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If you're trying to stop sports betting in Pennsylvania, start with the tools your state already gives you. Below is how to lock yourself out of the sportsbooks here and where to find free support for you or someone you love.
Pennsylvania at a glance
| Online sports betting | Yes, through licensed apps |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | 21 |
| Regulator | Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board |
| Statewide self-exclusion | Pennsylvania Self-Exclusion (Gaming Control Board) |
| How to sign up | Online portal |
Is sports betting legal in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania allows sports betting online through mobile apps and in person at casinos and other licensed venues. It started in 2018 in person, with mobile apps since 2019. You have to be at least 21 to bet on sports in Pennsylvania. Betting is overseen by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
How to self-exclude from sports betting in Pennsylvania
Think of self-exclusion as a decision you make on a clear day for the version of you that shows up on a bad one. Licensed sportsbooks have to honor it.
In Pennsylvania, the main option is the Pennsylvania Self-Exclusion (Gaming Control Board).
- The Gaming Control Board's online portal handles self-exclusion for casinos, online gaming and sports wagering, video gaming terminals and fantasy contests.
- The portal takes live photos during enrollment, so a phone works best.
- The PA Lottery's online games have a separate self-exclusion.
Also self-exclude inside each sportsbook app you've used, usually under account settings or responsible gaming. It takes effect right away and covers you while the state program processes.
Not sure which list covers which app? This chart sorts it out, and the self-exclusion guide walks through signing up.
Game days in Pennsylvania
Most bets get placed during games, not before them. In Pennsylvania, that means games involving the Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia 76ers and Penn State Nittany Lions are where your plan has to hold. Pick the games you'll watch this month and decide who you'll watch with. When it's close late, put the phone in another room.
More on this in watching sports after you quit.
Put more walls between you and a bet
Every step you put between you and a bet helps on a bad night.
- Put a blocker on your phone and computer, and have someone else hold the passcode. See how to block sports betting apps.
- Take saved payment methods off every betting site and lower your daily ATM and transfer limits.
- Behind on bills? NFCC.org can match you with a nonprofit credit counselor.
Free help in Pennsylvania
You don't have to pick the perfect option. Pick one and start this week.
- Low-cost or free treatment: start with the National Council on Problem Gambling's resources for Pennsylvania. It lists who to call in Pennsylvania.
- Talk to someone now: the National Problem Gambling Helpline is free and confidential, 24/7. Call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738).
- Free meetings: Gamblers Anonymous meets in person and on Zoom on every day of the week. What your first meeting is like.
- A gambling counselor: general therapy helps, but a specialist knows the patterns. Start on Find Help with your state picked.
- In crisis: call or text 988, or call 911 if you're in immediate danger.
If you love someone who bets in Pennsylvania
If it's your partner, child or friend who's betting, start with yourself: separate your money, check your credit report, and find support at Gam-Anon. Then read how to help someone with a gambling problem before you talk.
FAQ
What's the legal sports betting age in Pennsylvania?
You have to be at least 21 to bet on sports in Pennsylvania.
How do I self-exclude from sports betting in Pennsylvania?
The portal takes live photos during enrollment, so a phone works best.
Does self-excluding from one app cover every sportsbook in Pennsylvania?
No. Excluding inside one app only blocks that app. The Pennsylvania Self-Exclusion (Gaming Control Board) is what covers licensed operators across Pennsylvania, so use both, and add a blocker for offshore sites that ignore state programs.
Where can I get gambling treatment in Pennsylvania?
Gambling-specific programs are rare in Pennsylvania, so most people here start with online therapy or a counselor through the state's resources. If you need more than that, some residential programs in other states accept out-of-state patients. See your options on Find Help.
Sources: Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board: self-exclusion portal; Fox Sports: where sports betting is legal (May 2026); Cope Compass: self-exclusion by state; National Council on Problem Gambling: help by state; NCPG: 1-800-MY-RESET. Checked October 2026. Rules and programs change, so confirm current details on the official page before you rely on them. Unbettable isn't affiliated with any sportsbook, casino or state agency.
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