Online blackjack is generally legal if you play at a legitimate gambling site in a state, country, or jurisdiction where blackjack gaming has been legalized. Of course, there are various other requirements you need to meet to play online blackjack legally.
It depends on where you live
Blackjack commands almost universal popularity. However, no straight answer exists for whether or not online blackjack is legal. Instead, the answer often boils down to which country, state, or jurisdiction you reside in.
For example, Great Britain has a comprehensively regulated online gambling industry. You can easily find and play legal blackjack at various online casinos regulated and licensed by the U.K. Gambling Commission (UKGC). If the UKGC does not recognize a gambling site, you won’t be able to play blackjack legally at the online casino in the U.K.
On the other hand, Cuba has roundly banned online gambling. So, you certainly won’t be able to play online blackjack legally in Cuba. The same goes for China, North Korea, and scores of other countries where internet gambling is against the law.
Online blackjack is legal in fully regulated markets
Ideally, you should reside in a jurisdiction where online gambling is fully regulated and legal. This way, you don’t have to wonder whether or not you are in trouble with the law when playing online blackjack. It’s all up to you to find a good licensed online casino.
Jurisdictions with fully regulated internet gambling markets — and, thus, allow legal online blackjack — include New Jersey, the UK, Nevada, and South Africa.
You still need to be aware of specific gambling regulations in your jurisdiction. The legal gambling age is the most crucial and can vary from 18 to 21 years, depending on where you live.
Blackjack legality is uncertain in gray markets.
Some jurisdictions have what’s called gray online gambling markets. They have not defined their online gambling rules, so they are not in favor or against it. In fact, gray markets treat online blackjack and other aspects of internet gambling as irrelevant matters.
Meanwhile, some countries and states have yet to update their gambling regulations to cover online gaming. As such, most offshore gambling sites target a gray area jurisdiction.
For your information, offshore gambling sites are online casinos that are not licensed in their jurisdictions.
The U.S. is one of the most notable jurisdictions with many gray gambling markets. You’ll find that most offshore online casinos like Bovada, SlotoCash, and Las Atlantis serve American players without licensing from any state.
Playing blackjack online is technically not illegal in gray-area markets. So, you can still enjoy online blackjack without worrying about any legal ramifications. However, some payment processors like VISA, MasterCard, and PayPal may refuse to process deposits to these sites.
Online blackjack is illegal in jurisdictions that have banned online gambling.
You probably know that internet gambling is banned in certain jurisdictions like Cambodia, Japan, Cyprus, Cuba, North Korea, Singapore, and most Middle Eastern countries, from Lebanon to Qatar. These countries form the worst-case scenario for fans of online blackjack because you cannot gamble legally in them.
Meanwhile, some countries like China only permit government-run lotteries and gambling products. So, unless you’re in Macau, you won’t be able to play legal online blackjack in China.
You must meet the minimum gambling age requirement
Minors can never play online blackjack legally, no matter the country or casino. The legal gambling age usually varies from country to country, state to state, and jurisdiction to jurisdiction. For example, you must be at least 21 years of age to play online blackjack in most American states that have legalized online gambling.
In the U.K., on the other hand, anyone over 18 can legally play online blackjack. Generally, most gambling-friendly jurisdictions have an age requirement between 18 and 21. If in doubt, check your country’s minimum drinking age, as it’s usually similar.
You must meet the requirements of the online casinos
Each online casino has a set of rules that govern its games and gambling on its platform. These requirements typically differ from one gambling site to the next.
For instance, you can play blackjack legally online at BetMGM Casino if:
- You have signed up and verified your betting account at BetMGM Online Casino
- You are at least 21 years of age
- You are a resident of a state where BetMGM holds a gambling license, namely Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia, and Wyoming.
- You are physically in the state where you hold a wagering account with BetMGM
- You have not self-excluded yourself from gambling.
You can only play online blackjack legally at legitimate casino sites?
To play online blackjack legally, you must do it on a legitimate gambling platform. But what does a legitimate online casino mean?
It means you can legally play blackjack at an online casino that…
- Is registered and regulated by a trusted regulator to offer online blackjack in your jurisdiction
- It is licensed by a respected gambling regulatory agency, such as the U.K. Gambling Commission (UKGC), The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission, the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC), and Gibraltar Betting and Gaming Association (GBGA)
- Offers blackjack games regularly audited for fairness and security by a trusted testing lab, such as ECOGRA, TST, NMI, iTech Labs, BMM Testlabs, and Gaming Labs International (GLI).
- Pays out player winnings fast
- It uses the latest security features like SSL encryption to protect player data, security, and privacy online.
- Doesn’t shortchange players, delay payments, or close accounts without a reasonable explanation
- Is not operated by a fraudulent, shady, or flimsy gambling operator
- Sources casino games like blackjack from trustworthy and licensed software providers, such as Microgaming, Evolution, Betsoft, IGT, and Yggdrasil Gaming
Is playing blackjack online worth it?
Playing blackjack online is well worth it and for plausible reasons. You don’t have to make a long trip to a physical casino location, as you can play online blackjack from wherever you are. You can enjoy the internet version of this highly popular casino card game from the comfort of your own home, office, or anywhere in between.
Many online blackjack variants offer a decent potential return to player (RTP) percentage when played with a basic strategy. For example, Online Blackjack Switch has an RTP of 99.92%, which is one of the best in any casino table game. At the same time, these digital blackjack games have some of the most straightforward rules.
Aside from that, online blackjack offers unlimited seating, so you don’t have to wait for a seat to be vacant during peak hours. Best of all, you can redeem casino bonuses and promotions to play online blackjack on the house. You might even build a decent bankroll without depositing real money.
Let’s break down some of the most important benefits and downsides of playing blackjack online versus in a land-based casino.
Pros of online blackjack
Take advantage of online blackjack rewards and bonuses
One of the most significant advantages of playing blackjack at an online casino is the ability to claim rewards and bonuses offered. The best online casinos typically reward new players with a welcome bonus for signing up and making their first deposit.
The sign-up bonus can be quite lucrative and helps you get more value for your money.
Of course, online casinos attach certain terms & conditions to their bonuses and promotions. They often include validity periods, game distribution, and some wagering requirements. The latter means you have to bet the bonus money a specified number of times before you can cash out and withdraw your winnings.
Playing blackjack online is highly convenient
Convenience is one of the most obvious benefits of playing blackjack at gambling sites and apps. You can play your favorite blackjack variant on the go. Online casinos also allow you to play blackjack without having to leave your own home’s comfort.
Moreover, you can enjoy the best blackjack games on your preferred mobile device, tablet, laptop, or desktop P.C. It’s possible to enjoy online blackjack whenever and wherever, be it while commuting, relaxing at home on your sofa, or taking a break in your office. Everything is a click or tap away!
Some brick-and-mortar casinos have a strict dress code for players at their blackjack tables. Thankfully, you don’t have to worry about this when you play the online version of the card game. After all, only some of us like wearing uptight ties or buying pricey suits.
Enjoy the quiet, controlled gaming environment
Some blackjack players indeed enjoy and may actually do well in the fussy atmosphere of a busy brick-and-mortar casino. However, only some can thrive in or appreciate such a noisy environment. Online casinos allow you to set the ambiance and mood when you play blackjack at your convenience, especially if you appreciate silence.
Online casinos essentially eliminate everything we hate about playing at busy blackjack tables – drunk, rowdy, and annoying players. You won’t have to deal with people who don’t respect your space.
Better game variety
You will find many different blackjack variants at online casinos, but only two or three options when playing offline. This can limit your options of games and highlight the most significant benefit of playing the game online. Many gambling sites offer a wide range of blackjack versions, immensely boosting your options.
This is a great thing, as it can be great to play blackjack games with different rules, gameplay, and betting limits. The change in the pace can also make playing blackjack much more fun, exciting, and rewarding in the long run.
Online blackjack offers favorable rules for players
Players enjoy favorable game rules when playing online blackjack. Remember, blackjack rules can vary from casino to casino, and they can eventually influence the RTP, gambling experience, and house edge of the game. If you stick to playing blackjack at a land-based casino, you will have to be content with the rules they offer.
Online casinos provide you with great choices when it comes to the rules of the games. You can compare games, online casinos, and even variants with this level of choice.
You can enjoy an authentic gambling experience with live-dealer blackjack games
Casino sites offer two ways to play and enjoy online blackjack. You can play regular digital blackjack games, whereby random number generators determine the outcomes. Alternatively, you can opt for live dealer blackjack games with real croupiers, but you can still place your wagers from wherever and whenever.
With live casino online blackjack, you play against an actual dealer, use real playing cards, and take a position virtually.
The blackjack action is streamed live from a game studio via video stream. You can also interact with the croupiers and chat with other players, increasing the social gaming experience of the game.
Unlimited seating
With online blackjack, you don’t have to worry about seat availability at the tables. These virtual games provide each player with the same gameplay features. You are essentially playing alone against the dealer, except for live dealer blackjack.
The tables are never full with this “wager behind” approach to blackjack. You can decide to play blackjack any time of the day or night, using whatever device you prefer. All you need is an internet-enabled device and a reliable connection.
Beat the stigma
There’s always a certain degree of stigma associated with people who gamble. You can beat this stigma by playing your favorite blackjack game online. After all, online casino gambling provides some anonymity that most gamblers prefer.
Practice your blackjack skills and strategy in demo mode
Most online blackjack games are available in demo or free-play mode, which enables players to slow down the game pace and practice their skills. You can take your time to test new strategies and moves, as well as learn advanced game rules.
With demo mode, you can play any number of hands you like at any time without risking your real money. Some casinos may actually run free tournaments in which you stand to win cash payouts.
Enjoy more privacy with online blackjack
Playing blackjack online provides you with the serenity, space, and privacy you need to focus on the game. Typically, the blackjack tables at brick-and-mortar casinos are surrounded by noisy players. This can be especially annoying, if not intimidating, for beginners who may be worried about making mistakes in front of others.
Cons of playing blackjack online
Playing blackjack online is not without downsides, which may include the following:
It may take longer to enjoy your blackjack winnings
When you play blackjack at land-based tables, you will get your winnings in the form of chips immediately after the end of a round. This can help boost your morale and the excitement associated with the game. However, when you play online blackjack, you may have to wait up to five business days or longer for your winnings to hit your bank account or e-wallet.
Online blackjack lacks the social gambling thrill
The friendship, atmosphere, and thrill associated with playing at land-based casinos may be missing at online casinos. If you’re new to the game, you will need someone to monitor your style of play and recommend improvements.
You can potentially play at shady online casinos
There’s always the potential risk of fraudulent and scammy operators online. There is no point in winning at blackjack, only for the shady casino to fail to pay out your winnings.
Which is the best blackjack app?
The best blackjack app is Blackjack by Tripledot Studios Limited. With over ten million downloads, the premier blackjack app boasts a 4.7-star rating from nearly 175,000 users on Apple App Store and a 4.7/5 rating on Google Play Store after over 78,000 reviews. It is the most popular multiplayer blackjack app on both app stores.
Few popular casino apps are well-made and best-performing, but this one lives up to the hype. It features multiple tables, immersive graphics, and pleasant gameplay that will be familiar to most blackjack players. The app’s storyline walks you through a tour of some of the most sought-after gambling destinations, such as Monte Carlo, Macau, and Vegas.
The blackjack app follows the traditional game rules. It also includes hints, guides, and tutorials to help newbies learn the ins and outs of the games. As a free app with in-app purchases, you will be awarded free playing credits that increase with every winning hand.
Some of the premium features include extra betting credits. You can purchase a chip package of up to 10 or a whole package of up to 100. The additional chips packages will set you back anywhere from $1.99 to $99.99.
[The download link for Blackjack by Tripledot Studios Limited is here for Google Play and here for App Store]
The top 5 blackjack apps for Android devices
(1) BLACKJACK! By Super Lucky Casino
Formerly known as Blackjack 21!, Blackjack! by Super Lucky Casino is a highly popular blackjack app among casino and casual players. It closely and realistically replicates playing blackjack at brick-and-mortar casinos. In fact, it provides all the gameplay features you would expect from a Las Vegas blackjack table.
However, there are better options for beginner players. We recommend this app to players who have already mastered the basics of playing blackjack. It will help you take your blackjack skills and strategy to the next level.
[Find the download link here]
(2) Blackjack Strategy Practice by WFT LLC
If you want an Android app that helps you practice blackjack, we recommend Blackjack Strategy Practice by WFT LLC. It boasts a basic yet appealing user interface with all the crucial features and information on the homepage. This isn’t an actual blackjack game, but the quiz feature can be a great source of entertainment and help you test and improve your blackjack knowledge and skills.
Each round of blackjack quizzes finishes with a comprehensive review of how every hand was executed. It allows you to improve your strategy over time. It also offers simulations and examples of playing blackjack from many different angles.
[Find the download link here]
(3) Blackjack 21: Blackjackist by KamaGames
KamaGames did a bang-up job on Blackjack 21: Blackjackist. It’s a superb, versatile, and helpful blackjack app that can be addictive. Lucky for you, this free app doesn’t involve playing with real money. The gameplay is pleasant, with many extra features, perks, and high-quality visual elements.
We also love that the app has some impressive social experience elements. Players can chat with one another in real time. If you are an amateur who wants to get your feet wet in the basics of the game and improve your early skills, this app can be very helpful.
[Find the download link here]
(4) Blackjack by Brainium Studios
This app from Brainium Studios is designed to help users sharpen their blackjack strategies. It’s easy to use, simple to master, and surprisingly interactive. The app has its own currency that you can accumulate as you advance, but you cannot cash out real money.
Although the graphics could be better, the gameplay is customizable with themes, icons, and other visual features. It can also help learn and master card counting techniques. There are no pesky in-app purchases, and the ads are not intrusive.
[Find the download link here]
(5) BLACKJACK 21 – 21 Card Game by INLOGIC CASINO
Don’t let the awkward name fool you; the BLACKJACK 21 – 21 Card Game by INLOGIC CASINO is one of the most effective and fun blackjack apps on the Google Play Store. It’s a shame that the app averages 4.4 stars from thousands of ratings after more than 100K downloads.
We love that this black app is stylish, user-friendly, and features top-notch playing chips & realistic cards. The newly added features include graphics optimization, multiplayer betting, and the ability to adjust chip value.
[Find the download link here]
The 5 best blackjack apps for iPad and iPhone
(1) Blackjack 21! by Maple Media Holdings, LLC
If you are looking for the best blackjack app for Apple devices, look no further than Blackjack 21! by Maple Media Holdings, LLC. It requires no purchase of chips, so you can start playing your favorite game right away. It features traditional blackjack rules for splitting, surrender, insurance, and hitting.
Blackjack 21! has stunning cards and graphics optimized for Apple’s Retina Display technology.
It uses the classic rules of Las Vegas casinos with straightforward gameplay controls, deck shuffling animation, and cool sound effects. You can adjust the chip value starting anywhere from a dollar all the way up to $1 million.
[Find the download link here]
(2) Blackjack Vegas Casino 21 App by MobilityWare
Playing this fantastic Blackjack for iPhone app, with the most amazing casino-style experience, can help you make a bang during your next casino trip. Learn to master the most popular casino card game seen all over the globe from the App Store’s leading Blackjack designer, MobilityWare. There’s more to this Blackjack software than just hitting or standing. You can also double down, split, take insurance, or surrender.
[Find the download link here]
(3) Blackjack Trainer 21 by Hornet Ventures GmbH
Beginner players looking to build their strategies should practice using this iPhone app. The Hornet Ventures GmbH’s Blackjack Trainer 21 is exactly what the name says – the app provides beginners with the skills and knowledge to execute the right moves and learn how to play the popular game.
The app trains you on how and when to surrender, double down, stand, or hit. By learning these strategies, you can boost your winning chances. The good thing is that the app gives you feedback and tips on how to improve your playing strategy. It has gained a 4.7-star rating from thousands of players on the App Store.
[Find the download link here]
(4) B.C. Blackjack by Bedrock Code LLC
BC Blackjack by Bedrock Code LLC is one of the best blackjack apps for iPhone, and with good reason. It provides one of the most realistic blackjack experiences for non-casino players. It features three-dimensional tables, realistic betting chips, and full-sized playing cards.
The BC Blackjack app has built-in strategy cards and a trainer to help you improve your betting strategies and skills on your next visit to an actual casino. Although it has realistic gameplay, the app offers free chips and advanced players for veteran players.
Users who choose the payment for the premium version will open a basketful of awesome features, such as advanced practice modes, personalized table settings, higher betting limits, adjustable speed of dealing, and an ad-free experience. The app brings the authentic land-based casino experience to blackjack play.
[Find the download link here]
(5) Card Counter Lite by TMSOFT
Card Counter Lite by TMSOFT is one blackjack app that transitions seamlessly from iPhone to iPad. It has one of the most advanced blackjack trainers out there. For one, it makes it easy and fun to learn how to count cards in blackjack with engaging tutorials.
Unlike most blackjack apps, this one includes a study guide on top of several practice modes, tournaments, and a help center.
It helps you monitor our high scores and demonstrates blackjack card counting methods with clear examples and tutorials. Note that you will have to pay for the premium version to access all these excellent features.
[Find the download link here]
The top 5 casino mobile apps for real money blackjack play
If you wish to play blackjack for real money on a mobile casino app, your best options may include the following:
- Mr. Green Casino App – You can play a wide range of online and live dealer blackjack games, including Blackjack Neo, Dr. Fortune Blackjack, Blackjack Pro Series, and Perfect Pair Blackjack.
- Betway Casino App – Betway offers downloadable mobile apps for both Android and iOS devices. You’ll find numerous blackjack variants available for play in live dealer and virtual formats.
- 888 Casino App – If you’re looking for the best blackjack mobile gaming experience at a well-regarded platform, we suggest checking out the 888 Casino app. It’s well-made, beautiful, and packed with numerous blackjack variants, including Atlantic City Blackjack.
- El Royale Casino App – The mobile casino app offers blackjack games powered primarily by RTG (RealTime Gaming). So, expect to find the best options like Suit ‘Em Up, Perfect Pairs, and 21 Blackjack.
- Wild Casino App – As a general rule, we recommend U.S. players use mobile apps from operators licensed in their respective states. However, Wild Casino is the exception to the rule. Its app has six live-dealer gaming tables and over 13 blackjack variants. Besides, the online casino is licensed by the Panama Gaming Commission.
Online Blackjack Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most realistic blackjack app?
B.C. Blackjack is the most realistic blackjack app we have seen so far. It’s developed by Bedrock Code LLC and sports the most realistic blackjack features. They include full-sized blackjack chips of varying denominations, playing cards, and 3D-rendered tables.
Can I play blackjack online for real money?
Yes, you can play blackjack for real money and win real money when playing the casino card game online. You can play online blackjack for real money in live-dealer rooms, which work the same way as land-based casinos, except that you can wager from anywhere without visiting an actual brick-and-mortar casino.
Are the online blackjack dealers real?
Yes. Online blackjack dealers are real in live casino sections. The dealers are virtual and not real if you play traditional digital blackjack games. Instead, they use random number generators to determine the outcomes.
Live-dealer blackjack games use real croupiers located in a real gaming studio. They use state-of-the-art camera equipment and software to stream the blackjack action live via video feed.
Players can interact and communicate with croupiers through the live chat feature. The biggest providers of online live casino blackjack with real dealers include Pragmatic Play Live and Evolution Gaming, with its subsidiaries Ezugi, NetEnt Live, and Red Tiger Gaming.
Is it better to play blackjack online or in person?
Although it depends on your location, playing style, and gambling preference, it’s typically better to play blackjack online than in person at a land-based casino. And there are many advantages to playing blackjack online over in-person play…
- Convenience – Online blackjack allows you to play the game wherever you are comfortable, be it on the go, in your office, or at home.
- No dress – You don’t have to wear a fancy suit or dress up at all for the game.
- Flexible seating – With virtual tables, you don’t have to worry about blackjack tables being fully occupied.
- Online blackjack offers a more controlled atmosphere with no noisy, rowdy, or drunk people.
- Rewards – You reap the rewards, claim bonuses, and take advantage of blackjack promotions offered by online casinos
What are the odds of winning online blackjack?
The odds of winning online blackjack often vary from variant to variant. Generally, the average odds of winning at the traditional version of online blackjack are 42.2%. There’s an 8.5% probability of a push and a 49.3% chance of losing.
Is it legal to play online blackjack in the U.S.?
YES and NO. There’s a big gray area when it comes to online blackjack, or internet gambling, to be precise, in the United States.
On the one hand, no law exists at the federal law for or against playing online blackjack. That alone means you can legally play online blackjack in the U.S. Moreover, a growing number of states have recently legalized online gambling.
The Interstate Wire Act of 1961 (aka the Wire Act) and the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006 have criminalized the processing of gambling payments. These laws don’t expressly ban, outlaw, or criminalize online gambling. It means payment processors like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are required by law not to process funds for illegal gambling purposes.
On the other hand, some states have passed laws that explicitly ban and outlaw internet gambling, either partially or fully. That means it is not legal to play online blackjack in these states. Of course, enforcing these laws can sometimes fall through the cracks.
States where playing online blackjack is totally legal
It is legal to play blackjack online in states that have expressly enacted legislation that specifically legalizes online gambling. These states include Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. What’s interesting is that Nevada, the home of the world’s capital of gambling, has only permitted online poker.
Even so, you must sign up and play at a licensed online casino. The best gambling sites to play online blackjack in these states include BetMGM, William Hill, Fanduel, DraftKings, SugarHouse Casino, Borgata Casino, PartyCasino, and BetRivers.
States where playing blackjack online is illegal.
Some states have banned online gambling, meaning it is illegal to play blackjack online if you live there. These states include:
- Alaska
- Louisiana
- Montana
- Nevada
- Oregon
- South Dakota
- Washington
- Wisconsin