Age restrictions vary between states in the US when it comes to poker and other forms of gambling, including online casino sites with minimum ages – some require you to be 21 while others allow people as young as 18. With casino laws continually shifting around us, always check with your local gambling authority for accurate information before depositing any funds into an online casino site.

Age requirements aside, there are other things you must take into account before playing poker. Never gamble with more money than you can afford to lose and keep track of wins and losses as this will help guide future decisions. Furthermore, choosing a trustworthy site with cash you are willing to lose can protect against unpleasant experiences as well as avoid getting scammed.

Before beginning poker gambling, it’s essential that you understand its rules. If unsure, consult an experienced player for advice. As well as learning the game itself, practicing with friends is also an excellent way to hone your skills – practicing can improve both strategy and money management habits.

Some may believe that poker does not qualify as gambling due to its element of skill; however, that doesn’t change its classification as such by legal codes that define gambling as “any activity which involves risking something of value in order to gain some advantage or enjoyment,” while these codes also frequently reference “advances made through gambling”. Obviously this language leaves room for interpretation by courts.

New Jersey law does not permit anyone under 21 from gambling at casinos owned and operated by Native American tribes; however, you must be 18 or over to participate. In New Hampshire the minimum gambling age requirement is 21 and those buying lottery tickets must be at least 18.

Philip Conneller has covered the gaming industry for two decades and was one of the founding editors at Bluff Magazine at the height of poker boom. His reporting specializes in gambling law, tribal gaming, politics, crime and regulation issues.

Gambling is an increasingly popular pastime in the US, with millions of Americans engaging in it annually. Some may gamble for fun; others take part to turn a profit. Age restrictions differ by state; generally speaking you must be 18 or over to legally play poker and other casino games online and 21 to gamble at land-based casinos and other establishments; there are plenty of ways you can practice your poker skills without gambling for real money!