What is the legal age for participating in gaming activities in Alberta?
The legal age for participating in the majority of gaming activities is 18 years of age. This includes gaming activities such as VLTs, slot machines, lottery tickets, raffle and pull tickets. Bingo is the only exception. On October 1, 2000, the AGLC (in response to a recommendation from the Bingo Review Committee) adjusted its policies to allow some small non-association bingo licensees to apply for an exemption from current policy to allow minors, accompanied by an adult, to play bingo for small cash prizes (no more than $50). However, consistent with the recommendations from the Gaming licensing Policy Review, halls that offer Keno and electronic bingo will be age controlled environments and minors will not be able to work or play at these halls. There are approximately 2,500 bingo licensees in Alberta, and it is estimated that less than 300 will be able to apply for a minors allowed exemption.
