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Louisiana

Last updated: 3/13/2026

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Poker laws vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Consult a licensed attorney in your state for specific legal questions about hosting poker games.

Home game poker is generally lawful in Louisiana because R.S. 14:90 defines criminal gambling as conducting, or directly assisting in conducting, a game 'as a business' for profit — a private, non-commercial game is outside that definition. The prior 'bona fide social relationship' condition in this entry reflects other states' statutes and is not a Louisiana statutory requirement. The state has an extensive commercial and tribal gaming industry with major poker rooms.

Home Games

Generally Legal

Louisiana's gambling offense (R.S. 14:90) turns on whether a game is conducted 'as a business' whereby a person risks something of value to realize a profit. A purely private, host-does-not-profit poker game is generally not criminal gambling. Louisiana does not codify a 'social relationship' or 'private place' test the way some other states do, so the analysis rests on the business/profit element and on how it has been applied.

Conditions

  • The game must not be conducted or assisted in as a business
  • No person may profit from hosting, operating, or providing the premises (no rake, seat charge, or entry fee retained by the host)
  • All participants should be players on equal terms
  • Do not use a computer or internet platform to wager (R.S. 14:90.3 separately prohibits gambling by computer)
  • No person under 18 should participate
Age: 18+

Charitable Gaming

Legal - Licensed & Regulated

Charitable gaming is regulated by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board. Qualifying organizations can host casino nights and poker events with licensing.

License: Required

Commercial Poker

Legal - Licensed & Regulated

Louisiana has extensive commercial gaming including riverboat casinos, land-based casinos (Harrah's New Orleans), racinos, and tribal casinos. Many offer poker rooms.

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