Las Vegas is known as the gambling capital of the world, with casinos and poker rooms aplenty. However, for those under the age of 21, navigating the city’s entertainment scene can be challenging. Specifically, many young adults wonder whether they are allowed to play poker in Las Vegas if they are only 18 years old.
The short answer is yes – players who are 18 years old can legally play poker in Las Vegas. However, there are some limitations and restrictions that must be considered.
Understanding Nevada Law
The state of Nevada has specific laws governing gambling and gaming. These laws apply to all casinos and gaming establishments within the state’s borders, including those in Las Vegas.
According to Nevada law, anyone who is at least 21 years old can gamble or play poker in a casino. However, there are exceptions for certain types of games. Specifically, anyone who is at least 18 years old can play bingo or participate in parimutuel betting on horse racing.
When it comes to poker, the rules are a bit more complicated. In order to play poker in a casino as an 18-year-old, you must first find a casino that allows it. Some casinos have a minimum age requirement of 21 for all games, while others allow players who are at least 18 to participate in certain games.
Finding Casinos That Allow Underage Poker
If you’re an 18-year-old looking to play poker in Las Vegas, your first step should be to research which casinos allow underage players to participate in their poker games. This information can usually be found on the casino’s website or by contacting their customer service department directly.
Some popular Las Vegas casinos that allow 18-year-olds to play poker include the Golden Nugget, the Orleans, and the Plaza. However, it’s important to note that even if a casino allows underage poker players, there are still restrictions in place.
Restrictions for Underage Poker Players
Just because a casino allows 18-year-olds to play poker doesn’t mean that they have free reign to do so without any restrictions. In fact, there are several rules and regulations in place that underage players must follow.
- Underage players can only be in the poker room during certain hours (usually from 10am to midnight).
- Underage players cannot be served alcohol while playing poker.
- Underage players must have a valid ID with them at all times.
Additionally, some casinos may require that underage players have an adult chaperone with them at all times while in the poker room. This is done to ensure the safety of all players and staff members.
The Bottom Line
If you’re an 18-year-old looking to play poker in Las Vegas, it is possible – but you’ll need to do your research and find a casino that allows it. Keep in mind that there are restrictions and regulations in place for underage players, so be sure to follow them closely.
Overall, while playing poker as an underage player may seem like a fun and exciting experience, it’s important to remember that gambling can be addictive and should always be done responsibly. If you’re not sure if you’re ready to gamble or if you’re struggling with addiction, seek help from a professional organization or hotline.
