Legal Sports Betting: Online Sportsbook Promo Codes

Last Updated on May 8, 2023

Promo Code Kings

✅Provided byPromo Code Kings
🚨Top Sportsbook Promo Codes🚨DraftKings: $1,050 Free Sportsbook Bonus
🚨Caesars: Up to $1,250 on Caesars (💰KINGSFULL)
🚨FanDuel: $1,000 No-Sweat First Bet
🚨Barstool: $1,000 Risk-Free Bet (💰KINGS1000)
🚨BetMGM: $1,000 Risk-Free Bet (💰PCKMGM22)
🚨PointsBet: 5 Second-Chance Bets worth $50 Each
🚨FOX Bet: $50 Risk-Free Bet
🚨BetRivers: $250 Free Deposit Match (💰250MATCH)
📲Top Online Sportsbooks ReviewedDraftKings, Caesars, FanDuel, Barstool, BetMGM, PointsBet, FOX Bet, BetRivers
🎰Top Online Casino Promos OfferedDraftKings Casino, Caesars Casino, FanDuel Casino, Stars Casino, BetWay Casino
✍️Content Created byJason Ziernicki and Robby Sabo

Top Sportsbook Promo Codes

Promo Code Rankings

That’s right, folks: It’s here. You’re neither dreaming nor feeling faint. Your two feet are still firmly planted on this Earth, yet your sports-viewing experience is about to drastically improve. 

Promo Code Kings is your home for the top sports betting promo codes in the world—something made possible for the living reality that is legal online sports betting in the United States.

The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn PASPA in 2018 (via New Jersey) has led us to this moment when a plethora of states are currently offering online sports gambling to interested wagerers. 

Below is a quick at-a-glance view is the top promo codes offered, ranked from first to eighth. Whether it’s a powerhouse sportsbook such as DraftKings, Caesars  or FanDuel, or another provider such as BetMGM or Barstool, each sports betting app has something uniquely intriguing to offer.

RankLogoSportsbookPromoPromo Code
1DraftKings Sportsbook📲DraftKings Sportsbook🚨$1,050 Signup Bonus💰Not Required
2Caesars Sportsbook📲Caesars Sportsbook🚨Up to $1,250 on Caesars💰KINGSFULL
3FanDuel Sportsbook📲FanDuel Sportsbook🚨$1,000 No-Sweat First Bet💰Not Required
4Barstool Sportsbook📲Barstool Sportsbook🚨$1,000 Risk-Free Bet💰KINGS1000
5BetMGM Sportsbook📲BetMGM Sportsbook🚨$1,000 Risk-Free Bet💰PCKMGM22
6PointsBet Sportsbook📲PointsBet Sportsbook🚨5 Second-Chance Bets worth $50 Each💰Not Required
7FOX Bet📲FOX Bet Sportsbook🚨$500 Risk-Free Bet💰Not Required
8BetRivers Sportsbook📲BetRivers Sportsbook🚨$250 Deposit Match💰250MATCH

Even if one or more of the above promos whet your whistle, there’s no reason to stop there. Promo Code Kings offers promo codes from additional sportsbooks not ranked in the top eight. 

Check out the rest of this home page for your latest sports betting and promo code news, history and recent online sports gambling promotions that get the money-winning party started.

Promo Code Navigation

DraftKings SportsbookDraftKings Promo Code Details
🚨Top Promo🚨Free $1,050 Signup Bonus
⚾️ MLB 2022 Promo⚾️ Bet $5 & Win $200
💰Promo CodesAutomatic with Promo Link
⏰ Promos Last Verified onMay 29, 2023
💲Minimum Deposit$5
✅ Minimum Betting Age21
🎲 Betting Requirement25x
➡️ App PlatformsiOS (Apple App Store), Android (Google Play), Web Browser
📲 Listed AsDraftKings Sportsbook & Casino
❗️SellerDraftKings
🇺🇸 States AvailableAZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, LA, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OR, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY
🎰 Retail PartnersResorts Casino in Atlantic City, NJ
Del Lago Resort & Casino in Waterloo, NY
Casino Queen in East St. Louis, IL
Bay Mills Resorts & Casinos in Brimley, MI
Foxwoods in Ledyard, CT
Scarlet Pearl Resort in D’Iberville, MS
💯 PCK Promo Ranking2 of 8 Promo Codes
⭐️PCK Sportsbook Review4.5 of 5 Stars

DraftKings Sportsbook’s best bonus offer results in a free $1,050 sportsbook bonus during April 2022. It breaks down in a risk-free bet of up to $50 and a deposit bonus of up to $1,000.

Simply register at DraftKings Sportsbook via their website or iPhone mobile app. Make a deposit and place your first bet.

In order to get the maximum benefit of the new player bonus, make sure your first deposit is for $1000. DraftKings sportsbook will match the value of your first deposit—dollar for dollar (100%)—up to $1,050.

🥇 DraftKings Sportsbook Promo Code All StatesUse our Exclusive Link: FREE $1,000 Deposit Bonus + $50 Risk-Free Bet!
🏀 DraftKings March Madness PromoBet $5, Win $200
RECENT STATE LAUNCHES
💵 DraftKings Best Illinois PromoIllinois FREE $1,050 Bonus!
💵 DraftKings Best New York PromoNew York FREE $1,050 Bonus!
💵 Louisiana DraftKings BonusLouisiana FREE $1,050 Bonus!
DRAFTKINGS CASINO
🎰 DraftKings Casino Promo CodeUse our Exclusive Link: FREE $2,050 Casino Bonus!
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
States with the DraftKings Sportsbook AppNew York, Louisiana, Connecticut, Arizona, Michigan, Virginia, Illinois, Tennessee, Colorado, Iowa, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Indiana, New Hampshire, Wyoming, .
States with DraftKings Online CasinoNew Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Connecticut
Does the Promo Expire?Yes. The $1,050 sign-up bonus promo ends 3/31/22. Eligibility restrictions apply.
States with Physical DraftKings SportsbooksIllinois, New Jersey, Mississippi, New York, Indiana, Michigan, Connecticut
States with legal Sports BettingNV, NJ, PA, DE, RI, WV, MS, NM, NY, AR, OR, MT, IA, IN, TN, IL, NH, NC, CO, MI, VA, WA, AZ, MD, CT, LA.

This does not represent all of the states that DraftKings is regulated for sports betting or online casino.
Promo Last Verified OnMay 29, 2023

Caesars SportsbookCaesars Promo Code Details
🚨Top Promo🚨Up to $1,250 on Caesars
💰Promo Code💰KINGSFULL
⏰Promo Last Verified onMay 29, 2023
💲Minimum Deposit$10
✅Minimum Betting Age21
🎲Betting RequirementNone
➡️App PlatformsiOS (Apple App Store), Android (Google Play), Web Browser
📲Listed AsCaesars Sportsbook & Casino
❗️SellerComputerized Bookmaking Systems, Inc.
🇺🇸States where promo and online app is availableArizona, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia
🎰States with Retail LocationsIllinois, Indiana, Iowa, Mississippi, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, West Virginia
💯PCK Promo Ranking1 of 8 Promo Codes
⭐️PCK Sportsbook Review4.8 of 5 Stars

Caesars Sportsbook Promo Code “KINGSRF” provides new players at the Caesars online sportsbook or mobile betting app with up to $1,250 on Caesars. 

Simply sign up at Caesars and use our promo code (KINGSRF). This free-bet bonus is only good on your first action at Caesars.

The Caesars mobile sports betting app is currently approved in a plethora of states, including Louisiana, New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Indiana, Colorado, Tennessee, Pennsylvania and Michigan. The William Hill Sportsbook brand has been replaced by Caesars in all legal sports betting states within the U.S.

FanDuel SportsbookFanDuel Promo Code Details
🚨Top Promo🚨$1,000 No-Sweat First Bet
💰Promo CodesAutomatic with Promo Link
⏰ Promos Last Verified onMay 29, 2023
💲Minimum Deposit$10
✅ Minimum Betting Age21
🎲 Betting RequirementNone
➡️ App PlatformsiOS (Apple App Store), Android (Google Play), Web Browser
📲 Listed AsFanDuel Sportsbook & Casino
❗️SellerFanDuel Inc.
🇺🇸 States AvailableNY, NJ, PA, CT, AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, MI, TN, VA, WV
💯 PCK Promo Ranking3 of 8 Promo Codes
⭐️PCK Sportsbook ReviewTBD

FanDuel Sportsbook’s top promotion is dishing out a tasty $1,000 No-Sweat First Bet.

The company that made its bones as the leader in daily fantasy sports is currently taking a very aggressive approach when it comes to gaining market share in the LA, NY, AZ, CT, MI, VA, NJ, PA, TN, WV, CO, IA, IA and IN online Sports Betting industry.

A great new player bonus is available with your FanDuel Sportsbook Promo Code, which easily ranks as one of the best legal online sportsbook promo bonus options.

How can you get the best FanDuel Sportsbook bonus? Just create a new account on FanDuel Sportsbook or FanDuel sports betting app. Make a deposit of $1,000. Place your first bet. If you lose, FanDuel will give you a refund your wager up to $1,000 in site credit.

🎰 FANDUEL CASINO BONUS$1,000 CASINO BONUS
FANDUEL NEW YORK FREE BET$1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (NY)
FANDUEL LOUISIANA SPORTSBOOK$1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (LA)
FANDUEL ILLINOIS SPORTSBOOK$1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (IL)
FANDUEL CONNECTICUT SPORTSBOOK$1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (CT)
FANDUEL ARIZONA SPORTSBOOK$1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (AZ)
FANDUEL MICHIGAN SPORTSBOOK$1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (MI)


FANDUEL VIRGINIA SPORTSBOOK$1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (VA)
FANDUEL TENNESSEE SPORTSBOOK$1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (TN)
FANDUEL NEW JERSEY SPORTSBOOK$1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (NJ)
FANDUEL COLORADO SPORTSBOOK $1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (CO)
FANDUEL PENNSYLVANIA SPORTSBOOK$1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (PA)
FANDUEL INDIANA SPORTSBOOK $1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (IN)
FANDUEL SPORTSBOOK WEST VIRGINIA$1,000 NO-SWEAT FIRST BET (WV)
How To Use The Promo1. Create an account on FanDuel Sportsbook

2. Make a deposit

3. Place your first bet at FanDuel Sportsbook. If your bet does not win, you will receive a refund on the value of your first bet up to $1,000.

4. Refunds made with 72 hours.
States with FanDuel Betting AppNew York, Louisiana, Connecticut, Arizona, Virginia, Michigan, Tennessee, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Indiana, Colorado, Illinois
States with FanDuel Casino AppMichigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
States with Physical FanDuel SportsbooksNew Jersey, West Virginia, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Arizona, Michigan

For potential Ohio online sports bettors, FanDuel Sportsbook is now allowing preregistration ($100 in free bets, effective Oct. 1, 2023). 

Barstool SportsbookBarstool Sportsbook Promo Code Details
🚨Top Promo🚨$1,000 Free Bet
💰Promo Codes💰KINGS1000
⏰ Promos Last Verified onMay 29, 2023
💲Minimum Deposit$5
✅ Minimum Betting Age21
🎲 Betting Requirement1x
➡️ App PlatformsiOS (Apple App Store), Android (Google Play), Web Browser
📲 Listed AsBarstool Sportsbook & Casino
❗️SellerPenn Sports Interactive, LLC
🇺🇸 States AvailableAZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, LA, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA, WV
💯 PCK Promo Ranking4 of 8 Promo Codes
⭐️PCK Sportsbook Review4.6

BetMGM SportsbookBetMGM Promo Code Details
🚨Top Promo🚨$1,000 Risk-Free Bet
💰Promo Codes💰PCKMGM22
⏰ Promos Last Verified onMay 29, 2023
💲Minimum Deposit$10
✅ Minimum Betting Age21
🎲 Betting Requirement1x
➡️ App PlatformsiOS (Apple App Store), Android (Google Play), Web Browser
📲 Listed AsBetMGM Sportsbook
❗️SellerROAR Digital, LLC
🇺🇸 States AvailableNY, NJ, PA, AZ, CO, DC, IN, IA, IL, LA, MI, NV, TN, VA, WV, WY
💯 PCK Promo Ranking5 of 8 Promo Codes
⭐️PCK Sportsbook ReviewTBD

PointsBet SportsbookPointsBet Promo Code Details
🚨Top Promo🚨5 Second-Chance Bets worth $50 Each
⏰ Promos Last Verified onMay 29, 2023
💲Minimum Deposit$5
✅ Minimum Betting Age21
🎲 Betting RequirementNone
➡️ App PlatformsiOS (Apple App Store), Android (Google Play), Web Browser
📲 Listed AsPointsBet: Sports Betting
❗️SellerPointsBet USA Inc
🇺🇸 States AvailableCO, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, WV
💯 PCK Promo Ranking6 of 8 Promo Codes
⭐️PCK Sportsbook ReviewTBD

FOX BetFOX Bet Promo Code Details
🚨Top Promo🚨$50 Risk-Free Bet
💰Promo CodesAutomatic with Promo Link
⏰ Promos Last Verified onMay 29, 2023
💲Minimum Deposit$10
✅ Minimum Betting Age21
🎲 Betting RequirementNone
➡️ App PlatformsiOS (Apple App Store), Android (Google Play), Web Browser
📲 Listed AsFOX Bet Sportsbook & Casino
❗️SellerStars Mobile Limited
🇺🇸 States AvailableCO, NJ, PA, MI
💯 PCK Promo Ranking7 of 8 Promo Codes
⭐️PCK Sportsbook ReviewTBD

The Fox Bet Promo Code is currently approved in the following states for 2022:

  • Pennsylvania
  • New Jersey
  • Colorado
  • Michigan

The NJ sports betting app is a re-brand of the BetStars app that received high praise from NJ online sportsbooks when it originally launched in late 2018.

Expect the FoxBet sportsbook app to be user-friendly and easily accessible for download on your smartphone device. The app is available for iOS and Android mobile devices. Unlike some of their competition, the FoxBet geo-location verification process is easy.

Go to the FOX Bet website via your iPhone or Android device and follow the easy instructions. Once the sportsbook app has been downloaded, players will be able to sign up from the same mobile device.

BetRivers SportsbookBetRivers Promo Code Details
🚨Top Promo🚨$250 Deposit Match
💰Promo Codes💰250MATCH
⏰ Promos Last Verified onMay 29, 2023
💲Minimum Deposit$10
✅ Minimum Betting Age21
🎲 Betting Requirement1x
➡️ App PlatformsiOS (Apple App Store), Android (Google Play), Web Browser
📲 Listed AsBetRivers Sportsbook (State Specific)
❗️SellerRush Street Interactive LLC
🇺🇸 States AvailableNY, NJ, PA, CT, AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, MI, VA
💯 PCK Promo Ranking8 of 8 Promo Codes
⭐️PCK Sportsbook ReviewTBD

Rivers Sportsbook in Pittsburgh opened on Dec. 13, 2018. BetRivers, which is the rumored online sportsbook or mobile betting app, has since emerged as one of the online sports betting leaders in the United States.

Rush Street Interactive and Kambi provide the technology for the physical location (Rivers Sportsbook) and the new online BetRivers Sportsbook.

Rush Street is the parent company of Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh and Sugarhouse Sportsbook Promo Code in Philadelphia.

Rivers Sportsbook Promo Code “BET250” provides new players with FREE $250 deposit bonus when they signup at Rivers Sportsbook online. The same promo code and bonus is available on the betting app as well.

STATES WITH BETRIVERS APP

BEST BONUS CODE

BETRIVERS NEW YORKNEW YORK PLAYERS FREE $250 DEPOSIT BONUS
BETRIVERS LOUISIANALOUISIANA PLAYERS FREE $250 DEPOSIT BONUS
BETRIVERS MICHIGANMICHIGAN PLAYERS FREE $250 DEPOSIT BONUS
BETRIVERS VIRGINIAVIRGINIA PLAYERS FREE $250 DEPOSIT BONUS
BETRIVERS ILLINOISILLINOIS PLAYERS FREE $250 DEPOSIT BONUS
BETRIVERS COLORADOCOLORADO PLAYERS FREE $250 DEPOSIT BONUS
BETRIVERS INDIANAINDIANA PLAYERS FREE $250 DEPOSIT BONUS
BETRIVERS PENNSYLVANIAPENNSYLVANIA PLAYERS FREE $250 BONUS
BET RIVERS ONLINE SPORTSBOOK– June 25, 2019 in Pennsylvania
– October 3, 2019 in Indiana
– May 1, 2020 in Colorado
– June 18, 2020 Illinois
– January 22, 2021 Michigan
– January 29, 2021 Virginia
– September 9, 2021 Arizona
ONLINE & MOBILE TECH PARTNERSRush Street Interactive and Kambi
States with the BetRivers Sportsbook AppPennsylvania, Indiana, Colorado, Illinois, Michigan, Virginia
Free Bonus Last VerifiedMay 28, 2023

Other Promo Codes

Bet365 Bonus Code “BETXL” Locks $500 Bonus

Bet365 may not be a household name in the United States, but sports betting fans in New Jersey will quickly learn why Bet365 has been so successful in the UK and Europe. The Bet365 online sportsbook and mobile betting apps for iOS and Android devices are available today in New Jersey.

It is expected that Bet365 will expand to more states by the end of 2022 as the regulatory environment for sports betting improves. States like Colorado, Tennessee, Virginia and Michigan are paving the way for more online/mobile sports betting approvals in the U.S.

Using our Bet365 Bonus Code will lock in your free $500 bonus.

Bet365 Bonus CodeBETXL
Promo Details1. Create an account on Bet365 in NJ
2. Use Promo Code BETXL
3. Make Your Deposit of $500
4. Make a wager of $500
5. If your bet does not win, you will receive $500 in bet credits
6. *The bonus code “BETXL can be used during registration, but does not change the offer amount in any way.
Promo Terms– Claim the offer after making a qualifying deposit.
– Place qualifying bets to the value of your qualifying deposit (capped at $100) and allow these bets to settle.
– Your Bet Credits will be available shortly after your qualifying bets have settled.
– You can then place bets with Bet Credits, just select ‘Use Bet Credits’ in the bet slip.

If you don’t claim the offer at the time of your first deposit, you can do so at any time within 30 days of registering your account.

Simply go to the Services menu, choose My Offers then click Claim Now for the relevant offer.

If you make multiple deposits before claiming, your largest qualifying deposit will count towards the value of your Bet Credits (capped at $500).
States with Bet365 Online SportsbookNew Jersey
States with legal Sports BettingNV, NJ, PA, DE, RI, WV, MS, NM, NY, AR, OR, MT, IA, IN, TN, IL, NH, NC, CO, MI
Bonus Last Verified On: May 28, 2023

PA Online Sports Betting Expands With Unibet

PA Sports betting began in November 2018, but online or mobile betting lagged a bit until the Summer of 2019. SugarHouse Sportsbook was the first legal PA online sportsbook out of the gate, followed by BetRivers Promo Code.

The big news out of PA is that the Unibet online sportsbook and casino is now live in Pennsylvania. The online and mobile apps for Unibet Sportsbook provide new sports bettors in PA a risk-free $250 bet promo on their first deposit.

Unibet Promo Code: Online Sportsbook & Casino 

Similar to William Hill Sportsbook U.S., Unibet built its brand overseas with a successful track record in UK and European states. With their initial launch in NJ and Pennsylvania, Unibet currently offers an online sportsbook and casino, along with mobile iPhone apps in 2 states. New players can use our Unibet Promo Code to access a free $20 bet in the Unibet sportsbook and a risk-free bet up to $250. Both offers are active for players in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

UNIBET ARIZONA Promo Code “PCKXL”LOCK IN YOUR FREE BETS UP TO $500
UNIBET VIRGINIA Promo Code “PCKXL”LOCK IN YOUR FREE BETS UP TO $500
UNIBET INDIANA Promo Code “PCKXL”LOCK IN YOUR FREE BETS UP TO $500!
UNIBET PA Promo Code “PCKXL”LOCK IN YOUR FREE BETS UP TO $500!
UNIBET NJ Promo Code “PCKXL”LOCK IN YOUR FREE BETS UP TO $500!
UNIBET Casino Approved StatesNJ, PA
Free Bonus Last Verified On:May 28, 2023

SugarHouse Promo Code PA & NJ Sportsbooks

Sports bettors and online casino players in New Jersey and Pennsylvania can now bet at the SugarHouse Sportsbook and PlaySugarHouse.com app.

The SugarHouse Casino is very popular in Philadelphia. With their expansion into NJ via their online sportsbook and betting app, the SugarHouse brand is about to be a household name.

SugarHouse Promo Code BET250 provides a FREE $250 Bet for new players! Big NJ casino brands like the Borgata Bonus Code now have some serious competition in the Garden state.

PROMO CODELOCK IN YOUR FREE $250 PROMO
How To Use Your SugarHouse Promo1. Create an account on PA.PlaySugarHouse.com or the PlaySugarHouse Android App
2. Make a $250 deposit
3. SugarHouse will match your FIRST DEPOSIT amount up to $250.
Does My Play SugarHouse Bonus Expire?Yes, your free bet ticket must be used within 30 days.
States with the Play SugarHouse Betting App New Jersey, Pennsylvania
States with Physical SugarHouse SportsbooksPennsylvania
States with Legal Sports BettingNV, NJ, PA, DE, RI, WV, MS, NM, NY, AR, OR, MT, IA, IN, TN, IL, NH, NC
Free Bonus Last Verified OnMay 28, 2023

Sports Betting & Promo Code Reviews

Not only does Promo Code Kings offer the very best sports betting promotions,  but it also reviews the sportsbooks and sports betting apps that deliver these mouthwatering offers.

Promo Code Kings

Name: Sportsbook Promo Codes

Description: Promo Code Kings’ review of the top eight sportsbook promo codes currently offered (by Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, Barstool, BetMGM, PointsBet, FOX Bet, BetRivers).

Offer price: 0.0

Currency: USD

Operating System: iOS, Android

Application Category: Sports

Author: Robby Sabo

Our summary of the current sports betting promo code market

As it currently stands, the new online sports bettor has a wealth of opportunities at his or her disposal. From Caesars Sportsbook’s Up to $1,250 on Caesars bonus to DraftKings’ excellent $1,050 sign-up bonus, there’s a sports gambling promotion for everybody at every turn in this new legal online sports betting world of ours.

Sending
User Review
5 (1 vote)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

Pros

Excellent variety of promo codes

Amazing sports betting apps

Cons

Many promos are limited to new-user opportunity

Sports Betting & Promo Code News

JANUARY 2022: NY Sports Betting Apps Go Live

Almost four years after the launch of sports betting in New Jersey, New York sports betting apps are live as of Jan. 8, 2022.

The four sportsbooks to launch on the first available day were Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel and BetRivers. Shortly thereafter, BetRivers and PointsBet joined the party. 

The 6 sportsbook apps leading the NY betting launch:

  1. Caesars NY Sportsbook
  2. DraftKings Sportsbook NY
  3. FanDuel NY Sportsbook
  4. BetMGM NY
  5. PointsBet NY
  6. BetRivers NY

JANUARY 2022: Louisiana Online Sports Betting Launches

Shortly after New York had its fun, Louisiana followed up the Empire State in grand style. 

Louisiana online sports betting officially launched on Jan. 28, 2022, with powerhouse sportsbooks leading the way. The likes of Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM and Barstool are allowing sports bettors in the rich SEC state loads of fun—especially during the college football season.

Legal Sports Betting History & Timeline

The road to legal sports betting in the United States was a long and arduous one. It began a decade ago when New Jersey voters decided enough was enough, eventually leading to what we have today.

Twenty-eighteen marks the crucial year when legal sports betting finally saw the light at the end of the tunnel. Once the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that PASPA was unconstitutional, the doors opened up for states to individually legalize sports betting.

DATEEVENT
🗓June 14, 2018Sports betting commences at casinos and racetracks in New Jersey.
🗓June 11, 2018New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signs the sports-betting bill that was passed by the state legislature.
🗓June 7, 2018New Jersey’s sports-betting bill passes unanimously by the state legislature.
🗓May 14, 2018✅PASPA is ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court of the United States.
🗓2017-2018Several states (including Pennsylvania and West Virginia) pass a bill that legalizes and regulates sports betting (if and when it it no longer prohibited by federal law).
🗓June 2017The Supreme Court agrees to hear New Jersey’s appeal of “Murphy.”
🗓October 2016The state of New Jersey appeals “Murphy” to the Supreme Court.
🗓2013-2016New Jersey loses “Murphy” at every level of court prior to it reaching the Supreme Court.
🗓August 2012The NCAA and professional sports leagues sue New Jersey over the legislature that aims to legalize sports betting (in the idea of it violating PASPA, the federal law that requires states to ensure sports-betting prohibitions).

The case is titled, “Murphy vs. National Collegiate Athletic Assiociation.”
🗓2012New Jersey legislature passes a bill that legalizes sports betting at casinos and racetracks.
🗓2011New Jersey voters approve an amendment to the state constitution allowing the legislature the opportunity to legalize sports betting.

Legal Online Sportsbooks & Sports Betting Apps in the USA

We will examine essentially every facet of sports betting in the United States, starting with the history of sports betting and concluding with the future of legalized sports betting in the U.S.

Sports Betting Regulation History

To look at the origins of sports betting, we need to look at the origins of gambling in general. For the sake of brevity, we can start back during the Great Depression where the state of Nevada legalized gambling in hopes of helping out their state financially.

Following the conclusion of World War II, gambling started to become prohibited all over the country, except for Nevada, which made it a unique state. In 1961, the Interstate Wire Act was enacted which was meant to eliminate the use of wire communications to “assist in the placing of bets or wagers on any sporting event of contest.” Fast-forward to 1979 and the Seminole Indian tribe got into the casino business, opening a facility that same year. The legislation really took a turn to the negative when PASPA was passed in 1992.

PASPA Overturned

More recently, everyone might be familiar with PASPA, which is the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act. This was the 1992 law that was overturned to open to the doors to the legalized sports betting regulations we have today. However, back then the purpose was to stop sports betting, with Oregon, Nevada, Oregon and Delaware being grandfathered in. In 2014, the state of New Jersey voted against its anti-gambling laws.

In the Spring of 2018, on May 14 to be exact, the Supreme Court ruled PASPA to be unconstitutional, allowing states to open the door to regulated sports wagering.

Evolution of Sports Betting

When it comes to gambling, money plays a huge role, as well as public perception. Seemingly, the view of sports gambling has changed over the years as the public opinion has shifted. However, people do in fact enjoy gambling in hopes of that unicorn-like experience of winning. Excess income can lead to gambling for fun, and the lack of money can provide those in that situation with hope they’ll be taken care of with a win.

Sports leagues have made their opinions known about sports gambling throughout the years. Perhaps the most notorious case for sports gambling issues came way back in 1919, which is now referred to as the Black Sox scandal. This made integrity a top priority. Issues have arisen over the years in College sports as well with Boston College players involved in a points shaving scandal in the 1980’s. The Northwestern football program also experienced a “game fixing” scandal in the mid 1990’s.

Overall, it seems like the states and people in general are willing to accept the good with the bad when it comes to sports betting. Why is that? First and foremost, increased tax revenue. No-brainer. The American Gaming Association estimates an additional $26 billion being generated with legalized gambling. Estimates also include $5 billion to the general economy of states, 152,000 jobs and $7 billion in wages.

Betting Support from Professional Sports?

When PASPA was first being enacted, leagues supported it, but now in 2018, with public opinion being in favor of it, leagues have become more flexible, exploring ways to implement it to satisfy all parties involved. Specifically, the NBA and commissioner Adam Silver have been advocates for it. For Silver, it’s about fan engagement, while wanting to enact effective regulations to protect the integrity of the game.

The NFL has been all about the integrity since day one, but with PASPA being overturned, they wasted no time in stating their intent to lobby Congress for a slice of the pie. With insane popularity of betting on the current Super Bowl odds, it is no wonder why the NFL is now looking to cash in. For the MLB, they’ve had an actual scandal unfold, albeit years and years ago. In 2017, commissioner Rob Manfred spoke about it saying he is seeking “to meaningfully engage and shape” the new regulatory scheme.

No surprise, the NCAA has been a staunch opponent of legalized gambling. They’ve even gone as far as to not run ads for DraftKings and FanDuel during their championship games. There is a shed of hope, though. Recently, NCAA President Mark Emmert said he was having “active discussions about the issue.”

The sports gaming industry wants to partner with pro leagues, they simply can not agree to the 1% integrity fee that the NFL continues to ask for via state approvals or even a federal bill. The pro leagues are sure to gain additional revenue through increased TV ratings, streaming metrics and general interest.

U.S. States with Legal Sports Betting

At this point, it may be easier to list the states that have not yet launched legal online sports betting. 

Since the historic overturn of PASPA in 2018, states have individually joined the online sports gambling party through unique legislation. 

StateOnlineRetailLaunch Date (Retail and/or Online)
Arizona🇺🇸Arizona✅Yes✅Yes🗓Sept. 9, 2021
Arkansas🇺🇸Arkansas❌No✅Yes🗓July 1, 2019
Colorado🇺🇸Colorado✅Yes✅Yes🗓May 1, 2020
Connecticut🇺🇸Connecticut✅Yes✅Yes🗓Oct. 19, 2021
Dealware🇺🇸Delaware❌No✅Yes🗓June 5, 2018
Illinois🇺🇸Illinois✅Yes✅Yes🗓March 9, 2020
Indiana🇺🇸Indiana✅Yes✅Yes🗓Aug. 30, 2019
Iowa🇺🇸Iowa✅Yes✅Yes🗓Aug. 15, 2019
Louisiana🇺🇸Louisiana✅Yes✅Yes🗓Jan. 28, 2022
Michigan🇺🇸Michigan✅Yes✅Yes🗓March 11, 2020
Mississippi🇺🇸Mississippi❌No✅Yes🗓Aug. 1, 2018
Montana🇺🇸Montana🎰On-Site Only✅Yes🗓March 9, 2020
Nevada🇺🇸Nevada✅Yes✅Yes🗓1931
New Hampshire🇺🇸New Hampshire✅Yes✅Yes🗓Dec. 30, 2019
New Jersey🇺🇸New Jersey✅Yes✅Yes🗓May 15, 2018
New Mexico🇺🇸New Mexico❌No✅Yes🗓Oct. 16, 2018
New York🇺🇸New York✅Yes✅Yes🗓June 16, 2019
North Carolina🇺🇸North Carolina❌No✅Yes🗓March 18, 2021
Oregon🇺🇸Oregon❌No✅Yes🗓Aug. 27, 2019
Pennsylvania🇺🇸Pennsylvania✅Yes✅Yes🗓Nov. 15, 2018
Rhode Island🇺🇸Rhode Island❌No✅Yes🗓Nov. 26, 2018
South Dakota🇺🇸South Dakota❌No✅Yes🗓Sept. 9, 2021
Tennessee🇺🇸Tennessee✅Yes✅Yes🗓Nov. 1, 2020
🇺🇸Virginia✅Yes✅Yes🗓Jan. 21, 2021
Washington D.C.🇺🇸Washington D.C.✅Yes✅Yes🗓May 28, 2020
West Virginia🇺🇸West Virginia✅Yes✅Yes🗓Sept. 1, 2018
Wyoming🇺🇸Wyoming✅Yes✅Yes🗓Sept. 1, 2021

States Stuck in Pending Status of Some Kind

Drawing the line between “officially live” and “somewhat live” is the tricky thing when breaking down legal sports betting on a state-by-state basis. 

Louisiana, for example, launched online sports betting in late January—as it’s included in our “already live” category—yet there are some parishes within the state that still cannot legally bet (based on past vote). 

Florida and Washington are a couple of other interesting situations. Although Florida has approved both online and retail sports betting, lawsuits are currently holding up the process, whereas Washington is also stuck in a strange place. 

The following list showcases the states that are nearly home yet continue to struggle to get to the finish line.

STATEONLINE AUTHORIZED?RETAIL AUTHORIZED?PROJECTED LAUNCHNOTES
FloridaFlorida✅Yes✅Yes🗓2024Florida lawmakers approved a gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe, in 2021, that legalizes sports betting state-wide, but several federal and state lawsuits are delaying the official launch.
MarylandMaryland✅Yes✅Yes🗓2022Maryland voters approved Question 2 in the November 2020 U.S. Election, which authorized sports betting at existing casinos.
NebraskaNebraska❌No✅Yes🗓2022Signing LB561 into law on May 25, 2021, officially legalized sports betting in Nebraska, but to begin, it’ll be limited to just retail.
OhioOhio✅Yes✅Yes🗓2022In 2021, Ohio passed a much-discussed bill that was in consideration. It’s now only a matter of time.
WashingtonWashington❌No✅Yes🗓2022HB 2638 was signed into law on March 25, 2020, legalizing retail sports betting on tribal land.
WisconsinWisconsin❌No✅Yes🗓2022An agreement has been reached with the Oneida Tribe to amend the state’s gaming compact to allow for in-person and mobile app betting while at the Oneida Nation’s gaming facilities.

States Where Legal Sports Betting is On Hold

The third and final bucket of the legal sports betting puzzle features the states that are nowhere near legalization. 

STATELEGISLATION CONSIDERED?NOTES
AlabamaAlabama❌NoN/A
AlaskaAlaska❌NoN/A
CaliforniaCalifornia✅YesAlthough California has discussed legislation previously, the 2/3 super-majority for adoption law on anything gambling holds everything up.
HawaiiHawaii❌NoN/A
IdahoIdaho❌NoN/A
KansasKansas✅YesThe Kansas State Senate approved a sports-betting legalization bill on Feb. 28, 2019, but the State House would not consider it.
KentuckyKentucky✅YesA recent attempt to pass legislation in 2020 failed after a successful lobbying campaign to prevent it, despite strong support of the governor.
MaineMaine✅YesGov. Janet Mills vetoed a bill (that could have led the way) during the 2020 legislative session. LD1352 is being considered in 2021.
MinnesotaMinnesota❌NoN/A
MissouriMissouri✅YesA plethora of sports betting bills have been proposed in Missouri, much of them dealing with the state’s existing riverboat casinos. Thus far, there has been no movement.
North DakotaNorth Dakota❌NoN/A
GeorgiaGeorgia✅YesGeorgia lawmakers considered legalizing sports betting in the 2020 legislative session and again in 2021, but both bills died in the house. Supporters have said they will try again in 2022.
MassachusettsMassachusetts✅YesSeveral sports betting bills have been introduced beginning in 2018. Governor Charlie Baker expressed a desire to see sports betting legalized in 2021, but bills continue to get stalled.
OklahomaOklahoma✅YesTwo tribes with existing gaming compacts in OK have reached an agreement with the state’s governor to include sports betting. The compacts were approved by the feds in June 2020, and retail sports betting may launch once new rules are published in the federal register.
South CarolinaSouth Carolina✅Yes“Pro-gambling legislation … officially died when the regular session ended [in early May 2018],” per the Charleston Post and Courier.
TexasTexas✅YesA sports betting bill was put forth in 2021, but will not be considered this legislative session. Texans will have to wait at least another year.
UtahUtah❌NoN/A
VermontVermont✅YesLegislation was put forth in 2019 and 2020, but neither was successful. There is a bill being considered in 2021 that would authorize sports betting through the VT Lottery. It would allow up to six mobile sportsbook operators.

Sports Betting Legislation by State

2019:

StateBill(s)
ArizonaSB 1158
SB 1163
CaliforniaCalifornia Sports Wagering Initiative, No. 18-0003
ConnecticutS 665
S 17
HawaiiH 1107
IllinoisS 176
IndianaH 1363
S 552
IowaH 101
H 102
H 103
H 124
H 198
S 1079
S 1080
S 1081
S 1100
S 1168
KansasHB 2032
HB 2068
S 23
KentuckyHB 12
HB 171
HB 175
HB 190
S 23
LouisianaSB 266
MaineSB 553
MarylandH 1132
MassachusettsHD 2628
HD 2629
SD 903
SD 1110
H 68
S 882
MinnesotaSafe and Regulated Sports Gambling Act of 2019
MissouriHB 119
HB 859
SB 44
SB 187
SB 195
SB 222
SB 327
MontanaHB 475
SB 25
North CarolinaSB 154
North DakotaH 1254
H 1295
New HampshireH 480
S 310
OhioS 316
South CarolinaH 3409
S 57
S 71
South DakotaSJR 2
TennesseeH 1
S 16
H 666
S 1055
TexasH 1275
VermontS 59
VirginiaH 1638
H 1890
H 2210
H 2321
H 2536
S 1126
S 1238
S 1356
WashingtonH 1975
H 1992

2018:

StateBill(s)
CaliforniaACA 18
ConnecticutH 5307

S 540
District of ColumbiaB 22-944
IllinoisH 4214

H 5186

S 7

S 2478

S 3125

S 3432
IndianaS 405

H 1325
IowaH 2448
KansasH 2533

H 2752

H 2792

H 2793

S 455
KentuckyBR 155

H 536
LouisianaH 245

S 266
MarylandS 836

HB 1346

HB 1014
MassachusettsS 2273
MichiganH 4060

H 4261

H 4926*
MississippiH 1113

H 1154
MissouriH 2320

H 2406

H 2535

S 767

S 1009

S 1013
New JerseyS 2602
New YorkA 11144

S 1282

S 7900

A 5438

A 10322

A 11225
OhioH 714

S 316
OklahomaH 3375

S 1175
Rhode IslandS 2045

H 8320

H 7200*
South CarolinaH 3102
West VirginiaH 2751

S 106

S 415*

H 4396
USH 783

H 4530

2017:

StateBill(s)
CaliforniaACA 18
ConnecticutH 6948*
HawaiiH 927
KentuckyB 155
MarylandH 989
MichiganH 4060

H 4261

H 4926
MississippiH 967*
New JerseyS 3375
New YorkS 1282

A 5438
OklahomaS 857
PennsylvaniaH 519

H 271*
South CarolinaH 3102
West VirginiaH 2751
USH 783

2016:

StateBill(s)
CaliforniaA 1441
DelawareS 183
New JerseyBill became law in 2014; challenged in court.
New YorkS 940
PennsylvaniaHR 619

Sports Betting & Promo Code Future

The Future of USA Legal Sports Betting

With this evolution, sports betting will infiltrate more avenues and expand opportunities for advertisement. For example, there have been rumblings for Buffalo Wild Wings to bring sportsbook action into the restaurant. Overseas, sponsorships from betting companies and become integral parts of other pro sports leagues.

Recently we have seen the NJ Devils sign a deal with William Hill sportsbook that will allow betting odds to be posted within the arena. If we had to point to one action that may dictate the future trend of sports betting in the U.S., this is it. Pro teams need people to purchase tickets. With attendance across all major sports, the addition of potential sports betting options, ads, in-game bets and in arena contests are certain to increase very soon.

Whatever way you want to cut it, sports betting is becoming more and more lucrative every day.

Mobile Sports Betting Growth

Many sports betting operators have made the mistake of comparing the legalization of sports betting in the United States to the what has taken place in the UK and Europe of the past decade. The state structure and sheer size of the USA make it an apple to oranges comparison.

The core aspect of sports betting growth in Europe that we should look to emulate or compare is the explosive growth if live betting via mobile devices. Roughly 70% of all bets placed in the regulated markets of UK and Europe involves live or real-time betting. Bet365 and Unibet have been in the middle of this massive growth opportunity in the UK, earning over 2.7 billion in revenue last year. With a projected $150 billion in sports wagers placed in the United States, you can see why the race is on to join the legal betting market.

Live, real-time or in-play betting will spark massive growth as long as the states are quick to approve mobile sports betting. Prop bets, 2nd half betting odds, possession-based odds (will the team score a TD here?) are just some examples of live betting attributes that will attract sports bettors via mobile and online sports betting.

DraftKings and FanDuel Sportsbooks

With sports gambling becoming legal, daily fantasy sports have benefitted. The two most notable are both FanDuel and DraftKings, which actually have their own sportsbooks out in the sports gambling world now.

DraftKings Sportsbook App is in association with Atlantic City’s Resorts Casino.

The FanDuel Betting App is in association with the Meadowlands in New Jersey. Also, FanDuel was bought by the European gaming company Paddy Power Betfair, expanding its potential global reach.

The 2 leading DFS sites should be given some credit for helping to push the proverbial betting rock down the hill with their estimated $500 million TV ad spend in 2014-2015 that built the DFS industry.

Sports Betting & Promo Code FAQ

Is online sports betting legal in the United States

Yes, online sports betting is legal in the United States. The overturn of PASPA in 2018 (via New Jersey) paved the way for states to legalize online sports betting.

How many states currently have legal sports betting?

26 (plus Washington D.C.): There are currently 25 states (plus Washington D.C.) that have legal online sports betting: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington D.C. West Virginia, Wyoming. Note: In Louisiana, sports bets are only allowed in the parishes that voted to legalize it (55 parishes of 64 did so).

How many states currently have legal online sports betting?

18 (plus Washington D.C.): As of now, there are 19 states (plus Washington D.C. that have legal online sports betting, even if some of the states are still facing legal hurdles en route to a smoother process for interested sports bettors. These states are Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington D.C. West Virginia, Wyoming.

What are the top online sportsbook promo codes available?

DraftKings Sportsbook’s $1,050 sign-up bonus is a great choice: In addition to DraftKings Sportsbook, Caesars Sportsbook’s up to $1,250, FanDuel Sportsbook’s $1,000 No-Sweat Free Bet, Barstool Sportsbook’s $1,000 risk-free bet, and BetMGM’s $1,000 risk-free bet are also amazing online sports betting promos.

When did online sports betting become legally possible in the United States?

2018: When the Supreme Court overturned PASPA in 2018, via New Jersey, online sports betting became possible in a state-by-state manner.

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