How to Play Mega Millions

Learning how to play Mega Millions is easy. For $5 per play, you pick five numbers plus one Mega Ball, with a built-in multiplier that can boost your non-jackpot prizes. This guide explains every step, from buying a ticket to checking your numbers.

Step 1: Buy a $5 Ticket

Mega Millions tickets cost $5 per play and are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia and the US Virgin Islands. You must be 18 or older to play in most jurisdictions. Buy your ticket from an authorised lottery retailer before the drawing cut-off time in your state.

Step 2: Pick Your Numbers

Choose five white ball numbers from 1 to 70 and one gold Mega Ball number from 1 to 24. Mark your choices on a play slip, or ask for a Quick Pick and let the lottery terminal choose random numbers for you.

Step 3: The Built-In Multiplier

Every Mega Millions play includes a built-in multiplier of 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X or 10X that boosts non-jackpot prizes. The old Megaplier add-on was retired in April 2025, so the multiplier now comes with every ticket at no extra cost.

Step 4: Watch the Drawing

Mega Millions drawings are held every Tuesday and Friday at 11:00 p.m. Eastern Time. You can also check the results afterwards on this site.

Step 5: Check Your Ticket

Match all five white balls plus the gold Mega Ball to win the jackpot, and there are nine prize tiers in total. Check the latest verified results on our Mega Millions Results page, and see the other big game on our Powerball Results page.

Where to Claim Your Prize

Smaller prizes can usually be claimed at any authorised lottery retailer. Larger prizes must be claimed at a lottery claim centre or by mail, depending on your state. Sign the back of your ticket immediately and keep it somewhere safe.

Frequently Asked Questions