California is home to some of the biggest sports teams, most passionate fans, and a massive population ready to place bets. But when it comes to sports betting, things aren’t quite as simple—at least not yet.
If you’re new to the topic or just wondering how it all works, this complete beginner’s guide will break down everything you need to know about sports betting in California in 2025: what’s legal, what’s not, and what might be coming next.
1. Is Sports Betting Legal in California?
No, not yet. As of mid-2025, sports betting is not legal in California, either online or at physical locations.
In 2022, California voters rejected two separate ballot initiatives—Proposition 26 (for in-person betting at tribal casinos and racetracks) and Proposition 27 (for online sports betting). Since then, no new law has passed to legalize the activity.
What this means:
- You can’t legally bet on sports in California—online or in person.
- Offshore betting sites are risky and not recommended due to lack of regulation and security.
- Neighboring states like Nevada and Arizona do allow it, so some Californians travel to place legal bets.
2. Why Isn’t It Legal Yet?
The main reason is conflict between powerful interest groups:
- Tribal casinos want exclusive control of sports betting in California.
- Commercial operators like FanDuel and DraftKings want access to a huge online market.
- Cardrooms and horse tracks want in on the action, too.
Without consensus among these groups—and clear support from voters—legalization has stalled.
3. What Types of Sports Betting Would Be Offered if Legalized?
If California eventually legalizes sports betting, here’s what you can likely expect:
🏈 Betting Options:
- Moneyline bets (betting on who wins)
- Point spreads (betting on margin of victory)
- Over/under totals (betting on total points scored)
- Parlays, props, and live betting
📱 How You’d Bet:
- Online betting apps (like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM)
- Retail sportsbooks at tribal casinos or racetracks
- Possibly betting kiosks at stadiums or bars (if permitted)
4. Is It Safe to Bet on Sports Now?
Currently, no California-based sportsbook is legal, so any online betting site claiming to serve Californians is either offshore or operating illegally.
Here’s why that’s a problem:
- No consumer protection if something goes wrong
- Personal and financial information could be at risk
- Winnings may not be paid or taxed properly
Until California legalizes sports betting, it’s safest to avoid these platforms.
5. When Might Sports Betting Be Legal in California?
The earliest realistic opportunity is 2026, when a new ballot measure could be put in front of voters.
Efforts are already underway to create a proposal that balances tribal interests with the demand for online access. However, success will depend on clear messaging, compromise among stakeholders, and public support.
Until then, Californians can:
- Learn how sports betting works
- Use fantasy sports apps (which are legal)
- Watch developments for future legalization
6. Tips for Beginners (When It Does Become Legal)
If you’re preparing for the day betting becomes legal in California, here are a few tips to help you start responsibly:
✅ Set a budget: Only bet what you can afford to lose
✅ Learn the odds: Understand how payouts work
✅ Start small: Focus on simple bets like moneylines or point spreads
✅ Avoid emotional betting: Don’t bet just because you like a team
✅ Use trusted platforms: Stick to regulated sportsbooks with licenses
Final Thoughts
California is a sleeping giant when it comes to sports betting. The interest is there, the technology is ready, and the fan base is massive. But for now, the state is still figuring out how—and when—to bring legal betting to life.
As a beginner, this is the perfect time to learn the basics so that when sports betting finally arrives in California, you’ll be ready to bet smart, safe, and responsibly.
