Idaho is known for many things – including terrific potatoes – but not sports betting.
Set in the Pacific Northwest with a population of 1.826million (2020 data), the locals don’t have that much to cheer for either when it comes to elite sports.
With the exception of college football’s Boise State Broncos, there are slim pickings for anybody looking to support a leading local team.
With the COVID-19 pandemic affecting budgets for all states, there remains the possibility that heavy deficits will have Idaho revisit their stance on sports betting.
Is sports betting legal in Idaho?
Sports betting is not legal in Idaho yet, and there is no real sign of that changing any time soon. There are no bills in progress, to open up sports betting in the state, or even look at the subject.
Idaho has a number of tribal casinos which could in theory offer sportsbooks, but the necessary legislation is not yet in the works. With some neighboring states already raking in tax dollars from legalized sports betting, maybe Idaho lawmakers will take the hint and realize they shouldn’t be missing out any longer.
Legal Sports Betting near Idaho
Sports betting in the U.S is about where you are right now, not where live. That means while Idaho is still closed, you can bet when you are on the move within legal states.
For now, your best options are as follows:
Nevada: The best option for out-of-state gambling is almost on your doorstep. A three-hour non-stop flight from Boise or a 10-hour road trip puts you on the Las Vegas Strip. Anywhere across the state line in Nevada, you can bet online or via mobile app. You must be 21 or older.
Montana: Sports Bet Montana runs a website and app which means you can bet, but only when on the property at one of the many licensed sites. You need to be aged 18 or over.
Oregon: Once in the state of Oregon you can bet using the state lottery-run Scoreboard app. You can also bet in person at select land-based casinos, but the app rules. Legal age is 21.
NB: Sports betting is effectively legal in the state of Washington, but is not live yet. And even when it is, it will come with big catches. Check out our Washington state guide for more info.
Are offshore sportsbooks legal in Idaho?
Despite their claims to the contrary, offshore sportsbooks are not legal in the United States.
States now have the power to make their own decisions on sports betting, but none of them license offshore books.
With that in mind, our advice is to avoid them at all costs. If you do sign up with them, you’re left with no protection if something goes wrong.