Player protection
Applying for self-exclusion at the betting shop: how the OASIS block works
You can apply for self-exclusion at a betting shop, with a licensed online provider or directly with the Darmstadt Regional Council. The block goes into the nationwide OASIS system and applies in shops and online. It lasts at least 3 months and only ends when you apply to lift it.
Self-exclusion from betting shops and online sports betting runs through the nationwide OASIS system, managed by the Darmstadt Regional Council. The minimum duration is 3 months. After that, the player block stays in place until you actively have it lifted.
Step by step
- Submit the applicationSpeak to a licensed provider or the Darmstadt Regional Council directly and submit the block application in writing.
- Get entered into OASISYour details are added to the central player blocking system.
- Providers are notifiedEvery licensed provider in Germany has access to the OASIS system and checks people on entry.
- Access block takes effectEvery participating provider then refuses you entry and the chance to take part.
What is OASIS and how does the player block work?
OASIS is the nationwide central player blocking system in Germany, managed by the Darmstadt Regional Council on behalf of the federal states. Once your OASIS entry is in place, every provider with a German gambling licence is legally required to refuse you both entry to a physical betting shop and access to licensed online betting.
OASIS links physical betting shops and online sports betting under one shared blocking system. So a self-exclusion you apply for in a betting shop also applies to licensed online providers, and the other way round.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Operator | Darmstadt Regional Council |
| Scope | All licensed providers, in shops and online |
| Minimum duration of self-exclusion | 3 months |
| Lifting | Only on active application, with no automatic end |
| Third-party block | Possible, reasons required |
Our guide How a betting shop works explains the basics of betting in shops.
How do I apply for self-exclusion at the betting shop or online?
There are two ways to block yourself: through a licensed provider or directly with the Darmstadt Regional Council.
- Through a licensed provider: Speak to the cashier or customer service at a betting shop or a licensed online provider. They take your application and pass it on to OASIS.
- Directly with the Darmstadt Regional Council: You can also submit the block application straight to the responsible authority. You'll find the current contact details and forms on the official Regional Council website.
Submit the application in writing and keep the confirmation. Processing can take a while. If in doubt, ask the provider or the authority when the entry takes effect.
If you also want to set your own deposit limits, our guide to loss and deposit limits covers everything you need.
What is a third-party block and who can apply for it?
With a third-party block, someone else, such as a relative or a close friend, applies for the OASIS player block on another person's behalf. The procedure differs from self-exclusion in one important way: a third-party block needs a clear, reasoned justification.
A third-party block can help when the person affected is unable to ask for protection themselves, for example because their addictive behaviour is already severe. As a rule, the person is given the chance to comment before a third-party block, so they are heard before the entry is made (Section 8 of the GlüStV). You can find out the exact requirements and documents directly from the Darmstadt Regional Council or the provider in question.
If you notice signs of problem gambling in yourself or others, our guide Recognising gambling addiction in sports betting has detailed information.
How long does a self-exclusion last?
A self-exclusion lasts at least 3 months. After that it stays active indefinitely until you apply to lift it. Once the minimum period is up, the block does not lapse on its own. That way a spur-of-the-moment decision can't undo the protection after a short time.
As long as your OASIS entry is active, you can't bet with any licensed provider in Germany.
What happens if I want to bet despite the block?
Licensed providers in Germany are required by law to check the OASIS entry when you try to access their services and to turn blocked people away. This covers entry to a high-street betting shop as well as opening new accounts with licensed online providers.
The block works exactly when self-control is hardest for you. You can also choose to set loss and deposit limits for an extra layer of protection.
Can I have the player block lifted?
Yes. Once the minimum 3 months are up, you can apply to lift a self-exclusion. It does not happen automatically. You have to actively apply with the provider or the Darmstadt Regional Council. The exact steps and any waiting periods can change, so if in doubt, ask directly at the place where you applied for the block.
For more ways to protect yourself and where to turn, see our guide Player protection and help.
Free counselling for gambling problems
If you feel you can no longer control your gambling, call the BZgA's free, anonymous telephone counselling: 0800 1372700 (free, anonymous, available every day). Gambling can be addictive. Minimum age 18.
More from the Knowledge section
Frequently asked questions
Does the OASIS self-exclusion also apply to online sports betting?
Yes. OASIS applies to every licensed provider in Germany, both high-street betting shops and licensed online providers. Blocked people cannot get access on site, nor keep or use online accounts with licensed operators.
What is the difference between self-exclusion and a third-party block?
With self-exclusion, you apply yourself. With a third-party block, someone else, for example a relative, applies for the player block on your behalf. A third-party block needs a justification.
How long does it take until the self-exclusion is active?
The exact processing time depends on the provider and on the Darmstadt Regional Council's process. If in doubt, ask the provider or the authority directly when the entry takes effect.
Where do I get help with gambling problems?
The BZgA offers free, anonymous telephone counselling on gambling addiction: 0800 1372700. Local addiction counselling centres can help too. For more, see Player protection and help.
Can I have myself blocked before I have a problem?
Yes. You don't have to prove an acute addiction problem to apply for a self-exclusion. The block is a voluntary safeguard you can use at any time to set yourself a limit.
