The Keystone State Regulator PGCB Opened iGaming License Bidding Process

Pro-gambling Contributes to the Booming Online Gambling in PA

Pennsylvania has one of the most liberal gambling laws in the country, and all forms of online gambling in the Keystone State are legal unless stated otherwise. You can legally play games like bingo, slots, lottery, and table games.

The state recognized revenue and tax potential and allowed the pro-gambling climate to boom with arguably the most-gambling-friendly environment. For players, the benefits are obvious since they can enjoy the whole repertoire, from PA online casinos to sports betting.

A favorable climate for gambling has been around since the Pennsylvania Local Option Small Games of Chance Act in 1988. Casinos and online venues have been working successfully ever since, with the regulations being amended throughout the years.

Not all are legal in Pennsylvania, and there are things you can’t do even if your company is a license holder. For example, outside of authorized casinos, it is strictly forbidden to organize poker nights. Another thing you can’t do is quarter auctions. Hosting number games is only allowed for the official state Pennsylvania Lottery.

March 3rd Deadline

The state opened the bidding process on January 3rd, and you can deliver the application until March 3rd, 2023. A tight window means applicants must be proactive, mainly because Pennsylvania won’t issue permits after that. Igaming companies working outside the Keystone State and interested in getting PA online gambling certificates can now apply.

$4 Million for an Application

The state offers 12 certificates, and the bidding price is $4 million per certificate. In addition, providers can choose between six non-bank table games like poker, three bank table games, and three slot-type gaming certificates.

It is the second time PA has opened a licensing window; the first opportunity was in February 2018.

Difference between Standard and Qualified Gaming Entity Licenses

Each license has specific benefits and disadvantages. A Qualified Gaming Entity license allows you to open up an online gambling entity without partnering with brick-and-mortar casinos. The downside is a higher price than a standard license, and you will have to pay $12 million.

Standard gambling license covers PA casino app, online slots, tables, and poker, but it is meant for land-based businesses, and it has to be renewed every five years for a fee of $100,000.

Big Тumbers in iGaming

The decision to allow gambling brings Pennsylvania excellent tax revenue. Legal online gambling in PA grossed $1.23 billion in 2021-2022, bringing the government $341.7 million in taxes.

Slot games generate the most revenue, with $847.4 million. Interactive table games are second with $349.6. Interestingly, online poker had only $35.2 million in the same period. However, all three areas have substantial growth from year to year, meaning online gambling in Keystone State is on the rise.