Can you gamble online in New Mexico?

Off-track horse race betting is currently the only option for legal online gambling in New Mexico, though social casinos are legal, too.

What is the legal gambling age in New Mexico?

The legal gambling age in New Mexico is 18 for horse racing and lottery. The legal age for casino gaming is 21.

What New Mexico casinos are eligible for a gaming license?

Casino licenses in New Mexico are limited to the state’s tribal casinos and racinos.

What forms of gambling are allowed in New Mexico?

Tribal casino gambling, sports gambling at tribal casinos, pari-mutuel horse racing, off-track betting, lottery and Daily Fantasy Sports are legal in New Mexico.

Do I need to live in New Mexico to online gamble once it goes live?

No, visitors and tourists would be good to go for online gambling in New Mexico if it goes live, but it must be done within state borders. Casinos and sportsbooks would use geolocation software to ensure that bettors were in the state.

Why do some sites have online casino offers in New Mexico?

Social casinos are a great alternative to illegal offshore casinos, and many sites advertise for top social casino sites like Chumba. And real money casino site advertising in New Mexico is an offshore and unregulated site that should be avoided.

Where can I gamble in New Mexico?

Gamblers in New Mexico can place wagers at tribal casinos, sportsbooks at tribal casinos, six horse racing tracks and retail locations where lottery tickets are sold.

Can I bet on sports online in New Mexico?

Off-track betting is legal in New Mexico, but all other forms of online sports gambling remain prohibited.

Who will regulate online gambling in New Mexico?

Regulation for online gambling in New Mexico would likely go to the New Mexico Gaming Control Board.

Will online gambling in New Mexico be safe once legal?

Yes, any legal online casino sites or sportsbooks would be heavily regulated and therefore safe to deposit funds and input personal information such as your Social Security number to register.

How will New Mexico tax my gambling winnings?

Gambling winnings in New Mexico are taxed at a rate of 6% by the state, plus you will owe federal taxes at a rate determined by your tax bracket.

New Mexico Online Gambling & Casinos

Reviewed By Jon Young

Fact Checked byMichael Kates

Last Updated: Mar 7^th, 2024

New Mexico has been a rich gambling state ever since it began opening tribal casinos in the mid-1990s.

Top New Mexico Online Casinos

Affiliate Disclosure: At Gambling.com, we want to ensure that players are matched with the right casino and sportsbook offers for them. For this reason, some of the recommended site links are affiliate links. This means that if you visit a website through our link and make a deposit, Gambling.com will receive a commission payment at no extra cost to you. At Gambling.com, we want to ensure that players are matched with the right casino and sportsbook offers for them. For this reason, some of the recommended site links are affiliate links. More

1

Established 2023
Hide Details
Get Up To 57,500 Gold Coins + FREE 27.5 Sweepstakes Coins
Promo Code: GDC
Play Now

Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs apply.
Exclusive McJackpots Active for Every Game
Claim Daily Free Gold Coins
Daily & Weekly Tournaments Available
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GDC
iOS Casino App
Yes
Top Slot Game
Gold Party
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
98
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
302
Minimum Purchase
$9.99
McLuck is an exciting social casino with a wide range of casino games available from industry giants like Pragmatic Play, Relax Gaming, NetEnt, and more. New slots with special features like 'Hold and Win' are always being added to their growing portfolio.
McLuck Casino

2

Established 2021
More Details
1.5 Million WOW Coins + 35 Free Sweepstake Coins for $9.99
Play Now

Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs apply.
Daily Login Bonuses Available
Customer Support Available 24/7
6-Tier Loyalty 'Star System'
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
iOS Casino App
No
Top Slot Game
Striking Hot 5
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
98
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
714
Minimum Purchase
$10.00
WOW Vegas is a highly reputable social casino that lets players purchase Gold Coins (WOW Coins) and win sweeps coins that can be redeemed for real-world prizes. Players will also find a myriad of slots available from popular providers like Betsoft and Pragmatic Play.
WOWVegas Casino

3

Established 2012
More Details
600 Diamonds, 250 Game Coins, + 5 FREE Sweeps Coins On Sign Up
Play Now

Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs apply.
1,200+ Games, Slots & Live Dealer Games
FREE Daily Rewards
Authentic Brand, Made in the USA
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
iOS Casino App
Yes
Top Slot Game
Da Vinci DeluxeWays
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
97
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
1200
Minimum Purchase
$2.00
For a casino-style gaming experience without the cost, High 5 is the place to play. Launched in 1995 and available in the US, this social casino gives you the chance to play authentic 1,200+ online slot games for fun.
High 5 Casino

4

Established 2022
More Details
Up To 367,000 Gold Coins + 32.3 Free Sweepstakes Coins
Play Now

Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs apply.
Over 500,000 Members and Climbing
Exclusive Gold Coins Scratchcards Available
Customer Support Available 24/7
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
iOS Casino App
Yes
Top Slot Game
Starburst
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
96
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
322
Minimum Purchase
$10.00
Pulsz is a rapidly growing social casino that allows players to join regular promotions to claim free coins. There are also two progressive Gold Coin jackpots each week, with a minimum jackpot of GC 1,000,000.
Pulsz Casino

5

Established 2022
More Details
1.1 Million Gold Coins + FREE 3,600 Sweeps Coins for $19.99
Promo Code: GAMBLINGCOM
Play Now

Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs Apply.
Spin the Funrize Wheel Daily for Free Coins
Great Collection of Slots, Fish Games & More
Compete in 'Races' for Gigantic Prize Pools
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GAMBLINGCOM
iOS Casino App
Yes
Top Slot Game
Money Temple
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
96
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
120
Minimum Purchase
$20.00
Players who join Funrize Casino will receive 100 free daily promotional entries which means playing more games for free, and the chance to reveal some exciting prizes. For the more adventurous, Funrize also offers a tournament mode.
Funrize Casino

6

Established 2023
More Details
Win Up To 1,000 Gems + 50% Extra Gems On First Shards Purchase
Promo Code: GAMB
Play Now

Must be 18+ to participate, T&Cs Apply.
Daily Leaderboard Prizes including 'Gems' & 'Shards'
Wide Range of Social Game Types
Daily Login Bonuses Available
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GAMB
iOS Casino App
No
Top Slot Game
Joker's Jewels
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
98
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
414
Minimum Purchase
$10.00
Vegas Gems is a new social casino with a fun jewel theme and a small, but popular selection of games from popular providers like Pragmatic Play and BGaming.
Vegas Gems Casino

7

Established 2023
More Details
Get 20 Sweeps Coins FREE on First $20 Purchase
Play Now

Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs Apply. To Claim, Open Up Live Support.
Play 64 Popular Relax Gaming Slots
Win Real Money For Free In Unique Sweep System
Battle Opponents in Player vs. Player Challenges
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
iOS Casino App
No
Top Slot Game
Aztec Twist
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
95
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
142
Minimum Purchase
10
Explore the Chanced Originals lobby for 10 Thrilling Instant Win Games such as Dice, Limbo, Mines, and Plinko, offering fast-paced gaming action.
Chanced.com Casino

8

Established 2023
More Details
Get A 2,000,000 GC + 30 SC Bonus for $19.99
Play Now

Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs Apply.
Exclusive Pet Farm Game for VIP Level 7 Players
Daily Race with Gold Coins up for Grabs
Complete Challenges & Tournaments for Free Coins
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
iOS Casino App
No
Top Slot Game
Mardi GrasMania
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
95
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
325
Minimum Purchase
$19.99
DingDingDing is a social and sweepstake casino that is very focused on providing the best online slots and bingo games to players around the US. While only 5 games are available upon signing up, more are available as players level up.
DingDingDing Casino

9

Established 2022
More Details
250,000 Gold Coins + $25 Stake Cash
Promo Code: GDC
Play Now

Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs Apply.
Weekly Raffles with SC Prizes
Earn Free Stake Cash the More you Play
Win a Share of 50 Million GDC Daily
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GDC
iOS Casino App
No
Top Slot Game
Sweet Bonanza
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
98
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
450
Minimum Purchase
$10.00
Stakes.us is one of the more established social casinos that is always looking for new ways to entertain and reward players. They also have one of the widest collection of games available - from slots to poker.
Stake.us Casino

10

Established 2023
Sweeptastic Casino
55,000 LC + 34 FREE SC For Just $14.99
Play Now

Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs Apply.

11

Established 2022
More Details
$1,000 Spin to Win Virtual Credits Everyday
Play Now

Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply.
Earn Play Points to Redeem Prizes
Regular Contests to Earn 'Scratchers' and 'Wheels'
Claim Free Virtual Credits Every 4 Hours
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
iOS Casino App
Yes
Top Slot Game
Sands Of Mystery
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
96
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
713
Minimum Purchase
$10.00
BetRivers.net is a dual sweepstakes casino and social sportsbook with a stable of great slots from leading providers like Pragmatic Play and NetEnt, including a number of live dealer games. There are also regular slots tournaments to join with prizes up for grabs.
BetRivers.net Casino

12

Established 2024
More Details
Deposit $10, Get $20 in Free Play
Play Now

Must be 21+ to participate & present in AL, CA, CO, DE, FL, KS, MT, ND, NH, NM, NY, OK, OR, RI, SD, VT, WI, WY. T&Cs Apply.
Ongoing Freeplay Promotions Available
Winners Circle Program with Bonuses and Giveaways
Play in 24-Hour & 3-Day Tournaments
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
iOS Casino App
Yes
Top Slot Game
Golden Baars
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
93
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
36
Minimum Purchase
$10.00
Horseplay is a unique sweepstakes casino in that it uses sports betting (horse racing specifically) to determine the outcomes of wagers, and combines it with slots and other games to reveal the winnings.
Horseplay Casino

13

Established 2022
More Details
128,000 TAO Coins for FREE + 50% Secret Coins Bonus
Play Now

Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs Apply.
Open a Magic Box Daily for Free Coins
Complete Quests for Guaranteed Rewards
Customer Service Available 24/7
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
iOS Casino App
No
Top Slot Game
Desert Riches
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
95
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
100
Minimum Purchase
$19.99
Tao Fortune is a social casino that provides a fresh take on playing with both 'Tao Coins' and 'Secret Coins', the latter of which can be redeemed for real prizes. For instance, players can break the Piggy Bank each week to get free Secret Coins.
TaoFortune Casino

14

Established 2023
More Details
Claim Your Free 630,000 Gold Coins Today
Play Now

Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs Apply.
Daily Free Coins with '7-Day Bonus Bash'
Award for 'Highest Win' and 'Highest Multiplier'
Loyalty Program with Bonuses & VIP Treatment
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
iOS Casino App
No
Top Slot Game
Fruit Smash
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
91
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
550
Minimum Purchase
$10.00
Players at Fortune Coins Casino can play the top free games and slots using Gold Coins and Fortune Coins, the latter of which can be redeemed for real money prizes.
Fortune Coins Casino

15

Established 2023
More Details
Get 3 Moon Coins + 30,000 Gold Coins
Play Now

Must be 21+ to participate. No purchase Necessary. T&Cs Apply.
Crypto Payments & Blockchain Technology
Modern Cosmic Astronomy Theme
Play and Earn Regular Rakebacks
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
iOS Casino App
No
Top Slot Game
Jade Beauties
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
92
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
65
Minimum Purchase
$10.00
Moonspin is a modern social casino with a huge variety of slots and game types to bet on including crash, index chart, dice, wheel of fortune, and exclusive 'When Moon Bro' game.
Moonspin.us Casino

16

Established 2023
More Details
Get 100,000 Gold Coins + 10 SC on Sign Up
Play Now

Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs Apply.
Deposit-Free Bonus
Daily Login Bonus
Exclusive VIP Program
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
iOS Casino App
No
Top Slot Game
Wolf Gold
Our Rating
Gambling.com's rating of this casino site out of 100
90
Casino Games
The total number of casino games available
500
Minimum Purchase
$10.00
Zula Casino, is an online social casino with sweepstakes elements, that is currently live in all US states exluding Georgia, Idaho, & Washington. With a generous welcome bonus and unique style of games, you'll have plenty of options to win prizes!
Zula Casino

17

Established 2023
Get Up To 90,000 Gold Coins FREE + 9.8 SC Coins
Play Now

Must be 18+ to participate. T&Cs Apply. Void in MT, KY, ID, WA, NV.

Bettors Also Liked

Real Money Slots

Free Slots

Is Online Gambling Legal in New Mexico?

Online gambling in New Mexico remains illegal both for casino games and sports betting. Legislation aimed at changing these laws has failed to gain momentum.

The state seems very intent on limiting its New Mexico gambling options to land-based tribal casinos and racetracks. In the meantime, social casinos remain perfectly legal because they don’t technically qualify as gambling.

Top social casinos like Chumba provide players with a number of gold coins and sweeps coins once a player signs up. These are free and don’t require any sort of deposit on the player’s end. Social casinos include online slot machine games based on the same ones you’d play at any land-based casino, as well as online table games like blackjack.

Social casino users can win real money by entering tournaments or playing games with sweeps coins. These contests count as sweepstakes rather than gambling, resulting in real cash prizes and other rewards.

When to Expect New Mexico to Legalize Online Gambling

Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like New Mexico will move to legal online casino gambling or mobile sports wagering anytime soon. That’s why residents looking for online casino action should stick exclusively to social casinos and avoid offshore casino sites.

These illegal offshore casino sites come with plenty of risk. They’re unregulated and can give players trouble withdrawing funds in a timely fashion. Bettors have no recourse to recover those funds should the site get shut down.

The offshore online slot machines and casino games aren’t vetted like the legal versions, so there’s no way of knowing how far the odds are skewed in the house’s favor. And some of these sites are actually an additional revenue stream for organized crime and even shadier dealings.

Land-Based Casinos in New Mexico

Casino	City	Address	Hours of Operation
Apache Nugget Casino	Cuba	Junction 537-US, US-550	4:30 a.m.-12 a.m.
Billy the Kid Casino	Ruidoso	26225 US-70	10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Buffalo Thunder Resort Casino	Santa Fe	30 Buffalo Thunder Trail	Open 24 hours
Casino Apache	Mescalero	25845 US-70	Open 24 hours
Cities of Gold Casino	Santa Fe	10 Cities of Gold Rd	9 a.m.-12 a.m.
Dancing Eagle Casino	Paraje	167 Casa Blanca Rd	Open 24 hours
Downs at Albuquerque	Albuquerque	145 Louisiana Blvd	10 a.m.-4 a.m.
Fire Rock Navajo Casino	Church Rock	249 Rte 66	Open 24 hours
Inn of the Mountain Gods Casino	Mescalero	287 Carrizo Canyon Rd	Open 24 hours
Isleta Resort & Casino	Albuquerque	11000 Broadway Blvd	Open 24 hours
Northern Edge Casino	Farmington	2752 Indian Service Rd.	8 a.m.-4 a.m.
Ohkay Hotel Casino	Ohkay Owingeh	68 NM-291	Open 24 hours
Palace West	Albuquerque	2 NM-45	8 a.m.-2 a.m.
Route 66 Casino Hotel	Albuquerque	14500 Central Ave SW	Open 24 hours
Sandia Casino	Albuquerque	30 Rainbow Rd	Open 24 hours
Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel	Bernalillo	54 Jemez Canyon Dam Rd	Open 24 hours
Santa Claran Hotel Casino	Espanola	460 N Riverside Dr.	Open 24 hours
Sky City Casino	Acoma Pueblo	7 Sky City Rd Dr.	Open 24 hours
SunRay Park & Casino	Farmington	39 Rd 5568	11 a.m.-4 a.m.
Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino	Sunland Park	1200 Futurity Dr.	10 a.m.-1 a.m.
Taos Mountain Casino	Taos	700 Veterans Hwy	8 a.m.-2 a.m.
Wild Horse Casino & Hotel	Dulce	13603 US-64	9 a.m.-2 a.m.
Zia Park Casino Hotel & Racetrack	Hobbs	3901 W Millen Dr.	Open 24 hours

Apache Nugget Casino

This casino property opened in 2004 and features more than 200 slot machines. It’s just off the highway adjacent a travel center and includes a smoke/gift shop as well as other travel amenities.

Billy the Kid Casino

Billy the Kid Casino includes more than 300 slot machines and is connected to the Ruidoso Downs Race Track. Visitors can also enjoy simulcast racing and additional live events like the All American CowboyFest.

Buffalo Thunder Resort Casino

There are tons of options for legal gambling in New Mexico at this property, which is connected to the Hilton Buffalo Thunder and Homewood Suites hotels. The gaming floor has more than 1,200 slot machines and standard table games like craps, roulette and blackjack. There’s also a poker room, horse racing book and 19 Keno games.

Casino Apache

New Mexico bettors will find plenty of slot machines, video poker options and table games like roulette, blackjack and Texas Hold ‘Em at this property located on the Mescalero Apache Reservation. Smokey B’s Grill is the lone food option and open from 7 a.m.-1 a.m.

Cities of Gold Casino

This hotel and casino in New Mexico offers a variety of slot machines and daily bingo games with payouts up to $10,000 for the jackpot game. Check for daily promotions such as Senior Thursday and Guest Appreciation Day.

Dancing Eagle Casino

The Dancing Eagle gaming area includes slot machines and daily bingo games, with free Players Club membership and additional promotions. It is part of a larger travel center that includes an RV park, grocery store, gas station and more.

The Downs Racetrack & Casino

The Downs offers live horse racing in New Mexico as well as simulcast betting. The gaming area includes more than 700 slot machines and runs promotions like slot tournaments and the virtual Downs Derby. Dining options include the upscale Crown Room as well as a food court.

Fire Rock Navajo Casino

The gaming area at this New Mexico casino has classic table games like roulette, blackjack, Spanish 21 and craps. First Rock Navajo Casino also has more than 1,100 slot machines as well as bingo games. Cheii’s Restaurant and a food court are available for dining on property.

Inn of the Mountain Gods Casino

Visitors to this expansive New Mexico casino resort have plenty of options on and off the gaming floor. The casino includes a full sportsbook for legal sports betting in New Mexico, tons of slot machines and table games like roulette, craps, blackjack, Let it Ride and baccarat, bingo, a poker room and more. There’s also a championship 18-hole golf course, seven restaurants and a full spa.

Isleta Resort & Casino

Located just a few miles south of downtown Albuquerque, the Isleta is a large resort property with more than 1,700 slot machines and tons of table games like blackjack, roulette, high card flush and more. It also includes a sportsbook, poker room, bingo and 18-hole golf course.

Northern Edge Casino

This Navajo casino has plenty of options for gambling in New Mexico. More than 750 slot machines line a gaming floor that also includes blackjack, roulette and min-baccarat. Gamers can also fuel up at the Cedar Bow restaurant and food court.

Ohkay Hotel Casino

This stay-and-play casino includes 700 slot machines, along with electronic table games like blackjack and poker. It also has a buffet, cantina, coffee shop and the Double O Bar and Nightclub for the after-hours crowd.

Palace West

This is the only non-smoking casino in New Mexico, located just south of its affiliate Isleta Resort. The Palace West is a much smaller environment with bar service and a variety of slot machines.

Route 66 Casino Hotel

This large property includes a full sportsbook for legal sports wagering, more than 1,300 slot machines and table games like craps, blackjack and roulette. The hotel has 154 rooms and suites while dining options include a buffet and sports bar.

Sandia Casino

The Sandia Casino resort is a full package for gamblers, with a massive offering of more than 1,750 slot machines and a solid offering of table games. Stay-and-play packages, including rounds at the 18-hole Sandia Golf Club, are readily available.

Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel

The gaming floor at this hotel property includes more than 1,600 slot machines, table games like craps, roulette, blackjack, high card flush, and a sportsbook. Additionally, the Santa Ana Star has a bowling alley, comedy club and six restaurants including Juniper Steakhouse and the Feast Buffet.

Santa Claran Hotel Casino

The 27,000 square-foot gaming floor has more than 650 slots and video gaming machines with plenty of high-stakes options. There’s also the Grill at Santa Claran and a coffee shop. The 122-room hotel includes spaces for large group meetings.

Sky City Casino

Gaming options at the Sky City Casino include slot machines, table games like roulette, blackjack and craps and a 375-seat bingo hall. The hotel has plenty of options for rooms and suites and includes a pool, gym and RV park.

SunRay Park & Casino

The Sunray offers live horse racing and simulcast betting to complement its gaming area. The casino has more than 400 slots and video poker machines, as well as the Sportz Arena for food and drinks.

Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino

The racetrack hosts an annual Sunland Derby Day with more than $1.4 million in prize purses. The casino area includes slot machines and electronic table games, while the 78-room hotel has four restaurants.

Taos Mountain Casino

This New Mexico casino in the heart of Taos has more than 200 slot machines as well as video poker and keno. There’s an extensive Buffalo Rewards Club for frequent guests and Sluggers Diner is open Monday-Saturday.

Wild Horse Casino & Hotel

The Wild Horse has a variety of options with slot machines and electronic gaming. There’s also a full hotel and shopping area for stay-and-play gamblers.

Zia Park Casino Hotel & Racetrack

This expansive casino property in Hobbs, has more than 750 slot machines and electronic games. The horse track has plenty of betting windows for quick, easy wagers, while dining options include the Centennial Steakhouse and Turf Club Restaurant.

Which Casinos in New Mexico Will Offer Online Gambling?

It’s impossible to tell because legal online gambling in New Mexico isn’t coming anytime soon.

Should the state ever move in that direction, it seems likely the existing tribal casinos and pari-mutuel racinos would have first crack. New Mexico has limited all gambling options in the state to these entities and would likely stand by that if they ever decide to change their gambling laws to allow legal online gambling. Still, that doesn't mean that players wouldn't be able to get promotions similar to NJ online casino bonuses. Brands would immediately start competing to offer the best online casino bonus imaginable.

Online Casino Apps to Be Available in New Mexico

If New Mexico ever passes legislation to legalize online gambling, casino apps would most certainly follow. Online casino apps are increasingly popular in states where online gambling is legal. A great example of this are the NJ casino apps.

Once a player has installed the online casino, they immediately have access to online slots and table games like blackjack and roulette at their fingertips. Popular operators like Caesars Casino, BetMGM Casino, 888casino, William Hill and others have partnered with land-based casinos in other states to provide these apps for easy legal online gambling access.

Online Casino Games to Launch in New Mexico

While New Mexico online gambling hopefuls might be kept waiting for a while, the following online casino games would be available as soon as the regulatory process is completed.

Online Slots

These work just like the land-based casino slot machines. The only difference is you’re pressing a button rather than pulling a lever and your favorite machine is always open, with no waiting required.

Social casinos are rich with online slot options and serve as a valuable alternative.

Roulette

Online roulette is even easier to play than the land-based version. No reaching over the table to place chips or fighting for room at the wheel. Simply click your bets on red/black, even/odd, high/low or individual numbers and watch the virtual wheel spin.

Online Poker

Online poker remains illegal in New Mexico. Online poker sites are similar to land-based poker rooms at various casinos with one key difference – you can’t actually see anyone at the table. That means you can’t read faces or pick up on verbal or physical tells.

Instead, online poker requires careful monitoring of betting patterns in order to get a feel for the different types of players at the table.

Lottery

New Mexico has a thriving state-run lottery game, but tickets can only be purchased at retail locations. Online lottery is still illegal. These online lottery games work just like the ones you’ll find at said retail stores. Once a player signs up through the state-run lottery site, they can purchase tickets for a number of different games to try and hit the jackpot.

Online Blackjack

Just like online poker, online blackjack is still illegal in New Mexico. It’s a popular game in states with legal online gambling because it’s so similar to the land-based version. The odds remain the same on every card combination and you can wager just like you would at a land-based casino.

The pros for online blackjack include quick hands with no one else at the table and the ability to practice and understand how to bet various scenarios in a short period of time.

Live Dealer

Even some states with legal online gambling fail to offer live dealer games, so it’s hard to say if they would be available should online gaming come to New Mexico. These games work just like online blackjack and roulette but feature a live dealer handing out cards in front of a camera at a control center.

There’s no major benefit here unless you really prefer the optics of a real person turning cards instead of a computer, and options are limited across the country.

Best online casinos that payout continue to add payment options, making things much easier on players in states where this is legal. Should online gambling in New Mexico ever join the group, they can expect the same variety.

PayPal is accepted at most top online casinos and is very easy for those who have accounts. Simply transfer money from your PayPal balance to the online casino and you’re all set. New PayPal users can create an account in a matter of minutes and follow the same steps.

The Play+ card is a similar alternative and serves as an online gift card of sorts. Players first transfer funds to the Play+ card and then deposit to the online casinos using that Play+ balance.

Debit/credit cards are accepted at most social casinos, but some users still have problems with declined payments even in states with legal online gambling. Policy varies at different banks, so consult yours if you run into any problems using this as your preferred method.

Bank transfers and Automated Clearing House (ACH) payments are also accepted at most legal online casinos and social casinos.

Some social casinos like Chumba also accept a variety of e-wallet payments like Skrill. This is an easy additional step in which users first add their deposit funds to the e-wallet, then pay at the casino sites using their e-wallet accounts.

What Bonus Offers Can I Expect in New Mexico?

If legal online gambling ever comes to New Mexico, players should make sure to check out a few options and see which type of bonus offers and promotions they can claim.

Some sites offer matched deposits for first-time users and double the size of the initial deposit by up to $500 or more. It basically doubles your bankroll from the get-go, though some will require the player to wager a certain amount before they can access the bonus funds.

Free spins are good for online slot machine enthusiasts. These are basically tokens that players can use for free credits at the slot machine. Any winnings will go directly to the account, while losing spins won’t cost the player anything.

Refer-a-friend bonuses let players benefit from bringing new users to the online casino. The new player would enter a code while registering and the referring player will then receive free play funds in their account. Some of these might require the new player to wager a certain amount before the other can access the funds. With all bonuses, be sure to read the terms and conditions.

Online Gambling in New Mexico

Gambling was illegal across New Mexico in the pre-World War II era. That all changed when the state legalized on-track pari-mutuel betting in 1947. The first legal horse races were held at what is now called Ruidoso Downs Race Track and the industry continues to thrive.

That remained the only legal gambling option prior to the 1995 New Mexico Lottery Act, which began the state-run lottery program that now generates around $40-60 million in annual revenue.

The Federal Government legalized tribal casinos in 1987, and New Mexico tribal casinos followed in 1996 after years of negotiations.

Racinos – horse racing tracks that can provide electronic gaming – were first legalized in 1998 as the Sunland Park and Ruidoso Downs racing tracks fought for more options once the tribal casinos were built.

The Santa Ana Casino Star Casino & Hotel opened the state’s first retail sportsbook in 2018 just months after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act and gave states the option to legalize sports gambling.

@infoSlider([ "title" => "Timeline of Gambling Legislation in New Mexico", "showDate" => true, "showItemPosition" => true, "items" => [ ["title" => "", "date" => "2018", "text" => "New Mexico unexpectedly takes its first sports bet, becoming the sixth state to do so and the first state to take a legal wager without a formal act from the legislature."], ["title" => "", "date" => "2009", "text" => "State officials formally regulate bingo for prizes, becoming one of the most recent states to oversee the games that are now commonplace across the country."], ["title" => "", "date" => "1998", "text" => "Motivated by the growth of Native American casinos, state officials approve five racinos, a major development in a state without many significant gaming options."], ["title" => "", "date" => "1996", "text" => "Nearly a decade after federal rules opened up casino gambling options on tribal lands, New Mexico’s first tribal gaming centers begin opening their doors. More than 20 such casinos open in the next 20 years."], ["title" => "", "date" => "1995", "text" => "New Mexico approves a state-sanctioned lottery, becoming one of the more recent lottery adopters in the nation and breaking nearly half a century without any significant gaming authorizations."], ["title" => "", "date" => "1946", "text" => "Pari-mutuel horse track wagering is legalized."], ] ])

Daily Fantasy Sports Betting in New Mexico

Daily Fantasy Sports are legal in New Mexico. No one has challenged the assertion of popular fantasy sports operators like DraftKings and FanDuel that they run games of skill rather than gambling, and they are free to take cash entry fees across the state.

Horse Betting in New Mexico

Pari-mutuel horse racing betting was the first form of gambling legalized in New Mexico. It’s been thriving since the mid 1940s and currently includes six racing tracks across the state. Four of them operate as racinos, with additional electronic gaming options in the casino area.

Simulcast betting is also available for off-track wagering at these sites. Off-track horse betting is the only form of legal online gambling in New Mexico.

References

New Mexico Gaming Control Board (n.d.). Retrieved June 4, 2020, from https://www.nmgcb.org/
US Department of Justice (January 24,2020). Retrieved Feb. 6, 2020, from https://www.justice.gov/
American Gaming Association (n.d.). Retrieved Feb. 5, 2020, from https://www.americangaming.org/

FAQ

Can you gamble online in New Mexico?: Off-track horse race betting is currently the only option for legal online gambling in New Mexico, though social casinos are legal, too.
What is the legal gambling age in New Mexico?: The legal gambling age in New Mexico is 18 for horse racing and lottery. The legal age for casino gaming is 21.
What New Mexico casinos are eligible for a gaming license?: Casino licenses in New Mexico are limited to the state’s tribal casinos and racinos.
What forms of gambling are allowed in New Mexico?: Tribal casino gambling, sports gambling at tribal casinos, pari-mutuel horse racing, off-track betting, lottery and Daily Fantasy Sports are legal in New Mexico.
Do I need to live in New Mexico to online gamble once it goes live?: No, visitors and tourists would be good to go for online gambling in New Mexico if it goes live, but it must be done within state borders. Casinos and sportsbooks would use geolocation software to ensure that bettors were in the state.
Why do some sites have online casino offers in New Mexico?: Social casinos are a great alternative to illegal offshore casinos, and many sites advertise for top social casino sites like Chumba. And real money casino site advertising in New Mexico is an offshore and unregulated site that should be avoided.
Where can I gamble in New Mexico?: Gamblers in New Mexico can place wagers at tribal casinos, sportsbooks at tribal casinos, six horse racing tracks and retail locations where lottery tickets are sold.
Can I bet on sports online in New Mexico?: Off-track betting is legal in New Mexico, but all other forms of online sports gambling remain prohibited.
Who will regulate online gambling in New Mexico?: Regulation for online gambling in New Mexico would likely go to the New Mexico Gaming Control Board.
Will online gambling in New Mexico be safe once legal?: Yes, any legal online casino sites or sportsbooks would be heavily regulated and therefore safe to deposit funds and input personal information such as your Social Security number to register.
How will New Mexico tax my gambling winnings?: Gambling winnings in New Mexico are taxed at a rate of 6% by the state, plus you will owe federal taxes at a rate determined by your tax bracket.

Updated by

Jon Young

Fact Checked by

Michael Kates