Best DraftKings VPN for 2026: play in any state
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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.
If you want to securely access DraftKings from states like Texas, California, or Florida, use a premium VPN to connect to a server in a legal state, such as New Jersey or Colorado.
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, while Proton VPN is a solid choice for privacy.
Important: This post is intended for users who are trying to access DraftKings securely while traveling. It is not intended to serve as a guide for anyone trying to place bets or gamble in countries where such activities are illegal. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult local laws and, if possible, seek professional advice beforehand.
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 55 locations | 86.14% | From $3.49/month | |
| 2. Surfshark | Budget, unlimited devices | 600+ servers in 24 locations | 83.01% | From $2.49/month | |
| 3. Proton VPN | Privacy and security | 6,000+ servers in 22 locations | 81.57% | From $2.99/month | |
| 4. ExpressVPN | Lots of features | Undisclosed number of servers in all 50 states | 81.15% | From $2.49/month | |
| 5. Norton VPN | Simple and secure use | Undisclosed number of servers in 25 locations | 75.04% | From $3.33/month |
After testing VPNs, NordVPN’s Basic plan performed best for accessing DraftKings and offering the most stable US connections. You can try it risk-free with a 3-day trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee. It worked reliably through servers in New Jersey (Newark), New York, and Phoenix.
How to use VPN for DraftKings
If you’re traveling outside the state where DraftKings is legal, like California, Florida, or Texas, you will need a reliable VPN such as NordVPN to access the service. You can use the VPN app to connect to a state where DraftKings is available and easily use your account on the go.
- Choose a VPN that works with DraftKings. I recommend NordVPN (now 75% OFF), which offers 3,400+ 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 July 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 July 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 July 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.
⚠️ DraftKings VPN policy
DraftKings employs advanced, multi-layered geolocation technology like GeoComply to ensure users are physically located within legal betting jurisdictions. Standard and free VPNs are easily flagged by these strict verification systems, potentially leading to temporary connection blocks or account restrictions. To access the platform smoothly while traveling, a high-quality, premium VPN is required. Utilizing a reliable service with robust obfuscation features ensures a stable, secure connection, keeping your data private and your account in good standing without any unexpected interruptions.
Where is DraftKings legal?
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.
DraftKings 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 is 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 rely on strict geolocation checks to verify you are in an approved state to access real-money features. A reliable way to ensure you meet this criteria is by using a premium VPN to securely route your connection through an IP address in a legal DraftKings state.
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. We evaluated which providers excel at delivering seamless access to the platform while offering the best speeds, server networks, and security features at the most competitive price.
Based on our tests, NordVPN, Surfshark, and Proton VPN stood out as the best VPNs for DraftKings, due to their server availability, connection speed, and ability to provide seamless access to the platform.
1. NordVPN – overall best VPN for DraftKings sports betting and casino
| Servers/countries: | Thousands of servers in 224 locations |
| Works with DraftKings? | ✅ Yes |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
NordVPN is the best DraftKings VPN for 2026. Thanks to its fleet of over 3,400 servers in 55 US locations, you can securely access your account from anywhere. NordVPN has many perks, but its unmatched speed and security are what make me rank this provider at the top of my list.
In my tests, NordVPN successfully connected to DraftKings using select US servers, including Phoenix and Arizona. Once connected, performance remained stable and responsive, with speeds consistently above 80% of the original connection speed, ensuring smooth navigation and fast loading times during use.
NordVPN offers robust features that ensure both anonymity and accessibility. Its Obfuscated Servers successfully mask VPN metadata against deep packet inspection, a network-level filtering method that analyzes passing data packets
At the same time, a Dedicated IP, an unchanging IP address reserved exclusively for your VPN subscription, would also help access DraftKings easier, since the service systematically blocks shared public VPN IPs.
But perhaps the most important feature for DraftKings access is Meshnet. It allows a user to route their connection through a home computer, which is especially useful while traveling out of state. Meshnet can make your traffic appear to come from your home internet connection by routing it through one of your own devices.
NordVPN is the overall best VPN for DraftKings, with a 3-day free trial for Android and a 30-day money-back guarantee. The plans start at $3.49/month.
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 |
| Works with DraftKings? | ✅ Yes |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN for DraftKings, with plans starting at just $2.49/month. You can also take advantage of an extensive US server coverage, reliable geo-spoofing capabilities, and unlimited device support without breaking the bank.
Surfshark is also one of the few major VPNs on the market that offers GPS Override for Android users. The feature can alter the phone’s GPS coordinates on a hardware level, so it matches the VPN location you’re connected to. This is a major perk when connecting to DraftKings’ account outside your state.
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 83% of my initial connection speed, ensuring smooth browsing and betting.
Although Surfshark covers fewer countries than NordVPN, it’s still more than what Norton VPN offers. Plus, I experienced no connection issues, proving that Surfshark is a reliable choice for accessing DraftKings safely while traveling.
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 the best affordable VPN for DraftKings, which you can try out before fully committing with a 7-day trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Take a look at 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:
| Surfshark 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: | 20,400+ servers in 148 countries |
| Works with DraftKings? | ✅ Yes |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
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 out of state.
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.
Speed and security make Proton VPN a strong choice for competitive bettors. In our in-house performance tests, it maintained an average of 78% of base speeds – 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.
Proton VPN is the best freemium VPN for DraftKings, offering a free version and paid plans that start at $2.99/month, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For more detailed information, read our dedicated Proton VPN review.
| Prootn VPN 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 |
| Works with DraftKings? | ✅ Yes |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
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 without any troubleshooting, reconnects, or browser workarounds.
As for safety, ExpressVPN uses advanced security features. 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.
Another notable distinction of ExpressVPN is that it is friendly to beginner bettors. Unlike many VPNs where you have to turn on Obfuscated Servers manually, ExpressVPN triggers this feature automatically when it detects deep packet inspection (DPI) firewalls. This provides an additional layer of security when accessing DraftKings. What’s more, ExpressVPN’s network runs on RAM-only infrastructure, which is resistant to credential-sniffing and server-side tracking.
ExpressVPN remains one of the best choices on the market for securely accessing location-locked platforms anywhere. 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.
Among the best VPNs for DraftKings, ExpressVPN stands out for its feature set, 3-day mobile trial, and 30-day money-back guarantee, with plans starting at $2.49/month.
For a more in-depth breakdown of this provider’s features, check our ExpressVPN review.
| ExpressVPN 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 |
| Works with DraftKings? | ✅ Yes |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS |
When looking for a reliable DraftKings VPN, Norton VPN is a trustworthy contender. It secures your connection when using a public Wi-Fi and protects your data with strong encryption. The provider also upholds a strict no-logs policy. Due to its close ties to Norton antivirus software, a VPN can be bundled with the AV, further enhancing your device’s protection.
Norton VPN has servers in 65 countries, including 18 US states, which is 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 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, you can choose a country or city that you want to connect to. Afterward, the app automatically connects you to the fastest server in your selected location, optimizing the best possible internet connection. However, I feel this could be a potential issue, as the DraftKings platform blocks certain IP addresses that are associated with the VPN pool.
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.
Additionally, Norton VPN can overcome deep packet inspections using Mimic, a proprietary stealth protocol that blends traffic signatures. Recently, the provider also implemented post-quantum encryption (PQE) frameworks onto its WireGuard and Mimic setups to prevent data-harvesting cyberattacks.
And as a clever way to avoid being flagged by VPN-resistant systems, Norton VPN has a unique security tool that automatically rotates your virtual IP address in the background. The shuffling occurs every 30 seconds, while the VPN keeps your connection active.
Norton VPN is an affordable DraftKings VPN option with a simultaneous 10-device connection, a 30-day free trial, and plans starting at $3.33/month.
To learn more about this provider, refer to our Norton VPN review.
| Norton VPN 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 |
How to get around DraftKings location: step-by-step guide
If you want to play DraftKings while visiting or living in states like Florida, California, or Texas, using a premium DraftKings VPN is the easiest solution. Install the app, connect to a DraftKings-supported state like New Jersey, Arizona, or Illinois, then visit DraftKings, sign in, and start betting. 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 smoothly on an iPhone from another state, you’ll want to ensure both your IP address and device location settings match, as the mobile app checks both network and GPS data to verify your connection. 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.
How to safely access DraftKings on iOS with a VPN:
- 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. 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.
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, accessing 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 strictly monitors access to its services, and if you’re traveling out of state, you might find yourself unable to log into your account as usual. Fortunately, prospective bettors can use a reliable VPN, such as NordVPN, to get around these limits and access DraftKings from anywhere.
It’s important to note that while a VPN allows you to regain access to DraftKings services, you still need to reside in states where the platform can be legally accessed. VPN can simply be a workaround to help you place your bets when you’re on the go.
Additionally, VPN usage is against DraftKings’ policy and violates its terms of service. If DraftKings detects you’re using a VPN, your betting options might be restricted.
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.
Where is DraftKings DFS legal?
DraftKings DFS is legal in the majority of the US states. Here is the list: Alabama, Alask, Arizon, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Washington, D.C. If you’re traveling out of state, you can use a VPN, such as NordVPN, to still access your account.
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 anywhere 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 ensures a secure connection so you can enjoy slots and table games from anywhere.
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.
