To enter and gamble in most casinos across the United States, you generally must be at least 21 years old. However, the exact minimum age can vary by state and, in some instances, even by the specific casino, particularly those located on tribal lands.
Understanding Casino Age Requirements
While 21 is the predominant legal gambling age for casinos in the majority of states, it's not universally applied. A few states permit individuals as young as 18 to gamble in certain casino settings, though this is less common for traditional commercial casinos. These variations often depend on state laws, tribal compacts, and the type of gambling establishment.
State-Specific Casino Ages
The minimum age for casino entry and gambling is determined by state law. Here's a look at some examples:
| State | Casino Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | 18 or 21 | The age varies depending on the specific casino. Some tribal casinos allow 18-year-olds to gamble, while others and card rooms require guests to be 21. |
| Colorado | 21 | Guests must be 21 years old to enter and gamble in casinos. |
| Connecticut | 21 | The legal age for casino gambling is 21. |
| Delaware | 21 | Individuals must be 21 to participate in casino gambling. |
It's important to note that while the casino age might be 21, other forms of gambling within the same state, such as bingo or state lotteries, often have a lower minimum age, typically 18. This distinction highlights that the age requirement is tied to the specific type of gambling activity and venue.
Why the Age Varies
The differing age requirements for casinos across states are a result of individual state legislation and tribal sovereignty. Tribal casinos, operating on sovereign land, often have the authority to set their own gambling ages, which can sometimes be 18, even if the surrounding state's age for commercial casinos is 21. This creates the varying age requirement within states like California.
Always check the specific rules of the casino you plan to visit before you go, as policies can differ.
