Sports Betting in Idaho: Complete 2026 Guide
Current Legal Status and History
As of early 2026, sports betting remains illegal in the state of Idaho. The state has one of the most restrictive legal landscapes for gambling in the United States. Idaho's Constitution explicitly prohibits most forms of gambling, including sports betting. Article III, Section 20 of the Idaho Constitution states, "Gambling is contrary to public policy and is strictly prohibited."
There have been no significant legislative efforts to legalize sports betting in Idaho. Unlike many other states that have moved to embrace sports wagering following the 2018 Supreme Court decision to overturn the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), Idaho has shown no inclination to change its stance. Lawmakers have not introduced any bills to legalize online or retail sports betting, and the topic has not been a subject of serious debate in the state legislature. Given the constitutional barrier and the lack of political will, it is highly unlikely that sports betting will be legalized in Idaho in the near future.
Available Sportsbooks
There are no legal and regulated sportsbooks operating in Idaho. This includes both online and retail sportsbooks. Any website that claims to be a legal online sportsbook in Idaho is an offshore, unregulated platform. Idaho residents should be extremely cautious about using these sites, as they do not offer the same consumer protections as legal, regulated sportsbooks in other states. There is no legal recourse for disputes with offshore operators.
For Idaho residents who wish to place legal sports bets, the only option is to travel to a neighboring state where sports betting is legal. As of 2026, these states include:
- Oregon: Legal and regulated online and retail sports betting.
- Nevada: The most established sports betting market in the US, with numerous online and retail options.
- Montana: Legal sports betting is available through the state lottery at licensed retail locations.
Types of Bets Available
Since sports betting is not legal in Idaho, there are no legal bet types available within the state. However, if sports betting were to be legalized, bettors could expect to see the following common types of wagers that are available in other states:
- Moneyline: A simple bet on which team will win a game.
- Point Spread: A bet on the margin of victory in a game.
- Totals (Over/Under): A bet on the total number of points scored in a game by both teams.
- Parlays: A single bet that links together two or more individual wagers for a higher payout. All of the wagers must win for the parlay to be successful.
- Teasers: A type of parlay where the bettor can adjust the point spread in their favor in exchange for a lower payout.
- Futures: A long-term bet on an event that will happen in the future, such as which team will win the Super Bowl.
- Prop Bets: Bets on specific events within a game that do not necessarily affect the final outcome, such as which player will score the first touchdown.
- Live Betting: Bets placed on a game while it is in progress.
Tax Implications for Winnings
While there are no legal sports betting winnings to be taxed in Idaho, any gambling winnings are generally considered taxable income by the IRS. If an Idaho resident were to win a significant amount from gambling in another state, they would be required to report those winnings on their federal and state income tax returns. Gambling winnings are subject to a federal tax rate of 24%, and large winnings may also be subject to state taxes in the state where they were won.
Mobile vs. Retail Betting Options
There are no legal mobile or retail betting options in Idaho. In states where sports betting is legal, bettors often have the choice between betting online through a mobile app or website, or in person at a retail sportsbook located in a casino, racetrack, or other licensed venue. Mobile betting offers convenience, while retail betting provides a more social and immersive experience.
Tips for Bettors in Idaho
Given the legal situation in Idaho, bettors have limited options. Here are some tips for those interested in sports gaming:
- Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS): DFS sites like DraftKings and FanDuel operate in a legal gray area in Idaho and are available to residents. These sites allow users to build fantasy teams and compete for cash prizes.
- Social Casinos: Social and sweepstakes casinos are available in Idaho. These sites use virtual currencies and are a legal way to play casino-style games online.
- Travel to Neighboring States: As mentioned earlier, traveling to a neighboring state with legal sports betting is the only way to place legal wagers.
- Avoid Offshore Sportsbooks: It is strongly recommended to avoid using offshore sportsbooks due to the lack of regulation and consumer protection.
Responsible Gaming Resources
Even though sports betting is not legal in Idaho, problem gambling is still a concern. The following resources are available to Idaho residents who may be struggling with gambling addiction:
- National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): Offers a national helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
- Gamblers Anonymous: A fellowship of people who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem.
- Idaho Council on Problem Gambling: Provides resources and support for problem gambling in Idaho.