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Lottery age limits in the US, state by state

Published 16 Sep 2026 Last reviewed 16 Sep 2026 How we check this
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Lottery Age Limits in the US: State-by-State Overview

State lotteries are a popular form of gambling across the United States, often with lower age restrictions compared to other forms of gambling like casinos or sports betting. While the legal age to purchase lottery tickets is generally 18, there are some variations depending on the state. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the lottery age limits in the US, highlighting key differences and important considerations for players.

General Age Limit for State Lotteries

In most US states, the legal age to buy lottery tickets is 18. This includes both traditional scratch-off games and draw games like Powerball and Mega Millions. The lower age requirement compared to other forms of gambling, such as casinos or sports betting, reflects the historical perception of lotteries as a more accessible and less risky form of gambling.

For example, in states like New York and Pennsylvania, the lottery age is 18, while the legal age for casino gambling is 21. This distinction is important for players to understand, as it affects not only their eligibility to purchase tickets but also their ability to claim prizes.

States with Different Lottery Age Limits

While the majority of states set the lottery age at 18, there are a few exceptions:

Multi-State Lottery Games

Multi-state lottery games like Powerball and Mega Millions follow the age limit of the state in which the ticket is purchased. This means that if you buy a ticket in a state where the lottery age is 18, you must be 18 years old to participate. Conversely, if you buy a ticket in a state where the lottery age is 21, you must be 21 years old to purchase a ticket.

For example, if you are in Arizona, where the lottery age is 21, you must be 21 to play Powerball or Mega Millions. However, if you are in New Hampshire, where the lottery age is 18, you only need to be 18 to participate.

Important Considerations

It is crucial for players to be aware of the specific lottery age limits in their state and to adhere to them. Purchasing lottery tickets under the legal age is illegal and can result in penalties. Additionally, players should always gamble responsibly and be aware of the potential risks associated with gambling.

For more information on gambling age limits in different states, including casinos and sports betting, visit our Age Limits page. If you have any questions or concerns about gambling, our Help page provides resources and support.

Frequently asked questions

What is the legal age to buy lottery tickets in most US states?

The legal age to buy lottery tickets in most US states is 18. However, some states have different age limits, so it is important to check the specific regulations in your state.

Can I play Powerball or Mega Millions if I am under 18?

No, you must be at least 18 years old to purchase lottery tickets for multi-state games like Powerball and Mega Millions. The age limit is determined by the state in which you buy the ticket.

Are there any states where the lottery age is different from 18?

Yes, some states have different age limits for lottery tickets. For example, in Arizona, the lottery age is 21, while in Montana, it is 18. It is important to verify the age limit in your state.

What should I do if I suspect someone is gambling under the legal age?

If you suspect someone is gambling under the legal age, you should report it to the appropriate authorities. For more information on how to report such incidents, visit our Law page.

If gambling is causing harm, free confidential help is available — /help/.

Spotted something out of date? Ages and rules change. If a figure here looks wrong, please tell us — we check every report against the official source.

This is information, not legal advice. Gambling law changes often. Check the cited statute and the relevant regulator, and speak to a qualified professional about your own situation.