Is Sports Betting Legal in Idaho?

Is sports betting legal in Idaho?

No. Idaho does not allow sports betting in any form. The state constitution prohibits gambling apart from a short list of exceptions: the state lottery, pari-mutuel betting on horse racing, and charitable bingo and raffles. Sports wagering is not on that list, and there are no licensed sportsbooks, retail counters or mobile apps anywhere in Idaho.

Changing that would require a constitutional amendment, which needs a two-thirds vote in both chambers of the Legislature and then majority approval from voters. As of late 2026 there is no serious legislative effort to legalise sports betting in Boise.

Tribal casinos and why they do not take sports bets

Idaho does have tribal gaming, run by the Coeur d'Alene, Shoshone-Bannock, Nez Perce and Kootenai tribes, among others. However, their compacts and state law do not permit sports wagering, so you will not find sportsbooks at those casinos.

Idaho's legal limits are tight in other areas too. The Idaho Lottery sells draw games and scratch tickets, and pari-mutuel wagering is permitted on horse racing, including historical horse racing machines whose status has been the subject of repeated political fights. Lawmakers have shown little appetite for expanding gambling beyond those categories, and Idaho's political leadership has generally opposed broader gaming. Any change would most likely require a citizen-led push rather than legislative action.

Nearby states where betting is legal

Idaho is surrounded by states with legal options. You can open an account in a legal state and bet while physically there; apps rely on geolocation and will not accept wagers once you are back in Idaho.

Unregulated offshore sites are not a lawful alternative and offer no protection for your money or data.

• Wyoming: statewide mobile betting, including BetMGM.
• Oregon: statewide mobile betting.
• Montana: betting through the Montana Lottery at licensed locations.
• Washington: in-person betting at tribal casinos.
• Nevada: casino sportsbooks in Reno, Las Vegas and Jackpot.

Broncos, Vandals and responsible play

Idaho's sports passion centres on Boise State football and its famous blue turf, plus the University of Idaho Vandals. Boise State's rise from small programme to regular giant-killer has made the Broncos a popular betting side nationally, even though Idahoans themselves cannot bet on them at home. Fans following these teams on road trips to legal states should know their local limits and use the deposit tools offered by licensed sportsbooks. For confidential support, call 1-800-GAMBLER.