Best DraftKings VPN for 2026: play in any state
As of June 2026, DraftKings Sportsbook and casino aren’t available in many US states due to gambling laws and state-by-state licensing regulations that limit where real-money sports betting platforms can operate.
You can access DraftKings in restricted states like Texas, California, and Florida by connecting to a reliable VPN server in a legal state (e.g., New Jersey or Colorado), which masks your IP address and makes your connection appear as if it’s coming from an allowed region.
After testing 41 VPNs, NordVPN stands out as the best VPN for DraftKings thanks to its fast speeds and reliable US servers. Surfshark is a great, cheaper option, Proton VPN is solid for privacy, and ExpressVPN is worth considering for its consistently fast, stable connections and strong performance across US servers, while Norton VPN is also worth considering for its simple setup, ease of use, and built-in security features.
Best DraftKings VPNs in 2026 compared
| VPN for DraftKings | Rating | Best for: | US servers | Speed retention rate | Price |
| 1. NordVPN | Overall performance | 3,400+ servers in 20 locations | 86.14% | From $3.49/month | |
| 2. Surfshark | Budget, unlimited devices | 600+ servers in 24 locations | 79.55% | From $2.49/month | |
| 3. Proton VPN | Privacy and security | 5,950+ servers in 22 locations | 80.83% | From $2.99/month | |
| 4. ExpressVPN | Lots of features | Undisclosed number of servers in 60+ locations | 74.76% | From $2.49/month | |
| 5. Norton VPN | Simple and secure use | Undisclosed number of servers in 25 locations | 43.59% | From $3.33/month |
How to use DraftKings with a VPN
If you’re trying to use DraftKings from a restricted state like California, Florida, or Texas, you’ll need a reliable VPN with US servers, such as NordVPN. Connect to a legal state like New York or New Jersey, and use a browser instead of the app where possible to reduce GPS-based location detection issues.
As of June 2026, DraftKings Sportsbook isn’t legal in Texas, though Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is still available. Users looking for the full sportsbook experience often turn to VPNs to access DraftKings in states where it’s fully operational.
- Choose a VPN that works with DraftKings. I recommend NordVPN (now 75% OFF), which offers 3100+ US servers and strong obfuscation features.
- Download and install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a server in a legal DraftKings state such as New Jersey, Arizona, or Illinois.
- Open DraftKings and log in to access the platform.
In California, DraftKings Sportsbook and Casino remain illegal as of June 2026. However, DraftKings Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) and Pick6 are still accessible, while some look for ways to reach the full sportsbook when traveling.
- Get a reliable VPN with strong US server coverage. NordVPN is my top choice.
- Install the VPN on your preferred device and sign in.
- Connect to a US state where DraftKings Sportsbook is available, such as New Jersey or Colorado.
- Visit the DraftKings website or app and log in normally.
As of June 2026, DraftKings Sportsbook remains unavailable in Florida due to ongoing regulatory restrictions, while DFS remains available. Many rely on VPNs to maintain access while traveling or to access the full platform.
- Select a trusted VPN with reliable US servers. NordVPN, Surfshark, or Proton VPN all work well.
- Install the VPN app and complete login setup on your device.
- Connect to a state where DraftKings Sportsbook is fully legal, such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Michigan.
- Launch DraftKings and sign in to use the platform.
Sports betting via DraftKings isn’t legal in Georgia as of June 2026, with access limited to DFS. Some users turn to VPNs when traveling or trying to reach sportsbook features from states where it’s available.
- Pick a VPN with strong US coverage. NordVPN is the most consistent option for DraftKings access.
- Download and install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a legal DraftKings state such as New Jersey, Illinois, or Arizona.
- Open DraftKings and log in to access available features.
Where is DraftKings legal?
DraftKings isn’t available in every US state due to local gambling regulations, and access depends on the product you’re using: Sportsbook, Casino, DFS, or Pick6.
As of 2026, DraftKings Sportsbook is legal in 26 states and Washington, D.C., including major markets like Arizona, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Casino is more limited, operating in only a handful of regulated states, such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Connecticut, West Virginia, and Delaware.
DFS runs in 44 states as a skill-based format, although it’s still restricted in places like Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Pick6 sits somewhere in between, as it’s available in 35 states and covers several large markets where sportsbook betting isn’t yet legal, including California, Florida, Georgia, and Texas. All DraftKings products still rely on strict geolocation checks, so users need to be physically in an approved state to access real-money features.
A VPN helps you bypass DraftKings regional restrictions by masking your real location and routing your connection through a server in a permitted state. This encrypted connection not only allows you to access your account but also enhances your online privacy and security. A reliable DraftKings VPN provider protects your data from prying eyes, prevents ISP throttling, and keeps your activity safe on public Wi-Fi networks.
However, using a VPN to bypass DraftKings’ geo-restrictions may violate its terms of service and could result in your account being suspended. More broadly, these limits reflect a US market still shaped by state-by-state gambling laws, creating a patchwork system driven by regulation, taxation, and existing gambling frameworks rather than consumer demand alone.
Best VPNs for DraftKings – detailed list
To find out which gambling VPNs are the best for DraftKings, the Cybernews research team and I have reviewed 41 providers to determine the best VPNs in the industry. We analyzed which ones excel in unblocking the site and have the best speed, server count, and security features at the most affordable price. My top VPN recommendations for DraftKings are NordVPN, Surfshark, and Proton VPN. However, I compiled a list of the top 5 VPNs for DraftKings that I found to be the most reliable.
1. NordVPN – overall best VPN for DraftKings sports betting and casino
| Servers/countries: | 9,500+ servers in 149 countries |
| Unblocks DraftKings: | ✅ Yes |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Coupons: | NordVPN coupon 75% OFF |
I recommend NordVPN as the best DraftKings VPN for 2026. It offers over 3400 servers in 20 US cities, making it an ideal tool to bypass DraftKings’ geo-blocks. NordVPN has many perks, but its unmatched security is what makes me rank this provider at the top of my list, as this is exactly what users need to bet on DraftKings out of state.
NordVPN is built around a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not track, store, or share your online activity. It also uses AES-256 encryption, the same standard used by financial institutions and governments, ensuring your data stays protected at all times. Additional security features like a Kill Switch, DNS leak protection, and Double VPN routing add extra layers of anonymity, helping keep your real location and identity hidden while browsing or betting online.
In my testing, NordVPN successfully connected to DraftKings using select US servers, including locations such as Phoenix, Arizona. Once connected, performance remained stable and responsive, with speeds staying above 80% of the original connection, which ensured smooth navigation and fast loading times during use.
NordVPN pricing is affordable, too. You can sign up for $3.49/month and get various deals that NordVPN offers. Plus, you get a 3-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try this provider entirely risk-free.
For more information about this provider, visit our NordVPN review.
In the table below, you’ll find out which states NordVPN has servers in and what kind of betting is available:
| NordVPN servers in DraftKings-legal states | DraftKings Sportsbook availability | DraftKings DFS availability | DraftKings Online Casino availability |
| Arizona (Phoenix) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| California (Los Angeles, San Francisco) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Colorado (Denver) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Florida (Miami) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Illinois (Chicago) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Massachusetts (Boston) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Missouri (Kansas City, St. Louis) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Nebraska (Omaha) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| New York (New York City, Buffalo) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Tennessee (Nashville) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Virginia (Ashburn) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
2. Surfshark – cheap DraftKings VPN with unlimited connections
| Servers/countries: | 4,500+ servers in 100 countries |
| Unblocks DraftKings: | ✅ Yes |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Coupons: | Surfshark coupon 85% OFF |
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN for DraftKings, with plans starting at just $2.49/month. It also includes a 7-day free trial, so you can test it risk-free. In my testing, it successfully unblocked DraftKings Sportsbook using a server in Detroit, Michigan, with no additional troubleshooting required, delivering a smooth, stable connection.
Surfshark offers over 600 US servers, including locations where DraftKings Sportsbook is legal, such as Arizona, Colorado, and Illinois. In my testing, I used 1 US server (Detroit), and it successfully passed DraftKings’ location checks without triggering any errors or requiring additional troubleshooting. It also maintained over 81% of my initial connection speed, ensuring smooth browsing and betting.
This means you’ll always find a suitable IP address to unblock DraftKings' sportsbook. Although Surfshark has fewer overall servers than NordVPN, over 4,500, it’s still more than Norton VPN. Plus, I didn’t get blocked from the site, so it’s safe to say that Surfshark works well for accessing DraftKings in restricted states.
DraftKings can flag mismatched or exposed IP addresses, which may lead to access issues or additional verification checks. Surfshark reduces this risk with strong encryption, a kill switch that prevents accidental IP leaks if the connection drops, and an independently audited no-logs policy, helping keep your real location hidden and betting activity private from ISPs.
Surfshark is one of the most affordable DraftKings VPN options, starting at just $1.78/month, and you can try it out before fully committing with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check our in-depth Surfshark VPN review for more information about this provider.
Check if Surfshark is available in your state and what kind of betting is supported:
| NordVPN servers in DraftKings-legal states | DraftKings Sportsbook availability | DraftKings DFS availability | DraftKings Online Casino availability |
| Arizona (Phoenix) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| California (San Jose, San Francisco, Los Angeles) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Colorado (Denver) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Florida (Miami) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Illinois (Chicago) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Massachusetts (Boston) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Missouri (Kansas City) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Nebraska (Omaha) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| New York (New York City, Buffalo, Latham) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Tennessee (Nashville) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Virginia (Ashburn) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Nevada (Las Vegas) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Georgia (Atlanta) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Oregon (Bend) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
3. Proton VPN – privacy-focused DraftKings VPN
| Servers/countries: | 20,300+ servers in 148 countries |
| Unblocks DraftKings: | ✅ Yes |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Coupons: | Proton VPN coupon 70% OFF |
Proton VPN is one of the most secure options for using DraftKings out of state, offering top-tier privacy features and reliable performance. Headquartered in privacy-friendly Switzerland, Proton VPN has over 5,900 servers in 22 US cities, including many located in states where DraftKings Sportsbook operates legally – such as Michigan, New York, and Arizona. This ensures that you can always connect to a stable US server to safely access DraftKings without running into geo-blocks.
In my testing, I ran 3 attempts on Proton VPN servers to see how it handles DraftKings’ geo-restriction. It successfully worked with servers in Detroit (Michigan), Secaucus (New Jersey), and Philadelphia (Pennsylvania), all of which passed location checks instantly without any problems. Proton VPN didn’t appear to have servers in Connecticut or West Virginia, so those fully legal states couldn’t be tested. Overall, it reliably unblocked DraftKings where coverage was available.
Speed and security make Proton VPN a strong choice for competitive bettors. In our in-house performance tests, it maintained almost 78% of base speeds on average – meaning smooth gameplay when using DraftKings DFS and quick odds updates on the Sportsbook.
Proton VPN also uses AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy, which has been independently audited. Moreover, it’s one of the few open-source VPNs out there, meaning that anyone can audit its code at any time. This ensures transparency and makes it a preferable choice for users prioritizing privacy and trust in their VPN service.
Even if the VPN connection drops, the integrated kill switch protects your actual IP address and ensures uninterrupted anonymity. Its Secure Core feature routes traffic through extra layers of encryption, making it difficult for ISPs or third parties to track the origin of your connection. This also helps minimize the risk of location-based account flags on DraftKings.
Subscription prices start at $2.99/month, which is a bit more expensive than other DraftKings VPN options on my list. However, there is a free version available, and all paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For more detailed information, read our dedicated Proton VPN review.
| NordVPN servers in DraftKings-legal states | DraftKings Sportsbook availability | DraftKings DFS availability | DraftKings Online Casino availability |
| Arizona (Phoenix) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| California (San Jose, Los Angeles) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Colorado (Denver) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Florida (Miami) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Illinois (Chicago) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Massachusetts (Boston) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Michigan (Detroit) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Missouri (Kansas City) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Nebraska (Omaha) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| New York (New York City, Buffalo) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| North Carolina (Charlotte) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Ohio (Columbus) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Tennessee (Nashville) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Virginia (Ashburn) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Nevada (Las Vegas) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Georgia (Atlanta) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Oregon (Bend) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Tennessee (Nashville, Memphis) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
4. ExpressVPN – DraftKings VPN for a lag-free betting experience
| Servers/countries: | Undisclosed number of servers in 105 countries |
| Unblocks DraftKings: | ✅ Yes |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Coupons: | ExpressVPN coupon 80% OFF |
ExpressVPN is one of the fastest and safest VPNs for DraftKings. This VPN has servers distributed across 105 countries and across all 50 states in America. It retains around 61% of the base connection speed, and there are no annoying speed jumps.
In my testing, I ran 8 ExpressVPN server attempts to see how it handles DraftKings’ geo-blocks, covering multiple endpoints in fully legal states, including New Jersey (3 servers) and Michigan (Detroit and Lincoln Park). All servers passed DraftKings’ location checks immediately, without any troubleshooting, reconnects, or browser workarounds, delivering consistent, stable access on every attempt.
As for safety, ExpressVPN uses advanced security features only. AES-256 encryption, similar to NordVPN, protects your information, while the Lightway tunneling protocol, a functional kill switch, and other features prevent leaks and ensure flawless protection and performance.
ExpressVPN is admittedly one of the most capable VPNs on the market for unblocking geo-restricted content. So, not only will you find yourself enjoying DraftKings anywhere, but you will also be able to get access to the global Netflix catalog or other betting sites, such as BetMGM.
ExpressVPN's cost makes it a moderately priced VPN on my list, with a starting price of $2.49/month. But it has fewer features than NordVPN or Surfshark, so it’s not the best value option.
For a more in-depth breakdown of this provider’s features, check our ExpressVPN review.
| NordVPN servers in DraftKings-legal states | DraftKings Sportsbook availability | DraftKings DFS availability | DraftKings Online Casino availability |
| Arizona (Phoenix) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| California (San Jose, Los Angeles) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Colorado (Denver) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Florida (Miami) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Illinois (Chicago) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Massachusetts (Boston) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Michigan (Detroit, Lincoln Park) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Missouri (Kansas City) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Nebraska (Omaha) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| New York (New York City) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| North Carolina (Charlotte) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Iowa (Des Moines) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Ohio (Columbus) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Kansas (Wichita) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Kentucky (Louisville) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Louisiana (New Orleans) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Indiana (Indianapolis) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Connecticut (Bridgeport) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Tennessee (Nashville) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Virginia (Virginia Beach) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Rhode Island (Providence) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Nevada (Las Vegas) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Oregon (Portland) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Tennessee (Nashville) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
5. Norton VPN – VPN for DraftKings sports betting with malware protection
| Servers/countries: | Undisclosed number of servers in 65 countries |
| Unblocks DraftKings: | ✅ Yes |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS |
| Coupons: | Now up to 54% OFF Norton VPN |
With Norton VPN, another trustworthy provider to unblock DraftKings, you get a combination of all the basic features you need, as well as servers in 65 countries, including servers in 18 US states – more than enough to access DraftKings.
I tested Norton VPN in a single DraftKings attempt using a Philadelphia, Pennsylvania server, and it passed location checks immediately without any troubleshooting or reconnects. Since Norton doesn’t seem to offer services in several fully legal states, such as Connecticut, New Jersey, Michigan, and West Virginia, those locations couldn’t be tested.
Although it doesn’t let you select a specific server (or state), it automatically connects you to the fastest server in the country, optimizing the best possible internet connection. However, I feel that this could be a potential issue, as the DraftKings platform blocks certain IP addresses that are associated with the VPN pool. Luckily, I had no issues and could easily access DraftKings with Norton VPN.
Known for its Norton LifeLock antivirus suite, Norton VPN also comes with useful security features – it implements strong AES-256 encryption to keep your personal data inaccessible to third-party trackers. It also has a no-logs policy to keep your activity completely private.
Norton VPN is an affordable DraftKings VPN option, with plans starting at $3.33/month, covering up to 10 simultaneous connections on one account. If you choose a slightly pricier plan that includes an antivirus, you can also test Norton VPN for free for 7 days.
To learn more about this provider, refer to our Norton VPN review.
| NordVPN servers in DraftKings-legal states | DraftKings Sportsbook availability | DraftKings DFS availability | DraftKings Online Casino availability |
| Arizona (Phoenix) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| California (Los Angeles, San Jose) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Colorado (Denver) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Florida (Miami, Tampa) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Illinois (Chicago) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Pennsylvania (Philadelphia) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Massachusetts (Boston) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Missouri (Kansas City, St. Louis) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Michigan (Detroit) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Nebraska (Omaha) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Nevada (Las Vegas) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| New York (New York City, Buffalo) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| North Carolina (Charlotte) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Missouri (Kansas City) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Ohio (Columbus) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Oregon (Bend) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Georgia (Atlanta) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Tennessee (Nashville, Memphis) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Virginia (Ashburn) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
DraftKings VPN scorecard
| Our recommended VPNs for DraftKings | Overall score | DraftKings access | Detection resistance | US cities coverage | Speed | Security and& privacy | Value for money |
| 🥇NordVPN | 4.9 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 4.9 | 4.8 |
| 🥈Surfshark | 4.7⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.8 |
| 🥉Proton VPN | 4.5⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.3 | 4.8 | 4.6 |
| ExpressVPN | 4.3⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4.4 | 4.2 | 4.8 | 4.1 | 4.3 | 4.5 |
| Norton VPN | 4.2⭐⭐⭐ | 4.2 | 4.0 | 4.1 | 3.9 | 4.2 | 4.4 |
Risks and limitations of using a VPN for DraftKings
Using a VPN to unblock DraftKings comes with certain risks. After all, the daily fantasy sports service doesn’t endorse the use of VPNs to bypass its geographical restrictions. Here’s what you should know if you’re thinking about combining a VPN with DraftKings:
- Violation of DraftKings’ rules. The DraftKings terms of use clearly state that you must be physically located in a US state that allows daily fantasy sports or online sports betting to use the service. Using a VPN or other location-changing software could result in a temporary ban or permanent account restriction.
- KYC (know your customer) requirements. The service may initiate a know-your-customer verification procedure if it suspects that you’re playing from a place where DraftKings is unavailable. This involves collecting identifiable information about you that proves your actual area of residence.
- Advanced geo-location checks. DraftKings likely conducts advanced geographical location checks on its customers to ensure they’re playing from states where DFS is legal. This means it is more likely to know your actual location if you’re using a low-quality VPN.
- Legal gray area. Although there are no laws against VPN use in the US, using one to bypass sportsbook regulations can be considered illegal. There are no laws that specifically address this exact situation, which makes it difficult to predict the possible outcome.
- Financial risks. DraftKings might make it more difficult to withdraw your funds from your account if it suspects that you’re accessing the service from a restricted region. Even worse, all your winnings will be gone if your account is terminated because of VPN use.
How to get around DraftKings location: step-by-step guide
To play DraftKings in restricted states like Florida, California, or Texas, use a reliable VPN such as NordVPN. Install the app, connect to a DraftKings-supported state like New Jersey, Arizona, or Illinois, then visit DraftKings, sign in, and start betting without restrictions. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to set everything up step by step.
Step 1. Get a reliable VPN for DraftKings
DraftKings isn’t fully accessible in every US state due to gambling regulations, so you’ll need a VPN with strong US coverage and servers in legal states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Illinois, or Arizona.
NordVPN proved to be the best VPN for DraftKings in my testing, combining a large server network with advanced obfuscation tools for reliable access. I was able to establish a stable connection using a Phoenix, Arizona server, which provided consistent access and smooth performance during use.
Step 2. Download and install the VPN app
After subscribing, download the NordVPN app directly from the official website or your device’s app store. Install it on your phone, desktop, or tablet, then log in using your credentials. If you’re on mobile, make sure location services are managed carefully, as DraftKings also uses GPS data alongside IP detection.
Step 3. Connect to a server in a DraftKings-supported state
DraftKings Sportsbook is legal in states such as New Jersey, Arizona, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. Once your VPN is launched, connect to a server in one of these locations to mask your real IP address and make it appear as though you are accessing the platform from a permitted state.
Step 4. Visit DraftKings and start playing
Open the DraftKings website or app, log in to your account, and you should now have access to the platform. If you encounter any issues, switching servers within a legal state usually resolves them quickly.
How to trick DraftKings location on iPhone
To get DraftKings working on an iPhone from a restricted location, you usually need to spoof both your IP address and GPS, since the app checks both to figure out where you are. This usually involves using a VPN like Surfshark or NordVPN to change your IP address, along with a GPS spoofing tool (such as 3uTools or iAnyGo) to match your device’s location to the VPN server's location.
Here’s how to use a VPN to access DraftKings from a restricted location on iPhone:
- Install a trusted VPN app, such as NordVPN, from the App Store.
- Open the app and sign in to your account.
- Enable key security features, such as the kill switch (if available).
- Connect to a US server in a DraftKings-legal state such as New Jersey, Arizona, or Illinois.
- Install a GPS spoofing tool on your computer (e.g., 3uTools or iAnyGo).
- Connect your iPhone and set your GPS location to match the VPN server region.
- Restart the DraftKings app and log in to check access.
Can DraftKings detect a VPN?
Yes, DraftKings can detect a VPN that cannot effectively mask your IP address. The platform uses GeoComply to verify user locations on desktop and requires GPS access on mobile. If DraftKings detects an IP address that’s associated with the VPN pool, the plugin immediately blocks you from accessing DraftKings. If the VPN service is outdated, unreliable, or has insufficient security protocols, your private data can leak, and your physical location will be identified.
A reliable VPN, like NordVPN, has strong encryption to make your IP address practically undetectable, can assign you a new IP address based on the selected server location, and keeps no logs of your activity. All of these security measures ensure that you can use DraftKings without any restrictions.
DISCLAIMER: While premium VPNs are less likely to be detected, it's still possible. If DraftKings detects you using a VPN, you may be restricted or banned from the platform.
DraftKings not working with a VPN: how to fix it
There might be a few reasons why DraftKings isn’t working with a VPN. Below, you’ll find several examples of why the issue appears and possible solutions for it.
DraftKings uses GeoComply, which verifies your location not only by checking your IP address but also using GPS, Wi-Fi, and device signals. If you see a “Location not verified” or “Unable to confirm your location” message, this means that GeoComply has detected that you are outside the legal state or that your VPN location doesn’t match your device’s location. To fix this issue, you can try a few things:
- Make sure location services are enabled (GPS/Wi-Fi geolocation). If a VPN is not enough to change your location, you can try a GPS spoofing tool, like Surfshark's GPS override feature (currently available only on Android), to change your GPS location.
- Match your VPN server location with the state where DraftKings is legal.
- Restart your browser or DraftKings app after connecting.
DraftKings actively blocks IP addresses known to belong to VPN providers. If you can access the site but encounter an error during login or gameplay, your VPN IP has likely been flagged. Here’s what you can try:
- Disconnect and reconnect to your VPN server to get a new IP address
- Try multiple servers in the same state to find one that works
- Enable obfuscated servers or dedicated IP options, if your VPN provider supports these
Your browser may be exposing your actual location through cached data, cookies, or WebRTC leaks. If DraftKings shows the wrong location after connecting to a VPN, this is often the cause. Here are some possible solutions:
- Clear your browser’s cookies and cache before logging in
- Disable WebRTC in your browser settings or use a browser that blocks it
- Try logging in through a different browser, incognito mode, or the DraftKings app
Sometimes the VPN itself isn’t functioning properly. This shows up as repeated connection drops, slow speeds, or DraftKings blocking every server you try. Here’s what you can do:
- Update your VPN software to the latest version
- Restart your device or reinstall the VPN if needed
- Contact your VPN’s support to ask for DraftKings-compatible servers
- If problems persist, consider switching to a more reliable VPN known to work with DraftKings
Do I recommend using a free VPN for DraftKings?
No, I do not recommend using free VPNs for DraftKings, as they typically don’t offer the features and quality you get with paid ones. Therefore, unblocking DraftKings with a free VPN won’t be possible. Also, free VPNs need to generate revenue from somewhere, and they often do this through in-app ads. They may even sell your data, which is a significant online privacy concern.
Instead of using a free VPN for DraftKings, it’s better to rely on a premium option like NordVPN or Surfshark, both of which offer a free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, letting you test DraftKings access risk-free.
Wrapping up
DraftKings is only available in select locations, so if you find yourself in an excluded region, you won’t be able to play. But with the right VPN for gambling, such as NordVPN, you can unblock DraftKings from anywhere. VPNs enable you to spoof your location and get a brand new IP address in a state or country of your choice.
It's important to note that if you reside in a state where DraftKings is unavailable, you won't be able to create an account, even with a VPN. That's because DraftKings requires proof of residence. Therefore, VPNs are mainly for those who reside in states where DraftKings is available and want to continue online gambling while traveling.
Remember that using a VPN to access DraftKings goes against its terms of use. If DraftKings detects a VPN, your account may be restricted or banned.
More VPN guides
FAQ
Can you use a VPN for DraftKings?
Yes, you can use a VPN to access DraftKings Sportsbook regardless of your location. All you need to do is find a trustworthy VPN provider with plenty of servers to choose from. However, keep in mind that to create a DraftKings account, you’ll need to provide residency documents, and if you travel to a state where sports betting is illegal, you may not be allowed to play. A reliable VPN with numerous servers can help you bypass these issues and grant you access to secure gambling on the platform.
Does DraftKings work in Mexico?
No, DraftKings does not work in Mexico. To access DraftKings while in Mexico, you will need to use a VPN to connect to a supported location where the platform is available.
Can you use DraftKings in California?
Yes, but only DraftKings California Daily Fantasy Sports. If you want to access DraftKings Sportsbook, you need a reliable VPN because sports betting is still illegal in the Golden State.
Can you use DraftKings in Texas?
Yes, but only DraftKings Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is available for players 18 and older in Texas. If you want to access DraftKings Sportsbook or online casino from Texas, using a VPN like NordVPN can change your IP address within seconds by helping you connect to a server in one of the unrestricted locations.
How to use DraftKings in Florida?
DraftKings Sportsbook is not allowed in Florida, but you can use the platform from outside the state using a trustworthy VPN. For example, NordVPN – my top choice for the best DraftKings VPNs in 2026 – can help you connect to the platform with a server from an unrestricted state.
Does NordVPN work with DraftKings?
Yes, NordVPN works with DraftKings. All you need to do is download the app to your device, select a subscription plan, and log in. Then find a server in a location where DraftKings is available, click connect, and start placing your bets. If the VPN is not working, try using a different browser or clearing your cache. Make sure you’re connected to a server in a state where DraftKings is available.
How to play DraftKings Casino with a VPN?
You can access DraftKings Casino using a VPN and connecting to a server in a state where online casino gambling is legal, such as New Jersey, Michigan, or Pennsylvania. A reliable VPN will help you bypass regional restrictions and securely access the platform.
How to trick DraftKings Sportsbook location?
To change your DraftKings Sportsbook location, use a VPN to mask your IP address and connect to a server in a legal US state. However, the platform also uses GPS verification, so your device location must match your VPN connection for full access.
What states is DraftKings legal in?
DraftKings Sportsbook operates in 26 states as well as Washington, D.C., with key markets including Arizona, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Access depends on local gambling laws, which means availability can differ significantly from one state to another.
