DraftKings (like most other gambling sites) is available in certain territories only, forcing the site to impose geo-blocks in unsupported countries. More precisely, DraftKings is available in certain US states and Ontario (Canada).
So, if you're outside those territories, your access to the site will be revoked. Also, if you're already a user of DraftKings and wish to travel, you'll encounter geo-blocks in that case as well.
The solution is to get the best DraftKings VPN. By using one, you can obtain an IP address from a region where the site works, so you'll trick it into thinking you're somewhere else.
This article will help you find the best VPN for DraftKings. We'll also show you how to use a VPN to trick the DraftKings location and play in a restricted state, explain where DraftKings is available/legal to use, and we'll answer some FAQs as well.
Best VPNs for DraftKings - Our Shortlist
- ExpressVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN for DraftKings in 2023
- NordVPN - Best DraftKings VPN for Security & Reliability
- CyberGhost VPN - Best for Unblocking Restricted Gambling Sites & Apps
- Surfshark - Best DraftKings Sportsbook VPN for Multiple Devices
- Private Internet Access - Best for Experienced VPN Users
How to Trick DraftKings Location with a VPN
To trick DraftKings location, you need to subscribe to a suitable VPN service and connect to a server where the site is legal and available. Just follow these steps:
- Subscribe to a VPN that works with DraftKings (we recommend ExpressVPN).
- Download and install the VPN app on the devices you'll use for DraftKings.
- Open the app and sign-in to your VPN account.
- Connect to a suitable VPN server in a location where DraftKings is available.
- Open the DraftKings site and create or sign-in to your account.
- Download the "Player Location Check" plugin by GeoComply.
- Now, you can access and play DraftKings from anywhere without restrictions. That's it!
DraftKings uses the "Player Location Check" plugin to verify your location. Make sure you're always connected to your VPN before opening DraftKings so that your location is changed and you have unrestricted access to the platform.
The Best VPNs to Trick DraftKings Location
Finding the best VPN for DraftKings requires you to stick to the criteria we established when searching for the best gambling VPN services. First, your chosen VPN must be able to unblock DraftKings from any country, and it should work with other gambling and betting sites. So, pick a VPN with servers where DraftKings is legal and available. More precisely, you need plenty of servers in those locations, ensuring you get fast speeds and uninterrupted access.
Next, a VPN with obfuscated servers will hide the fact that you're even using one. Also, pay attention if a kill switch is available. On top of that, you need solid VPN protocols and robust encryption. And to protect your transactions, a no-logs policy is mandatory.
Also, think about the devices you'll use to use DraftKings. Find a VPN with a sufficient number of simultaneous connections and native apps for all your devices. Lastly, go for a VPN with a generous money-back policy and 24/7 customer support.
Based on the criteria set above, these are the 5 best VPNs for DraftKings in 2023.
1. ExpressVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN for DraftKings in 2023
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for unblocking DraftKings, being a great example of a hugely powerful VPN that's also easy to use. It has an army of servers across 15 US states and covers Toronto as well. You can connect to any VPN server in New York, New Jersey, Denver, or Phoenix to access DraftKings Sportsbook, as the site is available in those regions.
No matter which server you choose to place bets on your favorite team, you'll get the maximum speed and security irrespective of your location. In fact, this is the fastest VPN available on today's market (as tested by our team). And let's not forget to mention that all of this VPN's servers (3,000+ in 90+ countries) are obfuscated.
ExpressVPN's kill switch and data leak protection are also there to protect your personal details when you switch between networks and place bets on the go. And speaking of security, you can switch between OpenVPN and Lightway, both highly secure VPN protocols.
Let's not forget to mention that ExpressVPN has an audited no-logs policy. Also, it has modern-looking and easy-to-use apps for any desktop and mobile device. Speaking of devices, you get 5 simultaneous connections.
Finally, being the best DraftKings VPN available, ExpressVPN is also an example of customer support done right. You can count on extra-helpful 24/7 live chat support, in addition to a no-questions-asked 30-day money-back policy.
PROS
- Certified no-logs policy.
- Highly polished interface.
- High-end encryption.
- Bulletproof VPN protocols.
- Ultra-fast performance.
- 24/7-available live chat support.
CONS
- No in-depth customization.
- No dedicated IPs.
2. NordVPN - Best DraftKings VPN for Security & Reliability
NordVPN is one of the top VPNs for unblocking DraftKings, especially if you prioritize security. This capable VPN has close to 2,000 servers in the US across 15 locations. Also, nearly 500 servers are in Canada, many of which are in Ontario, where DraftKings operates.
The majority of NordVPN's servers (5,500+ servers in total, in 60 countries) are located in 8 different US states. Connect to one of Arizona (Phoenix), Colorado (Denver), Illinois (Chicago), or New York servers to unblock DraftKings on any network because it’s available in these states.Â
Whenever you connect to a NordVPN server, it encrypts your traffic with AES-256-bit keys. Its proprietary NordLynx and other protocols safeguard your traffic. Then, there's a nice group of obfuscated servers, adding an additional layer of privacy.
This VPN also features a capable kill switch, as well as dedicated IPs that can be associated with a location in the USA or Canada. And yes, it's an audited no-logs VPN.
NordVPN gives you 6 simultaneous connections, which seems generous enough. It also gives you simple-to-use applications for all desktop and mobile platforms. On top of that, you won't have to worry about speed because NordVPN's performance is flawless.
As you can expect out of any reputable DraftKings Sportsbook VPN, NordVPN comes with 24/7 live chat support. You'll also try it risk-free, as it comes with a 30-day money-back policy.
PROS
- Trustworthy VPN brand.
- Polished UI and UX design.
- High-end encryption.
- Multiple VPN protocols on offer.
- Dedicated IPs on offer.
CONS
- Remote servers can be slow.
3. CyberGhost VPN - Best for Unblocking Restricted Gambling Sites & Apps
CyberGhost is another solid VPN that can unblock DraftKings with ease. It has 1,450+ servers in 11 cities in the US. You can connect to any of CyberGhost's servers in New York, Chicago, or Phoenix to access DraftKings from your location. Also, there are 500 servers in Canada, around 100 of which are in Toronto (Ontario)
This VPN for DraftKings also encrypts your traffic with AES-256-bit keys to ensure nobody can find your identity when you bypass the Players' Location Check system and access DraftKings Sportsbook from a region where it's not yet live.
It's also true that obfuscation is not available here. However, CyberGhost has ultra-strong VPN protocols (OpenVPN, WireGuard), a fully automated kill switch, and a recently audited no-logs policy. That said, it's more than capable of securing your DraftKings-related activities.
We should also mention that this VPN has 9,500+ servers in 90+ countries globally, works on any device, and supports up to 7 simultaneous connections. It's not as fast as our DraftKings VPN recommendations from above but should serve you just fine even if you don't have an ultra-fast Web connection.
CyberGhost VPN offers a 45-day money-back policy that enables first-time users to try its services. Of course, 24/7 live chat support is there as well.
PROS
- Certified no-logs policy.
- Native software across the board.
- Ultra-secure VPN protocols.
- Leak-free VPN tunnel.
- Extra-wide server network.
CONS
- Slower than its competitors.
4. Surfshark - Best DraftKings Sportsbook VPN for Multiple Devices
Surfshark is a Netherlands-based VPN that can easily unblock DraftKings and a slate of other gambling platforms. It has 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries, including 600+ servers in 25 US cities. Also, there are 100+ servers in Canada, giving you access to the Canadian version of this popular gambling/betting site.
From Phoenix, Denver, and Chicago to New York, you'll have many ways to find the most suitable server while accessing DraftKings DFS. This VPN also uses military-grade encryption to protect your traffic data and personal details from hackers.
Its WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols and AES-256 encryption ensure your traffic flows through a secure tunnel only. There are also special obfuscated servers in the US and Canada, helping you break down your VPN traffic into undetectable packets. And since this is a verified no-logs VPN service, you can be sure your data will never leave your device.
Also, Surfshark's kill switch is also there to keep you anonymous even when the VPN connection drops. Moreover, Surfshark is one of those very few VPNs that allow you to use their services on unlimited devices simultaneously. That's great news because this ultra-fast VPN provides apps for any computer and handheld device.
Lastly, let's not forget to mention that you can count on 24/7 live chat support, as well as a 30-day money-back policy.
PROS
- Incredibly simple to use.
- Certified no-logs policy.
- High-end protocols and encryption.
- Very fast and stable performance.
- Unlimited simultaneous connections.
CONS
- Can take a while to connect.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA) - Best for Experienced VPN Users
Private Internet Access is a US-based VPN that offers the largest server network, covering 80+ countries. It's also the only VPN among the best VPNs to bypass DraftKing's geo-blocks to offer servers in every US state. And if you wish to unblock Canadian DraftKings, PIA can help with that too.
That gives you many options to connect to nearby servers (if you're in the US) and unblock DraftKings in your state. On top of that, all PIA VPN servers are optimized for high-speed and security features along with unlimited bandwidth. And yes, PIA uses obfuscation as well.
Additionally, PIA encrypts your traffic with AES-128 or 256-bit keys that make it unreadable to third parties. Since you can choose the level of security as per your requirements, it's easier to max out the speed when you access DraftKings or other sites on the home network. That said, PIA can be very fast, especially if you optimize it via its settings.
To protect your privacy, this VPN relies on WireGuard and OpenVPN. In addition, its apps are open-source, and its no-logs policy has been audited many times in the past. With PIA, you get unlimited simultaneous connections and apps for practically any device.
Whenever you need help, you'll get to contact PIA's agents through 24/7-available live chat. There are also 30-day money-back guarantees, making PIA a great deal overall.
PROS
- Certified no-logs policy.
- Flexible encryption options.
- High-end VPN protocols.
- Massive server network.
- 24/7-available live chat support.
CONS
- Requires speed-related optimizations.
- Best-suited for more advanced users.
Why Do You Need a VPN for DraftKings?
If you're in a country where sports betting is prohibited, you'll need a VPN to access and unblock DraftKings Sportsbook. Otherwise, you'll encounter a geo-block error message.
More precisely, the error message will say: "Country Not Supported - You are attempting to access DraftKings from a location where we do not operate. DraftKings is available in the US, Canada, and other select jurisdictions."
A VPN will help you bypass that geo-block while bringing some privacy-related benefits as well, like the following ones:
- Bypass DraftKings' Geo-Blocks: As explained earlier, a VPN for DraftKings will give you an IP address from a region where the site is accessible. So, you'll trick the site into thinking you're in a supported region, giving you full and unrestricted access to every game.
- Access Any Gambling Platform: Love to switch between different gambling or betting sites? If you do, know that a powerful VPN won't work with DraftKings only. It'll give you access to any gambling platform from the US or overseas.
- Use DraftKings While Traveling: If you're a registered DraftKings user, you can use a VPN to access the platform while traveling. As an added bonus, a VPN will help secure you even on public Wi-Fi, which means you can be worry-free regarding hackers and tracking.
- Protect Your Privacy & Finances: Since they encapsulate your data, VPNs make your Web data unreadable to anyone else. No one will get to see that you use DraftKings, which protects your bets and withdrawals as well.
Where Is DraftKings Legal?
DraftKings is legal in dozens of US states. Outside the US, it is only available in Ontario, Canada. In some states, you can only access DraftKings via retail, while in others, you can access DraftKings online and through its mobile app. Below is the complete list of locations where DraftKings is available.
When it comes to DraftKings' retail sports betting, that option is available in Washington and Mississippi. Lastly, You can play DraftKings Daily Fantasy Sports in all US states except Washington, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Nevada.
Why Is DraftKings Blocked in My Country?
DraftKings is restricted in many locations, including a whole lot of states in the US and Canada. The restrictions are in place due to the local laws that make Internet gambling illegal. If you try accessing the service from one of the restricted locations, some parts of the site may not work correctly.
DraftKings often requires you to submit proof of residency, without which signing up on the platform and withdrawing your funds is next to impossible. This especially applies when users try to withdraw large sums of their winnings.
Using a VPN is a smart choice if you are not located in a state or country where DraftKings is not legal. A VPN hides your IP address from your ISP and bumps up your privacy levels. That's why, if you are traveling or staying in any of the restricted regions, you should use a VPN to access the region-locked content.
Can You Play DraftKings in a Restricted State?
Yes, you can play DraftKings in a restricted state, but only by using a VPN. As mentioned, DraftKings is available in select US states and Ontario, Canada, so you won't be able to play outside of those locations. Additionally, if you're in any of the US states where online betting is illegal, or DraftKings isn't live yet, you won't be able to access it.Â
The solution is to use a suitable DraftKings VPN to access the platform from virtually anywhere in the world. This will allow you to bypass geo-restrictions and place bets or play DraftKings' Daily Fantasy Sports, no matter where you are.
Can You Use DraftKings in California?
Yes, you can use DraftKings in California. However, the features or games you can play are restricted. Fantasy sports is legal in California, which means you can play DraftKings' Daily Fantasy Sports without a VPN.
More specifically, the DraftKings Sportsbook is unavailable in California because online sports betting is illegal in the state. The only way for you to place sports bets is to either go to a state where it is legal or use a VPN.
Using a DraftKings Sportsbook VPN is much more convenient - you won't even have to leave your house to place bets. You only need to subscribe to a VPN and connect to a server in a state where online sports betting is legal to place as many bets as you want.
Can You Use DraftKings in Texas?
Yes, you can use DraftKings in Texas. However, like California, Texas only allows certain DraftKing games and features to be used.
All sports betting, both online and in-person, is illegal in Texas, so you won't be able to place bets with DraftKings' Sportsbook. However, you can bypass these restrictions with a DraftKings VPN.
By changing your location to a state like Colorado, where DraftKings is legal and available, you can access DraftKings' Sportsbook and place bets.
Why Is Your DraftKings Account Restricted?
Your DraftKings account might be restricted due to your location if you are trying to access it from an area where it is unavailable or illegal.Â
You can also be locked out of your account if you created multiple accounts with the same address or name—DraftKings doesn't allow you to use more than one.Â
DraftKings will also restrict your account if it notices you collaborating with other players. Collaboration among players is strictly forbidden and will result in the termination of your account.
Furthermore, your account can be restricted if you use automation or third-party tools, provide false information, or log in from a different IP address than you usually use.
Can You Use a Free VPN to Access DraftKings Sportsbook?
Yes, you can try using a free VPN for DraftKings - but you'll encounter a very frustrating experience. That's because free VPNs have many limitations, making them sub-par compared to premium VPNs for DraftKings.
More precisely, free VPNs impose bandwidth and speed limitations through daily or monthly data allowances. They also typically log user information, generating revenue by sharing that data with marketing agencies and other third parties.
Above all, most free VPNs don't allow you to pick a specific VPN server location. That's the most crucial feature you need in a reliable DraftKings VPN, as you'll need to "target" one of the states where this betting platform works.
To get the experience you want, you need a premium VPN for DraftKings Sportsbook. Use any of our recommendations from above, or check our guide to the best VPN service.
DraftKings Not Working with a VPN - How to Fix
Though it's rare, there could be a possibility that DraftKings may not work with a VPN service for a number of reasons. Here are some of the possible causes and self-troubleshooting methods:
- Slow Speeds: For faster connections, pick a server in a different location or a different country. You could also try using a different protocol. It's worth noting that choosing a server closer to your physical location produces a faster connection overall.
- Software Conflict: Sometimes, a cyber-security application could be blocking your VPN, or your VPN might be blocking an insecure port. You could try activating the split-tunneling feature or switching to a different server.
- Unable to Connect to the Internet: You may not be able to connect to the Internet because of firewalls, outdated software, or due to a blocked port. Start by ensuring your firewalls allow VPN services and the right ports are open.
- Inaccessible Sites: The reason some sites don't work with a VPN is that they block the use of VPN servers. Using obfuscated servers or dedicated IP addresses could help solve this. If it doesn't work, you could try clearing your cache and cookies.
If none of the troubleshooting methods work, you could try contacting the customer support of the VPN service you are using.
Final Thoughts
Since it's available only in certain US states and Ontario (Canada), DraftKings is unreachable to millions of potential users. However, a quality VPN for DraftKings can solve this problem.Â
Using a VPN, you can change your location to a state where DraftKings is available and play without restrictions. Even though DraftKings employs a plugin that helps it pinpoint your physical location, if you choose a powerful VPN, you can trick it with no problem.
We recommend ExpressVPN as the best VPN for DraftKings because it's a powerful provider that offers excellent security and privacy features, including DNS and IP leak protection, making it ideal for those who want to access DraftKings from areas where it isn't available.
That’s all! Now you know about the best VPN for DraftKings Sportsbook. For further queries, check our FAQs section or reach us through the comments section below. Thanks for reading!