The good news is all players have access to a range of Alberta responsible gambling resources. These include access to Gamesense, an AGLC responsible gambling Alberta program, along with plenty of personal limit tools, helplines, and self exclusion Alberta that allows you to remove yourself from all sites.
Even as Alberta's regulated iGaming launch is expected in early 2026, players can rest assured all accessible casinos for Alberta players will offer a comprehensive set of responsible gambling features, similar to those available in Ontario.
Responsible Gambling in Alberta: How It Works
Albertans have been gambling legally since the 1890s when Canada's Criminal Code was amended to facilitate gambling under certain conditions. Since then, Alberta gambling laws have been revised several times to accommodate its growing popularity while putting in place robust player safeguards.
At present, the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis (AGLC) is responsible for gambling in the province. That includes providing policies and overseeing responsible gambling programs in both PlayAlberta, the only locally licensed Alberta online casino, as well as its land-based alternatives. AGLC regulations for gambling in Alberta requires all legal casinos to strictly adhere to gambling regulations. That includes promoting safe gambling practices in the following ways:
- Advocate for Safe Gambling Behavior - Operators must help players understand the actual nature of gambling, allowing them to make informed decisions. That also includes providing direct and honest information in their marketing communications.
- Strict Age Verification Checks - All players must be 18 years or older to play real money gambling games in Alberta.
- GameSense Responsible Gambling Program - An initiative from the AGLC and Alberta's Health Services, this RG system features responsible gambling tools Alberta players can use for safer play. All legal casinos in Alberta must have a Gamesense Info centre, which features individual limits, self-exclusion, RG training for casino staff, and an Alberta problem gambling help line.
- Offer Self-Exclusion Tools - All licensed operators must provide the option to self-exclude, allowing players to restrict their access to a specific platform for a set period. This could be 24 hours or indefinitely.
- Player Protection Tools - Operators are required to take proactive measures to protect their players as well as vulnerable individuals from gambling related harm. That includes using behavioral monitoring systems to detect unusual patterns, conducting awareness initiatives, and providing easy access to safe gambling tools.
Support Resources and Helplines for Alberta
Even if you're new to gambling or don't play games everyday, there's still a chance of developing an addiction. It's not something to be embarrassed about or afraid of. The main thing is getting as much information as possible on how to cultivate healthy habits and knowing where to seek professional help. A number of helpful resources for responsible gambling in Alberta are available, including:
- AGLC GameSense program
- Alberta problem gambling helpline (1-866-332-2322)
- Responsible Gambling Council (RGC)
- Canadian Partnership for Responsible Gambling
- Gamblers Anonymous
- Gamblers Therapy
Reaching out to any of these organizations is the first step to taking back control over your gambling habits. You're certainly not alone as support resources are always within reach 24/7.
Self-Exclusion and Player Protection Tools
Taking a pause is an effective way to take back control when playing casino games. The AGLC run self-exclusion program allows players to close their account at PlayAlberta, all Alberta casinos, as well as its racing entertainment centres (RECs).
Signing up for this program means you won't have access to casino floors, RECs, and your PlayAlberta.ca account will also be closed. Available exclusion lengths range from six months, one year, two years, and three years.
To register for the self exclusion Alberta program, you must follow the steps below.
- Visit the GameSense Info Centre at a physical casino/REC. From PlayAlberta, you can click directly into the GameSense link. The AGLC website also has a link to the self-exclusion program upfront within its responsible gambling section.
- From the GameSense website, navigate to 'The self-exclusion program' tab under the 'Get Support' menu.
- Choose to speak to a GameSense advisor, book a virtual session, or speak to staff to help you complete the sign up agreement.
- Provide your personal details and pick your preferred exclusion period. You'll also need to complete KYC checks by providing your ID or driver's license.
- Although not mandatory, it's advisable to identify another contact who'll be notified if you breach the agreement.
- Confirm the start and end dates, then sign the agreement.
And that's it. Signing up for the self exclusion Alberta program is just that easy. Even after Alberta's iGaming market opens in 2026, players should be able to access Alberta self-exclusion resources in pretty much the same way.
AGLC GameSense and Public Awareness Programs
Developed by the British Columbia Lottery Corp. in 2009, GameSense is a holistic program run by the AGLC and designed to reduce problem gambling. It equips players with adequate information on how to gamble for fun, while educating them about the odds of winning at chance-based as opposed to skill-based games.
The program also gives players access to responsible gambling tools, including self-assessment tests, as well as a toll-free Alberta gambling help line, where players can speak to GameSense advisors in real time. The Info line (1-833-447-7523) is accessible Tuesday and Wednesday (10 a.m. - 5 p.m.) and Thursday to Saturday (1 p.m. - 8 p.m.).
The GameSense program is available in all Alberta casinos, such as:
- PlayAlberta.ca
- Bullys Casino
- Copper Coulee Casino
- Deerfoot Inn and Casino
- Stoney Nakoda
- Ace Casino Blackfoot
- Grey Eagle Resort and Casino
- Elbow River Casino
- Pure Casino Calgary
- Cowboys Casino
- Ace Casino Airport
The Future of Alberta Responsible Gambling Resources
Alberta online gambling laws are changing. With the Alberta iGaming Act (Bill 48) passing its third reading in May 2025, the province is set to roll out its regulated market as early as spring of 2026. That way, most offshore sites have a chance to apply for licensing from the AGLC, allowing them to legally offer their services to Alberta residents.
Alberta is expected to follow the iGaming framework in Ontario. This means licensed operators must follow strict responsible gambling policies that will cover the entire province. These include a centralized self-exclusion tool, bet limits, age verification checks, and other player support systems. That way, Albertans can enjoy peace of mind with specific player protections while playing at any Alberta betting sites or casinos.
More in our Alberta Guide
To find out more about legal gambling in the province be sure to take a look at the rest of our guides. We have information on the current gambling laws, where gambling revenues are spent, and some expert tips for first time casino players. The links below are a great place to start.
