How to Check Casino License
Don't deposit a single dollar before verifying the license. We show you exactly how to spot a legit operator in under 5 minutes.
Written by Sarah Roberts
Security Analyst · 8 years in fraud detection. Sarah has verified licenses for 500+ casinos and helped expose 15 unlicensed operators in 2025 alone.
Complete License Verification Guide
⏱️ Quick answer:
Scroll to the casino footer → find license number → click the logo → verify on regulator's official site. Takes 2 minutes.
📋 Step-by-Step: Verify Any Casino License
Go to the Casino Footer
Scroll to the bottom of the casino's homepage. Look for license logos (Curacao, MGA, UKGC) and text. Legit casinos display this prominently.
Find the License Number
Look for a unique license number like #xxxxx/JAZ (Curacao) or MGA/B2C/xxx/2026 (Malta).
Click the License Logo
Click on the license logo or number. It MUST redirect to the regulator's official verification page. If it's just an image with no link — DO NOT DEPOSIT
Verify on Regulator's Site
On the regulator's page, check that the casino's operating company name matches. Also verify the license status (active/expired) and the issue date.
WARNING: Fake Licenses Are Common
In 2026, we've identified 12 casinos using fake license numbers or stolen regulator logos. Always verify by clicking through to the official site. A logo image alone means nothing.
🔗 Check our updated blacklist for known offenders.
📜 Major Regulators & Verification Links
| Regulator | License Format | Verification Method | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curacao eGaming | #xxxxx/JAZ |
Click logo → redirects to curacao-egaming.com. Search by license number. | Verify → |
| Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) | MGA/B2C/xxx/2026 |
Search on MGA's official license register by company name or license number. | Verify → |
| UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) | xxx-xxxxxx-xxx |
Check the public register on gamblingcommission.gov.uk. | Verify → |
| New Jersey DGE | NJIGP-xxx |
Search on NJ DGE's online database of licensed entities. | Verify → |
| Pennsylvania Gaming Board | PAxxx |
Check the PGCB's interactive license list. | Verify → |
✅ Examples: Properly Licensed Casinos
View all →
🚩 What If There's No License?
If a casino doesn't display any license information, or if the license doesn't verify:
- DO NOT DEPOSIT — You have zero protection.
- Check our blacklist — it might already be reported.
- If you've already deposited and can't withdraw, see our "Casino Not Paying" guide.
- Report the site to help other players: reporting guide.
📚 Related Safety Guides
🧠 MEET THE SECURITY TEAM
Full team →
Sarah Roberts
Security Analyst · 8 yrs fraud
Michael Johnson
Lead Reviewer · 12 yrs casino ops
1,450+ hours
real‑money testing
60‑point safety checklist
licenses, support, payouts
Daily blacklist updates
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No paid placements
100% independent
❓ LICENSE FAQ
Full FAQ →What is the most common casino license?
Curacao eGaming is the most common license for offshore casinos. It's easy to obtain and has lower fees, but provides less player protection than MGA or UKGC. Compare regulators →
How to check if a casino is licensed in the US?
US-legal casinos are regulated by state bodies like the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement or Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. You can verify licenses directly on their official websites.
What if the license logo doesn't click anywhere?
If the license logo is just an image without a link, that's a major red flag. Legitimate casinos always link to the regulator's verification page. See all red flags →
Can a casino have multiple licenses?
Yes, many casinos hold multiple licenses to operate in different jurisdictions. For example, a casino might have a Curacao license for international players and separate US state licenses for New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
How often do casino licenses expire?
Most licenses are valid for 1-5 years and must be renewed. Always check the license status on the regulator's website to ensure it's still active.
What's the difference between Curacao and MGA licenses?
MGA (Malta) has stricter player protection rules, higher fees, and more oversight. Curacao is easier to obtain, has lower costs, but provides less recourse if something goes wrong. Detailed comparison →