Start in iMessageCalifornia Gambling Self-Exclusion Program
Official program details last verified .
California offers a self-exclusion program for people who want to voluntarily exclude themselves from covered gambling. Below you will find program details, how to apply, and what to verify before enrolling.
Program Details
California Statewide Cardroom Self-Exclusion
In-PersonDuration
1 year or lifetime
Covers
California-licensed cardrooms; tribal casinos and horse-racing wagering facilities are not included
Official Website
Visit program site →How to Apply
Follow these steps to enroll in California's self-exclusion program.
- 1
Open the current Self-Exclusion Request form from the California Gambling Control Commission forms page
- 2
Choose a one-year or lifetime self-exclusion term and complete the form
- 3
Have the form notarized or witnessed by an employee of a licensed cardroom
- 4
Return the completed form to a California-licensed cardroom or mail it to an address listed on the form
- 5
Contact a tribal casino or its Tribal Gaming Commission separately if you also want exclusion from tribal gaming
Ending or Removing Self-Exclusion
A one-year term is irrevocable during that year. A person on a lifetime term may submit the official Self-Exclusion Removal Request only after being excluded for at least one year. Removal is not effective until the California Department of Justice, Bureau of Gambling Control acknowledges it.
Important Notes
The statewide CGCC list applies to licensed cardrooms and explicitly does not include tribal casinos or horse-racing wagering facilities. Contact the tribe operating a casino or its Tribal Gaming Commission about a separate policy.
Official Sources
Program rules can change. Check these regulator pages before submitting personal information or relying on a duration or removal rule.
Add backup barriers
- Find confidential help
Use official helplines, peer support, treatment directories, and crisis resources.
- Add device barriers
Build a gambling-blocker plan while an exclusion application is processed.
- Protect money access
Ask your bank which gambling-category controls it supports and add backup limits.
While you wait for your exclusion to process, add phone barriers with Detachr
Self-exclusion can take days or weeks to go into effect. Detachr helps you add phone barriers and iMessage accountability while you wait.
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or financial advice. If you are experiencing a gambling problem, please contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET or consult a qualified professional.