Eligibility For Illinois Gaming License In 2024 And Beyond
In an average month in 2023, the Illinois slot machine industry generated more than $240 million in gross revenue. That’s a lot of money, and an attractive business opportunity for many small businesses. Upon reading this, you may wonder if your business could install video slots, also known as VGTs or video gaming terminals. If you are interested in obtaining an Illinois video gaming license or want to know where to get an IL gaming license renewal, continue reading.
The Illinois Video Gaming Act of 2009 as enforced by the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB), allows for locations to be licensed for up to six video slot machines provided the owner of the business and any staff passes an extensive background check. But the establishment itself must pass two tests as well. It must reside in an eligible municipality, and must be one of several designated types of establishments in order to obtain an Illinois gaming license.
Video Gaming Machines and the Proper Area
As per Illinois law, municipalities are able to decide for themselves whether or not they will allow video slot games. Some cities have indeed opted out, and if yours is one of them, you simply cannot apply for an Illinois gaming license. You can check to see whether a particular Illinois municipality has opted in or out by following this link: https://www.igb.illinois.gov/videoprohibit.aspx.
For those municipalities that do allow video slot games, keep reading to see if your business or prospective business meets the criteria to obtain an Illinois Gaming License.
VGTs, Slot Machines, and the Proper Establishment
In addition to being located in a municipality that permits them, casino slots are only legal in one of three types of establishment:
- Pouring establishments. These are retail businesses that are open to the public and have on-premises liquor licenses that allow for the sale and drinking of alcohol. Most commonly these are bars, restaurants, hotels, coffee shops, laundromats, and dedicated gaming cafes.
- Truck stops. This designation covers any facility with separate diesel stands, parking spaces for commercial vehicles, and a 3-acre lot, provided the business sells more than 10,000 gallons of diesel a month. The truck stop designation can also include convenience stores.
- Veterans and Fraternal Organizations. Popular in many communities, veterans and fraternal organizations are eligible for video slots provided the organization possesses a national charter and the required liquor licenses.
For more information about this and other aspects of obtaining an Illinois gaming license, please consult the Illinois Gaming Board’s FAQ: https://www.igb.illinois.gov/VideoFAQ.aspx.
Universal Gaming Groups helps every partner location obtain and renew Illinois gaming licenses. Please contact us for more information, and to help launch or maintain your gaming business.
