Editorial note: this guide is general information about how 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 you play the lottery on your phone?
Yes. You can play the National Lottery on your phone through the official app or the mobile website, once you have a verified account. You must be 18 or over with a registered, identity-checked account, and the official app can also scan your paper tickets to check whether they have won.
Playing on mobile
Download the official National Lottery app from your phone’s app store, or use the mobile site in your browser, and sign in to your account. From there you can pick numbers, choose a Lucky Dip, buy entries for draw games and instant-win games, set up subscriptions, and manage your details — all the things you can do on a desktop, in your pocket. Funding is by debit card, as credit cards are not accepted for gambling.
Scanning and checking tickets
A handy feature of the official app is the ticket scanner: point your camera at the barcode on a paper ticket bought in a shop and the app checks it against the results for you. If scanning will not work, you can enter the ticket numbers manually, or check in store. This makes it easy to keep paper and online play in one place and avoid missing a win.
Staying in control on mobile
Playing on a phone is convenient, which makes safer-play tools especially useful. The app lets you set deposit limits, take time-outs and view your spending history, and you can self-exclude if you need to. Because a phone is always to hand, set a budget you can afford and turn off any prompts that nudge you to play more. Keep it fun, and never chase losses.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an official National Lottery app?
Yes. There is an official app for both major phone platforms. Use only the official app, signed in to your verified account, rather than unofficial third-party apps.
Can the app scan my paper ticket?
Yes. The official app can scan the barcode on a shop-bought ticket to check it against the results, and you can enter numbers manually if scanning does not work.
Do I need an account to play on my phone?
Yes. You need a registered, identity-verified account and must be 18 or over to buy entries on the app or mobile site. Funding is by debit card.
Are safer-play tools available on mobile?
Yes. Deposit limits, time-outs, spending history and self-exclusion are all available in the app, helping you stay in control wherever you play.
Related guides: Set up a National Lottery account · How to check lottery results · Can you play the lottery online?
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).