Michigan

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 legal in Michigan under MCL 750.314, which includes a clear social gambling exception for private games. Michigan has a robust gaming industry including commercial casinos in Detroit, numerous tribal casinos, and legal online poker authorized in 2019.

Home Games

Explicitly Legal

Michigan law (MCL 750.314) includes a clear social gambling exception. Private poker games are legal as long as no person profits from hosting and the games are among acquaintances.

Conditions

No person may receive compensation for hosting or operating the game
No rake or house cut
Game must be among acquaintances in a private setting
All participants must be players on equal terms

Age: 18+

Charitable Gaming

Legal - Licensed & Regulated

Michigan has a comprehensive charitable gaming framework under the Michigan Lottery. Licensed charities can conduct casino events including poker through qualified licensees.

License: Required

Commercial Poker

Legal - Licensed & Regulated

Three commercial casinos operate in Detroit (MGM Grand Detroit, MotorCity Casino, Greektown Casino). Numerous tribal casinos operate across the state. Online poker and casino games are legal.

Key Statutes

MCL 750.314 — Gambling

Defines gambling offenses with a social gambling exception for private games

View statute

MCL 432.201 et seq. — Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act

Authorizes and regulates commercial casino gaming in Detroit

View statute

PA 152 of 2019 — Lawful Internet Gaming Act

Authorizes online poker and casino games in Michigan

Recent Changes

2025

Michigan's online poker market now operates with multi-state shared liquidity rather than as a proposal. Michigan joined the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement in May 2022; the Michigan Gaming Control Board approved Caesars' World Series of Poker for shared liquidity in May 2024 and authorized BetMGM in November 2024. Pennsylvania joined the MSIGA in April 2025, further enlarging the shared player pool alongside Nevada, New Jersey, Delaware and West Virginia.

No changes to home game, charitable, or commercial poker law; online poker liquidity has expanded

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