Idaho

Idaho does not have legal sports betting — and probably won’t have it anytime soon. But that’s not to say Idaho residents or visitors can’t get action within state borders.

See, there are options to wager on sports, and we’re about to tell you them in this guide. You’ll be surprised to learn just how easy it is to lay down some money on sports too so don’t go anywhere just yet.

Quick Idaho Facts

StateIdaho
⚖️ Sports Betting Laws❌Not Available
👫 Population2 Million
👶 Minimum Gambling Age18 Years Old
🏙️ Retail Sports Betting❌Not Available
🌐 Online Sports Betting❌Not Available
📱 Mobile Sports Betting❌Not Available
🐎 Online Horse Betting❌Not Available
🏆 DFS❌Not Available
Last updated on: December 2, 2024

Is Sports Betting Legal In Idaho?

When the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2018, sports betting was legalized at the federal level. This allowed individual states to decide if they wanted betting of some kind. Welp, Idaho has effectively said no. Amazingly, there’s been zero bills trying to legalize betting in Idaho. Zero!

Twelve states remain without sports betting, including Idaho. But most of them have at least tried to pass a bill. Not Idaho and not neighboring Utah though. That might not be a coincidence though. Both states have a strong presence of Latter-Day Saints (often called Mormons). The church is very, very against betting.

That’s why we reccomend just betting offshore if you’re in Idaho. It’s the only way to bet now — and for the foreseeable future. We won’t anticipate Idaho ever legalizing on their own accord so it's best to go offshore. Keep reading cause we’ll explain how to do this safely.

Latest Idaho Legal Betting Updates

Nov 19, 2024 11:41 AM

With no movement regarding sports betting laws, sports fans in Idaho must remain optimistic for the future of Idaho sports betting. For now, they have a wealth of offshore bookmakers to choose from for their favorite sports leagues and events!

Idaho Sports Betting Timeline

Honestly, there's not much of a timeline here because Idaho hasn't really tried to legalize. But here's a tiny snapshot of events over the years:

2002-2024

February 12, 2024 - Sports betting lobbyists aren’t very hopeful for change this year, though there are a few rumblings in the state that 2025 may be the year.

January 2023 - Idaho State Congress had no plans to discuss sports betting during this year’s legislative meetings. This further solidifies the state’s lack of initiative towards legalizing sports betting.

June 2022 - While other states have moved quickly to take advantage of the revenue opportunities that sports wagering can bring, Idaho hasn’t even flinched.

May 2018 - U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow individual states to offer legal sports betting in Idaho, with the aim of pursuing the bill the following year in court.

January 2002 - In 2002, they began installing video gaming machines that dispensed cash-out tickets in their casinos.

Best Sportsbooks In Each Category in Idaho

Best overallBetUS
Best bonusesBetUS
Most unique bonusesBetNow
Top VIP programMyBookie
Best reputationBovada
Best sportsbookBetOnline
Best casinoEverygame
Best mobile appXBet
Best for live bettingEverygame
Best for new playersBovada
Best up-and-coming sportsbookXBet
Last updated on: December 2, 2024

Top 7 Idaho Sports Betting Sites

Hundreds of offshore betting sites exist. Hundreds! But only a select few are worth your time and money. Allow us to bring attention to our seven favorite sportsbooks for Idaho bettors:

  1. BetUS - Extensive range of betting bonuses that pay big time.
  2. Bovada - User-friendly interface and reliable mobile betting experience.
  3. BetOnline - Competitive odds and early line releases.
  4. XBet - Really top-notch mobile betting app.
  5. BetNow - Generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions for regular players.
  6. Everygame - Long-standing reputation and multi-language support for international bettors.
  7. MyBookie - Innovative rewards program for long-term betting.

#1 BetUS

BetUS Website Preview
Our score: 4.2/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on BetUS
Pros
Lucrative promotions
Stacked betting menu
Cons
7-day expiration period on free play
High rollover requirements
BetUS secures the top spot on this list for one simple reason — the free-play potential. It blows everything out of the market. If you’re looking to get the most out of your betting experience without constantly dipping into your own pocket, BetUS is where you NEED to be. Right from the start, the sign-up bonus at BetUS is something special. You’re looking at up to $3,125 in free play, and if you use crypto for your deposit, that number can jump to $5,000. At competing sites, you’re lucky to get $1000 off this deal, little less 3X and 5X that value. Money like this helps minimize some of the risks that come with betting so it’s actually a smart strategy to rack up as much free play as possible. That’s just an appetizer though because BetUS deals don’t stop once you’re inside the platform. There are simply too many to name here but one of our favorites is also the refer-a-friend bonus. It actually has the most free-play value at a whopping $6,000. Plus, there’s even a raffle tied to it, offering prizes like Super Bowl tickets, an Apple Vision Pro, and more. All this money goes a long way in the BetUS platform too. That’s because the betting menu is jam-packed. Sportsbooks suck up all the attention, but the BetUS casino and racebook are worth a deep look too. Across all the platforms, the free-play potential just never stops. In short, BetUS is a powerhouse when it comes to free-play bonuses. If you’re in Idaho and want to maximize your betting potential, BetUS is option number one.

#2 Bovada

Bovada Website Preview
Our score: 4.3/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on Bovada
Pros
Reliable platform
Deep sportsbook selection
Cons
Sportsbook deals aren't lucrative at all
We get it — when you hear “offshore,” you might raise an eyebrow and think, “Is this legit?” Well, let’s put those worries to rest right now. If you’re betting on a site like Bovada, you’re in more than safe hands. This trusty platform has roots in the early 2010s, predating sites like DraftKings, and has built a stellar reputation over the years. That’s why Bovada is one of the most used offshore betting sites out there. But it’s not just their trustworthiness that sets Bovada apart. The site itself is a joy to use. The layout is clean, the navigation is smooth, and finding your bet is as easy as it gets. Bovada keeps things simple and straightforward, which is exactly what Idaho bettors should want. Don’t be enticed by gimmicks, betting should be priority number one. It certainly is as Bovada. And let’s talk options. Bovada doesn’t just stick to the basics. Sure, they’ve got all the major sports covered — football, basketball, baseball — but they also dive deep into niche markets like eSports and international soccer. This variety ensures that you’ll never be bored on-site. Oh, and don’t sleep on Bovada’s casino. It might not get as much attention as the sportsbook, but it’s packed with games that are just as exciting. Whether you’re switching things up between sports bets or just looking for some extra fun, Bovada’s casino has got you covered on all fronts. For Idaho-based bettors, Bovada is the total package — trustworthy, user-friendly, and overflowing with betting options. It’s hard to find a better all-around choice stateside.

#3 BetOnline

BetOnline Website Preview
Our score: 4/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on BetOnline
Pros
Post odds fast
Massive sportsbook selection
Cons
Sportsbook deal pays peanuts
To end up on this list, having a deep sportsbook was non-negotiable. But even then, BetOnline more than over-delivered on that. This platform arguably has the most extensive selection of sports bets out there, and that’s saying something in this competitive industry. Naturally, the biggest sports like football and basketball dominate the offerings, but BetOnline doesn’t stop there. This sportsbook literally has it all — from cricket to cycling to snooker and a whole lot of other random stuff. There is seriously something for everyone inside the sportsbook. These vast options also trickle down into different bet types. Moneylines, props, or futures — BetOnline has you covered. In particular, the site’s Super Bowl prop bets are the cream of the crop. Only offshore sites like BetOnline offer bets on weird outcomes like the Gatorade shower. One more thing that makes BetOnline a top choice for Idaho bettors is how quickly they get their lines up. If you’re the type who likes to get in early before the odds shift (typically smart strategy), BetOnline is perfect. They’re known for posting odds almost immediately after games end, giving you a crucial edge to lock in your bets before the lines mature. BetOnline’s sportsbook is unmatched in its breadth and speed. Idaho bettors won’t miss a beat with BetOnline. Not one!

#4 XBet

Xbet Website Preview
Our score: 4/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on Xbet
Pros
Excellent mobile app
Good in-play feature
Cons
Bonuses and contests are too plain
XBet is an ideal match for Idaho bettors who live life on the go and need to bet whenever and wherever. We truly believe XBet has built a second-to-none mobile experience that meets bettors exactly where they are — on their phones. The first thing you’ll notice about XBet’s mobile site is how polished it is. While some competitors still have that clunky, outdated feel, XBet is the complete opposite — sleek, modern, and designed with functionality in mind. Navigating through the app is a cake walk —whether you’re checking out the latest odds or placing a casino bet, everything is right where you expect it to be. We’d venture to guess even first-timers could pick up the XBet app right away. Plus, there are zero extra apps to download here. You can access everything directly through your mobile browser, and the site automatically adjusts to fit your screen perfectly. No need to clutter up your phone with another app. Simple and easy, which means you’ll be placing bets in no time. The last thing we’ll say about XBet is they are truly on the bleeding edge. This is a quality you want out of a sportsbook. One thing is always for certain: this industry will change. And when it does, you can count on XBet to be ahead of the curve.

#5 BetNow

BetNow Website Preview
Our score: 4.2/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on BetNow
Pros
Tons of promotions
Rare sportsbook rebate
Cons
Casino section could use more games
BetNow offers a full range of betting options, from sports and casino games to racebook action. This makes it a perfect all-in-one platform, living up to its BetNow moniker. But what really sets BetNow apart are the promotions they offer. While they’re not out there trying to top BetUS with gigantic bonuses, BetNow does something just as cool: they give you a ton of options to choose from. We’re talking four different welcome bonuses, three reload deals, and three rebate programs currently on the table. As a bettor, options are almost always good. Options just bring flexibility into the equation. Say you’re a “high roller”, there are certain bonuses that’ll appeal to you that a complete newbie wouldn’t sniff — and vice-versa. BetNow innately understands that one size doesn’t fit all, hence the optionally. But take a stab at the most standout bonus? A one-of-a-kind sportsbook rebate. That’s right, a 2-percent refund on sportsbook losses is something you just don’t see elsewhere. We’ve reviewed hundreds of betting sites and never seen it once. We can’t say we get shocked a lot by this industry, but this unique deal is a true stunner. BetNow is a killer option for Idaho bettors that want, well, options themselves. This platform doesn’t shoehorn all bettors into one group — they recognize each is different, and then cater to those differences.

#6 Everygame

EveryGame Website Preview
Our score: 3.8/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on EveryGame
Pros
Excellent live betting feature
Long-standing history in the industry
Cons
Outdated-looking design
Bonuses are nothing to write home about
Everygame might not be the flashiest name in the industry, but that doesn’t mean it has a lot to offer. That’s in large part due to its history. This bookie was one-time called Intertops and if you factor in that history, it’s one of the industry O.G.’s in a sense. There’s a lot of wisdom when you’re in that territory. Where Everygame shines the most is in its in-play system. As more bettors jump into the excitement of betting in real time, Everygame is in a position to accommodate them. Here, the odds keep pace with the real-time flow of the game strikingly well. This is most noticeable in a sport like basketball where scoring (and line changes) are more frequent. Everygame’s ability to keep pace with live games ensures Idaho bettors are right in the thick of the action without any frustrating lags. If you’re a soccer fan, Everygame is your playground. With its deep European roots, this platform knows its way around the world’s most popular sport. Whether you’re betting on the global stage like the World Cup or digging into the action of leagues such as the Premier League, Serie A, or La Liga, Everygame has you covered all around. Everygame is on the rise, especially as live betting continues to grow in popularity. Don’t be surprised when we re-do these rankings in a few years and Everygame is higher on this list — the trajectory is up.

#7 MyBookie

MyBookie Website Preview
Our score: 4.1/5
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Play now on MyBookie
Pros
VIP rewards program
One-stop shop for betting
Cons
Invite needed to join rewards program
For bettors who like to dabble across different sites — sportsbook, casino, poker, and so on —MyBookie might just be the all-in-one solution you didn’t know you needed. This platform excels in offering a full range of betting options so users are always on the cusp of action. But what really sets MyBookie apart isn’t just the limitless options, it’s how they reward your loyalty. Unlike platforms that give you a one-time bonus that doesn’t last, MyBookie is all about rewarding you for the long haul via its VIP program. Every wager you place, whether it’s on the blackjack table or an NFL parlay, earns you points that can be converted into free play. And the best part? There’s no ceiling on how much you can earn — just keep betting and watch the rewards stack up. You kill what you eat, as they say. But here’s the interesting thing: MyBookie’s rewards program isn’t open to everybody. No, you have to be invited in to earn rewards. It might feel like a bummer if you’re not in yet, but for those who are, it means richer rewards and more personal perks. The smaller the crowd, the bigger the slice of the pie. We only recommend MyBookie to serious Idaho bettors. That’s the only way you’re ever going to get into the VIP program — by betting seriously for a period of time. And it’s this rewards program where the most value lies if you can stuck with it.

Where Are Sportsbooks Like Fanduel, DraftKings, Caesars?

None of these licensed apps have a license to operate in Idaho because it’s illegal. And given there’s been zero progress to ever legalize, we wouldn’t bank on these platforms showing up stateside anytime soon.

Idaho bettors have one option really — use an offshore betting site. Because they are offshore, Idaho rules don’t really apply to them. And as long as you stick to the sites we suggested, you’ll be in good hands with them.

Betting On Politics, Esports, Entertainment In Idaho

Let’s say Idaho sports betting became legal one day — a big if at this point but let’s pretend anyway. It would be heavily regulated to the point where bets on non-sports wouldn’t be allowed. Politics, esports, and entertainment (e.g. outcomes on award shows or WWE) would be in the non-sport category.

Know who doesn’t have those same restrictions? That’s right, offshore betting sites. All these non-sports bets can ONLY be made on offshore bookies. So head there if you want to lay money on the next U.S. presidential election which feels like a sporting contest in its own right.

Betting Apps In Idaho

Betting apps are probably the number-one way to bet these days. Unless the world stops using their phone all of a sudden, this is likely to continue. Knowing this, we’ve created a guide to betting apps. You’ll want to read this four our advice on choosing the best apps to gamble on the go!

Start Betting In Idaho Today — Our Guides

It’s one thing to bet, but it’s a whole other thing to win at betting. If you’re dead serious about betting a successful bettor, then you need to read the following guides inside and out:

Payment Methods Available For Idaho Sportsbooks

It’s not hard to get money into (or out) an offshore betting site. All of them support the popular payment methods such as these:

  • VISA — the co-most popular card accepted on betting sites.
  • Mastercard — the other co-most popular card across the betting landscape.
  • Bitcoin — the payment method that'll earn you the most free play.
  • Bank wire — the tried-and-true payment method.

Another advantage offshore sites have over non-offshore bookies is support for crypto. Regulated platforms can’t accept it even in states where betting is legal. But at offshore sites, the use of crypto is incentivized with special bonuses that usually pay the most.

Idaho Casinos & Resorts

There are six Native American tribal casinos in the state of Idaho. They are spread out around the state too, but here are the options:

Bannock Peak Casino is located in Arbon Valley, Idaho, and is owned by the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. They have over 60 slot machines available and an adjacent truck stop.

Coeur d’Alene Casino is located in Kootenai County, Idaho, offering 24-hour gambling, six restaurants, the largest day spa in the Northwest, a top-rated golf course, and 302 hotel rooms. They went through a $12 million upgrade recently in 2019, adding high limit game rooms, and an expanded event and entertainment center. Their gaming floor is 60,000 square feet, holding 1,600 video gaming machines and high stakes bingo.

Clearwater Casino is located in Nez Perce County, Idaho, and just received a huge makeover in 2013, costing over $16 million in expansions and adding an entertainment and event center. They have over 400 slot machines in their 20,000 square foot venue and also host Bingo games. Visitors can stay at their hotel or RV park on-site.

It's Ye Ye Bingo & Casino is located in Lewis County, Idaho, and is one of the smaller casinos in the state. They are open 24 hours and boast 110 video gaming machines and a cafe located within the casino.

The Best Western Kootenai River Inn and casino in Boundary County, Idaho is open 24 hours daily, and has a 30,000 square foot casino floor, with 500 gaming machines, and three casino rooms, with the largest having 241 video gaming machines, another with 185 gaming machines and a nonsmoking room with 79 gaming machines. They also have a Bingo room, Restaurants, and a spa!

Sage Hill Travel Center & Casino is located in Fort Hall, Idaho, and is the newest of the three casinos operated by the Shoshone-Bannock tribes. They’re open 24 hours from Friday to Saturday and have over 100 video gaming machines.

History Of Idaho Legalization Efforts

Idaho has never really considered strongly the legalization of sports betting. Without any major sports teams, there seems to be little appetite in the state. You basically have to use offshore sportsbooks to gamble if you are in or reside in Idaho. Anyways, here's a small summary of just how little has happened here on the betting from:

Post-2018: Not Moved by the PASPA Decision

Even the Supreme Court cannot move minds in Idaho. Although the federal ban on sports betting outside of Nevada was struck down, no significant push has happened in the Idaho state legislature. In fact, even the devastating impacts of COVID on the state's budget could not make the state seriously consider legalizing sports betting.

Betting On Idaho Sports Teams

There are no professional-level teams in Idaho. However, the Boise State collegiate program is the closest thing to pro sports the state has.

The Boise State Broncos are simply the pride and joy of the state. Their college football games are always well-attended in their 37,000-seat stadium, and rightfully so.

The Broncos’ college basketball team plays second fiddle to the football team, but over the past decade, they’ve been improving and climbing the ranks and reaching March Madness.

idaho betting odds

Other Types Of Betting In Idaho

There are a couple of casinos inside the state of Idaho. These are all Native American-owned casinos though as they’re the lone ones allowed to offer betting.

Horse racing is also allowed in Idaho. It’s a popular activity inside the state, and yes, it’s bet-able at the local tracks.

Idaho also has a fully legal lottery system too. Head to any convenience store to pick up Powerball tickets or even scratch-off instant win cards.

Surpassingly, Idaho bans daily fantasy sports (DFS) betting. It’s one of the few states that sees DFS as a game of chance — not skill. It’s a bit of a weird decision given Idaho allows other forms of gambling quite freely.

Sports Betting Rules In Each State

We have complete state-by-state breakdowns of betting in America. Here's a comprehensive list of guides we have:

Find the full list of states with legalized gambling in the US.

Responsible Gaming In Idaho

Last but not least, we urge all Idaho bettors to stay responsible. This means maintaining a healthy relationship with betting — one that rarely ever leads to stress or anxiety (besides the occasional bet you have to sweat out). Sounds obvious, right? Well, it’s not always so easy. If you ever exhibit any of the following signs, you could be heading on the wrong track betting-wise:

  • Chasing losses: Continuously betting more to recover previous losses.
  • Betting beyond means: Spending more money on betting than originally planned or affordable.
  • Neglecting responsibilities: Ignoring work, family, or social obligations due to gambling.
  • Increased secrecy: Hiding betting activities from friends or family.
  • Borrowing money: Taking out loans or borrowing money to fund gambling.

This is not a comprehensive list, but just the most common red flags we see in bettors. If you catch yourself even doing one, it might be time to push pause and recollect yourself.

Moreover, we’ve gathered some resources below in case you feel your relationship with gambling does steer in the wrong path:

Gamble Aware (https://www.gambleaware.org/)

A non-profit organization providing resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.

International Center for Responsible Gaming (https://www.icrg.org/)

The International Center for Responsible Gaming (CRG) is a research institution dedicated to promoting safe gambling practices and addressing gambling-related issues.

24/7 Gambling Support Line (https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/about-the-national-problem-gambling-helpline/)

A round-the-clock helpline offering immediate assistance and guidance for those experiencing gambling-related problems.

Resources based in Idaho:

Idaho Problem Gambling Hotline

A 24/7 confidential helpline (1-800-522-4700) offering support, information, and treatment referrals for individuals struggling with problem gambling in Idaho.

Idaho Department of Health and Welfare – Gambling Addiction Resources (https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Provides access to counseling, treatment services, and support for individuals and families impacted by gambling addiction in Idaho.

Gamblers Anonymous (https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/)

While this is a national association, they do hold local meetings throughout Idaho.