Online poker is the game of choice for millions of people who play for cash, prizes and fun. It’s important to find a site that offers a variety of games and tournaments, is easy to use on mobile devices, and is free from pros who can tilt the odds in their favor. You also want to choose a site with a good reputation and excellent customer service.

The first step in playing poker online is signing up for an account with the site of your choice. You’ll be asked to provide your name, date of birth and address, as well as create a username and password. Some sites may ask for additional documents to verify your identity, but this is typically a quick and painless process. You’ll need a government issued photo ID and a utility bill in your name at the address on file.

When you’re ready to start playing for real money, you’ll need to deposit funds to your account. The best poker websites accept a range of payment methods, including both traditional and cryptocurrency payments. They also adhere to strict international gambling standards and offer a safe environment.

While the rules of poker are the same whether you’re playing at home or at a live casino, online poker requires different skills to succeed. It’s impossible to read physical tells on a computer screen, so players must learn how to size up opponents by monitoring their betting tendencies. Another key skill is understanding how to make mathematically sound plays regardless of the size of your bankroll.

In addition to poker, many people enjoy other card games such as blackjack, video poker, and baccarat. There are even some online casinos that specialize in these types of games. You can find a list of the top-rated card game sites by reading reviews and checking out their promotions.

The best poker sites should be regulated and licensed by a recognized gambling commission, and they should have top-notch encryption and security measures. In addition, the best poker sites will offer a wide selection of games and tournaments to suit all budgets. Some will also offer bonuses and promotions to attract new players.

The popularity of online poker has grown exponentially, and it’s now available to gamblers in more than 20 states. Although it’s still not as popular as the games offered in brick-and-mortar establishments, it has quickly become a popular pastime for millions of people. As the industry grows, lawmakers are working to regulate it and protect players. The current landscape for online poker includes Nevada, Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. However, it’s not yet possible to play against residents of other states. This may change as the market continues to grow. The industry is also working to secure a federal exemption from the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act. The exemption is expected to be voted on by Congress in 2018.