Legal Sports Betting States: Complete US Guide

Where is Sports Betting Legal Now?

The modern landscape of legal sports betting states began in May 2018, when the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). Before that decision, Nevada was essentially the only state with full-scale legal sports betting. Once PASPA was overturned, each state gained the authority to legalize and regulate sports wagering individually, leading to rapid expansion across the country.

Since 2018, lawmakers in dozens of states have moved to authorize sports betting in some form, driven by tax revenue opportunities, consumer demand, and the growth of regulated online gambling. As a result, sports betting is now widely available across much of the United States, although the rules, formats, and accessibility vary significantly by state.

Today, sports betting is legal in 39 states plus Washington D.C., with Missouri joining the list in December 2025. Of those jurisdictions, 31 states plus D.C. offer online or mobile betting, allowing users to place wagers from their phones or computers anywhere within state lines. The remaining states either offer retail-only betting at casinos or have legalized betting but have not yet launched.

Legal Status	# of States	States Included
✓ Online Legal	31 + DC	AZ, AR, CO, CT, DE, DC, FL, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MO, NV, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, RI, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY
⚠ Retail Only	8	MS, MT, NE, NM, ND, SD, WA, WI
✗ Not Legal	11	AL, AK, CA, GA, HI, ID, MN, OK, SC, TX, UT

Must be 21+ to bet in most states (18+ in KY, MT, NH, RI, WA (tribal), DC, WY). Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Key Stats on Legal Sports Betting

• 39 states + Washington D.C. currently have legal sports betting
• Missouri became the 39th state upon its launch in late 2025
• 31 states + D.C. offer online/mobile betting
• 8 states are retail-only with in-person wagering
• 11 states have not legalized sports betting

This means the majority of Americans now live in states where sports betting is regulated and accessible, especially through mobile platforms. Because each state sets its own laws, where sports betting is legal depends on the type of betting allowed:

1. Online and Retail Betting (Full Access): These are the most user-friendly states, offering both in-person sportsbooks and mobile apps. Bettors can register, deposit, and place wagers remotely using licensed operators like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM.
2. Retail-Only Betting: Some states allow sports betting only at physical locations such as casinos, racetracks, or tribal properties. Mobile betting, if available at all, is typically restricted to on-site usage.
3. Legal but Not Yet Live: A few states have passed legislation but are still working through regulatory frameworks, licensing, or technical rollouts before launching sportsbooks.
4. Not Legal: A minority of states have not yet legalized sports betting due to political, regulatory, or market concerns.

The number of states with legal sports betting has steadily increased every year since 2018, and the trend is expected to continue. Missouri’s launch marked another milestone, with nine licensed operators going live, including major national brands. Several other states continue to explore legalization, while retail-only states may expand into online betting in the future. Meanwhile, large markets like California and Texas remain key battlegrounds that could significantly reshape the industry if laws change.

🏈 FanDuel Legal States	🏀 DraftKings Legal States
25+ states + DC with online FanDuel Sportsbook	25+ states + DC with online DraftKings Sportsbook
AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MO, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY + DC	AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MO, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY + DC
Also available retail-only in: MS, NV, WA	Launched in MO December 2025

States with Legal Online Sports Betting

The most popular form of wagering in the U.S. is mobile betting, and the majority of legal sports betting states now offer full online access. These online sports betting states allow users to register, deposit funds, and place bets from anywhere within state lines using licensed apps and websites. Currently, 31 states plus Washington D.C. offer legal online or mobile sports betting, giving millions of Americans convenient access to regulated sportsbooks. Unlike retail-only markets, these states provide full digital betting experiences, including live wagering, same-game parlays, and in-app promotions.

The following jurisdictions currently allow statewide online betting:

• Arizona
• Arkansas
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida (Hard Rock Bet only via the Seminole Tribe)
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Missouri
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Tennessee
• Vermont
• Virginia
• West Virginia
• Wyoming
• Washington D.C.

These states represent the core of the U.S. sports betting market, where multiple licensed operators compete to offer odds, bonuses, and betting options.

In states with legal sports betting online, bettors can access sportsbooks entirely from their devices. This creates a significantly different experience compared to retail-only markets.

Key features include:

• Mobile apps and web platforms for iOS and Android
• Remote account registration, often completed in minutes
• Secure deposits and withdrawals using multiple payment methods
• Live betting and streaming, allowing wagers during games
• Promotions and bonuses, including welcome offers and odds boosts

Most states also allow users to hold accounts with multiple sportsbooks, making it easier to compare odds and maximize value.

Although these are all online sports betting states, the rules and availability can differ:

• Florida offers online betting exclusively through Hard Rock Bet, operated by the Seminole Tribe
• Nevada requires in-person registration for most sportsbooks, even though mobile betting is allowed afterward
• Oregon has a limited number of operators
• New Hampshire operates under a single-operator model (DraftKings)

These differences highlight why it’s important to check individual state pages for detailed rules and sportsbook availability.

Online betting has quickly become the dominant form of wagering in the U.S., accounting for the majority of bets placed nationwide. States that legalize mobile betting typically see significantly higher participation compared to retail-only models. This is why most new markets, including Missouri, launched with both retail and online options from day one.

Missouri Sports Betting (Launched Dec 1, 2025)

Missouri joined the list of states with legal sports betting when it launched on December 1, 2025, becoming the 39th state to legalize wagering. Missouri now offers both online and retail betting statewide, making it one of the most accessible markets for bettors.

The state has approved eight operators, including many of the biggest names in the industry:

• FanDuel
• DraftKings
• BetMGM
• Caesars
• bet365
• Fanatics
• theScore BET
• Circa

This competitive market provides a wide range of betting options, promotions, and competitive odds. Missouri’s entry reflects the continued expansion of where sports betting is legal in the U.S., and more states are expected to follow as legislation evolves.

States with Retail-Only Sports Betting

While many legal sports betting states now offer full mobile access, there are still several jurisdictions where betting is limited to in-person wagering. In these sports betting states, you must visit a physical location, such as a casino, racetrack, or tribal sportsbook, to place a bet. Currently, eight states operate retail-only sports betting, meaning no statewide online or mobile betting is available:

• Mississippi
• Montana
• Nebraska
• New Mexico
• North Dakota
• South Dakota
• Washington (tribal casinos only)
• Wisconsin

These states have legalized sports betting but have chosen more restrictive frameworks, often due to regulatory concerns, tribal agreements, or legislative compromises. In retail-only markets, bettors must be physically present at a licensed sportsbook to place wagers. This typically involves:

• Visiting a casino or racetrack sportsbook
• Placing bets at a counter or kiosk
• Limited mobile functionality, if any
• Fewer sportsbook operators compared to online states

Each retail-only state has its own unique rules:

• Mississippi – Sports betting is available at casino sportsbooks, primarily along the Gulf Coast and river regions. Mobile betting is allowed only on casino property.
• Montana – Operates through the state lottery, with betting limited to approved locations such as bars and restaurants using a single provider.
• Nebraska – Retail sportsbooks are located at licensed casinos, with no online betting currently permitted.
• New Mexico – Tribal casinos offer sports betting independently under existing gaming compacts, with no statewide mobile option.
• North Dakota – Sports betting is limited to tribal casinos, with no online wagering available.
• South Dakota – Betting is restricted to Deadwood casinos, a historic gaming district, with no mobile access.
• Washington – Sports betting is allowed only at tribal casinos under strict regulations.
• Wisconsin – Tribal casinos operate sportsbooks, but online betting is not available statewide.

Washington is unique among retail-only states with legal sports betting because it allows mobile betting, but only within tribal casino property. These apps are geofenced, meaning you must be physically inside the casino to place bets, even when using your phone. Several retail-only states are actively considering legislation to expand into online betting. As neighboring states generate significant revenue from mobile wagering, pressure continues to grow for more accessible options.

For now, however, bettors in these states must travel to a licensed venue to participate in legal sports betting.

States Where Sports Betting is NOT Legal

Despite the rapid expansion of legal sports betting states, there are still several parts of the country where regulated wagering is not permitted. These states have either rejected legalization efforts, faced political gridlock, or maintained laws that prohibit most forms of gambling. While many of these markets are considered potential candidates for future legalization, progress has been slow in recent years.

Is Sports Betting Legal in California?

No, sports betting is not legal in California. Despite being the largest potential market in the United States, California voters rejected two major ballot initiatives in 2022, Proposition 26 and Proposition 27. These measures would have introduced retail and online sports betting, but both failed due to competing interests between tribal operators and commercial sportsbooks. The outcome highlighted deep disagreements over how sports betting should be structured in the state, particularly regarding control, revenue distribution, and regulatory authority.

Tribal gaming groups remain a powerful force in California’s gambling landscape, and any future legislation will likely need their full support to succeed. The outlook for California sports betting remains uncertain. Most industry analysts believe that the earliest realistic timeline for legalization is 2028, as stakeholders regroup and attempt to reach a unified proposal. Until then, residents must travel to neighboring states to place legal bets.

Is Sports Betting Legal in Texas?

No, sports betting is not legal in Texas. Although there has been growing interest in legalization, legislative efforts have repeatedly stalled. In 2023, a sports betting bill passed the Texas House of Representatives, marking a significant step forward, but it ultimately failed to advance in the Senate. One of the primary obstacles is political opposition, particularly in the state’s upper chamber, where support for expanded gambling remains limited.

In addition, disagreements between commercial operators, professional sports teams, and tribal interests have complicated negotiations over how a regulated market would operate. While major sports franchises and national sportsbooks continue to advocate for legalization, the outlook for Texas remains uncertain. Many observers believe that meaningful progress will require a constitutional amendment, which is a lengthy process that depends on legislative approval and voter support. As a result, legalization in the near term is considered unlikely.

Other States Without Legal Sports Betting

In addition to California and Texas, several other states do not currently allow legal sports betting. These jurisdictions make up the remaining portion of the country where regulated wagering has not been implemented:

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Minnesota
• Oklahoma
• South Carolina
• Utah

Together, these states account for the final group where sports betting is not yet legal, though several have considered legislation recently. The reasons for this vary widely. Some states, such as Utah and Hawaii, have longstanding prohibitions against most forms of gambling due to cultural or religious factors. Others, like Georgia and Minnesota, have considered legislation but have not reached an agreement on regulatory frameworks or revenue sharing.

In states such as Oklahoma and Alabama, tribal gaming compacts and political considerations continue to play a major role in shaping the debate. In total, there are currently 11 states without legal sports betting, including California and Texas. While many of these states have discussed legalization, timelines remain uncertain. As neighboring states continue to generate significant tax revenue from regulated betting, pressure may increase to revisit the issue, but any changes will depend on political alignment and stakeholder agreement within each state.

Top Sportsbooks by State Availability

When comparing legal sports betting states, it’s important to understand that not every sportsbook operates nationwide. Each operator must secure licenses in individual states, which means availability varies depending on where you are located. The biggest brands have expanded aggressively, making them accessible in most online betting markets, while smaller operators tend to focus on select states.

If you’re looking to bet in one of the states with legal sports betting, choosing a trusted and widely available operator is key. You can explore a full breakdown of offers in our guide to the best sportsbook bonuses.

Below is a comparison of the leading sportsbooks based on where they are available and what they offer to users.

FanDuel State Availability

FanDuel is one of the most widely available sportsbooks in the U.S., operating in 25+ states. It consistently ranks among the top options for users in legal sports betting states, thanks to its intuitive design and strong market coverage. FanDuel’s platform is particularly popular with beginners due to its easy-to-use interface, quick registration process, and well-organized betting markets. It also offers competitive odds, a wide range of bet types, and one of the best live betting experiences in the industry.

Another advantage is its broad geographic reach. FanDuel is active in most major online betting states, including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Ohio. This makes it one of the most accessible choices for users looking to bet legally across multiple jurisdictions.

👉 For a full breakdown of features, promotions, and availability, see our FanDuel review.

BetMGM State Availability

BetMGM is backed by MGM Resorts and has rapidly expanded into 25+ states, making it one of the most widely available sportsbooks alongside FanDuel and DraftKings. Its combination of online and retail presence gives it a strong footprint across states where sports betting is legal. One of BetMGM’s biggest advantages is its connection to the MGM Rewards program, allowing users to earn points that can be redeemed for hotel stays, dining, and entertainment.

This makes it especially appealing for bettors who visit MGM properties. BetMGM also offers competitive odds, a solid range of betting markets, and regular promotions. Its interface is slightly more advanced than some competitors, which may appeal to experienced bettors looking for more control over their wagers. The platform is available in most major betting states, including high-population markets, and continues to expand as new states legalize sports betting.

👉 For a detailed overview, read our BetMGM review.

DraftKings State Availability

DraftKings is another market leader, also available in 25+ states, and was one of the pioneers of mobile sports betting in the United States. Its strong brand recognition and wide coverage make it a top option in many sports betting states. DraftKings is known for offering a large selection of betting markets, including same-game parlays, player props, and live betting options. It also frequently runs promotions and boosts, which can appeal to both new and experienced bettors.

The platform integrates seamlessly with its daily fantasy sports ecosystem, giving users a familiar interface if they have used DraftKings before. It also provides detailed stats, analytics, and bet tracking tools, making it a strong choice for users who want more data-driven insights. DraftKings is available in most major online markets, ensuring broad accessibility across the U.S.

👉 For more details, read our DraftKings review.

Sportsbook Availability by State

Availability varies by state and changes frequently. bet365, theScore BET, Fanatics, and other operators are expanding rapidly — check official sites for the most current list.

State	FanDuel	DraftKings	BetMGM	Caesars	bet365	theScore BET
Arizona	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	—
Colorado	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
Illinois	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
Indiana	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
Iowa	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
Kansas	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
Kentucky	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	—
Louisiana	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
Maryland	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	—
Massachusetts	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
Michigan	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
Missouri	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
New Jersey	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
New York	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
North Carolina	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	✓
Ohio	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	—
Pennsylvania	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
Tennessee	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
Virginia	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
West Virginia	✓	✓	✓	✓	—	—
Wyoming	✓	✓	✓	—	—	—

State-by-State Sports Betting Guide

This page provides a broad overview of legal sports betting states, but each state has its own regulations, tax structures, available sportsbooks, and betting rules. If you want the most accurate and up-to-date information for your location, it’s important to visit a dedicated state page for full details. Our state-by-state guides break down everything you need to know, including whether betting is online or retail-only, which sportsbooks are licensed, and what types of bets are allowed. You’ll also find information on promotions, bonuses, and restrictions that may apply in your state.

State	Details
New York	9 sportsbooks · Online legal
New Jersey	20+ sportsbooks · Online legal
Pennsylvania	15+ sportsbooks · Online legal
Illinois	10+ sportsbooks · Online legal
Ohio	16+ sportsbooks · Online legal
Michigan	15+ sportsbooks · Online legal
Massachusetts	7 sportsbooks · Online legal
Arizona	14+ sportsbooks · Online legal
Colorado	16+ sportsbooks · Online legal

Each state page is designed to help you quickly find the best legal options available, compare sportsbooks, and understand local laws before placing a bet. Because states with legal sports betting can change laws, add operators, or update regulations, we recommend checking your specific state page before signing up. This ensures you’re using a licensed sportsbook and taking advantage of the best available offers in your area.

How to Start Betting in a Legal State

If you’re located in one of the legal sports betting states, getting started is a straightforward process. Licensed sportsbooks have made it easier than ever to register, deposit, and place bets online, but it’s important to follow the correct steps to ensure you’re betting legally and securely.

Step-by-Step Guide for New Bettors

1. Confirm you’re in a legal state: Before signing up, make sure you are physically located in one of the states with legal sports betting. Sportsbooks use geolocation technology to verify your location, and you must be within state lines to place bets, even if you live elsewhere.
2. Choose a licensed sportsbook: Select a reputable, state-approved operator such as FanDuel, DraftKings, or BetMGM. Licensed sportsbooks offer secure transactions, fair odds, and consumer protections that offshore sites do not provide.
3. Download the app: Most sportsbooks offer dedicated apps for iOS and Android devices, along with desktop platforms. Download the official app from the sportsbook’s website or your device’s app store.
4. Create an account and verify your identity: To comply with state regulations, you’ll need to provide personal information such as your name, address, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Identity verification is required before you can place bets.
5. Make a deposit and claim a welcome bonus: Once your account is set up, you can fund it using methods like debit cards, bank transfers, or digital wallets. Many sportsbooks offer sign-up incentives for new users, such as bonus bets or deposit matches. To find the latest offers, check our sportsbook promo codes page.
6. Place your first bet: After funding your account, you’re ready to start betting. Beginners often start with simple wagers like moneylines, point spreads, or totals. As you gain experience, you can explore more advanced options such as parlays. To estimate potential winnings before placing a bet, try using a parlay calculator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sports betting legal in the United States?

Yes, sports betting is legal in the United States on a state-by-state basis. Currently, 39 states plus Washington, D.C. have legalized sports betting in some form (Missouri became the 39th in late 2025). Each state sets its own regulations, tax rates, and licensing requirements. Sports betting was effectively banned nationwide until May 14, 2018, when the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in Murphy v. NCAA.

What states have legal sports betting?

Currently, these states have legal sports betting: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Washington D.C.

How many states have legal sports betting?

Currently, 39 states plus Washington, D.C. have legalized sports betting in some form. Of these, 31 states + DC offer online/mobile sports betting, while 8 states only allow retail (in-person) betting at casinos or tribal locations.

Is online sports betting legal?

Online sports betting is legal in over 30 states currently. However, some states only permit retail (in-person) betting at physical locations like casinos. States with online betting include: Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and more. You must be physically located within a legal state to place online bets.

When did sports betting become legal in the US?

Sports betting became legal nationwide on May 14, 2018, when the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in Murphy v. NCAA. Before this ruling, Nevada was the only state where single-game sports betting was legal. New Jersey was the first state to launch legal sports betting after the ruling, opening sportsbooks in June 2018.

What is the legal age for sports betting?

The legal age for sports betting is 21 in most states. However, some states allow 18+ betting: Kentucky, Montana, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Washington (tribal casinos only), Washington D.C., and Wyoming. Always verify the age requirement in your specific state before betting.

Which sportsbooks are available in the most states?

FanDuel and DraftKings operate in the most states, each available in 25+ states plus Washington, D.C. BetMGM is available in 20+ states, followed by Caesars Sportsbook in 19+ states. bet365, theScore BET, and Fanatics Sportsbook are expanding rapidly and available in 15+ states each. Availability varies, so check your specific state for licensed operators.

Final Summary

The number of legal sports betting states continues to grow, with 39 states plus Washington D.C. currently offering legal wagering, including Missouri which joined the market in late 2025. With over 30 states providing online betting, access has never been easier for users across the country.

As legislation evolves, more states are expected to legalize sports betting, particularly as neighboring markets generate significant tax revenue. Large states like California and Texas remain key targets, and any future changes there could dramatically reshape the industry.

If you’re ready to get started, explore the best available platforms in your state with our guide to the best sports betting apps. Always remember to bet responsibly, understand your local laws, and treat sports betting as entertainment, not a guaranteed way to make money.