
The outlook for Idaho legalizing sports betting in the near future is not promising. The constitutional prohibition on gambling creates a high barrier requiring a constitutional amendment, zero legislative bills have been proposed since 2018, and there’s no organized lobbying effort pushing for legalization. Additionally, Idaho’s conservative political culture generally opposes gambling expansion.
