Do this now
0 of 5 doneYour checks stay on this device
Nobody plans on searching for gambling help in Virginia. If you're here, you've already started the hard part. What follows is how Virginia lets you ban yourself from betting and where to find free help close to home.
Virginia at a glance
| Online sports betting | Yes, through licensed apps |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | 21 |
| Regulator | Virginia Lottery |
| Statewide self-exclusion | Virginia Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP) |
| How to sign up | Online for 2 or 5 years; in person for lifetime |
| Gambling treatment programs | Williamsville Wellness |
Is sports betting legal in Virginia?
Virginia allows sports betting online through mobile apps. It started in January 2021. You have to be at least 21 to bet on sports in Virginia. Betting is overseen by the Virginia Lottery.
How to self-exclude from sports betting in Virginia
Signing up for self-exclusion feels huge. It's really a form and an ID check, and then the licensed books in your state can't take your money anymore.
In Virginia, the main option is the Virginia Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP).
- It covers Virginia casino gaming, sports betting and account-based Lottery games, and also charitable gaming and horse racing.
- You choose 2 years, 5 years or lifetime.
- For 2 or 5 years, you can sign up online. For lifetime, you go in person to Lottery headquarters or a casino.
- You can't be removed early. At the end of a 2- or 5-year term you're removed automatically, so contact the Lottery before it ends if you want to extend.
Also self-exclude inside each sportsbook app you've used, usually under account settings or responsible gaming. It takes effect right away and covers you while the state program processes.
For a full walkthrough, including the national program and each major app, see how to self-exclude from sports betting.
When your team plays
If you used to bet on the Virginia Tech Hokies and Virginia Cavaliers, those games won't feel the same for a while. That's normal. Watch with someone who knows you're quitting, or skip the close ones until the urge has less pull.
Commonwealth Clash (Virginia vs. Virginia Tech) and NASCAR races at Martinsville Speedway bring boosted odds, office pools and friends asking if you're in. Have your answer ready before the day gets here.
More on this in watching sports after you quit.
Put more walls between you and a bet
Every step you put between you and a bet helps on a bad night.
- Put a blocker on your phone and computer, and have someone else hold the passcode. See how to block sports betting apps.
- Take saved payment methods off every betting site and lower your daily ATM and transfer limits.
- Behind on bills? NFCC.org can match you with a nonprofit credit counselor.
Free help in Virginia
Most of this is free, and you can start some of it tonight.
- State-funded help: many states pay for gambling counseling. The National Council on Problem Gambling keeps a list of resources for Virginia.
- Therapy: look for someone who treats gambling specifically, in person or online. Find Help sorts the options for Virginia.
- The national helpline: 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738), by call or text, any hour. You don't have to be in crisis to use it.
- Meetings: find a Gamblers Anonymous meeting in person, online or by phone, or compare GA and SMART Recovery.
- In crisis: call or text 988, or call 911 if you're in immediate danger.
Gambling treatment programs in Virginia
When weekly sessions aren't enough, a program with more hours each week can help. These treat gambling specifically. Nobody pays us to list them.
- Williamsville Wellness (Hanover, Virginia). A 28-day residential gambling program that covers sports betting. In network with many major plans.
Not sure what level of help fits? The app asks a few questions and points you to it.
If you love someone who bets in Virginia
If it's your partner, child or friend who's betting, start with yourself: separate your money, check your credit report, and find support at Gam-Anon. Then read how to help someone with a gambling problem before you talk.
FAQ
What's the legal sports betting age in Virginia?
You have to be at least 21 to bet on sports in Virginia.
How do I self-exclude from sports betting in Virginia?
For 2 or 5 years, you can sign up online. For lifetime, you go in person to Lottery headquarters or a casino.
Does self-excluding from one app cover every sportsbook in Virginia?
No. Excluding inside one app only blocks that app. The Virginia Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP) is what covers licensed operators across Virginia, so use both, and add a blocker for offshore sites that ignore state programs.
Can I get treatment for gambling in Virginia?
Yes. Williamsville Wellness treats gambling specifically. Many people start with outpatient counseling first, and Virginia's problem gambling program can help you figure out which level fits. See your options on Find Help.
Sources: Virginia Lottery: voluntary exclusion program; Fox Sports: where sports betting is legal (May 2026); National Council on Problem Gambling: help by state; NCPG: 1-800-MY-RESET. Checked October 2026. Rules and programs change, so confirm current details on the official page before you rely on them. Unbettable isn't affiliated with any sportsbook, casino or state agency.
Work at a school, team or company? Offer Unbettable to your people.