Legal Age to Gamble in Canada by Province
If you’re planning to bet online or visit a casino in Canada, it’s essential to know the **legal gambling age** in your province or territory. While gambling laws are regulated at the **provincial level**, the age requirement is fairly consistent across most regions. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is the Legal Gambling Age in Canada?
The **minimum legal age to gamble in Canada is either 18 or 19**, depending on the province or territory. This age restriction applies to all forms of gambling, including:
- Land-based casinos
- Online casinos and sportsbooks
- Lottery tickets and scratch cards
- Slot machines and VLTs (Video Lottery Terminals)
- Poker rooms and charitable gaming
Gambling Age by Province and Territory
| Province/Territory | Legal Gambling Age |
|---|---|
| Ontario | 19 |
| Quebec | 18 |
| British Columbia | 19 |
| Alberta | 18 |
| Manitoba | 18 |
| Saskatchewan | 19 |
| Nova Scotia | 19 |
| New Brunswick | 19 |
| Prince Edward Island | 19 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 19 |
| Northwest Territories | 19 |
| Yukon | 19 |
| Nunavut | 19 |
Online Gambling Age in Canada
Online casinos and sportsbooks in Canada must follow the **same age restrictions** as physical gambling venues in each province. Licensed operators verify your age through ID checks or secure KYC (Know Your Customer) processes when you sign up.
Why Age Verification Matters
Gambling is restricted to adults for good reason — it carries financial risk and can lead to addiction if not done responsibly. That’s why **legal gambling sites** in Canada require users to confirm their age before allowing access to any betting features.
Can You Gamble at 18 in Canada?
Yes — but only in certain provinces like **Quebec, Alberta, and Manitoba**, where the legal age is 18. In most other provinces, you must be **19 years old** to legally gamble.
Consequences of Underage Gambling
Attempting to gamble underage in Canada can lead to serious consequences, including account bans, forfeiture of winnings, and potential fines. Licensed operators are required by law to report and restrict underage gambling activity.
Gamble Responsibly
Whether you’re 18 or 19, it’s important to approach gambling responsibly. Stick to your budget, understand the odds, and use self-exclusion tools if needed. For more tips, check out our guide on Responsible Gambling.
BettingEdge.ca supports legal, regulated, and age-appropriate gambling across Canada.