Is Sports Betting Legal in New Mexico?
Here you’re going to find everything you could ever need to know about gambling in New Mexico, going into specific details about the best way to enjoy sports betting in New Mexico. As always, the team will cover all the bases, providing a wealth of information regarding state law and the best bookmakers available.
Gambling casinos in New Mexico are one of the main attractions, but there are also some other land-based betting facilities that we’ll list here as well. For those players that prefer to work with offshore bookmakers, there will be a brief section highlighting some of the top-tier providers operating in the state.
For those bettors residing in other states, not to worry! We’ve got you covered with our page on US sports betting laws across all states. While the law regarding sports betting in New Mexico is clear, there are some grey areas. We’ll cover it all below.
Top 5 New Mexico Sportsbooks
With an extensive range of options when it comes to online gambling in New Mexico, bettors and sports fans will never be bored. The gambling age in New Mexico is the same as in other states, meaning bettors won’t be surprised by this and can enjoy the great offshore providers on offer.
Many of our readers ask “is sports betting legal in New Mexico?”, but what they should be asking is “where are the best legal sports betting in New Mexico?” That’s right, there are some of the best opportunities to wager on sports markets in the country in this great state. We’ve listed 5 of the very best online bookmakers below.
MyBookie
MyBookie ranks among the top-tier sportsbooks for good reason. It offers an impressive variety of betting markets, including NFL, NBA, MLB, and live in-game betting. The user interface is sleek and beginner-friendly, and promotions like risk-free bets and reload bonuses make it even more appealing. MyBookie is especially known for its responsive mobile experience and quick payouts, making it a favorite for both casual bettors and seasoned pros.
BetNow
BetNow might not be as widely known as some others, but it certainly punches above its weight. With a straightforward signup process, consistent odds, and dependable customer service, it’s earned a solid reputation. Seasonal promotions and regular cashback offers provide real value, while its easy-to-navigate platform appeals to both desktop and mobile users. BetNow’s simplicity and reliability make it a great pick for no-nonsense sports betting enthusiasts.
BetUS
BetUS has been a trusted name in the industry since 1994, making it one of the oldest and most reputable online sportsbooks around. With over two decades of experience, BetUS combines traditional betting charm with modern functionality. It offers a huge range of sports, esports, and casino options, along with a loyalty program and extensive educational content for new bettors. The platform also features expert analysis and sharp odds that attract experienced punters.
Bovada
Bovada is one of the most recognized names in online sports betting and is often the first platform newcomers hear about. It’s known for its all-encompassing sportsbook, fast-loading mobile site, and wide range of props and futures bets. Bovada also supports anonymous betting with Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, ensuring extra privacy for users. With a trusted brand image and sleek design, it’s a reliable hub for everything from football to horse racing.
BetOnline
BetOnline consistently delivers one of the best bonus offerings in the business: a 100% match up to $1000 for new customers. Beyond the welcome bonus, it offers sharp odds, fast withdrawals, and deep betting markets across major and niche sports alike. The platform supports live betting and cryptocurrency deposits, making it ideal for modern bettors. Whether you’re betting on Sunday football or late-night UFC, BetOnline keeps things competitive and convenient.
Legal Online Sportsbooks in New Mexico
Sports betting is legal in New Mexico, but it operates a bit differently than in many other states. While mobile betting has not been broadly legalized statewide, in-person wagering is available at tribal casinos under existing gaming compacts.
Currently, New Mexico residents and visitors can place legal sports bets at select tribal-operated sportsbooks. These venues operate under federal tribal agreements rather than state-regulated frameworks, meaning there’s no official statewide licensing body overseeing mobile sportsbooks just yet. However, the market continues to evolve, and any future expansion will likely focus on balancing tribal interests with broader mobile access.
Sportsbook | Available in New Mexico |
FanDuel | ❌ |
DraftKings | ❌ |
Caesars | ❌ |
FoxBet | ❌ |
BetRivers | ❌ |
BetMGM | ❌ |
PointsBet | ❌ |
Unibet | ❌ |
New Mexico Quick Facts
Here’s a snapshot of everything you need to know about sports betting in New Mexico. From how it became legal to who can place bets and where wagering is allowed, this quick guide breaks down the essential facts about New Mexico’s unique sports betting landscape at a glance.
State | New Mexico |
Sports Betting Law Passed | No ❌ |
Launch Date | October 16th 2018 ✔️ |
Minimum Gambling Age | 21 ✔️ |
Online Sports Betting | No ❌ |
Mobile Sports Betting | No ❌ |
Retail Sportsbooks | Yes ✔️ |
Tribal Casinos | Yes ✔️ |
Daily Fantasy Sports | Yes ✔️ |
Online Casinos | No ❌ |
Horse Racing | Yes ✔️ |
Dog Racing | No ❌ |
Esports Betting | No ❌ |
Why Many New Mexico Bettors Choose Offshore Sportsbooks Over Tribal Casinos
New Mexico allows sports betting, but only through a handful of tribal casinos—and that creates limitations for many bettors. While these in-person sportsbooks offer a legal path to wagering, the lack of mobile betting and restricted access means many New Mexicans still look to offshore sportsbooks for a more accessible, feature-rich experience.
From broader betting markets to crypto payments and ease of use, offshore sportsbooks provide what many local casinos cannot—flexibility, variety, and freedom from outdated systems.
Why Offshore Sportsbooks Appeal to New Mexico Players
Access to More Betting Markets
Retail sportsbooks in New Mexico don’t cover everything. You won’t find wagers on award shows, politics, or niche global sports. Offshore platforms let you bet on everything from presidential elections to esports tournaments and entertainment outcomes—markets that local options simply don’t touch.
Better Odds & Lower Juice
Offshore sites don’t deal with state taxes or tribal compacts, which means they can offer tighter lines and lower vigs. Bettors looking for higher returns per wager often prefer these better-value odds over those offered locally.
No In-Person Requirement
In New Mexico, sports betting can only be done at participating tribal casinos—you need to show up in person. Offshore sportsbooks remove that barrier entirely, allowing you to place bets from anywhere in the state—or the world—without stepping foot in a casino.
Crypto-Friendly & Faster Payments
Tribal sportsbooks usually stick to cash and card. Offshore books, however, often accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies, providing fast, secure, and sometimes anonymous deposits and withdrawals.
Quick and Simple Registration
Forget scanning your ID or verifying your location. Offshore sportsbooks make onboarding quick and painless. Just create an account, make a deposit, and you’re ready to bet—no extra red tape.
What You Can’t Bet on in New Mexico
Even though in-person sports betting is legal, tribal sportsbooks in New Mexico are limited in what they can offer. Wagers on the following are typically unavailable:
- Entertainment events (Oscars, Emmys, etc.)
- U.S. and international political elections
- Certain esports tournaments
- High school sports
Offshore sportsbooks don’t follow those same limitations, offering a much broader selection for adventurous bettors.
Who Can Legally Bet in New Mexico?
To place a legal sports wager in New Mexico, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be physically present at a licensed tribal casino
- Use an approved retail sportsbook (no legal mobile or online options yet)
- Provide valid ID to comply with local regulations
You don’t have to be a resident—just physically present at a legal sportsbook.
Who Is Prohibited from Betting in New Mexico?
Certain individuals are not allowed to place sports bets in New Mexico, including:
- Athletes, referees, coaches, and others with a direct connection to sports events
- Employees of casinos, leagues, or regulatory agencies with insider access
- People listed on self-exclusion or problem gambling registries
Offshore Sportsbooks: A Popular Alternative in New Mexico
While New Mexico’s tribal sportsbooks offer a legal foundation for sports betting, they’re still stuck in the past when it comes to convenience and variety. With no statewide mobile betting and limited options, many players turn to offshore platforms for a more modern experience.
From broader markets to instant access and crypto payouts, offshore sportsbooks continue to serve New Mexico bettors who want fewer restrictions and more freedom.
New Mexico Sports Betting – Recent Updates
- January 11, 2024 – Huge anticipation from state bettors from big firms as we approach the Superbowl LVIII.
- December 31, 2023 – Big profits accounted for throughout the year, as we move into 2024.
- November 28, 2023 – Mobile sports betting is on the rise in NM, with the introduction of new app technology.
- March 14, 2022 – US Casinos had the best month ever in March, winning $5.3 billion.
- February 12, 2022 – How sports betting has increased predatory gambling.
- January 17, 2022 – Public gaming companies are big winners in the state of New Mexico.
Six Reasons to Bet on These New Mexico Betting Sites
While sports betting in the state of New Mexico may not be legal, there are still some great opportunities to access the odds. This can be achieved through offshore bookmakers. But, what to look out for when choosing a provider? Well, there are numerous factors to consider. We’ve put together six of the most important below.
List Of Casinos In New Mexico
New Mexico offers a broad range of land-based betting facilities, with many flocking to the state to enjoy its casinos! One thing that is complicated about betting in the state is that the law can be misunderstood. But, to make things totally clear, we’ve listed all the casinos operating in the state today. Take a look.
- Apache Nugget Travel Center & Casino
- Black Mesa Casino
- Travel Center – Slot Stop
- Casino Apache Travel Center
- Casino Apache Travel Center
- Cities of Gold Casino
- Dancing Eagle Casino
- Elks Lodge Casino
- Fire Rock Casino
- Flowing Waters Navajo Casino
- Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder Resort and Casino
- Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino
- Isleta Resort & Casino
- Jake’s Casino
- Northern Edge Navajo Casino
- Ohkay Hotel Casino
- Palace West
- Route 66 Casino
- Sandia Resort & Casino
- Santa Ana Star Casino
- Santa Claran Hotel Casino
- Sky City Casino
- Taos Mountain Casino
- Tesuque Casino
- Wild Horse Casino & Hotel
New Mexico Sports Betting Timeline
We have kept track of what’s been happening in the sports betting scene in New Mexico for as long as we can remember. As such, we’ve kept up to date with all the events that have taken place year on year, notably the most relevant news.
In order to make it easier for you guys, we’ve put together a couple of the most important articles from the last few years. Be sure to keep checking back with this page for the latest news and information regarding New Mexico sports betting.
2023
BetMGM Enters New Mexico with Isleta Resort & Casino Collaboration
BetMGM expanded its reach into New Mexico, establishing a new retail sportsbook at Isleta Resort & Casino in Albuquerque. Despite the state’s limitation on online sports betting, this partnership offered a top-notch gameday experience within tribal casinos, featuring five betting windows, five kiosks, 35 televisions, and two VIP sections.
2022
Texas lawmakers seek new opportunities amidst talk of a new betting bill
As one of the most forward-thinking senators tries to move things forward, he’s met with much opposition. The hope is that there will be time to discuss the bill in the house, though there are many that want to see the bill scrapped. We will hear more on this story in the coming months.
2021
New Mexico bill would permit online betting, table games
Two state legislators have pre-filled a bill that would allow for sports betting to take place, both retail and online, in the state of New Mexico, permitting table games at racetracks. The HB101 bill will be introduced by Representatives Raymundo Lara and Phelps Anderson, allowing sports betting licences.
Responsible Gaming in New Mexico
New Mexico provides support for individuals dealing with gambling-related issues through the following resources:
- Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico: Offers a Gambling Helpline at 888-696-2440 for confidential assistance and support.
These resources aim to help individuals address gambling problems and find the necessary support and treatment.