Pennsylvania is rolling out stricter identity verification requirements for online sports betting and iGaming, a change that will soon apply to both new and existing accounts across the state. Regulators say the updated rules are the best way to strengthen account security and reduce fraud as online wagering continues to grow.
These new standards apply to every platform licensed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, including well-known regulated operators. While some companies already required ID uploads on their own, this marks the first time Pennsylvania has implemented a uniform, state-regulated process for all online gambling platforms.
Why Now?
According to Lee Copello, director of iGaming compliance for the Gaming Control Board, the changes follow consultations with regulators in other jurisdictions to identify best practices. He said the previous system left room for abuse, as bad actors increasingly found ways to bypass older verification methods.
Rather than announcing the rules publicly right away, the board shared the updated requirements directly with the industry in January. Copello explained that this approach aims to limit opportunities for fraud and ensure operators can prepare their systems before the policy takes effect.
At the core of the update is the use of newer technology that allows regulators and operators to better confirm who is accessing betting accounts. The goal, Copello said, is to protect players, secure accounts, and improve confidence in the state’s regulated gambling market.
How Does It Work?
Under the new requirements, all users must provide a valid government-issued ID by uploading photos of both the front and back of the document. Players must also complete a biometric liveness check, which involves taking a selfie and recording a short video when prompted. This is an important step to verify that the person using the account matches the identification on file.
New customers have already been subject to this process since September 30, when the rules first took effect for new registrations. The next phase extends the same requirements to existing account holders.
Deadlines And Affected Parties
By 28 February 2026, all existing iGaming and online sports betting users in Pennsylvania must complete the ID and liveness verification to continue wagering. Proponents emphasized that compliance is mandatory for any account created in the state.
The rules also apply to players traveling to Pennsylvania. Even if an account was initially created in another state, bettors must complete Pennsylvania’s verification process before placing wagers while physically located within state lines.
