The state does not allow internet gambling, which means that popular online poker operators such as. Instead, Cali residents can. However, that doesn't prevent players from finding. The only sites available in California are offshore poker sites. Online poker is not yet allowed in California, meaning that the state doesn't issue licenses to poker operators. Despite the lack of state-regulated online poker, playing internet poker for real money remains completely legal for California residents. A number of online poker sites state that poker is not illegal in California because California law no longer criminalizes the playing of. Can you play PokerStars in CA. So yes, since online poker is played at home with the only gains being your winnings, it's perfectly legal. California does not currently have its own online poker industry. No, PokerStars isn't legal in California. California online poker FAQ . What about Online poker operators? There are no. The state has earned that reputation thanks largely to the card clubs that. Online poker California is not legal, however, there are options. . Yes, home poker games are legal in California, as long as the host of the game doesn't take a rake from the pots or require any sort of fee from the players. Only a handful of US states have legal online poker sites that are licensed to operate.