Texas Sports Betting September 2026: Best Options Available Now

No, traditional sports betting remains illegal in Texas as of September 2026. That means Texas residents cannot legally use online sportsbooks, retail sportsbooks, tribal sportsbooks, and top betting apps such as FanDuel, DraftKings Sportsbook, and BetMGM.

Did Texas try to legalize sports betting?

Texas sports betting has been a source of debate across the state. Lawmakers again considered legalizing sports betting during the 89th Legislative Session as House Joint Resolution HJR 134 sought to authorize a constitutional amendment allowing regulated online sports betting, while HJR 137 combined sports betting with broader casino expansion.

However, neither proposal became law, meaning sports betting remains prohibited in Texas in 2026. The Texas Legislature meets every two years, so the next major opportunity for legalization is expected during the 2027 legislative session.

Are prediction markets legal in Texas? 

Yes, while traditional sports betting is not legal in Texas, eligible Texas residents can access federally regulated prediction markets as of September 2026. Prediction markets such as Kalshi and Polymarket, along with Novig, and ProphetX allow prediction market users in Texas to trade NFL markets, including moneylines, spreads, and player props, on teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans, as well as other sports and real-world outcomes.

This is due to prediction markets being under a federal regulatory framework rather than state sports betting laws.

Why are prediction markets legal in Texas and not sports betting?

Prediction market platforms in Texas operate differently from traditional sportsbooks. Instead of placing fixed-odds wagers with a bookmaker, users buy and sell binary event contracts whose prices fluctuate with the market's view of an outcome's probability. This mechanism is similar to sports betting but allows prediction market platforms to remain legal, as they retain their federal classification as a Designated Contract Market (DCM) under the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).  

Texas residents can also participate in daily fantasy sports (DFS) contests, which continue to operate in the state despite the lack of a specific sports betting law.

Prediction markets vs online sports betting in Texas explained

Traditional online sportsbooks are not legal in Texas. However, eligible Texans can legally trade sports event contracts on federally regulated prediction market platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket, while DFS contests remain another popular alternative.

If you want to learn more about the differences, read our prediction markets vs. sports betting page for all the answers.

Online sports betting in Texas is not legal in any form, and gambling laws in the Lone Star State remain among the strictest in the United States, limiting most forms of wagering except under approved exceptions. 

While Texans cannot access the top online sportsbooks, they can sign up for the best prediction market apps that remain regulated at the federal level, and legal for use by eligible Texans.

Texas sports betting quick facts

📅 2027: Texas lawmakers will have their next major opportunity to legalize sports betting when the state's next regular legislative session begins. Any legalization effort would likely require lawmakers to approve a constitutional amendment before sending the issue to Texas voters.

📅 2026: Sports betting remains illegal in Texas. There is no regular legislative session in 2026, meaning the next major opportunity for legalization is the 2027 session.

📅 2025: Lawmakers introduce new sports betting proposals, including HJR 134 and SJR 65, which would have allowed voters to decide whether to amend the Texas Constitution to permit sports wagering. Neither proposal advances out of committee before the legislative session ends.

📅 2024: The Texas Sports Betting Alliance continues its legalization campaign, backed by major professional sports franchises and sports betting operators ahead of the 2025 legislative session.

📅 2023: The Texas House approves a proposed constitutional amendment to legalize sports betting, but the measure stalls in the Senate and never reaches Texas voters.

📅 2021: Texas lawmakers introduce major sports betting legislation backed by professional sports franchises and sportsbook operators, beginning a more coordinated push to legalize online sports wagering.

📅 May 2018: The U.S. Supreme Court overturns PASPA, allowing individual states to decide whether to legalize and regulate sports betting.

Last updated: August 2026

Who supports Texas sports betting?

The Texas Sports Betting Alliance, which is backed by major professional sports organizations, including the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, Dallas Mavericks, and San Antonio Spurs, continues to lobby lawmakers to enable betting in the state.

Current industry estimates suggest Texans already wager more than $7 billion annually through illegal and offshore channels, a figure frequently cited by legalization advocates arguing for regulation and tax revenue capture.

When will Texas sports betting be legal?

The next major opportunity for legalization is expected during the 2027 Texas legislative session.

Texas only meets in regular legislative sessions every two years, meaning sports betting proponents face a longer timeline than in many other states. Any legalization effort would likely require:

1. Passage of a constitutional amendment through the legislature
2. Approval by Texas voters in a statewide referendum
3. Creation of a regulatory framework for sportsbooks

As of now, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who controls the Senate calendar, has openly opposed any sports betting legislation. This does make near-term legalization unlikely. However, the rise of legal, federally regulated Texas prediction market apps like Kalshi and Polymarket may play a role in any decision-making ahead of that session.

Since there are no legal sports betting options in Texas, Texans looking to speculate on sporting outcomes, including the NFL, NBA, and more, should target signing-up with the top prediction market platforms.

I'll walk you through exactly how to register and sign-up on a CFTC-regulated prediction market, such as Kalshi or Polymarket.

1. Choose a prediction market platform

Choose one of the best prediction market apps available in Texas, such as Kalshi or Polymarket. Apps like Kalshi include Novig and ProphetX, the newest entrant in prediction markets, with strong live sports coverage.

2. Create your account

Sign up and create your account. If you're downloading Kalshi or Polymarket, enter the current promo codes below during registration to claim the welcome offer. Our top three prediction market promo codes for Texans are below:

• 🟢 Kalshi promo code: SI35
• 🔵 Polymarket promo code: SIBONUS
• 🧙‍♂️ ProphetX promo code: SICOM
• ➡️ Novig promo code: SIBONUS
• 🐶 Underdog promo code: SICOM

3. Complete KYC verification

Like all regulated financial platforms, prediction market apps will require you to verify your identity before trading. You'll only need to provide basic personal information but will be asked to confirm your identity through a Know Your Customer (KYC) process.

This process only takes a minute or two and can be done fast if you have your ID and phone ready.

4. Deposit funds

Most platforms accept ACH bank transfers (free), debit cards (instant, small fee), and bank wires. Most sites have a small minimum deposit, but you'll want to ensure you deposit enough to clear your welcome bonus.

5. Pick your first market

You can browse sports like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and MLS on all our top prediction market platforms, including the top NFL prediction market apps, which are available to those who can't access sports betting in Texas. Each market will offer the option to purchase a 'Yes' or 'No' contract.

Pick the side you want to trade on and then set your trade size.

6. Place the trade

Instead of setting a wager amount (as you would on a Texas sportsbook), you'll be buying prediction market contracts on a site such as Kalshi that settle at $1 (win) or $0 (lose) based on the actual outcome.

Your purchase price will determine how much you profit or lose on each trade. 100 contracts purchased at $0.50 would cost $50 and would see you gain $50 in profit if the outcome settled in your favor ($1 per contract).  

7. Withdraw winnings

Any profit you make from a completed trade will be returned to your main account and available for withdrawal immediately. You can withdraw to your linked bank account using the same rails you used to deposit.

With traditional betting sites and top sportsbook promos unavailable in Texas, the most meaningful welcome offers for traders who want to speculate on the NFL and other sports come from CFTC-regulated prediction market platforms.

These offers tend to be smaller in value but are also extremely easy to claim for anyone just starting with a new trading app. For Texans looking to get started with event trading, we've broken down the top prediction market promos and why each one is worth considering.

Texans can now take advantage of our Kalshi welcome bonus: Trade $25, get a $35 bonus. This is currently the largest welcome offer for Kalshi prediction markets and 40% larger than the standard bonus. To qualify, sign up using the Kalshi promo code SI35. Then, complete identity verification, make a qualifying deposit of at least $10, and trade at least $25 in event contracts to unlock the Kalshi $35 bonus.

Kalshi is one of the leading prediction market apps for sports traders, and its top-tier mobile app competes with any mobile sportsbook app Texas sports bettors have tried. Use it to trade on Cowboys, Texans, and Longhorns games once football season arrives.

Beyond the welcome offer and mobile trading device, Kalshi in Texas also runs a Kalshi referral program that rewards both the referrer and the new user, with referral earnings available to active users. Kalshi focuses on regulated prediction markets rather than DFS contests, so there are currently no dedicated daily fantasy sports promos. Take a look at our Kalshi review for a deep dive on one of the top prediction market brands. 

SI Verdict: If you're anticipating the legalization of sports betting in Texas, Kalshi stands out as our preferred choice. It's the best legal way to bet on sports outcomes in the Lone Star State.

*Certain limitations apply. The offer is available to new users only. 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See http://kalshi.com/regulatory for more information.

Polymarket is available to eligible Texans and currently offers a '10 deposit, get $50 bonus' welcome promotion for new users. Create an account using the Polymarket promo code SIBONUS, complete verification requirements, deposit at least $10, and meet any applicable promotional terms before the $50 bonus is credited.

In addition to the generous $50 welcome offer, one of our highest-value prediction market bonuses, there is also the Polymarket referral code and event-specific promotions that can provide extra value for active traders. Its market variety is superb, with topics ranging from politics, crypto, sports, economics, entertainment, and science. Texas sports betting enthusiasts will love the niche market coverage of UFC, Golf, and Esports, along with the ability to trade on Texas politics and climate events. 

For additional platforms, read the apps like Polymarket page. Or, to go deeper, read our complete Polymarket review.

SI Verdict: Polymarket is one of the most flexible trading platforms and should be the target of any new users in the Lone Star State who love making predictions on a wide range of subjects, not limited to sports.

Texas sports bettors can now take advantage of the Novig promo code offer for new users. Simply make a $10 deposit and get rewarded with $25 in bonuses. With such a low entry requirement, it's one of the best-value welcome offers available for Texans looking to try a sports prediction market and apps like Novig.

Beyond the bonus, Novig distinguishes itself with its peer-to-peer, no-vig trading model, allowing users to trade directly against one another rather than a traditional sportsbook. The platform also supports same-game parlays and multi-leg combos of up to 12 selections, along with limit orders that let you post your own price instead of accepting the current market. For Texas sports fans following the Cowboys, Texans, Rangers, Mavericks, Longhorns, and other local teams, Novig offers a compelling alternative to traditional sportsbooks with sharper pricing, more trading flexibility, and greater control over every position.

The best ProphetX promo code is SICOM, which you can use to unlock a 'Trade $50, get $75' bonus offer. You can claim the ProphetX predictions new-user offer by completing trades totaling $50 or more at probabilities under 80% across sports-related markets.

What sets ProphetX prediction markets apart from a standard sportsbook is the exchange model — you're trading positions against other users, not getting odds set by a bookmaker. That means prices move with market demand, and you can exit when you please by setting your own price using limit orders. For Texas sports bettors who've outgrown fixed-odds betting against bookies and want more say over how and when they cash out, the flexibility ProphetX offers is a huge part of the draw. If multi-leg trades are your focus, it's worth comparing ProphetX against the rest of the best prediction market combos before you settle on one platform.

SI Verdict: Prophetx has a display that mirrors traditional betting sites while offering the flexibility found in other high-level prediction markets. It's a perfect destination for Texas sports fans who want to speculate on the biggest sporting events and don't have access to legal sportsbooks.

New participants only. Trade $50+ to unlock $75 in incentive funds, paid in three $25 installments over 14 days. Trades above 80% are excluded. Each installment expires 45 days after credit. Terms apply.

New Underdog customers in Texas can use the Underdog promo code SICOM to get a 50% first-deposit match up to $1,000 in bonuses. A $2,000 deposit unlocks the full match, and new users also get access to Keep Your Million, where you can play for up to $1 million in additional bonus funds.

What makes Underdog useful in Texas is how much functionality it packs into one app. Underdog Predict offers single-event contracts and Prediction parlays with up to four selections, while the broader platform includes Pick'em, DFS, and best ball drafts. You can also use your welcome bonus across eligible Underdog products, including Underdog Predict.

SI Verdict: Underdog is a compelling choice for Texans who want prediction markets and fantasy products under one account, especially with two new-user promotions available.

Texas sports fans can claim the current Gemini Predictions promo offer and earn up to $100 in Predict Cash with no code required.

Gemini Predictions offers a wide range of sports contracts, plus crypto, politics, economics, and other event categories. That gives Texas users plenty of options throughout the year, whether they prefer major sports markets or want to explore non-sports events.

OG.com offers Texans a $10 trading bonus for new users who verify their account and make a single trade of $10 or more with a probability under 80%. No OG promo code is required. Additional perks include a refer-a-friend program and ongoing incentives for active traders.

What sets OG.com apart is its unmatched sports coverage, with prediction markets spanning the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, soccer, golf, tennis, combat sports, and major international events all in one place. For Texas sports fans, it's one of the best prediction platforms available thanks to its deep market selection, competitive pricing, and year-round action across virtually every major sport.

SI Verdict: OG.com is a relatively new prediction market app that eligible Texans can now access, which we favor for its trading experience similar to a sportsbook and a deep selection of markets across politics and more.

• Campaign Period: Extended
• The promotion expires 7 days after account verification. Only events settled within this 7-day window are eligible.
• Each qualifying trade must be worth at least $10.
• Only trades with probabilities below 80% qualify.
• Trades at or above 80% probability will not be counted.
• Trades are only counted once they have settled.
• Trades placed using rewards will not be counted.

The latest Plus500 promo code SICOM offers a trade $10, get $20 bonus for eligible new users who meet the promotion requirements.

The main reason we like Plus500 for Texas users is its cost structure. Rather than dealing with a percentage-based trading fee, users pay a combined $0.02 commission and exchange fee per contract, which keeps expenses easy to calculate before placing a trade. Plus500 also has a varied selection of event markets and a polished trading flow that feels geared toward users who want to get in, find a market, and place a position without much friction.

SI Verdict: Plus500 is best suited if lower contract fees are your biggest wish. The operator still offers a solid range of prediction markets.

Crypto.com is a popular cryptocurrency platform that offers Texans a deposit $10, get up to $50 welcome bonus, plus up to $2,000 in CRO through the referral program. To qualify, users must create and verify an account, make a minimum $10 deposit, and complete any required promotional activities, with bonus rewards distributed in stages rather than all at once.

In addition to the Crypto.com referral bonus, the platform frequently provides referral promotions, staking rewards, and cashback opportunities through its Visa Card program. While it's beginner-friendly, Crypto.com is appealing to existing crypto users thanks to its extensive coin selection, staking options, advanced trading tools, and multiple ways to earn passive rewards.

With its all-in-one ecosystem for trading, spending, and earning crypto, Crypto.com remains a top choice for Texans looking to maximize their digital asset experience.

SI Verdict: This platform is ideal for anyone interested in trading sports on a federally regulated prediction market while also accessing a top-tier cryptocurrency exchange.

With legal sportsbooks still unavailable, daily fantasy sports gives Texas sports fans a more interactive way to follow games and player performances. Daily fantasy sports in Texas focus on individual statistics rather than traditional betting lines, allowing users to build rosters or make player-based selections depending on the contest format.

Some of the top options for Texas DFS include:

• DraftKings Fantasy
• FanDuel Fantasy
• PrizePicks
• Underdog Fantasy
• Sleeper

Lone Star State natives take extreme pride in their sports teams. They say everything's bigger in Texas, and sports fanbases, especially the Dallas Cowboys, certainly fall under that description.  

NFL

🏈 Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys remain Texas' biggest betting draw, generating action across Super Bowl futures, division odds, player props, and every primetime matchup. With one of the NFL's largest fan bases, Dallas consistently draws interest in rivalry games against the Eagles, Commanders, and Giants, making these matchups a focal point for Texas sports bettors.

🏈 Houston Texans

The Houston Texans have emerged as one of the NFL's most intriguing young teams, creating strong betting interest around AFC South futures, playoff odds, and quarterback-related props. Key divisional games against the Colts, Jaguars, and Titans are often among the most-wagered Texans matchups.

Fan of the Texans or Cowboys? Check out Kalshi NFL markets and Polymarket's NFL markets for plenty of trades to make on NFL teams in Texas and more.

NBA

🏀 Dallas Mavericks

Led by superstar talent and playoff aspirations, the Dallas Mavericks are a popular choice in Western Conference futures and nightly NBA betting markets. Matchups against fellow contenders such as the Nuggets, Thunder, and Lakers typically attract elevated wagering interest.

🏀 Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets' young core has made them one of the league's most closely watched rising teams, with growing attention on their playoff futures and player-development markets. Their games often draw betting interest as they continue to climb the Western Conference standings.

🏀 San Antonio Spurs

The San Antonio Spurs are fueled by excitement surrounding Victor Wembanyama, making them one of the NBA's most bet-on young teams. Player props, award futures, and nationally televised games continue to generate significant interest even during rebuilding seasons.

WNBA

🏀 Dallas Wings

The Dallas Wings are one of the WNBA's most active betting markets, particularly around playoff futures and player props. As WNBA betting continues to grow nationally, the Wings are a natural draw for Texas sports fans looking to trade on women's basketball markets.

MLB

⚾️ Texas Rangers

The Texas Rangers remain a prominent MLB betting option thanks to their recent championship success and competitive roster. AL West races, playoff futures, and the in-state rivalry with Houston consistently attract betting activity.

⚾️ Houston Astros

The Houston Astros continue to be one of baseball's most respected contenders, drawing action on division, pennant, and World Series futures every season. Their rivalry games against the Rangers are among the biggest baseball betting events in Texas.

NHL

🏒  Dallas Stars

The Dallas Stars are one of the NHL's premier contenders and a major source of hockey betting interest in Texas. Stanley Cup futures, playoff series odds, and Central Division battles make Dallas a key team for hockey bettors.

NCAAF

🏈  Texas Longhorns

The Texas Longhorns are among the nation's most heavily bet college programs, especially following their move to the SEC. Conference title futures, College Football Playoff odds, and rivalry matchups against Oklahoma and Texas A&M generate enormous wagering attention.

🏈  Texas A&M Aggies

Texas A&M maintains a passionate fan base and strong betting following, particularly in SEC football markets. The renewed rivalry with Texas is expected to become one of the most anticipated and heavily wagered college sporting events in the state each year.

🏈 Texas Tech Red Raiders

The Texas Tech Red Raiders compete in the Big 12 and have built a strong football following across West Texas. Conference futures, bowl game odds, and rivalry matchups against Texas and Oklahoma State consistently generate betting interest among Red Raiders fans.

MLS

⚽ FC Dallas

FC Dallas is one of MLS's longer-standing clubs and a growing betting market as soccer continues to gain traction in North America. 

Remember, when comparing platforms like Kalshi and PredictIt, you must keep in mind that PredictIt doesn't offer sports. Kalshi, by contrast, offers deep coverage of sports markets. Make sure the platform you pick is right for you.

Our list of the top golf betting sites won't include legal Texas sportsbooks, but it will help you prepare to bet on the sport and learn about operators that may become available when sports betting goes live in the state. 

Interested in parlaying outcomes from one game with another outcome? Check out our list of the top prediction market parlay sites for more information.

Traditional online sports betting is not currently legal in Texas, but many sports fans have turned to prediction markets as a legal alternative. Prediction markets allow users to buy and sell event contracts tied to real-world outcomes, such as who will win a game, championship, or award. These apps like PredictIt operate under federal oversight and offer a nationwide platform for sports-related forecasting.

Unlike the best betting sites, which set odds and take wagers against bettors, prediction markets function more like exchanges where users trade contracts with one another. Prices fluctuate based on market sentiment, allowing participants to buy low, sell high, or hold contracts until an event is resolved.

Top prediction market sites in Texas

Our prediction markets guide is a complete, one-stop shop for any additional uncertainties you might have about trading sports-related contracts. 

For more information on our top operators, read our apps like Robinhood prediction market page or take a look at our apps like PrizePicks guide. Additionally, you can read our DraftKings Predictions promo code page.

If you're located outside of somewhere else where sports betting is illegal or limited, you can view our other state pages:

• California sports betting
• Georgia sports betting
• Florida sports betting

Prediction markets are best approached with a disciplined strategy and well-defined risk controls. Consider incorporating the following tools and practices:

• Set spending limits: Decide on a budget before you begin and stick to it.
• Never chase losses: Accept losses as part of the experience and avoid increasing your spending to recover them.
• Use responsible gaming tools: Many platforms offer account restrictions, spending controls, and self-exclusion options.
• Keep gambling fun: If it stops being enjoyable, consider taking a break.

Anyone experiencing negative effects from gambling — whether financial, professional, personal, or emotional — can access free, confidential help through the National Problem Gambling Helpline, 1-800-GAMBLER.