Texas Sports Betting October 2026: Best Options Available Now

No, traditional sports betting remains illegal in Texas as of October 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 October 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: October 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: VIP60
• 🔵 Polymarket promo code: SIBONUS
• 🧙‍♂️ ProphetX promo code: SICOM
• ➡️ Novig promo code: SIBONUS
• 🟠 OG promo code: SIBONUS
• 🐶 Underdog promo code: SICOM
• ➕ Plus500 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 are the best prediction market promos and promo codes for Texas residents to use for NFL this season:

To help you decide which platform to test first, we've highlighted the top prediction market platforms for Texas, along with their best features and welcome bonuses currently available to new users. Compare each platform's NFL markets, trading features, and bonus requirements to find an option that fits how you want to trade this season.

For another option, check out our DraftKings Predictions promo code page for details on its current new-user offer.

Texans can now take advantage of our Kalshi welcome bonus: Trade $25, get $60 bonus. This is currently the largest guaranteed welcome offer for Kalshi prediction markets and 40% larger than the standard $25 bonus. To qualify, sign up using the Kalshi promo code VIP60. Then, complete identity verification, make a qualifying deposit of at least $10, and trade at least $25 in event contracts to unlock the Kalshi $60 bonus.

Other randomized offers may advertise higher bonuses but most users will actually receive lower amounts. Code VIP60 guarantees a $60 bonus for all new users who claim the offer.

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, subject to the terms and conditions at http://kalshi.com/tc/55. 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 $25 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 $25 bonus is credited.

In addition to the generous $25 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 fans can use the FanDuel Predicts promo code offer for new users, worth up to $100 in Predicts Bonuses. No code is required. Make a deposit and complete at least $1 in real-money trades on each of five qualifying days to earn five $20 bonuses.

Beyond the welcome offer, FanDuel Predicts stands out by giving Texans a familiar, sportsbook-style way to trade sports outcomes. The platform offers sports prediction markets alongside financial and economic contracts, with early exits and combination event contracts providing additional flexibility. 

SI Verdict: FanDuel Predicts is one of the strongest options for Texans who want a sportsbook-style prediction market experience, with familiar sports markets, combination contracts, early exits, and a great welcome offer.

For more information on these two platforms, check out our Kalshi vs. FanDuel Predicts review, which highlights their key features and differences.

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 its exchange model — you trade positions against other users, not odds set by a bookmaker. That means prices move with market demand, and you can exit whenever you want by setting your own price with 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, ProphetX's flexibility 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.

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 $50 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 stands out with its peer-to-peer, no-vig trading model, letting users trade directly with one another rather than a traditional sportsbook. The platform also supports same-game parlays and multi-leg combos of up to 12 selections, plus limit orders that let you set 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.

SI Verdict: Novig is one of the strongest sports-focused prediction markets for Texans, especially for users who want sportsbook-style markets, multi-leg combos, and more control over pricing through peer-to-peer trading.

New Underdog customers in Texas can use the Underdog promo code SICOM to play $10 and get $50 in Bonus Entries. One qualifying $10+ play unlocks $50 in bonus entries. Your qualifying play does not need to win.

What makes Underdog useful in Texas is how much functionality it packs into one app. Underdog Predict is available in Texas, offering Prediction Picks on eligible sports outcomes and Combos that can mix prediction and fantasy selections. The broader Underdog platform also includes Pick'em, DFS, and Best Ball.

Texas users may alternatively choose a 50% first-deposit match up to $1,000 or five free Rips packs worth up to $750, but only one welcome offer can be selected. Keep Your Million is separate, giving eligible users another opportunity to play for up to $1 million in Bonus Entries.

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.

OG.com offers eligible Texas residents up to $50 in welcome rewards through its updated Trade $25, Get $50 promo. New users who verify their account and complete $25 in qualifying settled trades can receive an initial $25 bonus or rebate, followed one week later by a 100% trading boost worth up to $25. The OG promo code SIBONUS is available through our verified OG links, although eligibility for this specific offer must be confirmed. Additional perks include a refer-a-friend program and ongoing rewards 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.

Our list contains all the best NBA prediction market apps, so you can trade on any of these teams today. For a top-tier trading experience, we recommend Kalshi NBA markets and Polymarket NBA markets.

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.

Here are the key Texas football games, bye weeks, and futures to follow from Oct. 29–Nov. 1, 2026. 

Cowboys-Eagles is now in the books, with Dallas winning 38-21 on Oct. 26. Attention shifts to Sunday’s home matchup against Arizona, giving the Cowboys a shorter turnaround between Week 7 and Week 8. 

College football takes center stage Saturday night when Texas hosts Mississippi State at 7:30 PM ET. The Longhorns are coming off a 34-27 win over Ole Miss, while Texas A&M has a bye before its Nov. 7 visit to South Carolina. 

Houston also sits out this weekend following its 27-21 overtime loss to the Giants. The Texans resume their schedule on Nov. 8 against the Chargers at 4:05 PM ET. 

Traditional online sports betting remains illegal in Texas. Prediction platforms offer sports contracts covering game winners, spreads, totals, player outcomes, and championship futures, but the available selection varies. Confirm your platform’s Texas eligibility and the specific markets it offers before trading, especially for college football.

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

Once you've claimed your bonus and played through the requirements, any winnings can then be withdrawn. Check our guide to the best prediction market payouts to compare withdrawal speeds, payment options and processing times across top platforms, including Kalshi, Polymarket and Novig.  

More Prediction Market Apps, Alternatives & Guides for 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 the following pages:

• Apps like Betr
• Apps like PredictIt
• Apps like PrizePicks
• Apps like Robinhood prediction market

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:

• New York prediction markets
• California sports betting
• Georgia sports betting
• Florida sports betting

You can also read how we rate prediction markets to see how our team evaluates and scores each platform.

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.