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North Carolina Online Poker: Is It Legal & Where to Play?

Written by Jennifer Newell
Last updated on

North Carolina online poker is easy to access through reputable offshore sites that accept players from the state. The state doesn't regulate or license real money poker platforms, residents can still safely play online without legal risk by choosing trusted offshore operators.

With few local options for real money poker, more and more players in the state are turning to online alternatives, and many land right here to explore their choices. This page simplifies the process by highlighting your top poker site options, how North Carolina law applies, and what to expect when playing online from the Tar Heel State.

State of Online Poker in NC

While North Carolina law (§14-292) prohibits most forms of unlicensed gambling, enforcement targets illegal operations within the state—not individual players accessing offshore poker sites. These offshore platforms operate outside state jurisdiction and legally welcome US players, including those in North Carolina. So, while online poker isn't state-regulated, North Carolinians can still play real money games safely through trusted offshore sites. These options are widely used and remain the most practical alternative to in-person poker.

The Top Legal Poker Sites for North Carolina

Not all offshore poker sites offer the same quality of experience. Some stand out for fast-loading software, others for tournament variety, soft competition, or smooth mobile play. That's why we test and vet platforms based on how they perform specifically for players in the state.
The poker rooms listed below were selected for their reliability, consistent traffic, and strong gameplay across formats.

  • Ignition – Best NC Site to Play Poker for Real Money 
  • BetOnline – Best North Carolina Poker Site for Beginners 
  • America's Cardroom – Generous Online Poker Bonuses for NC Residents 
  • Bovada – Variety of Tournaments for NC Poker Players 
  • Blackchip Poker – Best Poker App in NC 

Online Poker in North Carolina Overview

Online PokerAvailable - Offshore Only
Commercial PokerAvailable at Tribal Casinos
Legal Gambling Age18+
Poker RegulatorNorth Carolina Education Lottery / Tribal Gaming Commissions

Recent Gambling Happenings in North Carolina

North Carolina has slowly expanded its gambling laws, most notably by legalizing retail and online sports betting in 2019 and 2023. However, there have been no serious efforts to regulate online poker. Lawmakers have shown little interest in introducing bills focused on real money internet poker, and the state’s attention remains on sports wagering.

With no legislation on the table and limited public discourse around poker, offshore poker rooms remain the only viable option for players in North Carolina seeking legal access to real money games online. Meanwhile, live poker continues to thrive at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, which regularly hosts major events like the WSOP Global Poker Championship.

North Carolina Gambling & Poker Laws Summarized

North Carolina residents often wonder whether online poker is legal. While the state doesn’t regulate it directly, there are still safe, accessible ways to play.

Type/CodeSummary
State Code Section(s)14.37.289-309; 16.1-2; 18C
Definition of GamblingAny person or organization that operates any game of chance or any person who plays at or bets on any game of chance at which any money, property or other thing of value is bet, whether the same be in stake or not, shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.
Online Poker/GamblingThere have been no efforts to legalize and regulate any type of online gambling in North Carolina.
Live PokerPoker is offered in the one fully-functional tribal casino in the state, with both cash games and tournaments available there.
CasinosOne tribe in North Carolina secured a gambling compact with the state to operate gambling establishments on its land, and of those, only one is a casino operated with Harrah’s to offer everything from slots to poker.
Sports BettingThere have been no proposals via the legislature to legalize any type of sports betting.
DFSA bill introduced in 2017 to legalize paid-entry fantasy sports games did not make it to the legislature floor for a vote. There was no follow-up bill put forward in 2018.
Other Forms of GamblingBingo and raffles for charitable organizations, lottery.

Is Online Poker Legal in North Carolina?

Online poker is accessible to North Carolina players through reputable offshore sites that accept US customers. While the state does not regulate these platforms, residents can legally enjoy real money games without fear of prosecution.

Under North Carolina General Statute §14-292, most unlicensed gambling is prohibited, but the law is primarily enforced against operators—not individual players. So far, there have been no known cases of North Carolinians being charged for playing online poker through offshore platforms. As always, sticking with trusted sites and following responsible gambling practices is wise.

Could North Carolina Potentially Regulate Online Poker?

North Carolina has shown little political interest in regulating online poker. While other states have moved forward with legislation in response to federal shifts like the DOJ's 2011 Wire Act clarification, North Carolina hasn’t taken any formal steps toward online poker regulation. Lawmakers have occasionally discussed gambling expansion, particularly around sports betting, but poker remains off the radar. With more prominent gambling issues likely to take legislative priority, the odds of regulated poker platforms launching in the state remain slim for the foreseeable future.

Famous North Carolina Poker Players

North Carolina has produced a strong lineup of professional poker talent, many of whom got their start in home games and online before venues like Harrah’s Cherokee opened a live poker scene in the state.
Greg Raymer, best known for winning the 2004 WSOP Main Event and earning $5 million, remains one of the most iconic poker figures from NC. Chris Hunichen built his reputation online and transitioned successfully to live tournaments, while Mark Newhouse gained notoriety for reaching back-to-back WSOP Main Event final tables in 2013 and 2014.

As of 2025, the top 10 live tournament earners from North Carolina are:

  1. Greg Raymer – $7.8 million
  2. Chris Hunichen – $7.0 million
  3. Mark Newhouse – $3.5 million
  4. Mike Sowers – $3.4 million
  5. Anthony Spinella – $3.4 million
  6. Chris Bell – $3.2 million
  7. Mike Gracz – $3.1 million
  8. Carter Phillips – $2.7 million
  9. Randal Flowers – $2.2 million
  10. Nicholas Maimone – $2.1 million

Responsible Gambling in North Carolina

Online poker should be fun, not stressful. North Carolina players can keep it that way by setting personal limits, taking breaks, and recognizing when to step away. Free, confidential help is available through NC Gambler Help and national resources like the National Helpline at 1-800-522-4700. For additional tools and guidance, visit our Responsible Gambling page. Poker can remain an enjoyable part of your routine with support and balance.

Start Playing Online Poker in North Carolina

Real money online poker is accessible in North Carolina through reputable offshore sites that accept US players. The state doesn’t regulate these platforms but also doesn’t prosecute individuals for using them. While in-person options remain limited, players can enjoy poker legally and safely online. This page outlines your best options, explains how state law applies, and highlights trusted platforms offering secure banking, solid traffic, and mobile-friendly play. For North Carolinians, real money poker sites remain the most practical and risk-free way to enjoy the game.

All Poker and Gambling Laws by State

North Carolina Poker News

Jennifer Newell

Jennifer Newell

Editor in Chief
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Jennifer Newell is a freelance writer at LegalUsPokerSites. She has two decades of experience in the iGaming industry. She is a respected poker media member, contributing to publications and websites like USA Today, PokerStars, and PokerScout. Her knowledge spans gambling legislation and the broader online gaming world. She has spent years advocating for diversity, most notably gender equity in the traditionally male-dominated poker sphere.

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