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Licence
Licence — is an official authorization issued by a gambling regulator that allows a casino, sportsbook, or game supplier to legally offer real-money play to players. A valid licence confirms the operator meets standards for fair games, player protection, responsible gambling, anti–money-laundering controls, and clear dispute procedures. For players, this term is a crucial trust signal when deciding where to play and what is safe.
Understanding Licence
In gambling, Licence meaning centers on legality and accountability. The Licence definition is the formal permission granted by a regulator (such as the UKGC, MGA, or state authorities) to operate and accept wagers. A licence matters because it sets audit rules, game integrity checks, segregated funds, complaint channels, and penalties for misconduct. At 101RTP, you can find the best licensed casinos and slots with honest reviews, then use our Slot Simulator and Bonus Value Score tools to test stakes, session variance, and which bonuses are realistically beatable under licensed conditions.
Examples of Licence
Here are common types of licences you’ll see when evaluating a gambling site or supplier:
- UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) remote casino licence — strict consumer protections, robust AML checks, clear dispute processes.
- Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) B2C gaming service licence — strong EU-focused oversight with transparency requirements.
- Curaçao licence — broader availability; new framework improving standards, but diligence on terms and complaints is essential.
- State/provincial licences (e.g., New Jersey DGE, Ontario AGCO/iGaming Ontario) — local markets with geofenced play and strong enforcement.
- Supplier (B2B) licence — lets game studios/platforms provide content to licensed operators; it does not permit direct player wagering.
FAQs
What is a Licence in online casinos?
A Licence is a regulator’s authorization allowing a casino or supplier to legally offer gambling to players. It defines what is permitted, sets testing and audit requirements, and provides complaint routes. For you, it’s the core trust signal—showing the operator is accountable for fair games, secure payments, and responsible gambling.
How can I verify if a casino’s Licence is valid?
Check the footer for regulator details and licence numbers, then confirm them on the regulator’s website (e.g., UKGC, MGA, DGE). Ensure the domain matches the listed brand and permissions. 101RTP reviews highlight the stated regulator, link to official registers where available, and flag mismatches or weak disclosures.
Can a casino operate without a Licence?
Some sites do, but it’s risky. Without a Licence, there’s no formal oversight, testing, or dispute channel. Payment security and responsible gambling tools may be absent, and terms may be unenforceable. We strongly advise playing only at licensed casinos that publish clear regulatory details and respond to recognized authorities.
Is there a difference between Licence meaning and Licence definition?
Practically, they overlap. Licence definition is the formal, legal authorization granted by a regulator to offer gambling. Licence meaning, in everyday casino terms, is the broader idea of trust, compliance, and player protection behind that authorization. Both point to legality, accountability, and enforceable rules.
Do different regulators’ Licences offer different player protections?
Yes. Regulators set varying standards for RTP disclosure, game testing, anti–money-laundering checks, dispute mediation, and advertising rules. UKGC and many state regulators are stricter; others may be lighter but improving. Always compare complaint processes, fund segregation, and transparency before choosing where to play.
Why does a supplier need a Licence if the casino is licensed?
Suppliers (studios and platform providers) also require a Licence to develop, host, and distribute games to operators. This ensures the software itself is tested, secure, and auditable. It closes gaps in the ecosystem so that both the casino and the content it offers meet regulatory standards.
How does a Licence affect bonuses, wagering, and RTP?
Licensed operators must follow clear terms: publishing RTP ranges, game eligibility for wagering, and fair cancellation/abuse rules. A good Licence reduces hidden traps. On 101RTP, you can also use our Slot Simulator and Bonus Value Score tools to test likely session outcomes and identify more profitable, compliant bonus play.
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