American Roulette Explained: Rules, Odds & Where to Play

American Roulette is a wheel-based table game featuring 38 numbered pockets—1 to 36, plus a single zero (0) and a double zero (00). The double-zero layout increases the house edge to 5.26%, making it less favorable than the European variant.

The game’s structure includes a broad range of inside and outside bets, with payouts based on the statistical probability of each result.

Despite the steeper edge, many U.S. players continue to favor American Roulette for its fast-paced format, classic Las Vegas aesthetic, and the occasional availability of enhanced side bets.

Its widespread presence in both land-based and online casinos—regulated by bodies like the New Jersey DGE and Michigan Gaming Control Board—ensures access across multiple states.

This page outlines key rules, house edge mechanics, betting strategies, top U.S.-licensed casinos, live dealer studios, responsible gambling resources, and a full A–Z glossary for player reference.

A Short History of American Roulette

American Roulette began in 18th-century France, where early wheels featured both single and double zero pockets. French immigrants brought the game to New Orleans in the early 1800s, where it took root in gambling halls.

Over time, American casino operators modified the format, favoring a faster pace and higher-risk structure.

In the 19th century, roulette spread across frontier towns via riverboats. Some casinos even added an “eagle” pocket—a third zero—to boost the house edge.

This experimentation led to the standardized double-zero layout, now known for its 5.26% house edge and enduring popularity with U.S. operators.

By the late 1990s, roulette entered the digital space with early RNG versions. Live-streamed tables emerged in the 2010s, broadcast from studios licensed in U.S. states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

With the rise of mobile play, American Roulette became widely accessible. Today, most British lobbies offer both RNG and live-streamed double-zero tables.

Wheel & Table Anatomy – How American Differs from European/French

American Roulette uses a 38-pocket wheel: numbers 1 to 36 (split evenly between red and black), plus 0 and 00 in green. The number layout differs from European wheels and is carefully balanced to alternate color and low/high numbers around the rim.

The five-number “top line” bet is unique to American tables—a wager covering 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3.

The game’s house edge is 5.26% on standard bets due to the two green zeros. The five-number bet carries an even higher edge of 7.89%, making it the least favorable option statistically.

Unlike European versions, dealers directly manage more of the table to accommodate faster play and clearer chip handling.

How to Play American Roulette – Step-by-Step for US First-Timers

Choose a Licensed Casino
Pick a site regulated by your state’s authority (e.g., NJ DGE, PA GCB). Scroll to the footer and confirm the license is listed.

Register + Complete KYC
Create your account with your name, DOB, last four SSN digits, and contact info. Upload a photo ID and proof of address to verify if requested.

Claim or Skip Bonus
Opt in if the bonus suits you—roulette usually contributes 10–20% toward wagering. Always read the terms first to ensure you can play roulette with the bonus funds.

Make Your First Deposit
Use an eligible method: debit card, PayPal, Trustly, Play+, Apple Pay.

Open the Game
Go to Table Games → choose American Roulette. Look for single or double zero in the game description.

Place Your Bets
Pick a chip size. Place bets inside (numbers) or outside (red/black, even/odd) before time runs out.

Wait for the Spin
Once “No More Bets” is called, the wheel spins. You can’t change bets after that point.

View Outcome + Game History
Winnings are auto-paid. Use the history tool to track results and manage your next bet.

Set Account Limits
Use the responsible gaming tools to set deposit, loss, and session time caps. Found under “My Account.”

Withdraw Winnings
Cash out to your original payment method. PayPal/Play+ usually clears in 24 hours; bank ACH takes 1–3 days.

Note any bonus terms and conditions if you claim a promotion to ensure you can meet the wagering requirements. No-deposit deals can offer a 1x playthrough, which is optimal for quick withdrawals.

Inside Bets vs Outside Bets – Odds, Payouts & Examples

American Roulette features various betting options, each with risk, reward, and probability profiles.

Example 1: Straight Up Bet on 17
If you place a $100 bet on number 17 and win, the payout is 35:1. You receive $3,500 in winnings plus your $100 stake back, totaling $3,600.

If you lose, you forfeit the entire $100. This high payout comes with a low probability (1 in 38).

Example 2: $20 Red Bet
A $20 even-money bet on red covers 18 pockets. If red hits, you receive a $20 profit plus your original stake. If green zero or black hits, you lose the full $20.

RTP & House Edge in the US Context

American Roulette has a lower return to player (RTP) than its European counterpart—94.74% vs. 97.30%. This difference is due to the extra double-zero pocket, which increases the house edge to 5.26%.

This difference significantly impacts long-term outcomes, especially with repeated play.

All licensed U.S. online casinos must have their roulette games tested by independent labs such as GLI (Gaming Laboratories International) or iTech Labs.

These bodies certify both RNG-based wheels (checking number fairness and entropy of seeding) and live-streamed games (ensuring the physical wheel is calibrated, spins are not biased, and camera angles allow fair viewing).

Gambling winnings are taxable in the United States. Players must report any profit as income, and operators may issue a W-2G form for large wins.

State-level tax rules may vary, so it’s wise to consult a tax professional or refer to IRS guidance if in doubt.

Popular American Roulette Variants in US Lobbies

Here are some of the most common American Roulette variants available at licensed US online casinos. Before choosing a regulated site, explore each type to see which best suits your playstyle.

Live American Roulette (Evolution, Playtech)

Live American Roulette streams in HD from licensed studios in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. Dealers spin real wheels with a double-zero layout. Minimum bets start at $1, max often $5,000. RTP is 94.74% with standard rules.

Auto American Roulette

This version runs without a dealer and spins every 20 seconds. It is ideal for fast-paced play and smaller bets, often from $0.10. Layout and RTP stay the same, but speed increases variance.

Double Ball American

Uses two balls on a traditional double-zero wheel. Twin winning numbers per spin, with boosted odds for hitting both. Often carries slightly reduced RTP due to novelty bets.

Jackpot / Progressive Wheels

Games like Age of the Gods Roulette add a side bet for a chance at a growing jackpot. RTP on base bets may dip slightly to fund the prize pool. Betting starts around $0.50.

American Roulette vs Other Variants

Let’s compare American Roulette with other variants, reviewing the game rules, house edge, and game speed. This information can help you decide which variation to try after exploring the American version.

American vs European Roulette

Wheel Layout:

American: 38 pockets (1–36, 0, 00)
European: 37 pockets (1–36, single 0)

House Edge:

American: 5.26% on most bets
European: 2.70% on all bets

Game Rules:

Both allow inside/outside bets.
European wheels often include the En Prison or La Partage rules on even-money bets—cutting losses in half when zero hits. American tables rarely offer this.

Speed & Style:

American tables are often faster-paced and styled to resemble Vegas floors.
European tables may include racetrack layouts and more refined dealer interaction.

American vs French Roulette

Wheel Layout:

Same as European: 37 numbers, no double zero

House Edge:

American: 5.26%
French: 1.35% on even-money bets (with La Partage)

Special Rules:

French includes La Partage and En Prison, reducing risk on red/black, odd/even, etc.
American has no such rules in standard tables

Visual Design:

French tables may use French terminology and curved racetrack boards
American tables follow a straightforward layout

American vs Double Ball Roulette

Ball Count:

American: Single ball
Double Ball: Two balls spun at once

Wheel Layout:

Both use 38-pocket American wheels
Double Ball has new betting options (e.g., both balls land on red)

Payout Potential:

Unique twin-ball bets offer payouts up to 1,200:1
Requires adjusted strategies

House Edge:

Varies by bet; often higher due to novelty bets

American vs Auto Roulette

Dealer Presence:

American: Always live dealer
Auto: No dealer—mechanical or digital spins

Game Speed:

Auto runs much faster (as quick as 20 seconds per spin)
American dealer games average 45–60 seconds per spin

Player Interaction:

Auto games are solo and automated
American live tables may offer chat and tipping

House Edge:

American: 5.26%
Auto: Matches underlying wheel (American or European)

American vs Jackpot Roulette

Standard vs Bonus Features:

American: Traditional layout
Jackpot: Adds a side bet for the progressive jackpot

House Edge:

American: 5.26%
Jackpot games: Varies; side bet may have a higher edge

Winning Potential:

Jackpot games offer large prizes but low odds
Core gameplay remains the same, otherwise

Summary Table

Variant	Pockets	House Edge	Unique Feature(s)	Speed	Bonus Options
American Roulette	38	5.26%	Double zero; top-line bet	Medium	Some offer cashback
European Roulette	37	2.70%	Lower edge: single 0 only	Medium-Slow	Often includes La Partage
French Roulette	37	1.35%*	La Partage / En Prison rules	Slow	Rare, but very favorable
Double Ball Roulette	38	Varies	Two balls, high multiplier side bets	Medium	Yes
Auto Roulette	37/38	2.70–5.26%	No dealer; 20s spin cycle	Very Fast	No
Jackpot Roulette	37/38	Varies	Progressive jackpot side bet	Medium	Yes

*1.35% edge applies only to even-money bets under La Partage or En Prison rules.

Strategies & Betting Systems – A Reality Check

Martingale

Theory: Double your bet after every loss to recover all previous losses with a single win.
Example: $1 → $2 → $4 → $8 → $16 → Win ($16 returns $32, total staked = $31, net +$1).
Risk: A few consecutive losses can quickly exceed table limits or drain your bankroll.

d’Alembert

Theory: Increase your stake by $1 after each loss, decrease by $1 after each win.
Example: $1 → $2 (loss) → $3 (win) → $2 → $1.
Risk: Slower progression and recovery; still vulnerable to extended losing streaks.

Fibonacci

Theory: Follow the Fibonacci sequence (1, 1, 2, 3, 5…) after losses, step back two numbers after a win.
Example: $1 → $1 → $2 → $3 → $5 → $8 (win) → back to $3.
Risk: Stakes rise more gradually than Martingale but can still climb quickly over time.

Labouchere

Theory: Bet the sum of the first and last numbers in a sequence, cross off on wins, and add losses to the end.
Example: Start with 1–2–3 → Bet $4 → Lose → New line: 1–2–3–4 → Bet $5 → Win → New line: 2–3.
Risk: Doesn’t double, but losses grow in the sequence; long streaks inflate bets fast.

Disclaimer: No roulette betting system can overcome roulette’s house edge. These are risk management tools—not guaranteed paths to profit. Always play responsibly.

Most Advantageous Bets – Risk vs Reward Analysis

Even money bets (red/black, odd/even) are the safest in American Roulette. They cover 18 of 38 pockets, reducing exposure to the 5.26% house edge.

The five-number bet (0, 00, 1, 2, 3) carries a 7.89% edge, worse odds than any other option. It’s best to avoid this bet.

Column and dozen bets cover 12 numbers and offer 2:1 payouts. They strike a balance between risk and reward.

To manage volatility, segment your bankroll into small units. Decide on a clear stop-loss before playing.

Strict sessions with disciplined betting protect you better than chasing losses or going all-in.

Best US-Licensed Sites for American Roulette

When choosing a legal US casino games site for American Roulette, focus on regulation and features, not brand names.

Always confirm the site holds a state license from the appropriate regulator, such as the NJ DGE, MI Gaming Control Board, or PA Gaming Control Board. This ensures fair play and secure banking.

Choose platforms with at least two American Roulette tables—RNG and live. Look for 24/7 streams from licensed studios and visible RTP data per game.

BetMGM, PokerStars Casino, Golden Nugget, and Caesars are the best providers of American roulette in the US.

Check for fast, traceable withdrawals via PayPal, Play+, or bank transfer. Responsible gaming tools like deposit limits and time-outs should be easy to access without needing support.

Mobile & Live-Dealer Tech

Playing American Roulette on mobile devices has become seamless thanks to modern technology. Here’s what to expect for the best experience:

HTML5-based portrait user interface for easy one-handed play
On-screen racetrack to quickly place bets
Pinch-to-zoom functionality for precise chip placement
Recommended bandwidth of at least 1.5 Mbps for smooth 720p live streams
Use Wi-Fi whenever possible to avoid high mobile data charges

Withdrawing Winnings – What US Players Need to Know

It is important to follow the correct process before withdrawing your winnings at a US-licensed online casino. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help ensure a smooth payout.

1. Complete KYC (Know Your Customer) Verification

Even if you’ve already verified your account, the casino may request a re-check before your first withdrawal. Be ready to upload a valid government-issued ID, proof of address, and payment method ownership.

2. Select Your Withdrawal Method

Head to the cashier or banking section and choose your preferred option. U.S. players commonly use:

PayPal – Same-day processing after approval

Visa/Mastercard debit – 1–2 business days

ACH/Online Bank Transfer – Typically 2–3 business days

Most U.S. banks accept gambling credits without added fees.

3. Enter Withdrawal Amount & Confirm

Double-check all details. Ensure your method matches the one used for your deposit to avoid delays.

4. Save Your Confirmation

Take a screenshot of the transaction and note the reference or transaction ID. This helps in case there’s a dispute or delay.

5. Monitor Your Email and Bank

Watch for payout confirmations and any follow-up KYC requests.

Contact support with your transaction ID for faster resolution if any issues arise. For more, visit your casino’s Responsible Gambling or Help page.

Glossary – American Roulette Terms

Croupier – The table dealer who operates the roulette wheel and manages bets; more commonly used in European contexts but still seen in live American Roulette games.

Five Number Bet – A unique American Roulette wager covering 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3. It pays 6:1 but carries a steep 7.89% house edge.

Green Double Zero (00) – A second zero pocket found only on American wheels, increasing the total to 38 pockets and raising the house edge.

Marker (Dolly) – A small marker the dealer uses to indicate the winning number on the layout before bets are cleared.

Racetrack – An optional oval-shaped betting area found in some live tables, more common on European layouts, but occasionally used for side bets in hybrid American games.

Surrender Rule – A player-friendly feature on some American tables allowing bettors to recover half their wager on even-money bets if the ball lands on 0 or 00.

Top Line Bet – Another name for the Five Number Bet; placed on the border between the 0, 00, and 1, 2, 3 squares.

For general roulette terms, see our Full Roulette Glossary.

Responsible Gaming

Responsible gaming is vital for a safe gambling experience. Manage your budget carefully, track your bankroll, and understand the odds before playing. Never deposit more than you can afford to lose.

Set strict limits on time and spending and stick to them to avoid chasing losses. Use self-imposed tools like deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion, which are available in most online casinos.

If gambling becomes stressful or stops being fun, seek help promptly.

Visit our Responsible Gaming page for detailed advice. U.S. players can contact the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) at ncpgambling.org or the helpline at 1-800-522-4700.Other resources include 1-800-GAMBLER and Gamblers Anonymous. These organizations provide confidential support and tools to help reduce harm and promote safe gambling habits.

Main Takeaways

American Roulette is a 38-pocket wheel game featuring 0 and 00, giving it a higher house edge (5.26%) than European or French versions. Despite this, it’s popular in the U.S. for its fast pace, classic style, and availability across online and land-based casinos regulated by authorities like the NJ DGE and PA GCB.

Players should understand core rules, house edge math, and how to place inside and outside bets. Responsible play is essential—manage your bankroll, use safer gambling tools, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.

American Roulette is widely accessible on mobile, via both RNG and live dealer formats, with quick withdrawal options and full RTP transparency at reputable sites.

Explore different versions like Auto and Double Ball, and use strategy systems (e.g., Martingale, Labouchere) cautiously—none can beat the odds.

Always choose licensed platforms and review odds, limits, and responsible gaming support before playing.

Quick Summary

38 pockets, including 0 and 00 = 5.26% house edge
Available live or RNG at licensed U.S. casinos
Inside/outside bets vary by risk and payout
Responsible gaming tools are essential
Mobile-friendly; fast withdrawals via PayPal/ACH
Strategies can’t beat probability—use with caution
Verify RTP, fair play seals, and withdrawal terms
U.S. winnings are taxable—keep transaction records
Help available via NCPG.org or 1-800-GAMBLER

FAQs

Why does American Roulette carry a higher house edge?
American Roulette has a higher house edge due to the extra 00 pocket, raising the edge to 5.26%.

Is the “Surrender” rule available at US live tables?
Some US live tables offer the “Surrender” rule, though it’s not universal.

What’s the minimum stake on scalable RNG American wheels?
Minimum stakes on scalable RNG American wheels usually start at $0.10 or $0.50.

Can I use PayPal or Apple Pay for deposits and withdrawals?
Most regulated US casinos support PayPal; Apple Pay is available at select operators.

Are there US sites that stream American tables from Atlantic City?
Yes, US-licensed platforms often stream American tables live from Atlantic City studios.

Does the five-number bet ever make sense strategically?
No, the five-number bet carries a 7.89% edge and is rarely justified strategically.

How do table limits affect Martingale in practice?
Table limits cap Martingale sequences, preventing full recovery after multiple losses.

Are tax obligations different if I win on an American wheel?
No. You must still pay taxes on gaming winnings based on federal and state laws.

Can I claim cashback on live-dealer roulette losses?
Check the site’s terms to see if they include a loyalty or loss-back promotion.

How do I verify that an American wheel is genuinely random online?

Check for a state gaming license and fairness certification from agencies like GLI or iTech Labs.