Editorial note: this guide is general information about how bingo, competitions, lotteries and gambling work in the UK. It is not advice, and it does not describe any specific promotion offered by Fortune Games. Rules, prices and regulations can change, so always check the operator’s current terms.
Can under-18s enter prize competitions?
It depends on the competition’s terms. Because genuine skill competitions and free prize draws are not classed as gambling, there is no single legal age limit the way there is for the lottery or betting. In practice, though, most paid competition operators set a minimum age of 18 in their terms and conditions, so for the majority of paid prize competitions the honest answer is no — under-18s cannot enter.
Why there’s no single legal age
The 18+ rule for gambling comes from gambling law, and skill competitions and free draws fall outside it. That means the age limit is set by the operator rather than by statute, and it can vary. Some free, family-friendly promotions allow younger entrants, sometimes with a parent or guardian entering on their behalf. Paid competitions, by contrast, almost always require entrants to be 18 or over, partly because of payment handling, partly because of the prizes involved, and partly because of growing pressure to run these promotions responsibly.
Always check the specific terms
Since the age rule lives in the terms and conditions, that is the place to look before entering. The terms will state any minimum age and whether parental consent is allowed, and they may also set residency or one-entry-per-person rules. Advertising rules also restrict how promotions can target or feature under-18s. If you are under 18, do not assume you can enter a paid competition; check the rules first, and never use someone else’s payment details to get around an age requirement.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a legal minimum age for prize competitions?
Not a single statutory one. Because genuine skill competitions and free draws are not gambling, the age limit is set by the operator’s terms rather than by law.
Can a 16-year-old enter a paid competition?
Usually not. Most paid competition operators set a minimum age of 18 in their terms, so the majority do not allow under-18s, even though it is not a blanket legal rule.
Can children enter free prize draws?
Sometimes. Some free, family-friendly promotions allow younger entrants, occasionally with a parent entering on their behalf. The terms will say whether under-18s can take part.
Where do I check the age limit?
In the competition’s terms and conditions. They state any minimum age, whether parental consent is allowed, and other conditions such as residency or entry limits.
Related guides: Are prize competitions legal in the UK? · What age can you play the lottery? · How to find the free entry route
18+ only. Gambling should be fun, never a way to make money. Please play responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose. If gambling is affecting you or someone you know, free, confidential support is available 24/7 from the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, run by GamCare. You can also visit BeGambleAware (begambleaware.org) or self-exclude from UK-licensed online operators through GAMSTOP (gamstop.co.uk).