The state of New Jersey has a long history with gambling and betting.
Back in 1748, New Jersey passed an act to stop gambling activities in the state.
Despite this decision, New Jersey has always been one of the least restrictive states when it comes to gambling laws.
Casino gambling was legalized in 1976. The first legal casino in the state opened in 1978.
That first New Jersey-based casino was the Resort Casino Hotel in Atlantic City. It launched the city’s casino industry that would soon become world-famous.
In-state online casino gambling was legalized in 2013, a little over 10 years ago.
In 2019, New Jersey surpassed Nevada in terms of money legally wagered on sports betting. And surpassed the total the state of Nevada totaled in 2019.
Some argue that New Jersey is now the new king of sports betting.
So, how does one gamble online in New Jersey? How does it work?
Read on to find out more.
What do people gamble on in New Jersey?
Because of its gambling history and laws, New Jersey is a popular destination for bettors.
Some enjoy betting in land-based casinos or gambling venues. Others prefer to bet online.
But which sports and games do people gamble on? Here are the most popular ones, listed in alphabetical order.
Baseball
Basketball
Football
Hockey
Horse races
Poker
Tennis
Although these are some of the most popular sports and activities, people can also bet on the Oscars, niche sports and even politics via different sportsbooks.
For example, a group of individuals are currently betting on the upcoming US elections. Some are even betting using ‘memecoins’ or new types of cryptocurrency that look like politicians.
That being said, betting on elections is technically illegal in New Jersey. Betting on the Oscars and niche sports is not.
This is why it is important for gamers to find the right provider that respects New Jersey’s gambling laws. Those that offer election bets are not following the state’s laws.
Things to remember before betting in New Jersey
Here are some of the key things to remember before betting in New Jersey.
The right provider will not offer illegal betting services. They will respect New Jersey’s current gambling laws, as listed below.
New Jersey allows in-state online casino gambling. In other words, you have to be in the state of New Jersey if you want their gambling laws to apply to you.
If you currently live outside of New Jersey, check the gambling and betting laws of your state before gaming online.
You might be tempted to use a VPN to change your location to New Jersey. That will not work as legal online gambling venues will ask for your SSN or other in-state information to make sure you are currently in NJ.
No need to be an NJ resident, you just need to be in the state when betting.
Some people manage to get away with a VPN, but most individuals end up getting banned and having their winnings taken away from them by gambling venues.
As most states stipulate, bettors need to be at least 21 years old to gamble.
You will need to show your ID at land-based gambling venues. You will also need to send a picture of your ID to online gambling venues if you want to open an account with them.
A legal gambling venue will check your ID. They will never advertise or promote underage gambling.
New Jersey does not allow election bets or weather bets. However, you can bet on sports and some award ceremonies like the Oscars and the Emmys.
A provider that offers elections or weather bets is not following the state’s laws. It’s best not to use their services.
It is illegal to bet on NJ college teams and other college sporting events taking place within the state’s limits.
However, it is legal to bet on college sports that are not in-state.
Bettors should also remember that it is illegal to bet on high school sports or any sport where most of the athletes are under 18.
Whether you are in the US or in Europe, a good sports betting provider will always offer a good platform, good customer service and responsible gaming tools.
They will make sure that you are safe, your personal information is protected and that their betting activities are legal.
Final thoughts
This article provided some tips and information on how gambling works in New Jersey and how bettors can start gambling safely.
