However, bettors between the ages of 18 to 20 are prohibited from participating in certain gambling games. Residents that are 18 years old can gamble in Illinois. Can You Gamble at 18 Years of Age in Illinois? With that in mind, let’s take a more in-depth look at the legal gambling age in Illinois and sort out all of the differences. It is important to recognize that there are different minimum age requirements for specific gambling options.įor example, the legal age to play the lottery is not the same as the legal age to bet on sports at the best sportsbooks in Illinois. That being said, there are numerous exceptions to this gambling law. For most gamblers, the legal age to gamble is 21 years old. The legal age to gamble in Illinois is dependent on the casino game being offered.