What license or approvals are required to open up a poker room?

Recently, many poker rooms have opened in Noida and are operating by claiming protection under certain High Court judgments that categorize poker as a game of skill rather than gambling. My question is: what licenses, certifications, permissions, or NOCs are required to legally operate a poker room in Uttar Pradesh?

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Advocate By LEAD INDIA Answered: 25 May 2026

Poker laws in India are legally sensitive and vary from state to state. Even if poker is argued as a “game of skill,” operating a poker room in Uttar Pradesh may still require proper business registration, local authority permissions, police NOC, fire safety clearance, GST registration, trade license, and compliance with state gaming and public gambling laws. Since the legal position in UP is not fully settled, operating without proper approvals may create criminal and regulatory risks. Legal consultation before starting operations is strongly advisable. For further legal assistance contact us on our helpline number. 

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