PokerStars US: How to Play on PokerStars in the USA

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Jun 13, 2023 43 min read Last updated Jun 20, 2023

With so many people looking for ways to play online poker with friends or set up PokerStars Home Games, it's time to take a step back and look at how online poker works in the United States.

In this article, you'll learn:

• How to Sign up and Play PokerStars in the US
• Where Can I Play PokerStars in the US?
• In Which States is PokerStars Legal to Play?
• Can I use a VPN to Play on PokerStars in the US?

What is PokerStars?

If you are looking for a guide to help you understand how to play for real money on PokerStars in the USA, you will love this one.

That's because you can play on PokerStars from within the United States if you are in one of the states where online poker is legal. PokerStars is currently available to play in Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

Many things have changed since April 15, 2011 (aka Black Friday), when US authorities enforced the (UIGEA) and put online poker in the US in lockdown.

Since then, several states have created gambling rules that allow some operators (including PokerStars) to offer real money poker games online to US players.

What's different now? Ten years ago, everyone played online poker on the same PokerStars client — regardless of location.

Today, you can play on PokerStars from the US only if you download the right client and are in the right state.

That's what this guide is for.

How to Sign up and Play PokerStars in the US

Signing up on PokerStars is a simple process that will have you playing at the online poker tables in no time. This guide section will walk through the steps to set up a PokerStars account.

Step 1: Download the Software - The first step for setting up a PokerStars account is to download the software for whatever state you are playing in, whether it's Michigan, Pennsylvania or New Jersey.

Step 2: Create Your PokerStars Account - The next step is to create an account by giving your basic personal information and choosing a password.

Step 3: Make Your First Deposit - Now that you have an account set up, make a deposit using Visa, Mastercard, or various other payment options.

Step 4: Start Playing Poker - You have an account and a bankroll; you are now ready to hop into the online games.

In Which US States is PokerStars Legal to Play?

Let's look at the states where it is legal to play on PokerStars for real money. If you aren't in one of these states, you'll have plenty of free poker games to choose from instead.

• Michigan
• New Jersey
• Pennsylvania

Can I Play PokerStars in my State?

The PokerStars website is available in the United States, but only players in a handful of states can access the real money games listed there.

This isn't because PokerStars doesn't want you at the tables. The poker site is active in almost all the US states that have legalized online poker.

If yours is not on the list, you might want to take it to your state representatives. They are the ones who can help you go back and play real money games with thousands of other players like you on the PokerStars software.

Pick your state from the list below to discover if you can play real money games on PokerStars.

Can I Play PokerStars in Michigan? - YES

Online poker is legal in Michigan, and you can access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders by downloading PokerStars MI.

Online poker has been legal in Michigan since the end of 2019, and we know of many more operators planning to create products to offer real money games in the state.

It's worth being noted that the current legislation allows PokerStars MI to share traffic with PokerStars NJ, thanks to the interstate compact signed in December 2022.

How to Play PokerStars Legally in Michigan

For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Michigan.

Can I play on PokerStars from New Jersey? YES

New Jersey was one of the first states to open to online poker. PokerStars is legal in NJ, and you can use the world's most popular poker software to play real money games.

Register on the PokerStars NJ website to play cash games, tournaments, and many exclusive games like Zoom Poker and Spin & Go's tournaments.

PokerStars NJ is also home to some of the largest tournament series in the Garden State.

How to Play PokerStars Legally in New Jersey

Visit this review of PokerStars NJ to know more about the software and the bonuses available to play poker or check out our list of the best NJ poker sites to find the best PokerStars alternatives.

Can I play on PokerStars from Pennsylvania? YES

Online poker is legal in Pennsylvania, and you can access all the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Visit the PokerStars PA website to download the world-famous PokerStars client and access an impressive offer of cash games, tournaments, and exclusive formats.

How to Play PokerStars Legally in Pennsylvania

Visit this review of PokerStars PA to know more about the software and the bonuses available to play poker or check out our list of the best PA poker sites to find the top PokerStars alternatives.

Can I play on PokerStars from Alabama? No.

Online poker is not legal in Alabama, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Alabama, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

When will Poker be Legal in Alabama?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Alabama.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Alabama?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Alabama, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Alabama?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Alaska? No.

Online poker is not legal in Alaska, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

When will Poker be Legal in Alaska?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Alaska.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Alaska?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Alaska, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Alaska?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Arizona? No.

Online poker is not legal in Arizona, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Arizona, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

When will Poker be Legal in Arizona?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Arizona.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Arizona?

Not anytime soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Arizona, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Arizona?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Arkansas? No.

Online poker is not legal in Arkansas, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

When will Poker be Legal in Arkansas?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Arkansas.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Arkansas?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Arkansas, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Arkansas?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from California? No.

Online poker is not legal in California, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

If you want a taste of the PokerStars software from California, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

When will Poker be Legal in California?

Maybe online poker will be legal in the next few years. California tried to legalize online poker in the past, with the last attempt going South back in 2016.

The latest developments suggest California's lawmakers will soon try to bring real money poker games online back to the state, hence letting people play on PokerStars from California again.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in California?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from California, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.s guide to online poker in California.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in California?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state other than the live card rooms.

Can I play on PokerStars from Colorado? No.

Online poker is not legal in Colorado, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Colorado, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

The state seems to be making signs of progress toward legalizing online games for real money, and poker is seen to be one that could become available soon.

When will Poker be Legal in Colorado?

Maybe in the next few years. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Colorado.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Colorado?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Colorado, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Colorado?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Connecticut? No.

Online poker was authorized in Connecticut bu Public Act 21-23. However, there are currently no online poker operators licensed in Connecticut. With online poker now legal in the Constitution State, it would be surprising if PokerStars and other online poker operators did not apply and push for a license to offer real money poker to Connecticut residents.

If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Connecticut, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

When will Poker be Legal in Connecticut?

Poker has been legal in Connecticut since May 2021, thanks to the Public Act 21-23 passing. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Connecticut.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Connecticut?

Connecticut gave the green light for legal online poker in the state, but it is yet to offer licenses to operators. There is no public timescale for when this will happen, although it is now a case of when, not if this will happen. In the meantime, if you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Connecticut, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Connecticut?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Delaware? No.

Online poker is legal in Delaware, and you can play real money poker games when you find yourself within the state's borders.

However, PokerStars is unavailable in Delaware. Online poker in Delaware is essentially a monopoly that the state's three casinos operate. 888poker, thanks to a joint venture with Scientific Games and Williams Interactive, powers online poker products of Delaware Park Poker, Harrington Raceway Poker, and Dover Downs Poker.

The PokerStars Play free platform is available to all players in Delaware.

When will Poker be Legal in Delaware?

Maybe in the next few years. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Delaware.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Delaware?

Maybe soon. To get a taste of the PokerStars software from Delaware, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Delaware?

Without any launched online poker platforms, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Florida? No.

Online poker is not legal in Florida, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Florida, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

The state of Florida is seen as one of those that are most likely to legalize online poker. Should this happen as soon as analysts estimate, it is safe to assume that Florida would become a key US marker for PokerStars.

When will Poker be Legal in Florida?

Maybe in the next few years. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Florida.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Florida?

Maybe soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Florida, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Florida?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state other than poker at live casinos.

Can I play on PokerStars from Georgia? No.

Online poker is illegal in Georgia, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

It's worth mentioning that Georgia has always adopted a very strict approach towards gambling, and online games like poker aren't likely to be allowed anytime soon.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Georgia?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Georgia, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

When will Poker be Legal in Georgia?

Not anytime soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Georgia.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Georgia?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Hawaii? No.

Online poker is not legal in Hawaii, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Hawaii, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

Gambling (offline and online) isn't legal in Hawaii, and the situation will not change in the foreseeable future.

If you were planning a nice vacation to play poker from Hawaii, you might have to reconsider your plans. It looks like this summer paradise and its sandy beaches aren't the best places to play online poker or learn how to play Texas hold'em.

When will Poker be Legal in Hawaii?

Not anytime soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Hawaii.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Hawaii?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Hawaii, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Hawaii?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Idaho? No.

Online poker is not legal in Idaho, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Idaho, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

The state of Idaho is one of the few in the US to explicitly forbid online poker, so you should not be expecting to play on PokerStars from Idaho anytime soon.

When will Poker be Legal in Idaho?

Not anytime soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Idaho.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Idaho?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Idaho, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Idaho?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Illinois? No.

Online poker is not legal in Illinois, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Illinois, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

Despite the current situation, the state of Illinois has a positive outlook since the legislation is expected to change and allow legal online poker games for real money quite soon.

When will Poker be Legal in Illinois?

Maybe in the next few years. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Illinois.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Illinois?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Illinois?

Maybe soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Illinois, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

Can I play on PokerStars from Indiana? No.

Online poker is not legal in Indiana, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Indiana, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

In the past, the state of Indiana adopted a series of strict anti-gambling measures that, amongst other things, forbid online casino games and slots for real money.

When will Poker be Legal in Indiana?

Not anytime soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Indiana.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Indiana?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Indiana, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Indiana?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Iowa? No.

Online poker is not legal in Iowa, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Iowa, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

Iowa has been 'close' to legalizing online poker a few times already, even if none of those attempts resulted in the re-opening of the poker market.

While we believe that Iowa will be one of the states to allow online poker games and welcome PokerStars again soon, there's no definitive deadline in sight.

When will Poker be Legal in Iowa?

Hard to say. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Iowa.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Iowa?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Iowa, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Iowa?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Kansas? No.

Online poker is not legal in Kansas, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

At present, we have no news about online poker being even close to appearing in the legislator's agenda - meaning you are not likely to play poker on PokerStars from Kansas anytime soon.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Kansas?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Kansas, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

When will Poker be Legal in Kansas?

Hard to say. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Kansas.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Kansas?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Kentucky? No.

Online poker is not legal in Kentucky, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

The state of Kentucky and online poker are in a 'complicated relationship.' In 2008, Kentucky authorities seized nearly 150 internet domains and sued PokerStars for nearly $1 billion. This was ultimately settled between PokerStars' parent company Flutter and the state of Kentucky in 2021.

Then, the state moved towards regulating the market - making many believe legal online poker (and PokerStars) could be back in Kentucky very soon.

When will Poker be Legal in Kentucky?

Hard to say. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Kentucky.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Kentucky?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Kentucky, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Kentucky?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Louisiana? No.

Online poker is not legal in Louisiana, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

The state of Louisiana has been close to legalizing online poker in the past, and many believe the market should re-open in the next three to five years.

At present, we have no information regarding any plans for PokerStars to offer real money poker games in Louisiana should the game become legal.

When will Poker be Legal in Louisiana?

Hard to say. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Louisiana.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Louisiana?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Louisiana, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Louisiana?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Maine? No.

Online poker is not legal in Maine, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Online poker is left in a grey area here, as the state's laws do not make it legal nor illegal.

It is too early to say whether PokerStars plans to offer poker games in Maine, but we believe the operator would certainly consider the opportunity to do so - especially if Maine will share liquidity with other US states.

When will Poker be Legal in Maine?

Hard to say. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Maine.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Maine?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Maine, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Maine?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Maryland? No.

Online poker is not legal in Maryland, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Our negative outlook comes from the state's stand on gambling and the decision to pursue many online gambling operators in the past.

While the rules that concern online poker in Maryland are not as clear as those that forbid online gambling games, we believe it's highly unlikely that the game will be allowed soon.

When will Poker be Legal in Maryland?

Not anytime soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Maryland.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Maryland?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Maryland, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Maryland?

Without legal online poker, there aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Massachusetts? No.

Online poker is not legal in Massachusetts, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Our positive outlook comes from the many signs of progress made in the past years. The first legal brick-and-mortar casino in Massachusetts opened its doors in 2018 due to the state's liberal policies on gambling.

A bill to push for the legalization of online poker will likely be submitted for discussion in 2021 or 2022.

When will Poker be Legal in Massachusetts?

For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Massachusetts.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Massachusetts?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Massachusetts, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Massachusetts?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Minnesota? No.

Online poker is not legal in Minnesota, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Minnesota's legislation on poker isn't clear, and players in the state have many options to find games online. There is no sign of upcoming bills to push for creating a state-specific legal poker market in Minnesota.

When will Poker be Legal in Minnesota?

Hard to say. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Minnesota.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Minnesota?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Minnesota, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Minnesota?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Mississippi? No.

Online poker is illegal in Mississippi, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Mississippi, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

The state of Mississippi includes poker in the list of gambling games, making it quite clear that the game isn't allowed if played online and for real money.

The possibility of regulating online poker has been discussed, but no signs of progress have been made.

When will Poker be Legal in Mississippi?

Hard to say. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Mississippi.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Mississippi?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Mississippi, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Mississippi?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Missouri? No.

Online poker is not legal in Missouri and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Although there is no mention of online activities, the state of Missouri has a clear anti-gambling stand that makes it highly unlikely for us to expect any form of legalization of online poker games in Missouri anytime soon.

When will Poker be Legal in Missouri?

Not anytime soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Missouri.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Missouri?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Missouri, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Missouri?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Montana? No.

Online poker is not legal in Montana, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

The Montana Gambling Law regulates poker and includes severe sanctions on individuals involved in gambling activities. Unfortunately, we don't know of any upcoming initiative to change this restrictive approach to online gambling.

When will Poker be Legal in Montana?

For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Montana.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Montana?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Montana, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Montana?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Nebraska? No.

Online poker is not legal in Nebraska, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Something has started to change in recent years - with live poker expected to be allowed as a 'game of skill' as early as 2021.

To date, however, we have not heard of any initiatives pushing for the regulation of online poker games in the state.

When will Poker be Legal in Nebraska?

Hard to say. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Nebraska.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Nebraska?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Nebraska, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Nebraska?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Nevada? No.

Although online poker is legal in Nevada, you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

PokerStars has not yet applied to obtain a license to offer poker games in Nevada, so the site's offer is unavailable from within the state.

If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Montana, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

When will Poker be Legal in Nevada?

For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Nevada.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Nevada?

It could be soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Nevada, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Nevada?

Check out WSOP Nevada for all of your online poker needs.

Can I play on PokerStars from New Hampshire? No.

Online poker is not legal in New Hampshire, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

The state's legislation on gambling is very vague and unclear, making it hard to say that online poker is 'legal' or 'illegal' with a satisfactory degree of certainty.

This isn't likely to change in the immediate future as there are no poker bills in sight in NH.

When will Poker be Legal in New Hampshire?

Hard to say. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in New Hampshire.

When will PokerStars be Available in New Hampshire?

No time soon. To get a taste of the PokerStars software from New Hampshire, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in New Hampshire?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from New Mexico? No.

Online poker is not legal in New Mexico, and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Since there's no mention of online poker in New Mexico's laws, many believe the state's anti-gambling laws would apply to online poker games if these involve real money transactions.

No time soon. It seems unlikely that poker will be legalized in the foreseeable future as we have no notice of any poker bills being prepared.

When will Poker be Legal in New Mexico?

For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in New Mexico.

When will PokerStars be Available in New Mexico?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from New Mexico, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in New Mexico?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from New York? No.

Online poker is not legal in New York and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

The state of New York has been close to legalizing online poker several times in the past, with poker bills being introduced almost on a yearly basis.

While it's hard to guess when poker will become legal in New York, we are sure it is only a matter of time before the legislation changes for the better.

And once this happens, we expect a new PokerStars NY website to enter the market from day 1.

When will Poker be Legal in New York?

Could be soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in New York.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in New York?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from New York, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in New York?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from North Carolina? No.

Online poker is not legal in North Carolina and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Although poker is not explicitly mentioned in the list of gambling games (banned), North Carolina is one of the states where we don't expect the online poker to become legal anytime soon.

When will Poker be Legal in North Carolina?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in North Carolina.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in North Carolina?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from North Carolina, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in North Carolina?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from North Dakota? No.

Online poker is not legal in North Dakota and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

The state of North Dakota is not one of the strictest in the US when it comes to gambling, and we expect a poker bill to be introduced by 2025.

When will Poker be Legal in North Dakota?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in North Dakota.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in North Dakota?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from North Dakota, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

Can I play on PokerStars from Ohio? No.

Online poker is not legal in Ohio and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

This state is expected to legalize online poker soon. Some forms of poker are already legal in the country and a poker bill has been already discussed in the past.

When will Poker be Legal in Ohio?

Could be soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Ohio.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Ohio?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Ohio, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Ohio?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Oklahoma? No.

Online poker is not legal in Oklahoma and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

The state adopts a very restrictive approach towards gambling and while it isn't sure if the current laws would apply also to internet gambling, it is a sign that the legalization of online poker is highly unlikely.

When will Poker be Legal in Oklahoma?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Oklahoma.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Oklahoma?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Oklahoma, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Oklahoma?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Oregon? No.

Online poker is not legal in Oregon and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Poker is legal when played at a land-based establishment but it isn't if played over the internet. Oregon has a very right approach to gambling, going as far as to prohibit financial transactions related to online gambling.

When will Poker be Legal in Oregon?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Oregon.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Oregon?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Oregon, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Oregon?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state other than the live card rooms.

Can I play on PokerStars from Rhode Island? No.

Online poker is not legal in Rhode Island and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

While it isn't clear if Rhode Island consider poker to be a gambling game or not (and apply to poker the same norms that punish illegal gambling activities), a poker bill has been discussed in the past and could resurface soon.

When will Poker be Legal in Rhode Island?

Could be soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Rhode Island.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Rhode Island?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Rhode Island, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Rhode Island?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from South Carolina? No.

Online poker is not legal in South Carolina and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

South Carolina is not a gambling-friendly state and this is not going to change anytime soon. The state's approach to gaming goes as far as to make almost any forms of gambling illegal — and poker isn't the exception to this rule.

While we would like online poker to become legal in South Carolina, we know this isn't going to happen anytime soon.

When will Poker be Legal in South Carolina?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in South Carolina.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in South Carolina?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from South Carolina, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in South Carolina?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from South Dakota? No.

Online poker is not legal in South Dakota and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Running online gambling activities in South Dakota is explicitly illegal and you shouldn't expect PokerStars to launch in the state anytime soon. Not until the laws change, at least.

When will Poker be Legal in South Dakota?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in South Dakota.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in South Dakota?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from South Dakota, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in South Dakota?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Tennessee? No.

Online poker is not legal in Tennessee and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

This state is one of the strictest in treating gambling matters and it is unlikely to expect online poker to become legal soon.

However, despite its conservative anti-gambling laws, the state of Tennessee doesn't have any specific rules targeting online gambling.

When will Poker be Legal in Tennessee?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Tennessee.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Tennessee?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Tennessee, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in South Dakota?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Texas? No.

Online poker is not legal in Texas and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

We know it sounds hilarious, but the state that gave its name to the most popular poker game is also one where poker is completely illegal (both live and online).

Some poker rooms have found sneaky ways to run poker ops and offer live games but as far as online poker goes - there are no chances that players in Texas will be allowed to enjoy Texas Hold'em games anytime soon.

When will Poker be Legal in Texas?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Texas.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Texas?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Texas, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Texas?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state other than live card rooms.

Can I play on PokerStars from Utah? No.

Online poker is not legal in Utah and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Utah passed a law that forbids participation in online gambling games so it's unlikely that online poker will become legal anytime soon.

When will Poker be Legal in Utah?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Utah.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Utah?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Utah, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Utah?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Vermont? No.

Online poker is not legal in Vermont and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

Known for its more 'liberal' approach to a vast range of different matters, the state of Vermont is one where the charges for online gambling-related issues tend to be less intense than in most other states.

Don't let Vermont's relax approach misguide you, though. Online poker isn't legal in the state and you can't play on PokerStars from Vermont.

When will Poker be Legal in Vermont?

Hard to say. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Vermont.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Vermont?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Vermont, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Vermont?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Virginia? No.

Online poker is not legal in Virginia and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

There is no clear legislation that regulates online activities but online gambling is still considered to be a no-no in the state.

In the past, there have been talks about online poker legislation and we would expect those to be resumed by 2022.

When will Poker be Legal in Virginia?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Virginia.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Virginia?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Virginia, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Virginia?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Washington State? No.

Online poker is not legal in Washington and you can't access the real money games on PokerStars if you are within the state's borders.

The fact playing online gambling games is considered to be a felony makes Washington one of the worse states in the US for poker and casino players.

When will Poker be Legal in Washington State?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Washington.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Washington State?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Washington, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Washington State?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from West Virginia? No.

Online poker is legal in the state of West Virginia but you can't play real money games on PokerStars right now.

West Virginia legalized online poker and online casino gambling in the last months of 2019 and the first licensed operators are expected to go live in the beginning of 2021.

When will Poker be Legal in West Virginia?

No time soon. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in West Virginia.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in West Virginia?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from West Virginia, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in West Virginia?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Wisconsin? No.

In Wisconsin, ou can't play real money games on PokerStars right now.

While live poker is legal, the legislation is somewhat unclear when it comes to the online side of things and real money games online.

When will Poker be Legal in Wisconsin?

Hard to say. For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Wisconsin.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Wisconsin?

Hard to say. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Wisconsin, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Wisconsin?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

Can I play on PokerStars from Wyoming? No.

Online poker is legal in the state of Wyoming but you can't play real money games on PokerStars right now.

You can play poker in some brick-and-mortar establishments, but online gambling and online poker are not legal yet.

When will Poker be Legal in Wyoming?

Could be soon. There have been talks about legalizing sports betting and skill games online, but we don't see anything coming up for discussion before 2021.

For more info and all the latest legislative updates, visit this guide to online poker in Wyoming.

When will PokerStars be Available to Play in Wyoming?

No time soon. If you want to get a taste of the PokerStars software from Wyoming, you can access the PokerStars Play free platform.

What is the Best Recommended Alternative to PokerStars in Wyoming?

Without legal online poker, there really aren't any alternatives to PokerStars in this state.

PokerStars VPN: Can You Use a VPN to Play on PokerStars?

If you were about to Google 'how to play on PokerStars from US with a VPN,' think again.

Using a VPN is a bad idea for several reasons, including:

• It exposes you to financial risks. If you live in a state where you shouldn't access online poker games, how are you going to cash out the money you won while using a VPN?

• It is discouraged by PokerStars. Even if you don't care about what's legal / illegal, the PokerStars website has a clear stand on VPNs - and it's not a positive one.

  Here's what they write: "We ask that you connect to our services without using a proxy server or a VPN connection. These technologies can prevent access to all or some of the options within our software e.g. play, deposit, withdrawal, etc."

• It exposes you to lots of legal issues. If you live in a state where online poker is illegal, a VPN is not going to save you. Sure, your connection might be anonymous - but your financial transactions aren't. And the moment you made a deposit or a withdrawal - that's going to lead to all sorts of problems.

PokerStars United States FAQ

Connor Richards is an Editor & Live Reporter for PokerNews and host of the Life Outside Poker podcast. Connor has been nominated for two Global Poker Awards for his writing.

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