Virginia Sports Betting Online June 2024: VA Sportsbooks and legal apps

Date IconLast Updated: Jan 15th, 2024

 

By Ziv Chen | Fact Checked By: Chris Spiteri | Last Updated: Jul 4, 2023

This in-depth review will give you the lowdown on online sports betting Virginia. Virginia bettors are spoilt for choice with 15 online sportsbooks, so we’ve selected the best Virginia sports betting sites and VA Sports Betting Promos for you.

Best Virginia Betting Sites with Offers

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  1. Only US Sportsbook with NFL Streaming
    Caesars Rewards Redeemable at Ceasars Locations
    Improved Odds for NY Mets & Chicago White Sox
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
    GAMBLING1000
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    14
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Cash Out
    Tooltip Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
    Yes
    First Bet Offer
    Yes
    Backed by Caesars Entertainment, the sportsbook provides real-life loyalty rewards for bettors bringing the Las Vegas feel to you. Between Live Streaming, Generous Welcome Offer, & Daily Boosted Parlays, you'll find yourself very busy on the Caesars Sportsbook App.
  2. Brand Ambassadors such as Jamie Foxx
    MGM Rewards Redeemable at MGM Resorts
    Official Partner of NY Knicks, Rangers & Devils
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
    GAMBLINGCOM
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    11
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Cash Out
    Tooltip Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
    Yes
    First Bet Offer
    Yes
    BetMGM is one of the biggest sportsbooks in the US. Brand offers a broad variety of sports betting markets. It's M rewards program is uniquely rewarding.
  3. Fanatics Sportsbook Discover Simplifies Your Betting Experience
    FanCash Feature Delivers Increase Value With Unique Rewards
    Industry-Leading Search Functionality Available
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    No
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    9
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Cash Out
    Tooltip Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
    Yes
    First Bet Offer
    Yes
    Fanatics Sportsbook, in partnership with Genius Sports, launched BetVision, a unique live betting and streaming product for football games within their app.
  4. Hard Rock Rewards Redeemable in Cafes & Casinos
    Mobile App Uses Accertify for Security
    Supports Payments with Nuvei
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    10
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Cash Out
    Tooltip Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
    Yes
    First Bet Offer
    Yes
    Hard Rock Sportsbook partners with American Express Accertify to protect its mobile users from fraud. The world renowned brand features a comprehensive selection of sports.
  5. Bet on Same Game Parlays to Receive Free Bets
    Backed by Rush Street Gaming, Founded in the 90s
    20% MLB Profit Every Tuesday
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
    GAMBLING
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    9
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Cash Out
    Tooltip Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
    Yes
    First Bet Offer
    Yes
    BetRivers provides a wide range of free bet promotions for major league sports. Also offers the iRush Rewards program.
  6. Official Live Streaming of MLB Games
    Free-To-Play Prize Pool Games
    Official Partner of the NBA, Including NBABet Stream
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    19
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Cash Out
    Tooltip Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
    Yes
    First Bet Offer
    No
    DraftKings is one of the biggest US sportsbook brands. Also provides Daily Fantasy Sports, an online casino, and NFT marketplace.
  7. 'Operator of the Year' 2021
    MLB Same Game Parlay $20 Refunds
    Official Partner of the NFL, NBA, NHL, & MLB
    Promo Code
    Tooltip The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
    not required
    Live Streaming
    Tooltip Is there live streaming of sporting events?
    Yes
    In-Play Betting
    Tooltip The number of sports with in-play betting available
    18
    Bet Builder
    Tooltip Can you create your own personalised bets?
    Yes
    Cash Out
    Tooltip Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
    Yes
    First Bet Offer
    Yes
    FanDuel is one of the biggest sportsbook operators in the US. Backed by Flutter Entertainment, one of the biggest gambling operators globally.

Latest US Gambling Promotions


Is Sports Betting Legal in Virginia?

✅ Online Sports BettingAvailable
🟢 Number of online sportsbooks available15
🔞 Legal age for sports betting21+
✏️ College Sports Betting✔️ Available
🏇🏻 Online Horse Betting✔️ Available
🏆 DFS Daily Fantasy Sports✔️ Available
🎮 Betting on esports✔️ Available
💲 Tax Rates15% on sports betting revenue

 

The Virginia Lottery Board oversees sports betting in Old Dominion. Governor Ralph Northam signed SB 384 and HB 896 in April 2020, making sports betting legal in Virginia. Since sports betting was legalized, attempts have been made to overturn the restriction on in-state collegiate betting. These attempts were unsuccessful, and as of June 2023, there are no further proposed bills relating to Virginia sports betting.

 


Best Online Sports Betting Sites and Apps in Virginia

Virginia bettors may need help choosing the right sportsbook with so many choices available. We will compare the best Virginia betting platforms so you can select the Virginia betting site that is right for you. We’ll leave no stone unturned, comparing bonuses, apps, the range of sports, payment methods, and more.

BetMGMCaesarsWynnBETDraftKingsFanDuel
✨ Welcome Bonus898108
🎁 Ongoing Promos88877
⚡️ Fast Payouts97789
📺 Live Streaming79187
🏈 Sports Choice888108
📊 Betting Markets88998
📈 Odds Value88998
💻 Desktop UX109898
📲 Mobile Site UX99998
📱 Mobile Apps989108
⭐ RATING95%91%86%92%92%

1. BetMGM Sportsbook Virginia


BetMGM sportsbook

BetMGM Sportsbook quickly became one of the nation’s leading sportsbooks after the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA) was overturned in 2018. The MGM Resorts-owned sportsbook operates in 20 States and offers users a wide range of sports and betting markets.

 


2. Caesars Sportsbook Virginia


Caesars sportsbook

The Caesars Sportsbook app is the perfect way to place bets while you are on the move. Caesars operates in over 20 US states and allows all players to join its Caesars Rewards for free. With this, you can earn points for betting and use them to redeem online bonuses or real-life perks.

 


3. WynnBET Sportsbook Virginia


Wynnbet - Maryland online sportsbook coming in 2023

Owned by casino operator Wynn Resorts, WynnBET Sportsbook operates in ten US states and has plenty to offer Virginia players. WynnBET has an excellent app, competitive odds with frequent odds boosts that give extra value to customers. WynnBET also provides an excellent welcome bonus for beginner bettors.

 


4. FanDuel Sportsbook Virginia


Fanduel sportsbook

Backed by Flutter Entertainment, a global gambling giant, FanDuel has expanded into the sports betting market since launching as a DFS platform in 2009. FanDuel Sportsbook is incredibly welcoming to beginners, with guides on how to bet on particular sports. FanDuel is also partnered with many major leagues and sports franchises, offering frequent odds boosts.

 


5. DraftKings Sportsbook Virginia


DraftKings sportsbook

DraftKings started life as a Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) company and have expanded into sports betting since 2018. DraftKings Sportsbook is active in 23 states and allows you to access various gambling verticals while you bet, including free pool games, DFS, and the Reignmakers NFTs game. 

 


Head to Head Sportsbooks Comparison in Virginia

😎 Best Overall Betting Experience: BetMGM vs DraftKings

DraftKings and BetMGM are both standout sportsbooks offering great welcome bonuses, excellent sports betting apps, and consistently good odds. Both sports betting sites are excellent, but we believe that DraftKings provides a slightly better overall experience. This is due to the live-streaming options and the ease of placing bets while live streaming.

💥 Our View: BetMGM has the best overall betting experience

 


🎁 Best Overall Rewards Scheme: BetMGM vs Caesars

Many of the best Virginia sports betting sites have loyalty programs that allow customers to earn bonuses and rewards by placing sports bets. BetMGM and Caesars have long-established rewards programs that are accessible through using an online sportsbook or visiting BetMGM or Caesars casino properties. We think Caesars Rewards edges out the MGM Rewards program because when Caesars Virginia Casino opens, you will be able to visit and use your Caesars Rewards points in person.

💥 Our View: Caesars has the best overall rewards scheme

 


⚡ Best Online Sportsbook for payouts: BetMGM vs FanDuel

While deposits to the best Virginia sportsbooks are instant, withdrawals can take several days to process. BetMGM and FanDuel are two of the quickest sportsbooks in terms of withdrawal processing times, with most payment requests completed in 48 hours. We believe FanDuel just takes this category due to slightly faster withdrawals to e-wallets, which are often instant.

💥 Our View: FanDuel is the best online sportsbook for payouts

 


📲 Best for mobile betting: DraftKings vs FanDuel

DraftKings and FanDuel both make betting on the move easy for even the newest sports bettor. The apps are intuitive, responsive, and uncluttered, and betting markets can be located in just a few clicks. Placing a bet is easy, and we love the live-streaming options available. DraftKings win this category due to the simple user interface and integration with DraftKings Social.

💥 Our View: DraftKings is best for mobile betting

 


☝️ Best for new bettors: Caesars vs FanDuel

Placing your first online sports bet can be confusing, but Caesars and FanDuel both make the process very easy to do. Both sportsbook apps have a layout that makes finding your betting market and placing a wager very easy. FanDuel edges this category because of the useful "How To" guides available for new bettors.

💥 Our View: FanDuel is the best sportsbook for new bettors.

 


😊 Best customer support: WynnBET vs BetMGM

We never want to use customer support, but it's good to know that if it is needed, your issues will be dealt with quickly and efficiently. WynnBET and BetMGM both allow you to contact live chat 24/7 and have a variety of other contact options like email and social media. Both sites also have well-organized FAQ sections. In our experience, while both customer support teams respond quickly, WynnBET is usually faster to connect.

💥 Our View: WynnBET has the best customer support

 


🏈 Best for odds on NFL Washington Commanders: DraftKings vs FanDuel

DraftKings is an official betting partner of the NFL and provides some of the most generous odds on the league in the US. However, FanDuel has a betting partnership with the Washington Commanders, so you'll frequently find boosted odds on the team.

💥 Our View: FanDuel is the best for odds on NFL Washington Commanders

 


🏀 Best for odds on NBA Washington Wizards: Caesars vs WynnBET

WynnBET has generous odds across the NBA, and you can improve your payouts by using the sportsbook many odds boost promotions, particularly for parlays. Despite this, Caesars is the best for Washington Wizards fans as the official betting partner of the team. Not only will you find generous odds on every Wizards market, but you can also use your Caesars Rewards points to claim fan experiences like tickets and stadium visits.

💥 Our View: Caesars is the best for odds on NBA Washington Wizards

 


🏒 Best for odds on NHL Washington Capitals: Caesars vs FanDuel

The Washington Capitals are the most popular NHL team in VA, and FanDuel is an official betting partner of the NHL. The sportsbook provides plenty of unique markets and odds for NHL games but can't compare to the options for the Capitals at Caesars Sportsbook Virginia. Caesars operates a retail sportsbook at Capital One Arena as an official betting partner of the franchise and provides plenty of fan benefits and generous odds for Capitals games.

💥 Our View: Caesars is the best for odds on NHL Washington Capitals

 


⚾ Best for odds on MLB Washington Nationals: Caesars vs BetMGM

Both BetMGM and Caesars provide competitive odds for moneylines, point spreads, and totals featuring Virginia favorite, the Washington Nationals. However, BetMGM is an official betting partner of the team, operates a retail sportsbook at its National Park stadium, and allows you to bet with exclusive odds boosts on the team. You can also earn chances to visit National Park and other fan experiences through the MGM Rewards program.

💥 Our View: BetMGM is best for odds on MLB Washington Nationals

 


🏀 Best for odds on College Basketball Virginia Tech Hokies: FanDuel vs DraftKings

You can bet on college sports in Virginia, but you cannot bet on in-state teams like the Virginia Tech Hokies. However, FanDuel and DraftKings provide competitive odds for the available college sports markets. FanDuel odds tend to just edge out DraftKings, with particularly generous point spreads on sports like basketball and football.

💥 Our View: FanDuel is best for odds on college basketball

 


🐴 Best for Horse Racing: DraftKings vs FanDuel

To bet on horse racing in Virginia, you need to place pari-mutuel wagers. As this is a different type of betting, most Virginia online sports betting sites don't provide horse racing betting. FanDuel and DraftKings Virginia are two exceptions to this rule.

DraftKings' DK Horse allows you to bet on races across the US and the world, with pre-race and in-running odds available. However, FanDuel's horse racing betting platform is powered by TVG, which provides some of the best horse racing live streaming in the US.

💥 Our View: FanDuel is best for horse racing

 


Why Sign Up For Multiple VA Sports Betting Sites? 

Signing up for multiple Virginia sports betting sites offers several advantages. It provides access to a wider range of betting options, competitive odds, and diverse promotions. Additionally, it allows users to compare and choose the best platforms, maximize bonuses, and take advantage of unique features offered by each site.

📈 Get the best odds

Registering with multiple VA betting sites allows you to compare and secure the best odds. Each platform sets its own odds, so having multiple accounts helps you optimize your potential winnings.

🎁 Get all the promos

Signing up with top Virginia betting sites lets you enjoy a variety of promotions and bonuses. Diversifying your accounts grants you access to a wider range of offers, including sign-up bonuses and ongoing promotions.

🎯 Get a bigger selection of bet types

Multiple sports betting sites in Virginia offer a larger selection of bet types. Exploring different platforms adds excitement and profitability to your sports betting endeavors by embracing a wider variety of betting opportunities.

🔄 Try different brands to see which suits you most

Trying different brands helps you assess factors like user-friendliness, customer support, and payment options. Discover the platform that best suits your preferences for an optimal betting experience.

📝 Different rules cater for different situations

VA betting sites can have different rules and regulations. By registering on multiple platforms, you have the flexibility to select the one that aligns with your individual needs, ensuring an ideal betting site that meets your expectations.

 


The Virginia Sports Betting Landscape

Virginia residents have been able to wager on sports since January 2021. Governor Ralph Northam signed SB 384 and HB 896 to write sports betting into Virginia law in April 2020, and the Virginia Lottery Board had the required infrastructure to launch sports betting nine months later.

Sports betting has been a considerable success in Virginia, and the state is in the top ten for overall sports betting handles in the US. A Betting handle is the total value of bets placed, and legal Virginia sports betting sites have accepted over $10 billion in wagers, generating almost $100 million of revenue in taxes for the state.

As with many other legal US states, FanDuel leads the way in contributing to the betting handle. FanDuel Virginia accepted over $2 billion of sports bets, followed by DraftKings Virginia with over $1 billion.  

Online Sports Betting Culture in Virginia

Virginia sports betting history is limited, with a Virginia resident having only horse racing and the lottery in the state prior to 2018. The Virginia Lottery and pari-mutuel wagering were legalized in 1988, and nothing of note happened until 2019, when Virginia legalized commercial casinos.

Despite the lack of history, recent events have shown a huge appetite for sports betting. Virginia is a top-10 state by betting volume. This could be even bigger as while there are no major league teams in the state, there are plenty of NCAA Division I college Virginia teams. However, betting on in-state college teams is currently prohibited.

Future of Online Sports Betting in Virginia

No legislation to alter the Virginia sports betting market is currently being considered. However, considering the popularity of college sports teams in VA, we expect lawmakers to present a bill to remove the ban on in-state college sports betting.

What's happening in Virginia Neighboring States?

Virginia is surrounded by states with their own tales of sports betting. Let's dive into the sports betting scene in the states neighboring VA.

 


The Benefits of Choosing Virginia Legal Sportsbooks 

To guarantee a safe and secure betting experience, it is essential to choose sportsbooks that are legal in Virginia. These regulated platforms offer numerous advantages compared to unlicensed or offshore operators.

 


Which Sportsbooks Partner with Professional Teams?

There are no major league sports teams in Virginia, so fans tend to follow teams in nearby states. Many of these teams have very strong connections with Virginia. For example, the Washington Commanders' headquarters is in Virginia.

Virginia sports fans usually back Washington teams, and each Washington team is partnered with a sportsbook. If you head to these Virginia sportsbooks, you'll be sure to find odds boosts and special promotions in place for these teams.

 


Exploring Virginia Sports Betting Apps on Mobile

Mobile sports betting apps allow Virginia sports bettors to place a wager at any time from anywhere within VA state lines. Apps are easy to use, responsive, and quick, and even novice bettors can use these apps like experts in no time. The convenience of placing sports bets on the go attracts sports bettors to use apps instead of retail sportsbooks.

 

Virginia SPORTSBOOK APPIOS RATINGANDROID RATINGHIGHLIGHTSDOWNLOAD
📱 DRAFTKINGS APP4.84.6Simple to useDownload Now
📱 FANDUEL APP4.84.7Excellent oddsDownload Now
📱 CAESARS APP4.64.5Stream NFL gamesDownload Now
📱 BETMGM APP4.84.8Range of live streamingDownload Now
📱 WYNNBET APP4.64.2Ease of useDownload Now

 


Guide to Downloading VA Betting Apps on Android

To get started with sports betting in Virginia:

  1. Visit the App Store or download the sportsbook app directly (APK).
  2. Check if the operator has a specific app for Virginia or offers only generic apps.
  3. Tap on the INSTALL button to download the sports betting app.
  4. Agree to the app's Terms and Conditions.
  5. Tap on the app icon on your smartphone's homepage to open it.
  6. You can register for an account through the mobile browser or the app itself.
  7. Complete the registration form and create a username and password.
  8. Log in and upload any required supporting documents if necessary.

 

Ensure that your Android device is running the latest version. The sportsbook will specify the required Android version on its Store page. Typically, Android 5.0 is sufficient, but more advanced sports betting apps may require Android 7.0 or higher.

Downloading the Best Virginia Sportsbook Apps on iOS

To place sports wagers using the latest Apple smartphones in Virginia:

  1. Ensure you have the right operating system (OS) version. Most sportsbooks require iOS 13.0, so check your iPhone or iPad before proceeding.
  2. Visit the iOS App Store and search for the specific mobile sports betting app you want to use. Check if the operator has a Virginia-specific app or only offers generic ones.
  3. Click on the INSTALL button to download the mobile sports betting app.
  4. Agree to the app's Terms and Conditions.
  5. Tap on the app icon on your smartphone's homepage to open it.
  6. Complete the registration form and create a username and password.
  7. Log in to your account and upload any necessary supporting documents, if required.
  8. Note: Steps may vary slightly, so carefully follow the app's instructions during installation and registration.

 

Benefits & Downfalls of Virginia Sportsbook Apps vs Desktop

Pros and Cons:

Enhanced usability and accessibility
Availability of more betting bonuses
Convenient and easy mobile payments
Enjoy sports streaming on the go
No interruptions with the option to use WiFi or data
Requires storage space on your phone
Smaller screen compared to desktop or TV
Possible GPS or geolocation issues

VA Promotions and Sign-Up Bonuses

In Virginia sports betting, promotions and sign-up bonuses play a crucial role. They offer incentives for new Virginia users and can greatly enhance your initial bankroll. Virginia sports betting promos encompass a range of bonuses, including deposit matches and bonus bets.

Returning members can also benefit from ongoing bonuses, such as loyalty rewards, reload bonuses, and exclusive promotions for special events. By leveraging these offers, you can optimize your betting experience and make the most out of your wagers.

How to Claim Virginia Online Sports Betting Bonuses

 


Types of Bets Available in Virginia

Virginia sports betting offers a variety of bet types that provide diverse wagering options for games and events. Each bet type has its own unique characteristics. Here are several common bet types you can enjoy:

The Most Popular Sports Teams to bet on in Virginia

The best Virginia sportsbooks will offer 20+ different sports to wager on, including the NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB all the way through to niche sports like snooker and cricket. There are no major league sports teams in Virginia, but there are no shortage of teams to root for in neighboring states. Teams from the Washington D.C. area dominate the Virginia sports fandom due to the close proximity of D.C. to the Old Dominion.

How to Start betting in Virginia

To start sports betting in Virginia:

  1. Choose a licensed sportsbook for a safe experience.
  2. Create an account and claim the welcome bonus.
  3. Verify your identity for security.
  4. Deposit funds using various payment methods.
  5. Understand and take advantage of bonuses and promotions.
  6. Explore the different betting markets available.
  7. Place your bets responsibly and enjoy the process.

 


Banking options at Virginia Sportsbooks

In Virginia, sportsbooks offer various banking options for deposits and withdrawals.

Deposits:

Withdrawals:

Fees and Considerations:

Taking fees and other considerations into account is vital when choosing banking options.

Understanding Virginia Sports Betting Laws

Virginia sports betting launched in January 2021, nine months after Governor Ralph Northam legalized sports wagering. Virginia lawmakers moved quickly after sports betting in the Commonwealth became a possibility, first passing SB 1126 in 2019, allowing casinos to be built in the state. This was followed by SB 384 and HB 896, which brought legal sports betting. The bills legalized online and retail sports betting, with four retail licenses and up to 18 online sports betting licenses available.

You can bet anywhere in Virginia with a licensed sportsbook as long as you are over 21 and using a licensed betting site. To prove your age, you will need to submit a copy of your photo ID to your Virginia online sports betting site. You will also need to enable your geolocation services on your device to prove you are playing within Virginia state lines.

Additionally, playing at a Virginia online casino is still not allowed.

Virginia Sports Betting Timeline

  • The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA) is overturned by the US Supreme Court. This landmark ruling allows individual states to determine whether sports betting should be legal in that state and ends Nevada’' effective monopoly on sports betting.

  • The Virginia Senate passes SB 1126, which allows for up to five casinos to open in the state. The five biggest cities in Virginia hold a referendum to determine whether a casino should be constructed. Voters in Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth vote to build a casino, with Richmond voters deciding not to approve a gambling location.

  • The House and Senate pass SB 384 and HB 896, sending the bills to the desk of Governor Ralph Northam for signing. These bills will legalize Virginia sports betting.

  • Instead of signing the bills, Gov. Northam amends the terms of the bills. They are passed back to the House and Senate for approval.

  • Both SB 384 and HB 896 are approved, legalizing Virginia sports betting sites.

  • FanDuel Sportsbook accepts the first legal sports bet in Virginia.

  • Attempts are made to legalize in-state sports betting on college sports. The bills gain little momentum and die on the floor.

  • BetRivers Sportsbook in Rivers Casino Portsmouth is the first of the retail sportsbooks in Virginia to accept an in-person sports bet.

What are the VA Sports Betting Licenses?

Virginia sports betting licenses are available for online sportsbooks and retail sportsbooks. One sports betting license is available for each of the four casinos in the state. There are up to 18 online sportsbook licenses available. 15 of the 18 licenses have now been allocated. A sportsbook license costs an initial fee of $250,000, with a renewal fee of $200,000, due every three years. There are no professional sports teams in Virginia, but there is an option available for a professional sports team to operate a sportsbook license if a franchise moves to Virginia.

 


The Role of the Virginia Sports Betting Regulator

The Virginia Lottery Board oversees sports betting in Old Dominion. The Board's responsibilities include issuing sports betting licenses, establishing the rules and regulations around sports betting, and ensuring that these rules are followed. The panel of seven board members assesses all applications submitted to the Virginia Lottery Board. The Board will determine whether the applicant is a fit and proper person to be issued a Virginia sportsbook license.

 


List of Virginia Important Betting Regulation Resources

SB 384 is the bill that legalized sports betting in Virginia. Note that HB 896 is identical to SB 384. The text summary sets out the key items to note, including the fees charged, prohibited sports and events, and tax rates charged.

Events on which betting is prohibited clearly sets out what events are not legal to bet on in Virginia. High school sports, prop bets on college sports, and bets on Virginia college teams are all prohibited.

Multiple organizations provide support for problem gamblers in Virginia. The Virginia Council on Problem Gambling and The Virginia Lottery both provide problem gamblers and their families with support and resources to tackle problem gambling and promote responsible gambling.

The Virginia Lottery Board regulates all sports betting activities in the state, and the Board's website provides a comprehensive guide to all activities in Virginia.

 


Virginia Sports Betting Taxes

Virginia shares a border with five states and the District of Columbia. All five states offer some form of legal sports betting or will do soon. Kentucky has legalized sports betting, with online sportsbooks due to launch in December 2023. North Carolina offers retail sports betting in three locations, but online sports betting is due to launch in early-2024. Tennessee, West Virginia, and Maryland all offer state-wide online sports betting similar to that offered by Virginia. Tennessee restricts in-state college betting, but West Virginia and Maryland have no such restrictions in place.

 


Virginia Sports Betting Market vs Neighboring States

Virginia shares a border with five states and the District of Columbia. All five states offer some form of legal sports betting or will do soon. Kentucky has legalized sports betting, with online sportsbooks due to launch in December 2023. North Carolina offers retail sports betting in three locations, but online sports betting is due to launch in early-2024. Tennessee, West Virginia, and Maryland all offer state-wide online sports betting similar to that offered by Virginia. Tennessee restricts in-state college betting, but West Virginia and Maryland have no such restrictions in place.

 


Prohibited Wagers in Virginia

College sports in Virginia are huge, with the state playing host to 14 Division I programs. Unfortunately for bettors, betting on in-state college sports in Virginia is prohibited, so you will need to head to neighboring Tennessee, West Virginia, or Maryland if you want to bet on Virginia sports teams. All prop bets on college sports are prohibited. As with all states where sports betting is legal, betting on high school sports is illegal.

 


Where can I bet on sports in Virginia

Historically there have been no casinos in Virginia, but a law passed in 2019 allowed the construction of these gambling locations in four VA cities. These land-based casinos are allowed to operate retail sportsbooks.

Rivers Casino was the first casino to open in VA, with BetRivers Sportsbook launching there to become the first retail sportsbook in Virginia in January 2023.

Retail SportsbookAddressKiosks
Hard Rock Sportsbook500 Gate City Hwy, Bristol, VA 2420119
Caesars1100 W. Main Street, Danville, VA 24541Opening 2024
Headwaters Resort & Casino (Sportsbook TBC)Harbor Park, Norfolk, VA 23510Opening 2024
BetRivers SportsbookI264, Victory Blvd, Portsmouth, VA 2370133

 


Retail Sports Betting vs. Mobile Sports Betting

There are clear advantages and disadvantages to both retail sports betting and mobile sports betting. Mobile betting offers the convenience of placing wagers when you want without having to travel anywhere (as long as you are within VA state lines). We also like the cash out facility available with online sportsbooks in Virginia. On the other hand, retail sportsbooks offer instant payouts, whereas mobile sports betting takes 2-5 days for payouts to be processed. We’ve compiled a list of the key pros and cons below.

Virginia Retail Sports BettingVirginia Online Sports Betting
❌ Bound by specific operating hours and requirement of physical presence✔️ 24/7 Accessibility: Bet anytime, anywhere using your mobile device
❌ Typically offer lower odds✔️ Compare odds: Assess and select the most advantageous choices
❌ Limited market coverage✔️ Potential for broader market coverage
✔️ Potential for comps or loyalty rewards✔️ More Betting Bonuses available online
✔️ Immediate payouts without any fees❌ Withdrawals may take 1-7 days, and fees may apply
❌ Limited privacy❌ Payment records may be visible on statements

Responsible Gambling 

Virginia betting sites offer several different tools to help customers gamble responsibly. Customers can take time outs and impose deposit and bet limits to help tackle problem gambling. The Virginia Lottery Board ensures that all licensed sportsbooks offer responsible gambling tools as Virginia sports betting law dictates.

Virginia Sportsbook Legal Overview Summary

Sports betting has been legal in Virginia since Governor Ralph Northam signed HB 896 and SB 384 on April 22, 2020. Online sportsbooks in Virginia launched nine months later on January 21, 2021, and Virginia now boasts 15 legal online sports betting sites. Retail sports betting is also legal, with two casino sportsbooks available and another two under construction.

 


Online Sports Betting Virginia: Final Thoughts

Online sports betting in Virginia has been operational since January 2021, and 15 online sportsbooks are available to use in Old Dominion. We've picked out some of the top platforms and highlighted how each performs compared to the others so you can select the most suitable platform for you. Click the links on this page to sign up with the best Virginia sports betting sites and claim generous welcome bonuses.

Virginia Sports Betting FAQs

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Can I use FanDuel sportsbook in Virginia?

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Is DraftKings sportsbook available in Virginia?

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