Nevada Lottery - Guide to NV Lotto Games & Laws

Learn everything you need to know about Nevada's lottery and scratch-offs

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Nevada, known as the gambling capital of the U.S., surprisingly does not have a state lottery. Despite its rich history in casino gambling, state law prohibits lotteries. However, Nevada residents can still participate in multi-state lotteries. This article will explore the legalities surrounding this paradox and provide insight into Nevada’s unique gambling landscape. From this Nevada Lottery Guide, you’ll learn about the state’s stance on lotteries, its implications, and the available alternatives for lottery enthusiasts in Nevada.

Nevada Online Lottery

Despite Nevada’s prominent reputation for gambling, the state surprisingly does not offer an online lottery option. This omission might seem unusual given Nevada’s extensive gaming industry, but current legislation prohibits the operation of an online lottery within its borders. If you wish to participate in online lottery games, you can opt for the California online lottery. US gambling laws for each state may differ, so confirm that you can play in California before you make an attempt.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting the California Online Lottery App

  • Verify Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the state’s gambling age and residency requirements for playing the California online lottery.
  • Search for the Official App: Visit your device’s app store and search for the official California Lottery app to avoid downloading any counterfeit versions.
  • Download and Install: Click on the app and follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it on your device.
  • Register: Open the app and follow the step-by-step prompts to create an account, providing the necessary identification and personal details.
  • Choose Payment Method: Set up your preferred payment method for purchasing tickets and withdrawing winnings.
  • Start Playing: Explore the various games available, purchase lottery tickets, and play according to the rules and guidelines of the California online lottery.

California’s online lottery platform caters to a diverse audience with its rich selection of gaming options. Players have access to national draw games such as Powerball and Mega Millions, as well as state-specific games like SuperLotto Plus. The platform also offers a variety of online scratch-off games that provide instant entertainment and potential winnings. 

Users can take advantage of features like ticket scanning for physical purchases, jackpot alerts, and updates on winning numbers and prize breakdowns. The app also emphasizes responsible gaming by offering tools to set spending limits and reminders for responsible play. With a commitment to both excitement and integrity, California’s online lottery offers an engaging and secure gaming experience for those in neighboring states like Nevada.

Nevada Multi-state Draw Games

Nevada, known for its vibrant gambling scene, is unique in that it doesn’t have a state-sponsored lottery. However, residents or visitors to Nevada who wish to participate in lottery games don’t need to feel left out. By checking a nearby state, such as California, you can find an array of multi-state draw games to participate in. Below, we’ll explore the major multi-state lottery games available in California, detailing how to participate, ticket prices, prizes, and more.

Powerball

Powerball is one of the most recognizable lotteries in the United States. You can purchase tickets at authorized retailers in California or even online, depending on your location. To play, you’ll need to choose five white-ball numbers from 1 to 69 and one Powerball number from 1 to 26.

Powerball ticket

A single Powerball play costs $2. Prizes range from a modest $4 to jaw-dropping jackpots that can reach into the billions. The more numbers you match, the higher your prize, with the jackpot going to those who match all five white-ball numbers and the Powerball.

In 2019, a California resident won a $768.4 million jackpot, the third-largest prize in Powerball history.

  • Powerball drawings occur on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
  • Jackpots start at $20 million and increase with each drawing without a winner.
  • You must be 18 years old or older to purchase a Powerball ticket in California.
Matching numbers Prize amountOdds
Matching 5 + Powerball$194,000,0001 in 292,201,338
Matching 5 + $1,000,0001 in 11,688,054
Matching 4 + Powerball$50,0001 in 913,130
Matching 4$1001 in 36,525
Matching 3 + Powerball$5001 in 14,495
Matching 3$201 in 580
Matching 2 + Powerball$201 in 702
Matching 1 + Powerball$101 in 92
Matching Powerball only$71 in 38

Mega Millions

Like Powerball, Mega Millions tickets can be purchased at authorized retailers in California. You select five numbers from 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. A single play costs $2. 

Mega Millions

Prizes start at $2 for matching just the Mega Ball and can go up to the jackpot, which starts at $20 million, for matching all five numbers and the Mega Ball.

A San Diego resident won a massive $530 million Mega Millions jackpot in June 2019, becoming one of California’s biggest lottery winners.

  • Mega Millions drawings are held on Tuesdays and Fridays.
  • The Mega Millions jackpot grows until there’s a winner.
  • Just like Powerball, you must be 18 years old or older to purchase a ticket in California.
Matching numbers Prize amountOdds
Matching 5 + Mega BallJackpot 1 in 302,575,350
Matching 5 $1,000,0001 in 12,607,306
Matching 4 + Mega Ball$10,0001 in 931,001
Matching 4$5001 in 36,792
Matching 3 + Mega Ball$2001 in 14,547
Matching 3$101 in 606
Matching 2 + Mega Ball$101 in 693
Matching 1 + Mega Ball$41 in 89
Mega Ball only$21 in 37

Nevada Draw Games

Nevada does not have a state-operated lottery, primarily because of opposition from the influential casino industry within the state.

The journey towards legalizing lotteries in Nevada began in 1990 when an amendment to the state constitution was made. This allowed registered charities and local professional sports team franchises with the MLB, MLS, NBA, NHL, or NFL to hold small lotteries. The move marked a significant shift in Nevada’s approach to lotteries, opening the door for specific organizations to engage in this form of gambling.

The amendment established specific rules and regulations that must be adhered to by organizations offering these games:

  1. Eligible Organizations: Only registered charities and local professional sports teams from specified leagues can hold these lotteries.
  2. Prize Limits: The total prizes offered by charities cannot exceed $500,000, while sports league-held lotteries cannot exceed $2 million.
  3. Other Restrictions: The amendment also likely outlines other rules concerning the size of the prizes and eligibility to play, though these details have not been specified.

These stringent regulations ensure that the lottery games are conducted with integrity and within specific legal boundaries.

Despite this limited legalization, Nevada has been historically resistant to creating a state-operated lottery. The primary opposition has come from the state’s casino industry, which sees lotteries as potential competition for gambling dollars.

The argument is often made that a state lottery would divert money from education and other vital public services, given that Nevada’s tax structure relies heavily on revenue from the gaming industry. Efforts to establish a state lottery have been made several times but have consistently been met with strong resistance.

The legalization of lotteries for charitable organizations has enabled these entities to raise funds for their causes. It offers a new avenue for fundraising and supports various social and community initiatives within the state

Nevada Lottery Number Drawing Schedule

Since there is no Nevada state lottery or any kind of lottery for Nevada residents, you can purchase a lottery ticket to play any of these games in neighboring California.

GameMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturdaySunday
Powerball6:59 PM6:59 PM6:59 PM
Mega Millions7:00 PM7:00 PM
Superlotto Plus7:57 PM7:57 PM
Daily 46:30 PM6:30 PM6:30 PM6:30 PM6:30 PM6:30 PM6:59 PM
Fantasy 56:30 PM6:30 PM6:30 PM6:30 PM6:30 PM6:30 PM6:30 PM
Time Zone: PST

Nevada Scratch Tickets

You might be intrigued by the idea of trying your luck with Nevada Scratch Tickets, especially if you’re familiar with the excitement they bring in other states. Unfortunately, scratch tickets are not available in Nevada due to the absence of a state-operated lottery. Your interest in instant-win games doesn’t have to end here, though. If you find yourself eager to scratch and win, your only option is to visit a neighboring state where these games are offered.

Nevada Lottery Laws

Nevada is unique among U.S. states in that it does not have a state-operated lottery. While the state is a hub for gambling and gaming, the constitution does not allow for a state lottery, primarily due to competition with the casino industry. In 1990, an amendment did permit registered charities and certain professional sports franchises to hold small lotteries, subject to stringent rules. Outside of this limited scope, lottery games are not available in Nevada, making many of the usual lottery law considerations inapplicable.

AspectNevada Lottery Law
Legal age for lottery gameN/A (No state-operated lottery
Tax on winningsN/A (No state-operated lottery
Anonymity for winnersN/A (No state-operated lottery
Limit to claim winN/A (No state-operated lottery
Online lotteryNo 

Overview of the Nevada Lottery

Nevada, often associated with gambling due to Las Vegas, surprisingly does not have a state lottery. Despite numerous attempts to establish one, all have been unsuccessful due to the state’s constitution prohibiting lotteries. The casino industry, which is a significant part of Nevada’s economy, has historically opposed a state lottery. Therefore, there is no main lottery company in Nevada.

AspectNevada Lottery Law
Company NameNot Applicable 
Founded Date Not Applicable
HeadquartersNot Applicable
Website AddressNot Applicable
Biggest Win in HistoryNot Applicable

Since there is no state lottery, there are no lottery proceeds. However, the state benefits significantly from gaming revenue, which is heavily taxed. The tax revenue from gaming contributes to the state’s general fund, supporting various public services such as education, public safety, and infrastructure.

Other Gambling in Nevada

Nevada, particularly known for its vibrant city of Las Vegas, is a hub for legal gambling activities. The state offers a wide range of gambling options, including casinos, sports betting, and online poker. These are regulated by the Nevada Gaming Control Board and the Nevada Gaming Commission. 

The state is home to some of the world’s most renowned casinos offering games like slot machines, poker, blackjack, roulette, and many more. While the state does not have a lottery due to constitutional prohibitions, it has legalized pari-mutuel betting on horse and greyhound racing. Overall, Nevada’s gambling industry is a significant contributor to its economy and a major attraction for tourists worldwide.

Nevada Lottery Winners

At the moment, there are no Nevada Lottery winners to speak of. While residents can participate in multi-state lotteries if they purchase lottery tickets out of state, any winnings from these are not officially recognized as Nevada Lottery winnings. 

FAQ 

What does the phrase “Second Chance” on my ticket mean?

When you see “Second Chance” on your lottery ticket, it means that even if your ticket isn’t a winner in the initial draw, you still have another opportunity to win. The “Second Chance” drawing allows non-winning lottery tickets to be entered for a chance to win additional prizes. It’s a way to keep the excitement going, giving your ticket another shot at victory. 

Can I play lotteries for real money at online casinos in Nevada?

Online lottery games are not legally offered by real money online casinos. While you can engage in various forms of online gambling in the state, the lottery is not one of them. Always ensure to check the most recent laws and regulations to stay updated.

Why do Nevada lotteries not offer fixed prizes?

Nevada does not have a state lottery. The state’s gaming laws have historically been focused on promoting its many casinos, and a state lottery has never been established. Therefore, there are no Nevada lottery prizes, fixed or otherwise.

Is the lottery law in Nevada the same as other US states?

No, the lottery law in Nevada is not the same as in other US states. While most states in the US have a state-run lottery, Nevada is one of the few exceptions. The state’s gaming laws have traditionally focused on its casino industry, and as such, a state lottery has never been established.

Can winners of the Nevada lottery maintain their anonymity?

Nevada does not have a state-run lottery due to its gaming laws, making it one of the few states in the U.S. without a lottery. Therefore, the question of maintaining anonymity for lottery winners does not apply in Nevada. You would need to participate in a lottery from another state if you wish to play.

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