Casino Legal Age Ontario: How Old Do I Have To Be To Play Online & Offline?

The legal age to gamble in Ontario varies by activity which means you need to know what these are before taking part in any gambling activities either online or offline. Whether it's sports betting, lottery, or casino games, there's a legal age limit that you must abide by. This guide explains what you should be aware of including the different age limits by activity.

Written by Val Gillette Val Gillette, Copy Editor Fact Checked by Amanda Evans Amanda Evans, Editorial Director Our Review Process Last Updated: March 26, 2026 Reading time: 1min
legal casino age ontario

Legal Gambling Ages By Activity

  • Casino: In order to play games at online casinos in Ontario or at land based establishments, you must be 19 years of age or older.
  • Sports Betting: The legal age for sports betting whether at online sportsbooks in Ontario or in person commercial premises is 19 or older.
  • Lottery: You must be 18 years of age to play the lottery within the province.
  • Poker: In order to play poker whether physically or online, you need to be 19 years of age or older.
  • Horse Betting: To bet on horse racing at any of the race tracks locations in Ontario, you have to be 19 or older.
  • Bingo: To play bingo in person or online, you are required to be 18 years and older in Ontario.

Who Is Responsible For Regulation and Licensing in Ontario

To prevent underage gambling, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario regulate all activities within the province. They enforce strict policies and safeguards when it comes to age restrictions and all licensed operators must comply with KYC and age verification checks[1]. This means you'll also need valid ID when meeting the casino age requirements in Ontario.

FAQ About Legal Gambling Age in Ontario

  • What is the legal age to gamble at online casinos in Ontario?

    You must be 19 years or older to play for real money at any of the licensed Ontario casinos.

  • What age do I have to be to bet on sports in Ontario?

    Sports betting within the province requires you to be 19 or older. The age limit is the same whether it's online or in person at a commercial outlet.

  • Can I play all types of lottery games once I'm 18?

    Yes. You can play Lotto Max, Daily Grand, Lottario, Ontario 49, and all the other top lottery games offered in Ontario.

  • Are there differences in the legal age when gambling online compared to in person?

    No. The legal age limits apply whether you are using online platforms or gambling in person at local establishments.

  • How does a casino know what age I am?

    The prevention of underage gambling is taken very seriously and age verification checks are completed when you sign up with any iGaming Ontario licensed site. You have to provide proof of your ID that includes your photo and date of birth.

Sources

  1. Eligibility | Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario - agco.ca
Val Gillette
Written by Val Gillette - Copy Editor

Val is a talented Copy Editor with 10+ years of experience in the iGaming industry. Val is fluent in multiple languages and passionate about online gambling. She is always up to date on the latest happenings in the industry and this shows in the quality of the content she edits and publishes here at online-casinos.ca.

LinkedIn Profile

Additional Gambling Guides

FAQs
FAQs Find the answers to all the questions you have about playing for real money at casino sites online in Canada in 2026. Bonuses, software, banking, and more.
Bonus Hunting
Bonus Hunting Bonus hunting is all about taking advantage of the best online casino offers available by really understanding how these deals work. Find your bonuses in 2026.
How AGLC Regulates Gambling
How AGLC Regulates Gambling Find out how AGLC regulates gambling in Alberta in our 2026 guide which includes responsible gambling and the new iGaming Alberta Act.
Ontario Withdrawal Times
Ontario Withdrawal Times Compare withdrawal times for Ontario online casinos in 2026. See which operators pay out fastest, which take longer, and what to expect when cashing out funds.