When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
How to Watch Porn in Texas: Age Verification Laws for Pornhub & Adult Websites
QUICK ANSWER
- To watch porn in Texas, start by using a reliable VPN. Top choices include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark. After installing your VPN, turn on privacy features like a Kill Switch and DNS leak protection. Then, connect to a server in a porn-friendly state, such as California or New York. Keep the VPN active while browsing; this makes sites like Pornhub recognize you as outside Texas, allowing them to load normally.
Texas' age verification law requires submitting a valid ID before accessing adult sites. The law was enforced on September 1, 2023, and access to porn sites has been blocked since March 14, 2024. That said, after being forced to implement age verification checks and collect personally identifiable information, PornHub and its affiliates are no longer available in Texas.
The reasoning behind this law is that the younger generations need protection from freely available adult content. Texas lawmakers claim that pornography is addictive and contributes to body image and mental health issues, which is not backed by science.
Right off the bat, we’ll tell you that you can bypass the Texas age verification law quite easily. With a VPN, you can change your virtual location and access PornHub without any restrictions. On top of that, no one will see your porn-related activities.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to watch porn in Texas with a VPN, explain why VPNs are essential in this case, and discuss Texas’ latest age verification laws. We'll also talk about the status of the age verification porn law rollout, which porn sites require ID checks in Texas, and explain PornHub’s decision to block access in Texas before we finish with a round of FAQs.
How to Watch PornHub in Texas with a VPN?
Since PornHub blocks Texas IP addresses in response to the state’s age-verification law, accessing the site now requires appearing to browse from a different U.S. state (or country) where PornHub remains available. A VPN makes this possible by securely changing your virtual location while protecting your privacy. Here’s how to do it safely and correctly:
- Choose a VPN that reliably works with adult sites: Select a reputable VPN known for strong privacy features and consistent access to PornHub (we recommend NordVPN). Avoid free VPNs, as they often log activity and lack advanced protection tools.
- Download and install the VPN app on your device: Install the VPN on the device you plan to use for streaming (PC, Mac, phone, tablet, or smart TV).
- Log in and configure essential privacy features (IMPORTANT): Before connecting to a server, open the VPN’s settings and enable the following features to stay protected in an age-verification environment:
- Kill Switch – Prevents accidental exposure of your real Texas IP if the VPN connection drops.
- DNS Leak Protection – Ensures your ISP can’t see which sites you visit.
- Obfuscation / Stealth Mode – Makes VPN traffic look like normal HTTPS traffic, helping avoid ISP or network detection.
- Threat Protection / Ad & Malware Blocking – Blocks tracking scripts, pop-ups, and malicious ads common on adult sites.
- Auto-Connect on Untrusted Wi-Fi – Keeps the VPN active at all times, especially on public networks.
- Connect to a server in a porn-friendly U.S. state: Choose a VPN server in a state where PornHub is still accessible, such as California, New York, New Jersey, or Washington. Nearby states typically provide better speeds and smoother HD streaming.
- Open PornHub while the VPN remains active: Once connected, visit PornHub as usual. As long as the VPN is running, the site will see you as browsing from outside Texas.
- Keep the VPN on for the entire session: Do not disconnect the VPN while browsing. If your connection drops, the Kill Switch will block internet access until protection is restored.
At the moment, PornHub doesn't work in Texas, Virginia, Louisiana, Montana, North Carolina, Arkansas, Utah, Mississippi, Indiana, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, and Nebraska. So, connect to a VPN server in any state aside from those above, and you’ll manage to watch PornHub from anywhere.
Why VPNs Are Essential for Watching Porn in Texas?
A VPN allows you to access PornHub and other adult sites by bypassing age verification. In other words, they help you change your virtual location, giving you access to restricted, censored, and geo-blocked content. Aside from that, they’ll hide your IP and enhance your digital privacy.
Without a VPN (as seen in the image above), PornHub will display a note after detecting your Texas IP address. You’ll see a long explanation, which starts with: “As you may know, your elected officials in Texas are requiring us to verify your age before allowing you access to our website. Not only does this impinge on the rights of adults to access protected speech, it fails strict scrutiny by employing the least effective and yet also most restrictive means of accomplishing Texas's stated purpose of allegedly protecting minors.”
After connecting to a state with free access to adult content (New York or California, for example), you’ll access PornHub as you did before Texas’ porn ban, without any blocks. Here’s more information on how a top-rated VPN can help you:
- Gain Access to PornHub and Other Adult Sites: VPNs change your virtual location, allowing you to browse the Web using an IP from a different state or abroad. As such, they help you watch porn sites currently unavailable in Texas.
- Go Around Age Verification Checks: Adult websites are now forced to implement age verification checks in Texas and store your ID on their servers. A VPN is the most secure way to get around PornHub age verification.
- Reach a Higher Level of Privacy When Browsing: As you connect to a VPN server, you get a new IP address, meaning your original IP will be hidden. Your Internet provider, websites, and digital trackers won’t be able to intrude on your privacy.
- Interact with the Web Safely and Securely: VPNs work by encrypting your data, making it invisible to anyone online. They also prevent trackers from working, and many even have antimalware components that help you stay clear of potentially dangerous websites.
Top 3 VPNs for Watching Porn in Texas Safely in 2026: Editor's Pick
Accessing adult content in Texas has become increasingly difficult due to recent legal restrictions. To maintain your privacy and regain access, a reliable VPN is your best solution. VPNs not only bypass geo-blocks but also protect your identity and browsing data. Here are the top 3 VPNs that offer the speed, security, and discretion you need.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is ideal for Texans trying to access PornHub or other adult sites blocked by regional filters. Its Obfuscated Servers are crucial as they disguise VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic, helping you bypass Texas ISP-level blocking without detection. It has 8,943 servers in 129 countries. We advise you to connect to nearby servers in states like California or New York to maximize speed and reduce buffering during HD video playback.
Additionally, NordVPN uses AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20, and Post-Quantum Encryption (NordLynx Protocol) encryption ciphers. And guess what? NordVPN is now a future-ready VPN as it has recently launched its post-quantum encryption across all devices. These are paired with protocols including NordLynx (WireGuard-based), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and NordWhisper. NordVPN's proprietary NordLynx and NordWhisper (available across all platforms) are a standing guarantee of its speed and security.
Save upto 77% on NordVPN’s 2-year plan – now priced at $2.99/month ($80.73 in total) + 3 EXTRA months. 30-day money-back guarantees available!
$
$12.99
2.99
/mo
Save 74%
Other key features:
- Double VPN: Routes your traffic through two encrypted servers, adding another layer of anonymity.
- Kill Switch: Automatically cuts internet if the VPN drops—your real IP is never exposed mid-stream.
- Obfuscation: Hides VPN usage by disguising traffic as regular HTTPS activity, helping bypass VPN blocks in restricted regions like Texas.
- Threat Protection: Blocks adult site pop-ups, trackers, and malware before they load.
- Strict No-Logs Policy (audited): No history of your browsing is stored—especially important for sensitive sites.
NordVPN supports 10 simultaneous connections, including Android TV and browser extensions, making it great for private use across all screens.
2. Surfshark VPN
Surfshark is the best budget-friendly VPN for adult site access in Texas, offering unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can use it on your phone, laptop, smart TV, and tablet at once without extra cost. The NoBorders mode is designed to bypass content restrictions in tightly controlled regions, making it perfect for users facing state-level blocks.
Surfshark doesn’t just deliver fast streaming speeds, it also offers strong privacy and security features. You’ll get military-grade encryption (AES-256-GCM (OpenVPN and IKEv2), ChaCha20 (WireGuard), and Post-Quantum Encryption (WireGuard)) and support for secure VPN protocols such as WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN. To further strengthen user privacy, Surfshark has even filed a patent for a new encryption method aimed at reducing metadata exposure.
Key adult-content-relevant features:
- Camouflage Mode: Makes your VPN traffic look like regular internet activity—ideal for staying under ISP radar.
- CleanWeb: Actively blocks ads, malicious scripts, and spyware common on adult streaming sites.
- IP Rotator: Periodically changes your visible IP address within a session, adding privacy during long visits.
- Kill Switch: It has a built-in Kill Switch, which provides an extra layer of security in case your connection drops.
- MultiHop: Routes your internet traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, adding an extra layer of privacy and anonymity online.
- Bypaaser Mode: Recently, Surfshark also introduced its long-awaited split tunneling feature (called “Bypasser”) for macOS (now available across all devices). This allows you to route only selected apps or websites through the VPN, helping boost performance and speed while maintaining privacy where it matters most.
Surfshark also offers browser extensions, an Android TV app, and multi-hop servers for advanced users who want layered protection while viewing adult content.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN stands out for users who want smooth, fast streaming of adult content with zero compromise on privacy. Its Lightway protocol is engineered for speed and security, allowing you to stream PornHub in 4K from out-of-state servers (like New Jersey or Washington) with no lag—even on mobile.
This provider ranks among the fastest VPNs, delivering consistently high speeds and stable performance, even on long-distance servers. You'll benefit from secure VPN protocols (OpenVPN, Lightway, and IKEv2), military-grade encryption (AES-256 and ChaCha20/Poly1305), and more. Plus, the upgraded Lightway Turbo now offers even faster internet speeds, ensuring a smoother and more responsive browsing experience. Looking ahead, ExpressVPN is leading privacy innovation with new Rust-based protocols, zero-knowledge architecture, and embeddable VPN solutions built for next-gen security.
What makes it a top pick:
- TrustedServer Technology: Servers run on RAM only—data is wiped after every reboot, ensuring no logs or residual data.
- Network Lock: A robust Kill Switch that completely cuts internet access if the VPN disconnects, protecting your real location during adult site visits.
- Split Tunneling: Route only specific apps (like your browser) through the VPN—everything else stays local for performance.
- AircoveOS v5.3 Router: ExpressVPN recently launched AircoveOS v5.3, introducing performance and usability improvements designed to enhance speed and user control.
- Obfuscation: Makes VPN traffic appear normal to firewalls and ISPs, ensuring you can access blocked content without raising suspicion.
It’s compatible with iOS, Android, smart TVs, and browser extensions, making it a seamless option for both privacy and usability.
Texas Porn Age Verification: Law, Enforcement, and Site Availability
Texas’ age verification requirements have fundamentally changed how adult websites operate in the state. This consolidated overview explains what the law requires, how it’s being enforced, and which porn sites currently work in Texas.
What HB 1181 Requires (Legal Overview)
Texas House Bill 1181 (HB 1181), passed in June 2023, requires websites that publish material considered “sexual content harmful to minors” to verify that users are at least 18 years old before granting access.
To comply, adult websites must implement age-verification systems based on:
- Government-issued identification (driver’s license or passport), or
- Approved third-party digital age-verification services
The responsibility for compliance lies with the websites themselves, not individual users.
Originally, HB 1181 also required adult sites to display a public health warning linking pornography to social harms. That provision was later struck down in court. However, the age-verification requirement was upheld and is now fully enforceable statewide.
After multiple legal challenges from adult industry groups and free-speech advocates, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to block enforcement. As a result, adult websites accessible from Texas must now either:
- Verify users’ ages, or
- Block access to Texas IP addresses entirely
This has made HB 1181 one of the strictest online age-verification laws currently enforced in the United States.
How the Law Is Being Enforced (Rollout & Industry Response)
Since HB 1181 became enforceable, its rollout has followed a clear pattern across the adult industry.
Rather than universally complying, many major adult platforms, especially those owned by Aylo (formerly MindGeek), chose to block Texas IP addresses instead of collecting or storing sensitive identification data. These companies have cited privacy, data-breach risks, and user safety concerns as the primary reasons for non-compliance.
Other platforms attempted delayed or alternative compliance, which prompted enforcement action by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Lawsuits were filed against several sites, including Chaturbate and xHamster, alleging failure to meet the law’s requirements. In response:
- Some sites implemented full age verification
- Others opted to remain inaccessible in Texas
HB 1181 authorizes significant penalties for non-compliance:
- Up to $10,000 per day for violations
- Up to $250,000 if a minor gains access due to lack of proper age verification
In July 2025, Texas expanded its regulatory approach even further. Governor Greg Abbott signed the App Store Accountability Act, which requires app store operators like Apple and Google to verify users’ ages in Texas beginning January 1, 2026, with parental consent required for minors.
This expansion signals that Texas is doubling down on age-based online regulation. Supporters argue it protects minors, while critics warn it threatens privacy, free expression, and creates a framework for broader digital surveillance. Regardless, Texas’ model is already influencing similar legislation in other U.S. states.
Which Porn Sites Currently Work in Texas (Updated Table)
In practice, HB 1181 has produced two outcomes: adult websites either block Texas users entirely or remain accessible with mandatory age verification. Site availability can change quickly due to enforcement actions or legal developments, but the table below reflects the most consistent and recently observed behavior.
Is It Legal to Watch Porn in Texas?
As long as you're 18 or older, you can watch porn in Texas without any legal consequences. That said, the latest changes to pornography-related legislation in Texas discourage those under 18 from accessing explicit content online. So, adult sites aren't banned - but instead forced to implement age checks.
We'll also add that using a VPN is legal in Texas. However, a VPN isn't an excuse to do anything against the law, even though it will hide your porn-watching habits from your Internet provider. So, if you're underage and reside in Texas, you shouldn't use a VPN to access any content meant for mature audiences, such as pornography.
Why Is PornHub Blocking Access in Texas?
PornHub is blocking access in Texas because the company behind the website is firmly against the implementation of age verification checks. More precisely, Aylo (the owner of PornHub) thinks that age verification is justified, but only when done right.
Per the company’s statements, submitting highly sensitive data, such as your ID card, creates a substantial security risk. That’s because it’s based on age verification software that asks users to hand over highly sensitive data, introducing the risk of data breaches. There’s also the possibility of malicious actors using that data to exploit and extort people.
PornHub proposes to replace software-based identity checks that store sensitive data with a device-based solution. The adult content platform recommends identifying users at the source, by their device or account on the device. That way, users would only get verified once, through their operating system, not on each age-restricted site.
In the meantime, while the battle between the porn industry and Texas lawmakers continues, PornHub is blocking access to more US states. More precisely, the site isn't only blocked in Texas but also in Virginia, Louisiana, Montana, North Carolina, Arkansas, Utah, Mississippi, Indiana, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Nebraska, and Florida. Of course, you can still watch PornHub from anywhere, as long as you use a secure VPN provider.
Why Does PornHub Think I'm In Texas?
The only reason why PornHub thinks you're in Texas is because you likely have a Texas IP address. That could happen, for example, if you're in a neighboring state, such as Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, or New Mexico.
Your Internet provider might assign you a Texas IP if you're in a city in one of the neighboring states very close to Texas. There's no easy way to change your IP without a VPN app, but you can try to restart your router, which should assign you a new IP in most cases.
Porn Sites Regulated in Texas
As you know by now, websites such as Pornhub, RedTube, YouPorn, Brazzers, SpankBang, and countless more no longer work in Texas. However, not all adult sites have decided to block local addresses. Those available, such as xHamster, Chaturbate, and Stripchat, now require an age check. We did our own testing, so let's look at the situation with the most popular adult sites.
1. Pornhub
Pornhub was among the first porn sites to block IP addresses from Texas and has promised to remain inaccessible as long as Texas' age verification checks are mandatory. The site currently shows a lengthy message explaining why it's inaccessible and what, as a Texan, you can do regarding your local laws. Connecting to a VPN server in a state like California or New York unblocks the site.
2. xHamster
Unlike most other websites, xHamster has implemented various ways to check your age. You'll be presented with three options upon agreeing to allow the site to collect your sensitive information. You can use a digital ID app, upload a photo of your ID, or allow the site to take a photo to assess your age.
3. YouPorn
YouPorn belongs to the same group of sites as Pornhub - under a single company's management. You can't access it with a Texas IP address, and you'll see a message explaining why the state's newly implemented age verification checks are problematic. To access YouPorn in Texas, you need to use a VPN with a server in a server where porn sites are still widely available.
4. RedTube
RedTube doesn't work in Texas any longer. Instead of showing its sizable content library, it now shows a message that highlights the problematic parts of Texas' age verification law. The only way to access the site from Texas is to obtain another state's IP address. Of course, you can use a VPN to change your IP and access RedTube anonymously.
5. Chaturbate
Chaturbate has decided to comply with Texas' age verification law, which means you'll see a prompt that asks you to prove that you're allowed to visit pornography. Right now, there are three options to choose between. You can use an app that processes your ID, allow the website to scan your ID, or allow the site to scan your face.
6. Brazzers
If you have a Texas IP, you can no longer access Brazzers as the site is blocking IP addresses from the state. Instead, a lengthy note explains why allowing websites to process your ID is a bad idea. Like most other websites, we managed to unblock Brazzers using a VPN. Just make sure to connect to a VPN server in a US state where porn is still widely available.
7. PornTube
PornTube comes from the same family of websites as 4Tube, Fux, and PornerBros, and none of those currently work in Texas. Upon visiting PornTube with a Texas IP, you will see a 403 error message that says: "You're not allowed to see this content due to the restrictions in your country about porn." Using a VPN server from a region with free access to porn can bypass this block.
8. Spankbang
Spankbang uses AI age detection to prove your age before you can access the website. That means no ID is needed, but you'll be forced to create an account and use the site's AI technology to scan your face. This is a one-time procedure, meaning you'll verify your age only once. Of course, there's also a way to access SpankBang without verification, which is done using a VPN.
9. Stripchat
Upon visiting Stripchat, we encountered a block explaining that we needed to verify our age to unlock its content. The procedure to do so requires creating an account. Then, you can verify your age by uploading a video selfie, providing your government ID, or using a digital app like Yoti that safely stores your ID and personal details.
10. OnlyFans
Even though you're free to create an OnlyFans account in Texas without any issues, you'll be asked for additional personal information before subscribing. During that process, you'll need to prove that you're 18+ by providing your payment information, as well as your government-issued ID, social media account handles, and more.
Additional Tips to Safely Access Porn in Texas (When Using a VPN)
Using a VPN is the most effective way to bypass regional restrictions on adult sites like PornHub in Texas, but your privacy and safety can be enhanced even further with a few smart habits. Here are additional tips to stay discreet and secure:
Final Thoughts
Texas is the latest US state to try to regulate pornography. As commendable as that can be, the fact is that Texas lawmakers are sticking to privacy-intruding age verification checks. The result of that is the PornHub ban, which remains inaccessible in Texas. However, all you need is a VPN, as changing your virtual location will help you evade age verification checks, letting you watch porn in Texas.
There's no better option than NordVPN, which is the best VPN to get on PornHub in Texas, as it’s a highly secure and private VPN. It allows you to connect to a range of US states where porn is accessible, and you won’t have to worry about others seeing what you do online. Even better, NordVPN has extra-fast performance and can bypass any geo-block in seconds.
Surfshark is a fantastic budget-friendly option, especially if you want to connect unlimited devices without sacrificing features like IP rotation or CleanWeb. Meanwhile, ExpressVPN delivers top-tier streaming performance with its proprietary Lightway protocol and TrustedServer technology, making it a strong choice for users who prioritize speed and ease of use. Together, these three VPNs offer reliable, secure ways to watch porn in Texas securely in 2026.
That’s all when it comes to how to watch porn in Texas and using a VPN to bypass geo-blocks and age verification checks. If you have any questions, please use the comments section below. Thanks for reading!
Related
