NorthPixelWorks

Independent UK casino information

UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)

Licence checks • Great Britain

Any online casino serving players in Great Britain must be licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. Below is a practical guide to what the UKGC does, how to verify licensing, and what to do if you have a complaint.

How the UK Gambling Commission safeguards online players

Online casinos that offer gambling services to players in Great Britain must hold a licence from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). The regulator sets mandatory standards covering fair play, identity and age checks, advertising practices, and the availability of safer gambling tools.

UKGC overview

  • Regulates commercial gambling across Great Britain, including online casinos
  • Requires licensed operators to verify customer identity and age
  • Enforces the availability of tools that help players manage gambling
  • Monitors compliance with advertising and consumer protection rules

Important note

  • Avoid any casino that does not appear on the UKGC public register
  • If licensing details are unclear, treat it as a warning sign

How to check whether a casino is licensed

Casinos that legally operate in Great Britain should display their UK licence information—commonly in the site footer— along with a link to the UKGC. Use the steps below to confirm status before depositing.

Find the licence details Look for a UK Gambling Commission licence number and the operator name on the casino website.
Search the UKGC public register Use the official register to search by operator name or account number.
Confirm coverage and status Make sure the licence is active and covers the specific brand you intend to use.

Open UKGC public register

If you experience a problem with a casino

NorthPixelWorks cannot intervene in disputes between players and casinos. Licensed operators must, however, provide a complaints process and often work with an approved Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) provider.

Complain directly to the operator Contact customer support and follow the casino’s published complaints procedure.
Check for ADR If unresolved, see whether the operator uses an approved ADR service for complaints.
Escalate serious concerns If you suspect licence breaches, you may inform the UK Gambling Commission.

Keep copies of emails, chat logs, and screenshots. These records can be important if a complaint is reviewed by an ADR provider.

Safer gambling and operator obligations

UK-licensed casinos must provide tools designed to help players stay in control. Operators are also expected to take action if they identify patterns that suggest harmful gambling behaviour.

Common tools

  • Deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion options
  • Clear access to safer gambling information

Marketing rules

  • Responsible advertising with transparent bonus terms
  • Clear wording around wagering requirements (where applicable)

Your responsibilities as a player

Regulation reduces risk but can’t remove it entirely. Before you gamble online, make sure you are eligible and informed.

Before you play

  • Only gamble if you are 18+ and legally allowed to do so
  • Read the latest terms, fees, and rules on the casino website
  • Use limits and take breaks

If you need support

  • Seek help early if gambling stops feeling under control
  • Great Britain support: BeGambleAware.org • 0808 8020 133

This page is for general information and does not constitute legal advice. For the most up-to-date licensing information, consult the UK Gambling Commission public register.