Texas Sports Betting – How to Bet Today

Texas, renowned for its passionate sports culture and iconic teams, stands as one of the last major U.S. states without legalized sports betting. Despite the rapid expansion of regulated sports wagering across the country, the Lone Star State’s unique political landscape, constitutional barriers, and influential stakeholders have kept legal sports betting at bay. Yet, the appetite for betting among Texans is undeniable, with millions seeking alternative ways to engage with their favorite sports. This comprehensive guide explores the current legal status of sports betting in Texas as of December 2025, the legislative landscape, available betting options, the best sportsbooks and apps for Texans, and practical advice for betting online, reading odds, and wagering responsibly.

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The Legal Status of Sports Betting in Texas (December 2025)

Is Sports Betting Legal in Texas?

As of December 2025, sports betting remains illegal in Texas. The state’s constitution explicitly prohibits most forms of gambling, including both retail and online sports wagering. Despite multiple legislative attempts and growing public support, no bill has successfully navigated the complex path required to legalize sports betting in the state.

The Texas Legislature meets only in odd-numbered years, and the most recent 2025 session ended without passing any sports betting legislation. The next opportunity for meaningful legislative progress will not arise until 2027 at the earliest.

Key Legal Barriers

The primary obstacle is the Texas Constitution’s prohibition on gambling. Any expansion—including sports betting—requires a constitutional amendment. This process demands a two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate, followed by approval from a majority of Texas voters in a statewide referendum.

Political opposition, particularly in the state Senate led by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, has consistently blocked progress. The Texas Republican Party’s platform explicitly opposes gambling expansion, and recent elections have strengthened anti-gambling sentiment in the legislature.

Recent and Pending Legislation

2025 Legislative Session

Several bills were introduced in 2025, including:

HJR 134 (Harless): Proposed a constitutional amendment to legalize sports betting, allowing professional sports teams, golf organizations, and Class 1 racetracks to operate sportsbooks. The bill did not specify tax revenue allocation and excluded online sports betting from its final version.
HJR 137 (Geren): Sought to authorize casino gaming and sports wagering by general law, but remained in committee.
SJR 16 (Alvarado): Proposed destination-resort casinos and sports wagering, but failed to advance.

Despite support from the Texas House and influential sports franchises, all measures stalled in the Senate. The earliest possible legalization and launch of regulated sports betting is now projected for 2027 or later.

Political and Industry Stakeholders

Supporters: The Texas Sports Betting Alliance (including the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Astros, Dallas Mavericks), major sports betting operators (DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars), and former Governor Rick Perry have all advocated for legalization.
Opponents: Conservative lawmakers, religious groups, and some tribal gaming interests remain firmly opposed, citing concerns about addiction and social costs.

Public Opinion

Recent polls show that a majority of Texans support legal sports betting, with over 60% favoring online wagering and even higher support for destination resort casinos. However, legislative inertia and entrenched opposition continue to delay progress.

Tribal Gaming and the Texas Sports Betting Debate

Texas is home to three federally recognized tribes: the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe, and the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo. Their gaming operations are limited to Class II gaming (bingo-style games and electronic bingo), with only the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino in Eagle Pass offering a full casino experience.

Tribal Positions on Sports Betting

Many tribal gaming groups in Texas have expressed opposition to widespread commercial sports betting, fearing that national operators could undermine their limited gaming revenues. Some tribes have advocated for exclusive rights or partnerships if sports betting is legalized, while others remain cautious about any expansion that could threaten their sovereignty or existing compacts.

Tribal Casinos and Sports Betting

Currently, no tribal casino in Texas offers retail or online sports betting. However, neighboring New Mexico allows retail sportsbooks at tribal casinos, and some Texas tribes may seek similar arrangements if state law changes.

How Texans Can Legally Bet Today

With no state-regulated sportsbooks, Texans have turned to a variety of alternative betting options. Each comes with its own legal nuances, risks, and benefits.

1. Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)

DFS platforms such as DraftKings, FanDuel, Underdog, Sleeper, and PrizePicks are available to Texas residents. These platforms allow users to enter paid contests based on player performance, typically for a fee, and are widely considered legal under current Texas law, though their status remains somewhat ambiguous.

Eligibility: Most DFS sites require users to be 18+ (some 21+).
Popular DFS Apps in Texas: DraftKings Pick6, FanDuel Picks, Underdog Fantasy, PrizePicks, Sleeper, ParlayPlay.

DFS remains the most accessible and compliant way for Texans to have a financial stake in sports outcomes.

2. Social and Sweepstakes Sportsbooks

Social sportsbooks operate under sweepstakes laws, allowing users to make sports predictions using virtual currencies (such as coins or sweeps cash) that can be redeemed for cash prizes or gift cards. These platforms do not require real-money wagering and are legal in Texas.

Popular Social Sportsbooks in Texas:
- Rebet: Peer-to-peer social sportsbook with sweepstakes casino features.
- Fliff: Offers free-to-play and paid contests, with redeemable Fliff Cash.
- Thrillzz: Mobile-only, vibrant community, quick prize redemptions.
- Legendz: Extensive sports coverage, loyalty program, and daily rewards.
- Onyx Odds: Focuses on virtual currency-based predictions and live betting.
- ProphetX: Peer-to-peer exchange with custom odds and YES/NO props.
- Novig: Commission-free prediction market with market-based pricing.

These platforms are fully compliant with Texas law and provide a risk-free way to engage in sports predictions.

3. Prediction Markets

Prediction markets like Novig allow users to trade outcomes of sports events in a peer-to-peer format, often with no house margin or commission. These are legal in Texas as long as they do not operate as traditional sportsbooks.

4. Horse Racing

Pari-mutuel wagering is legal at Texas racetracks, including Lone Star Park, Sam Houston Race Park, and Retama Park. However, online horse betting is not permitted within Texas; all bets must be placed in person at the track.

5. Offshore Sportsbooks

Many Texans use offshore sportsbooks (such as Bovada, BetOnline, MyBookie, BetUS, Sportsbetting.ag, Xbet, and BetAnything) to place bets online. These sites are based outside the U.S. and operate in a legal gray area. While individual bettors are rarely prosecuted, these platforms are not regulated by Texas or U.S. authorities, and users have limited legal recourse in case of disputes.

Risks of Offshore Betting

Lack of Consumer Protections: No guarantee of fair payouts or dispute resolution.
Legal Uncertainty: While enforcement is rare, betting with offshore sites is technically illegal under Texas law.
Potential for Scams: Not all offshore sites are reputable; some may delay or refuse withdrawals.
Banking Issues: Transactions may be flagged or blocked by financial institutions.

6. Neighboring States with Legal Sports Betting

Texans can legally place bets by traveling to nearby states:

Louisiana: Mobile and retail sports betting available in most parishes.
Arkansas: Statewide mobile and retail betting via casino apps.
New Mexico: Retail sportsbooks at tribal casinos only; no statewide mobile betting.

Best Sportsbooks and Apps for Texas Residents

While regulated sportsbooks are not yet available in Texas, residents have access to a variety of platforms through DFS, social/sweepstakes models, and offshore sites. Below is an overview of the top options, their features, and what sets them apart.

Social and Sweepstakes Sportsbooks

Sportsbook	Key Features	Welcome Offer	Notable Pros	Notable Cons
Rebet	Peer-to-peer, social feed, sweepstakes casino	10,000 Rebet Coins + 1 Rebet Cash	Broad sports coverage, low redemption, community features	No loyalty scheme, mobile-only
Fliff	Free-to-play, paid contests, redeemable prizes	1,000 Fliff Coins + 1 Fliff Cash	Cash prizes, daily bonuses, wide sports	Minor sports not featured
Thrillzz	Mobile-only, live betting, squad challenges	3,000 Thrillzz Coins + 3 Sweeps	User-friendly, quick redemptions, vibrant community	No desktop access, limited support
Legendz	Loyalty program, 35+ sports, daily rewards	500 Gold Coins + 3 Sweeps Coins	Extensive sports, VIP program, social features	No mobile app, cluttered interface
Onyx Odds	Virtual currency, live betting, competitive odds	1,000 Onyx Coins + 25 Onyx Cash	Live betting, low redemption, social contests	No daily login bonus, limited acquisition
ProphetX	Peer-to-peer exchange, custom odds, YES/NO props	1.5% daily cashback, 20% match	Better odds, transparency, flexible redemptions	Focus on US leagues, limited international
Novig	Commission-free, market-based pricing	$25 deposit match	No vig, fast payouts, peer-to-peer	App/terms-dependent availability

These platforms are legal, accessible, and offer a social, engaging alternative to traditional sports betting.

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) and Pick’em Apps

Platform	Key Features	Welcome Offer	Notable Pros	Notable Cons
DraftKings Pick6	Peer-to-peer pick’em, player props	$50 in bonus credits with $5 entry	Trusted brand, wide props, skill-based	Limited to pick’em, not sportsbook
FanDuel Picks	Player props, pick’em contests	$50 bonus with $5 entry	User-friendly, high payouts, trusted	Not a sportsbook
Underdog Fantasy	Best ball drafts, pick’em, DFS contests	$75 in bonus entries with $5 play	Fast drafts, intuitive app, variety	Poor payment options, alerts
PrizePicks	Over/under player props, flex/power play	$50 promo funds with $5 entry	Clean interface, quick gameplay, variety	Strict max entry, slow payouts
Sleeper	DFS, pick’em, social chat integration	$20 after sign-up, 100% match	Social features, clean app, bonuses	Limited states, smaller payouts

DFS and pick’em apps are widely used by Texans seeking legal, skill-based sports engagement.

Offshore Sportsbooks

Sportsbook	Key Features	Welcome Offer	Notable Pros	Notable Cons
Bovada	All-around, mobile-optimized, deep props	75% Crypto Match up to $750	Fast payouts, broad markets, mobile	Offshore, not US-regulated
BetOnline	Early lines, fast payouts, crypto support	50% up to $1,000	Variety, sharp odds, banking options	Offshore, limited recourse
MyBookie	Generous bonuses, regular promos, support	50% up to $1,000	Frequent promos, customer support	Offshore, higher rollover
BetUS	In-depth analysis, expert picks, robust platform	125% up to $3,125	Expert content, variety, bonuses	Offshore, higher rollover
Sportsbetting.ag	Early lines, sharp odds, fast crypto payouts	Double Deposit up to $1,000	Fast payouts, sharp odds	Offshore, limited recourse
Xbet	Clean interface, quick crypto withdrawals	50% up to $500	Efficient, no-nonsense betting	Offshore, limited recourse

Note: Offshore sportsbooks are not regulated by Texas or U.S. authorities. Use at your own risk.

How to Bet Online from Texas: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose Your Platform

For legal compliance: Opt for DFS, social/sweepstakes sportsbooks, or prediction markets.
For broader markets: Offshore sportsbooks are available but carry legal and financial risks.

2. Sign Up and Verify Your Account

Download the app (if available) or visit the website.
Enter personal details: Name, email, phone, date of birth, and sometimes the last four digits of your SSN for identity verification.
Verify eligibility: Platforms use geolocation to confirm you are in Texas (for social/DFS apps) or outside the U.S. (for offshore sites).
Accept terms of service and set up two-factor authentication if available.

3. Claim Your Welcome Bonus

No-purchase bonuses: Many social sportsbooks offer free coins or sweeps cash upon registration.
Deposit bonuses: Offshore sportsbooks and some DFS apps match your first deposit or entry.

4. Fund Your Account

Payment methods: Credit/debit cards, e-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Venmo), bank transfers, prepaid cards, and cryptocurrencies are common.
Minimum deposit: Varies by platform, often $10–$20.

5. Place Your Bets or Entries

DFS/Pick’em: Select contests, draft lineups, or make player prop picks.
Social sportsbooks: Use virtual currency to make predictions on games, props, or futures.
Offshore sportsbooks: Browse markets, select bet types, and confirm your wager.

6. Withdraw Winnings

Redemption: Social sportsbooks require meeting playthrough requirements before redeeming sweeps cash for prizes.
Offshore sites: Withdrawals via crypto, bank transfer, or check; processing times and fees vary.

7. Use Responsible Gambling Tools

Set deposit, wager, or time limits.
Access self-exclusion or timeout features.
Contact support or helplines if needed.

How to Read Odds and Betting Basics

Understanding odds is crucial for making informed bets. U.S. sportsbooks typically use American odds, but you may also encounter decimal or fractional formats.

American Odds

Favorites: Shown with a minus sign (e.g., -150). Indicates how much you must risk to win $100.
Underdogs: Shown with a plus sign (e.g., +150). Indicates how much you win on a $100 bet.

Example:

Dallas Cowboys -200 (favorite): Bet $200 to win $100.
Houston Texans +170 (underdog): Bet $100 to win $170.

Decimal Odds

Common in Europe and Canada.
Shows total return per $1 wagered (stake + profit).
Example: 2.50 means a $1 bet returns $2.50 ($1.50 profit).

Fractional Odds

Common in the UK.
Shows profit relative to stake (e.g., 3/2 means $3 profit for every $2 wagered).

Implied Probability

Odds reflect the bookmaker’s estimation of an outcome’s likelihood. You can convert odds to implied probability:

American Odds (negative): Probability = |odds| / (|odds| + 100)
American Odds (positive): Probability = 100 / (odds + 100)
Decimal Odds: Probability = 1 / decimal odds

Example:

-150: 150 / (150 + 100) = 60%
+150: 100 / (150 + 100) = 40%
2.50 (decimal): 1 / 2.50 = 40%

Common Bet Types

Bet Type	Description	Example
Moneyline	Pick the outright winner	Cowboys -200 vs. Texans +170
Point Spread	Bet on the margin of victory	Cowboys -7.5 (-110): Must win by 8+ points
Totals (O/U)	Bet on combined score over/under a set number	Over 48.5 (-110): Total points must be 49+
Parlays	Combine multiple bets; all must win for payout	Cowboys -7.5 + Astros ML + Over 48.5
Teasers	Adjust spreads/totals in your favor for lower payout	Cowboys -1.5, Texans +7.5 (teased lines)
Props	Bet on player/team statistics or specific events	Dak Prescott over 275.5 passing yards
Futures	Bet on season-long outcomes	Cowboys to win Super Bowl
Live Betting	Bet during games as odds update in real time	Next team to score, live spread, etc.

Beginner Tip: Start with moneyline, spread, and totals bets before exploring parlays, teasers, and props.

Types of Bets and Examples for Beginners

Moneyline

Simple win/lose bet.
Example: Bet $100 on the Cowboys at +150. If they win, you profit $150.

Point Spread

Levels the playing field between teams.
Example: Cowboys -7.5 (-110) vs. Texans +7.5 (-110). Cowboys must win by 8+; Texans can lose by up to 7 or win outright.

Totals (Over/Under)

Bet on combined score.
Example: Over 48.5 (-110). If the final score is 28-24 (52 points), the over wins.

Parlays

Combine multiple bets for higher payout.
Example: Cowboys -7.5, Astros ML, Over 48.5. All must win for payout.

Teasers

Adjust spreads/totals for multiple games.
Example: 6-point teaser: Cowboys -1.5, Texans +13.5.

Props

Bet on player or team stats.
Example: CeeDee Lamb over 85.5 receiving yards.

Futures

Long-term bets on season outcomes.
Example: Texas Longhorns to win the NCAA championship.

Live Betting

Bet during the game as odds change.
Example: Bet on the next team to score after kickoff.

Mobile Betting Experience and App Features

What to Look for in a Sports Betting App

User Experience: Clean, intuitive interface, easy navigation.
Live Betting: Fast updates, real-time odds, and in-play markets.
Bet Types: Wide range of markets (moneyline, spread, props, parlays).
Promotions: Welcome bonuses, odds boosts, loyalty rewards.
Banking Options: Multiple deposit/withdrawal methods, fast payouts.
Security: Encryption, two-factor authentication, licensed operator.
Customer Support: 24/7 live chat, email, phone, and robust FAQ.

Top-Rated Sports Betting Apps (in Legal States)

App	App Store Rating	Google Play Rating	Notable Features
DraftKings	4.8	4.6	Live betting, same-game parlays
FanDuel	4.9	4.6	User experience, live streaming
BetMGM	4.8	4.1	Sports coverage, loyalty rewards
Caesars	4.7	4.6	VIP program, win limits
bet365	4.8	4.5	Odds pricing, live betting
Fanatics	4.8	4.7	FanCash rewards, ongoing promos

Note: These apps are not yet available for real-money betting in Texas but are likely to launch if and when the state legalizes sports betting.

Mobile Betting in Texas Today

DFS and social sportsbook apps are optimized for mobile, offering seamless signup, geolocation, and quick access to contests and predictions.
Offshore sportsbooks provide mobile-optimized sites, but users should be cautious due to legal and security risks.

Responsible Gambling Resources and Tools for Texans

Recognizing Problem Gambling

Responsible gambling means betting for entertainment, not as a way to make money. Warning signs of problem gambling include chasing losses, betting more than you can afford, and neglecting responsibilities.

Tools and Resources

Deposit, wager, and time limits: Set limits within apps to control spending.
Self-exclusion: Temporarily or permanently block yourself from betting platforms.
Timeouts: Take a break from betting for a set period.
Helplines and Support:
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
- Texas Coalition on Problem Gambling: 713-364-4557, www.txcpg.org
- Gamblers Anonymous: Support groups statewide
- Gam-Anon: Support for families and friends
- Online resources: www.ncpgambling.org, Texas Lottery Commission’s Responsible Gaming page

State Initiatives

Self-exclusion programs: Voluntary exclusion from lottery and gambling activities.
Public education campaigns: Awareness and prevention programs by the Texas Council on Problem and Compulsive Gambling.
Regulatory oversight: The Texas Lottery Commission enforces responsible gaming practices and collaborates with law enforcement to prevent underage gambling and ensure fair play.

Legal Risks and Enforcement for Texans Using Offshore or Out-of-State Sportsbooks

Offshore Betting: Legal Gray Area

Not regulated by Texas or U.S. authorities.
Enforcement: Texas rarely prosecutes individual bettors, focusing instead on operators. However, using offshore sites is technically illegal, and users have no legal recourse in case of disputes or fraud.
Banking risks: Transactions may be flagged or blocked by financial institutions.

Out-of-State Betting

Geolocation: Legal sportsbooks in neighboring states require users to be physically present within state lines to place bets.
Travel: Texans can legally bet in Louisiana, Arkansas, or New Mexico by crossing state borders and using approved apps or retail sportsbooks.

Nearby Legal Betting Options for Texans

Louisiana

Mobile and retail sports betting available in 55 of 64 parishes.
Must be 21+ and physically present in an approved parish.

Arkansas

Statewide mobile and retail betting via casino apps.
21+ and geolocated in Arkansas.

New Mexico

Retail sportsbooks at tribal casinos only.
No statewide mobile betting.

Oklahoma

No legal sports betting as of December 2025.
Tribal interests and legislative gridlock have stalled progress.

Potential Operators Likely to Enter Texas if Legalized

If Texas legalizes sports betting, expect a competitive market with major national brands and local partnerships. Likely entrants include:

DraftKings
FanDuel
BetMGM
Caesars
bet365
Fanatics
theScore Bet
Hard Rock Bet
Betr
BetRivers

These operators have already established partnerships with Texas sports teams and are actively lobbying for legalization.

Taxation, Regulation, and Revenue Models Proposed for Texas Sports Betting

Proposed Models

Tax rates: Previous bills have proposed rates ranging from 10% to 20% of operator revenue.
Revenue allocation: Earlier proposals earmarked funds for property tax relief, education, and responsible gambling programs. The latest bills leave allocation to future legislative action.
Regulatory body: Creation of a Texas Gaming Commission to oversee licensing, compliance, and enforcement.

Economic Impact

Potential market size: Texas is projected to become one of the largest sports betting markets in the U.S., with billions in annual handle and hundreds of millions in tax revenue.
Industry partnerships: Sports teams, casinos, and betting operators stand to benefit from sponsorships, marketing, and increased fan engagement.

Impact on Texas Sports Teams and Partnerships

Texas is home to a vibrant sports scene, including:

NFL: Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans
MLB: Houston Astros, Texas Rangers
NBA: Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs
WNBA: Dallas Wings
NHL: Dallas Stars
MLS: FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo FC, Austin FC
NCAA: Texas Longhorns, Texas A&M Aggies, Baylor Bears, TCU Horned Frogs, Texas Tech Red Raiders, and more

Many teams have already formed partnerships with national sportsbooks in anticipation of legalization. These partnerships are expected to drive marketing, sponsorships, and fan engagement, with potential for in-stadium sportsbooks and branded betting experiences.

Timeline and Realistic Outlook for Legalization (2027 and Beyond)

Legislative Outlook

2025: No sports betting bill passed; strong Senate opposition remains.
2027: Next realistic opportunity for legislative action, as the Texas Legislature meets in odd-numbered years.
2028 or later: If a bill passes in 2027, the earliest launch could coincide with the NFL season opener in fall 2028.

Key Factors

Political leadership: Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick’s continued opposition is a major barrier.
Public support: Growing, but not yet sufficient to overcome entrenched resistance.
Industry lobbying: Intensifying, with major operators and sports teams advocating for change.
Tribal interests: May seek exclusive rights or partnerships, complicating negotiations.

Conclusion Texas Sports Betting – How to Bet Today

Texas remains one of the most restrictive states for sports betting, with no legal retail or online sportsbooks as of December 2025. Despite strong public support, influential advocates, and the economic potential of a regulated market, political and constitutional barriers have kept legalization out of reach. Texans eager to bet on sports must rely on daily fantasy sports, social/sweepstakes sportsbooks, prediction markets, or offshore platforms—each with its own legal and practical considerations.

The landscape could change as early as 2027, but until then, responsible, informed betting through compliant alternatives is the best path for Texas sports fans. As the debate continues, staying updated on legislative developments, understanding the risks and rewards of available options, and practicing responsible gambling are essential for anyone looking to engage with sports betting in the Lone Star State.