DC Sports Betting Quick Facts: September 2024
You'll find some need-to-know quick facts regarding Washington DC sports betting in the table below.
| ✅ Is Sports Betting Legal in DC? | Yes |
| 📱 How Many DC Sportsbook Apps Are There? | 4 |
| 🔞 What's the Legal Betting Age in DC? | 18 |
| 🏛️ Washington, DC Sports Betting Regulator: | Washington, DC Office of Lottery and Gaming |
| 📖 How Many DC Betting Licenses Are Available? | 7 |
| 📆 Info Last Verified: | September 6, 2024 |
Is Washington DC Sports Betting Legal?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Washington DC. Sports betting in DC has been legal since May 2020 and has evolved from a single lottery-operated sportsbook and several retail sportsbooks to several sports betting apps and retail betting facilities. This was a jumpstart from when Maryland sports betting apps went live in November 2022.
When Did DC Sports Betting Launch?
DC sports betting launched on May 28, 2020 when lottery-ran GambetDC went live. This launch, which included retail and online sports betting, was actually two months late due to COVID and the associated suspension of sports seasons, including the cancellation of March Madness.
What Washington DC Sportsbooks are Legal?
There are several legal sportsbooks in DC - most notably BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, FanDuel and DraftKings for online sports betting. There are also six retail sportsbooks for bettors who like the in-person wagering experience. These retail DC sportsbooks are:
- BetMGM Sportsbook at Nationals Park
- Caesars Sportsbook at Capital One Arena
- FanDuel Sportsbook at Audi Field
- Over Under Sportsbook Rooftop Lounge
- Grand Central Sportsbook & Cafe
- Grand Central Sportsbook on H Street
Latest Washington DC Sports Betting Updates
- 📆 July 26, 2024: DraftKings launches an online sports betting app in Washington DC, bringing the number of sportsbooks in DC to 4.
- 📆 July 23, 2024: DraftKings announces it will launch sports betting in DC after it reached a market access deal with the MLS DC United. Launch will come pending licensure and regulatory approval.
- 📆 July 17, 2024: Additional DC sportsbooks go live. Now, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook and FanDuel are available on mobile apps in Washington DC. DraftKings announces it will launch shortly.
- 📆 July 16, 2024: FanDuel temporarily shuts down while waiting for expansion of the DC sports betting market.
- 📆 July 5, 2024: In its first full month of sports betting in DC, FanDuel generates a $29.7 million in wagering handle in May. For reference, GambetDC generated $41.1 million from October 2023 to May 2024.
- 📆 June 25, 2024: The 2025 budget is approved, heralding the expansion of the DC sports betting market. With the passage of the budget, 7 DC sports teams will be allowed to partner with sports betting operators and launch betting apps in DC. The budget now heads to DC Mayor Muriel Bowser for signature.
- 📆 June 17, 2024: FanDuel threatens to shut down its DC sports betting operations in light of the 2025 budget that included provisions to expand the sportsbook market in DC.
- 📆 June 12, 2024: Kim Stone, the CEO of the NSWL Washington Spirit, calls for an open sports betting market in Washington DC saying that new licenses would open the door for more businesses to benefit.
- 📆 April 15, 2024: FanDuel officially replaces GambetDC as the primary sports betting operator in Washington DC.
- 📆 March 22, 2024: The number of DC sportsbooks could expand following the introduction of the Sports Wagering Amendment Act, which seeks to overhaul the DC sports betting market.
- 📆 March 8, 2024: The DC Office of Lottery and Gaming announces that FanDuel will replace GambetDC.
Best Washington DC Sportsbooks
Here are the best available DC sportsbooks to bettors in the Nation's Capital. The number of sportsbooks in DC are expected to grow, but for now, here's the best choices available in September 2024.
| 🦁 BetMGM DC | Best For Betting Promos |
| 🏆 Caesars Sportsbook DC | Best For Live Streaming |
| 👑 FanDuel DC | Best User Experience |
| 🔥 DraftKings DC | Best Overall Betting Brand |
BetMGM DC: Best For Betting Promos
BetMGM DC offers the highest-valued welcome bonus at $1500 in bonus bets if your first bet loses. This is a great way to place your first bet with BetMGM DC without the fear of losing money, up to $1500. If you win that first bet, great! If you lose the bet, you'll get the same stake back in bonus bets.
On top of the welcome offer, BetMGM DC also offers plenty of lucrative betting promos to bettors in Washington DC. You'll find everything from odds boosts to giveaways, including daily promos such as the free-to-play Swing for the Fences that grants bonus bets, profit boosts and more.
| 🎁 Welcome Offer: | Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets If Your First Bet Loses |
| 📱 Top App Features: | MGM Rewards, Early Cash Out, Daily Promos |
| 🏟️ Retail Sportsbook: | BetMGM Sportsbook at Nationals Park |
| ⭐️ App Ratings: | 4.8 (Apple) | 4.6 (Android) |
Caesars Sportsbook DC: Best For Live Streaming
Caesars Sportsbook DC offers the best live streaming experience among sportsbooks in Washington DC. While you may be able to find live streamed sporting events at most DC sportsbooks, you'll ONLY be able to stream live NFL games with Caesars DC. The groundbreaking Watch & Bet feature allows sports bettors to watch live NFL games and simultaneously bet on those games.
So head on over to Caesars Sportsbook DC to check out all of the live streaming options and make sure to grab the $1000 First Bet on Caesars welcome bonus as well.
| 🎁 Welcome Offer: | $1000 First Bet on Caesars |
| 📱 Top App Features: | Live Streaming, Caesars Rewards, Daily Odds Boosts |
| 🏟️ Retail Sportsbook: | Caesars Sportsbook at Capital One Arena |
| ⭐️ App Ratings: | 4.7 (Apple) | 4.3 (Android) |
FanDuel DC: Best User Experience
FanDuel DC offers the best user experience in the Nation's Capital, period. There's a reason that FanDuel is the top-rated app in sports betting markets, and it's evident in Washington DC as well. You'll find that the mobile app is easy to navigate, has a friendly user interface, and is pleasing to look at.
In addition, the welcome offer from FanDuel DC is a straightforward Bet $5, Get $200 if your first bet wins. What's more to like?
| 🎁 Welcome Offer: | Bet $5 Get $200 With Win |
| 📱 Top App Features: | Ongoing Promos, Live Wagering, Same Game Parlays |
| 🏟️ Retail Sportsbook: | FanDuel Sportsbook at Audi Field |
| ⭐️ App Ratings: | 4.9 (Apple) | 4.6 (Android) |
DraftKings DC: Best Overall Betting Brand
DraftKings will offer the best overall sports betting experience in Washington DC. This app has some of the most competitive betting lines but the most sports betting markets compared to other sportsbooks in DC.
To top it all off, the welcome bonus from DraftKings grants $150 in bonus bets just by betting $5, win or lose.
| 🎁 Welcome Offer: | Bet $5 Get $150 Instantly |
| 📱 Top App Features: | Live Betting, Dark Mode, Free-To-Play Pools |
| 🏟️ Retail Sportsbook: | N/A |
| ⭐️ App Ratings: | 4.8 (Apple) | 4.6 (Android) |
Washington DC Sports Betting Promos
There are several Washington DC sports betting promos available from the operators that are currently live, with nearly $3000 in bonus bets up for grabs.
These DC Sportsbook promos are available now, or if you feel like a short drive, there are more than $7000 in bonuses available right now with Maryland sportsbook promos.
Note that these promos can only be claimed in Maryland, and not in Washington DC.
New Washington DC Sportsbooks
While there are only 4 sportsbooks in the District of Columbia, legislation allows for up to 7 additional sports betting licenses. Here are the new Washington DC sportsbooks that we expect to launch.
Ugly Mug Sportsbook
The Ugly Mug is a casual bar in the Navy Yard region that is also expected to launch DC sports betting nearly imminently. The Ugly Mug is partnered with Elys Game Technology for sports betting, marking the fourth footprint for Ely's sports betting technology in DC.
Washington DC Sports Betting Apps
There are currently 4 Washington DC sports betting apps available to sports bettors. These are:
- BetMGM
- Caesars Sportsbook
- FanDuel
- DraftKings
DC sports betting law allows for up to 7 additional licenses, so be on the lookout for an expanded number of wagering apps to choose from while betting in DC.
Retail Sportsbooks in Washington DC
While mobile sportsbooks may be more convenient, there's no experience like retail sports betting. And there are several retail sportsbooks in DC located at professional sports stadiums, restaurants, bars and even one at a gentlemen's club.
Caesars Sportsbook at Capital One Arena
Fans of the Washington Capitals or the Washington Wizards will be happy to hear that there's a Caesars Sportsbook at Capital One Arena - home of the Caps and Wizards. This sportsbook, which initially opened as a William Hill Sportsbook in May 2021, is located in side Guy Fieri's DC Kitchen + Bar, spanning 18,000 square feet with 10 betting windows and 20 wagering kiosks. This DC sportsbook can be accessed year-round, even on days when there are no events taking place at Capital One Arena.
BetMGM Sportsbook at Nationals Park
Washington Nationals fans can catch all of the betting action at the BetMGM Sportsbook at Nationals Park. This sportsbook, just steps from center field at Nationals Park, features 6 betting windows, 17 kiosks and a 40-foot bar. The retail sportsbook is open daily from 11 a.m. to midnight and offers complimentary parking for customers on non-event days.
FanDuel Sportsbook at Audi Field
The FanDuel Sportsbook at Audi Field caters to DC United fans. This 2,700-square-foot retail sportsbook offers 18 sports betting kiosks, 3 betting windows and an uninterrupted view of the field. The sportsbook is open daily from 10 a.m. to midnight and is sure to be a popular spot for DC United fans.
Over Under Sportsbook Rooftop Lounge
The Over Under Sportsbook Rooftop Lounge is the first of its kind - a sportsbook situated inside of a gentlemen's club. This DC sportsbook is actually located on the roof of the Cloakroom gentlemen's club, features betting kiosks and is powered by Elys Game Technology.
Grand Central Sportsbook & Cafe
Grand Central was the first Class B-licensed sportsbook to open in Washington DC. The Grand Central Sportsbook opened in October 2021 and offers several betting kiosks and a single wagering window, all while being located within a full-service restaurant and bar.
Grand Central Sportsbook on H Street
Grand Central Sportsbook on H Street may have the same name as its sister location but operates quite differently. This location offers 4 wagering kiosks and 1 betting window, also operated by Elys Game Technology. However, the H Street location operates more as a grab-and-go shop for sandwiches and desserts.
Washington DC Sports Betting Rules & Regulations
The Washington DC sports betting bill B22-0944 authorizes sports betting within the confines of the District of Columbia, having launched wagering in May 2020.
The initial law allowed for sports betting apps and retail sportsbooks located at restaurants and sports stadiums. Since then, there has been an amendment to expand the DC sports betting market, allowing for an additional 7 mobile sports betting licenses.
DC Sports Betting Regulator
The Washington DC Office of Lottery and Gaming, or the OLG, oversees sports betting in DC in addition to other forms of gaming in the District such as lottery, charitable gaming and games of skill. The OLG is responsible for regulating sports betting in DC, and for a time had operated sports betting through the GambetDC platform, prior to FanDuel taking over as the primary sports betting operator in DC.
DC Sports Betting Licenses
The Washington DC sports betting law allows for several types of sports betting licenses. It's important to understand the difference between these licenses.
- Class A License: Allows for sports wagering facilities located at major sports stadiums such as Capital One Arena, Audi Field and Nationals Park.
- Class B License: Allows any business in DC to offer a sportsbook. Class B licensees must not operate within 2 blocks of a Class A-licensed facility.
- Class C License: Allows for DC sports franchises to partner with sportsbooks to offer online sports betting.
Washington DC Sports Betting Legislation Timeline
- 📆 October 2021: Grand Central Restaurant & Bar becomes the first Class B licensee to launch sports betting in DC.
- 📆 June 2021: BetMGM launches online sports betting in Washington DC, becoming the District's third sportsbook.
- 📆 July 2020: A second sportsbook in DC opens as William Hill launches a retail sportsbook at Capital One Arena - the first sportsbook to open at a professional sports stadium. This sportsbook is later rebranded Caesars Sportsbook following Caesars' acquisition of William Hill.
- 📆 May 2020: GambetDC becomes the first legal DC sportsbook. The launch was pushed back several months due to the onset of COVID and the suspension of sports seasons.
- 📆 May 2019: Just a year after PASPA was struck down, sports betting becomes legal in Washington DC. However, no DC sportsbooks open due to logistical issues.
- 📆 January 2019: Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser signs the sports betting bill to allow sportsbooks in DC.
- 📆 May 2018: PASPA is repealed, allowing for states to consider legalizing sports betting. Shortly after, the Sports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act of 2018 was introduced to allow DC sports betting.
Washington DC Sports Betting Pros & Cons
Responsible Gambling in Washington DC
While sports betting can be enjoyable, it's important to remember to gamble responsibly. We, along with the DC OLG encourage responsible gambling practices and recommend resources if you suspect you are having a gambling problem.
If you're experiencing problem gambling, or just want to take a break, the OLG has a self exclusion application for DC bettors.
Additionally, each licensee is mandated offer a responsible gambling program in order to create a safe and healthy market for sports bettors.
Washington DC Sports Betting FAQ
Yes, sports betting is legal in Washington DC. In fact, DC sportsbooks are available on mobile apps, sports betting sites and at in-person sportsbooks located at sports stadiums, restaurants, bars, and one even at a gentlemen's club. Sports betting in DC is continually evolving, so make sure to check back for more updates.
There are plenty of sportsbooks to choose from in Washington DC. These DC sportsbooks include BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, FanDuel and DraftKings for online sports betting and retail sportsbooks at Audi Field, Capital One Arena, Nationals Park, Grand Central Cafe and the Cloakroom Gentlemen's Lounge.
Yes, there are online sports betting apps in Washington DC. These apps, which include BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, FanDuel and DraftKings, are available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, and are all highly rated and completely safe to use.
You have to be at least 18 years old to bet on sports in Washington DC. This is ONLY for if you want to bet on a DC sportsbook app or in-person. However, the age requirement may be 21 years old if a retail sports betting facility is located on a premises that serves alcohol.
Yes, professional sports stadiums in Washington DC have sportsbooks. Audi Field (DC United), Capital One Arena (Washington Capitals/Washington Wizards) and Nationals Park (Washington Nationals) currently offer retail sportsbooks. St. Elizabeth's East Entertainment and Sports Arena (Washington Mystics) is also eligible for a sportsbook license, but does not currently offer a retail sportsbook.
The Washington DC Office of Lottery and Gaming oversees sports betting in DC. This includes the regulation and enforcement of sports betting in the District of Columbia. The OLG had also, at one time, offered sports betting via the GambetDC app prior to FanDuel taking over in April 2024.
Author
The veteran team of Maryland sports betting experts behind BetMaryland.com.
