Betting Site & App Reviews, NFL Betting, US Betting Legislation
Experience
Shannon Lane is a sports betting expert and reviewer at Gambling.com with years of experience in audience strategy, writing, and editing at major sports media outlets in the U.S.
We’ve selected the best Virginia sports betting sites. We've compared and chosen the top online VA sportsbooks so that you can choose the most suitable platform for you.
Must be 21+ to participate (18+ in KY). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO, IL, IA, KY, KS, LA, MD, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA). Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ). Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). CALL 1-877-770-STOP (LA). Must be present in LA (select parishes). Licensee partner Amelia Belle Casino. Deposit required. Paid in Bonus Bets. Bets wager excluded from returns. New Customer only. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply.
Best in customer support, user feedback, and live betting
Cutting-edge live features
Razor-sharp odds
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
31
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Cash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
Yes
First Bet Offer
Yes
bet365 delivers top-tier pricing, unmatched global markets, and real-time updates through Watch & Bet and live audio commentary.
21+. New customers in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, or WY (excludes NY). Apply promotion in bet slip and place a $1+ cash wager (min odds -500) daily for 10 consecutive days starting day of account creation. Wager must settle as a loss to earn FanCash equal to losing amount (max $200 FanCash/day). FanCash issued under this promotion expires at 11:59 p.m. ET 7 days from issuance. Terms, incl. FanCash terms, apply—see Fanatics Sportsbook app. Gambling Problem? Call or Text 1-800-GAMBLER, 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-888-532-3500 (VA).
Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US) Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR) 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. This promotional offer is not available in DC, Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit http://gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit http://ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $200 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Token expires 1/11/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: http://sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos . Ends 1/4/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs Apply. Play Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO, DC, IL, KY, LA, MD, MS, NJ, OH, PA, VA, WV, WY), Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS), 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-270-7117 for confidential help (MI), Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. (NC), Call or Text 800-889-9789 (TN).
Rated best site UX & mobile app
Interface built for every type of bettor
Clean live betting with seamless navigation
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
18
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Cash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
Yes
First Bet Offer
Yes
FanDuel offers the most intuitive, reliable, and rewarding sportsbook experience for smart bettors anywhere in the U.S.
21+ and physically present in AZ, NJ, TN or VA to play. Qualifying bet must be $5+. Bonus Bets will be split up into 6 (six) $25 Bonus Bets for a total of $150, and will expire 7 days after issuance. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? NJ and VA: Call 1-800-GAMBLER. AZ: all 1-800-NEXT-STEP or Text NEXTSTEP to 53342. TN: Call or text the Tennessee REDLINE: 1-800-889-9789.
Hard Rock Rewards Redeemable in Cafes & Casinos
Mobile App Uses Accertify for Security
Supports Payments with Nuvei
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
not required
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
10
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Cash Out
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.
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs Apply. Play Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO, DC, IL, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NJ, OH, PA, VA, WV, WY), Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS), 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-270-7117 for confidential help (MI), Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. (NC), Call or Text 800-889-9789 (TN).
Best-in-class sports & betting markets
Unique promotions that keep you up-to-date
Smooth, flexible user experience with in-app streaming
Promo Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
GAMBLING
Live Streaming
Is there live streaming of sporting events?
Yes
In-Play Betting
The number of sports with in-play betting available
8
Bet Builder
Can you create your own personalised bets?
Yes
Cash Out
Can you cash out of bets before an event has finished?
Yes
First Bet Offer
Yes
Penn Entertainment's latest rebrand is perfect for die-hard sports fans who want to test their knowledge on their betslips.
Online sports betting in Virginia has been operational since January 2021.
Up to 18 online and four retail sportsbook licenses are available in Virginia. The Virginia Lottery Board regulates all gambling activity, and you can place a bet if you are 21 years old and physically located in Virginia. You can bet on professional and college sports, but bets on in-state college teams are restricted.
Our in-depth reviews will give you the lowdown on online sports betting in Virginia. Virginia bettors may need help choosing the right sportsbook with many available choices. We will compare the best Virginia betting platforms so you can select the Virginia betting site that is right for you. We leave no stone unturned, comparing bonuses, apps, the range of sports, payment methods, and more.
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs Apply. Play Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO, DC, IL, KY, LA, MD, MS, NJ, OH, PA, VA, WV, WY), Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS), 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-270-7117 for confidential help (MI), Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov. (NC), Call or Text 800-889-9789 (TN).
Launch Date
Jan. 21, 2021
Licensing Partner
Washington Commanders
Retail Locations
None
As with many other legal U.S. 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.
FanDuel Sportsbook is incredibly welcoming to beginners, with guides on how to bet on particular sports. FanDuel also partners with major leagues and sports franchises, offering frequent odds boosts. FanDuel has a betting partnership with the Washington Commanders, so you'll frequently find boosted odds on the team. The Washington Capitals are the most popular NHL team in VA, and FanDuel is an official betting partner of the NHL.
Our Expert User Reviews
Shannon Lane
We believe FanDuel is one of the quickest sportsbooks regarding withdrawal processing times, due to slightly faster withdrawals to e-wallets, which are often instant. Most payment requests are completed in 48 hours.
FanDuel simplifies the process of placing your first sports bet online, thanks to its useful "how-to" guides for new bettors. It has a layout that makes finding your betting markets.
Peter Mooney
FanDuel provides competitive odds for all sports. FanDuel odds tend to edge out DraftKings, with particularly generous point spreads on sports like basketball and football.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Top-rated site & app product
Competitive odds
Strong betting market depth
Cons
Occasional withdrawal issues reported
Some promos can be lacking in value when compared to other sportsbooks
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit http://gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit http://ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $200 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Token expires 1/11/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: http://sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos . Ends 1/4/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.
Launch Date
Jan. 24, 2021
Licensing Partner
None
Retail Locations
None
DraftKings Virginia has accepted over $1 billion of sports bets. DraftKings is the NFL's official betting partner and offers some of the most generous odds on the league in the U.S.
Our Expert User Reviews
Shannon Lane
DraftKings makes betting on the move easy for even the newest sports bettor, thanks to its simple user interface and DK Social feature. The site is 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.
Peter Mooney
DraftKings is a standout sportsbook that offers a great welcome bonus. Thanks to its live-streaming options, it has one of the best betting site experiences in Virginia. It's ridiculously easy to place bets when live streaming and has consistently good odds.
Must be 21+ to participate (18+ in KY). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO, IL, IA, KY, KS, LA, MD, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA). Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ). Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). CALL 1-877-770-STOP (LA). Must be present in LA (select parishes). Licensee partner Amelia Belle Casino. Deposit required. Paid in Bonus Bets. Bets wager excluded from returns. New Customer only. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply.
Launch Date
Jan. 31, 2023
Licensing Partner
Washington Commanders
Retail Locations
None
One of the newer Virginia online sportsbooks, bet365 provides a wide choice of individual and team markets. It offers early payout options on most major in-season American sports and soccer matches. Bettors can also find boosts tied to in-season sports like football and baseball.
bet365 partnered with the Washington Commanders for its launch in Virginia, becoming the team's official sports betting partner.
Our Expert User Reviews
Shannon Lane
What really sets bet365 apart is its massive variety of sports and markets. Whether it’s NFL, NBA, MLB, college football, or niche sports like darts or Aussie Rules, they’ve got it covered—usually with some of the most competitive odds.
The live betting experience is top-tier, with instant updates and even live streaming for many games and matches (especially soccer and tennis). It’s great being able to watch and bet simultaneously without switching apps.
Peter Mooney
bet365 in Virginia delivers one of the best online betting experiences—fast, fair, and feature-rich, with incredible market coverage and dependable payouts. It’s perfect for casual players and serious bettors who want consistent value and smooth functionality.
Everything updates in real time with the bet365 ticker, and I love how “MyBet365” keeps track of all my wins and losses so I can actually see where I’m doing well.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Tons of ongoing promos, including early payouts by sport
Good range of fast deposit and withdrawal options
Reliable live streaming
Huge variety of betting markets
Layout is clean, fast, and easy to navigate
Excellent customer support in Virginia
Cons
No loyalty or referral program
Design can feel plain compared to other VA sportsbooks
Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US) Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR) 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. This promotional offer is not available in DC, Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.
Launch Date
Jan. 27, 2021
Licensing Partner
None
Retail Locations
None
BetMGM is an official betting partner of the Washington Nationals and operates a retail sportsbook at National Park, just over the border in Washington, D.C. You can also earn chances to visit National Park and other fan experiences through the MGM Rewards program, which is BetMGM's long-established loyalty scheme.
BetMGM provides competitive odds for moneylines, point spreads, and totals.
Our Expert User Reviews
Peter Mooney
BetMGM is a standout sportsbook for its generous welcome bonus and great site design. I found BetMGM to have one of the quickest withdrawal processing times among Virginia sportsbooks, as well.
Shannon Lane
If you’re into parlays, this is basically paradise. The Easy Parlay page and tons of pre-built SGPs make it easy to build slips, and the Edit My Bet feature is clutch when you want to tweak a parlay leg.
There’s some live streaming and a nice stream of stats/graphics, though coverage of the most significant U.S. leagues isn’t always as broad as rivals. It’s not perfect: the app can sometimes feel sluggish, and support is hit-or-miss.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Diverse betting markets with plenty of depth
Great live chat support for Virginia users
Generous welcome and referral bonuses
Parlay-friendly tools
Earn MGM Rewards with every bet
Cons
Odds are not always as competitive as other VA sportsbooks
21+. New customers in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, or WY (excludes NY). Apply promotion in bet slip and place a $1+ cash wager (min odds -500) daily for 10 consecutive days starting day of account creation. Wager must settle as a loss to earn FanCash equal to losing amount (max $200 FanCash/day). FanCash issued under this promotion expires at 11:59 p.m. ET 7 days from issuance. Terms, incl. FanCash terms, apply—see Fanatics Sportsbook app. Gambling Problem? Call or Text 1-800-GAMBLER, 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-888-532-3500 (VA).
Launch Date
Nov. 21, 2023
Licensing Partner
Colonial Downs racetrack
Retail Locations
None
One of the newest Virginia sportsbooks, Fanatics Sportsbook, entered the market in November 2023 after purchasing PointsBet's U.S. operations. It's worth noting that Fanatics does not have a desktop betting site; it's only available as an app.
Key features include early cashouts, live betting, and mobile live streaming services. The innovative FanCash Rewards program allows you to earn points toward merchandise and bonus bets.
Our Expert User Reviews
Shannon Lane
We love Fanatics' look and feel (think of your favorite social media feed, and you'll get a good idea of how it feels to use Fanatics).
The app can be a little glitchy at times, but that's to be expected for a product that's still growing. It can get cluttered as you scroll, but navigation’s still smooth.
If you value sleek UX, public-betting insight, and merch-backed rewards, it’s a great add. You'll feel the gaps if you need desktop betting, ultra-deep markets, or phone support.
Peter Mooney
Fanatics generally covers most mainstream markets, though it doesn’t go as deep as DraftKings or FanDuel and is missing a few niche sports. But the betting menus are legit, and live betting is strong. The odds are usually good, but they may not be the very best you can find in Virginia.
Promos are decent but not nonstop. The differentiator is FanCash; you earn up to 10% back that you can redeem for bonus bets or Fanatics merch. That’s a fun twist, especially if you’re eyeing team gear.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Innovative win-or-lose rewards program with FanCash
Extensive range of bet types
Early cashouts available
Excellent live betting & streaming features, including game tracker
Cons
Platform can sometimes experience glitches & lags
Doesn't yet have the same market depth as other longer-running brands
21+ and physically present in AZ, NJ, TN or VA to play. Qualifying bet must be $5+. Bonus Bets will be split up into 6 (six) $25 Bonus Bets for a total of $150, and will expire 7 days after issuance. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? NJ and VA: Call 1-800-GAMBLER. AZ: all 1-800-NEXT-STEP or Text NEXTSTEP to 53342. TN: Call or text the Tennessee REDLINE: 1-800-889-9789.
Launch Date
May 16, 2022
Licensing Partner
Hard Rock Casino Bristol
Retail Locations
Hard Rock Casino Bristol
Hard Rock Bet Virginia launched in 2022. In terms of sports and markets, It covers all the big ones plus a surprising number of niche markets.
Our Expert User Reviews
Shannon Lane
Recognizing the competitive market, Hard Rock Bet invested significantly in its app, focusing on ease of use and speed. The app is designed with great data density to reduce scrolling and enhance features like its live betting tool. The live betting setup is particularly good.
The sportsbook offers dozens of markets and sports to bet on, many of which can be combined using its Same Game Parlay features for multi-sport parlays. The Same Game Parlay Max feature allows users to mix and match across markets and sports to create highly customized Same-Game Parlays.
While the brand has received strong customer support, it lacks some features to compete with larger operators.
Peter Mooney
Hard Rock’s customer support is easily one of its standout features. The live chat is super responsive and helpful; I connected with a real person within minutes, and they handled my question quickly and politely.
There are occasional parlay boosts and a few event-based bonuses, but nothing like the big promo rotations at DraftKings or FanDuel.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Customer service is responsive, with many ways to contact them
Wide range of markets to bet on
Fast navigation & withdrawal times
Great customer support in Virginia
Cons
Lacking in the features that larger operators have
The Caesars Sportsbook app is the perfect way to place bets while you are on the move. Caesars provides competitive odds for moneylines, point spreads, and totals.
All players join Caesars Rewards for free. With this, you can earn points for betting and use them to redeem online bonuses or real-life perks.
Our Expert User Reviews
Shannon Lane
Caesars simplifies placing your first sports bet online. Its layout makes finding your betting markets easy.
Caesars Rewards edges out other loyalty rewards programs in the state because you can see and use your Caesars Rewards points in person at Caesars Virginia.
Peter Mooney
Caesars is the best for Washington Wizards fans as the team's official betting partner. 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.
Other VA sportsbooks can't compare to the options for the Capitals at Caesars Sportsbook Virginia. Caesars operates a retail sportsbook at Capital One Arena as the franchise's official betting partner, providing plenty of fan benefits and generous odds for Capitals games.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Caesars Rewards program allows you to cash in at Caesars Virginia casino
Sporttrade is the only true betting exchange model available to Virginia bettors. It lets users buy and sell bets like stocks rather than wager against the house.
Our Expert User Reviews
Shannon Lane
Since you're betting against other players, Sporttrade usually offers tighter margins and better odds than traditional sportsbooks.
Sporttrade in Virginia offers a fresh and fair alternative to traditional sportsbooks, ideal for players who value exchange-style transparency and dynamic odds.
Peter Mooney
Its real-time updates make in-play betting one of Sporttrade’s best features. However, unlike other Virginia sportsbooks, Sporttrade does not offer live streaming or extra live-betting features.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Reduced vig on odds
Great for live betting
Comprehensive, responsive customer support in Virginia
Cons
Limited in promos, market ranges, live streaming, and payment types
More Great Virginia Sportsbooks to Explore
VA Sportsbook
Retail Location
Bally Bet
None
Betr
None
BetRivers
Rivers Casino Portsmouth
ESPN BET
None
How We Rate & Review Virginia Sportsbooks
Choosing legal sportsbooks in Virginia is essential to guaranteeing a safe and secure betting experience. These regulated platforms offer numerous advantages compared to unlicensed or offshore operators. By opting for legal Virginia sportsbooks, bettors can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that their funds are secure and their wagers are placed within a regulated environment.
That's why we first confirm that every recommended sportsbook is licensed to operate in Virginia.
We compare each one's betting options, competitive odds, diverse promotions, features, user-friendliness, customer support, and payment options. After our evaluations, we review each sportsbook on a scale from 1 to 10 across 10 trust factors to create the above grades. Some of these trust factors include:
Sports & Markets
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. We explore platforms that add excitement and profitability to your sports betting endeavors by embracing various betting opportunities.
Promotions
Sports betting, promotions, and sign-up bonuses are crucial in Virginia. All sportsbook 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.
We sign up for every available welcome offer and evaluate ongoing promotions to ensure you're getting good value.
Payments
While deposits to the best Virginia sportsbooks are instant, withdrawals can take several days. Legal sportsbooks in Virginia should provide reliable payouts, alleviating concerns about withheld winnings.
Customer Support
Legal sportsbooks in Virginia should offer robust customer support. We personally test all available methods to ensure they are helpful and responsive.
Reputation & User Feedback
Legal VA sportsbooks prioritize consumer protection by following strict regulations and ensuring transparency and fair play. We read trusted sources and honest user feedback to assess how the sportsbook is received.
Odds Value
We compare VA betting sites to find the best betting odds on the markets we know bettors care about.
How to Sign Up for Virginia Sportsbooks
To start sports betting in Virginia:
Choose a licensed sportsbook for a safe experience.
Create an account and claim the welcome bonus.
Verify your identity for security.
Deposit funds using your favorite payment method. Meet the minimum qualifying deposit requirement to activate your bonus and unlock its benefits.
Once you have fulfilled all the requirements, your bonus should be promptly credited to your account. Understand and take advantage of bonuses and promotions.
Explore the different betting markets available.
Place your bets responsibly and enjoy the process. If your bonus is tied to a specific bet, ensure that you place your sports wager at the required qualifying odds.
Online and retail sports betting is legal in Virginia. However, the state's sports betting history is limited, with a Virginia resident having only had horse racing and the lottery in the state before 2018.
Sports betting has been a considerable success in Virginia, and the state is in the top 10 overall sports betting handles in the U.S. Legal Virginia sports betting sites have accepted over $10 billion in wagers, generating almost $100 million in taxes for the state.
Virginia Louisiana Sports Betting Laws & Legislation
SB 384 and its House counterpart, HB 896, legalized online and retail sports betting in Virginia in 2020. Four retail licenses and up to 18 online sports betting licenses are available. The tax rate is set at 15%.
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.
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 Virginia Lottery Board oversees sports betting in Old Dominion. Its responsibilities include issuing sports betting licenses, establishing the rules and regulations surrounding sports betting, and ensuring these rules are followed. The panel of seven board members assesses all applications submitted to the Board. The Board will determine whether the applicant is a fit and proper person to be issued a Virginia sportsbook license.
You can bet anywhere in Virginia with a licensed sportsbook if you are over 21 and using a licensed betting site. To prove your age, you must 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.
High school sports, prop bets on college sports, and bets on in-state Virginia college teams are all prohibited.
Comparing Virginia's Sports Betting to Other States
Virginia shares a border with five states and the District of Columbia. All offer some form of legal sports betting. Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland all offer state-wide online sports betting similar to Virginia's.
You can bet on any college betting markets in Kentucky, North Carolina, and Maryland, but prop bets are similarly prohibited in Tennessee and West Virginia. Washington, D.C., does not allow bets on in-district college teams.
Virginia Sports Betting Timeline: How We Got Here
Aug. 14, 2025: Developers Boyd Gaming and the Pamunkey Indian Tribe announce that the Norfolk casino's temporary predecessor, the Interim Gaming Hall, will open in November 2025.
Feb. 6, 2024: The Virginia Senate Finance and Appropriations committee rejects legislation that would have allowed a voting referendum on building a casino in Fairfax County.
May 15, 2023: Danville Casino (now Caesars Virginia) opens its temporary facility.
July 8, 2022: Bristol Casino opens in Virginia as the first retail casino. It includes a Hard Rock retail sportsbook.
Jan. 21, 2021: Virginia sports betting launches online.
Oct. 31, 2020: The operator licensing application window closes.
April 22, 2020: Gov. Ralph Northam signs SB 384 and HB 896, concurrent bills legalizing sports betting under the direction of the Virginia Lottery, into law.
March 22, 2019:Senate Bill 1126, allowing casinos to be built in the state, is signed into law.
Hard Rock Sportsbook at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol
500 Gate City Hwy.
Bristol, VA 24201
2 betting windows, 11 betting kiosks
Popular Sports & Teams to Bet on in Virginia
The best Virginia sportsbooks offer 20+ sports to wager on, including the NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB, as well as niche sports like snooker and cricket. Due to D.C.'s proximity to the Old Dominion, teams from the Washington, D.C., area dominate the Virginia sports fandom.
You can bet on college sports in Virginia, but you cannot bet on in-state teams like the Virginia Tech Hokies.
Football
NFL Teams: Washington Commanders
Prominent College Football Teams: Liberty Flames, James Madison Dukes, Virginia Tech Hokies
The Commanders have a rich history, but have faced struggles in recent years. The three-time Super Bowl winners are partners with Fanatics Sportsbook. FedEx Field was the first NFL Stadium to house a retail sportsbook when Fanatics opened its first U.S. sportsbook there in January 2023. The Commanders hold training camps yearly in Richmond and are headquartered in Virginia.
Basketball
NBA Teams: Washington Wizards
Prominent College Basketball Teams: William & Mary Tribe, Richmond Spiders, Virginia Cavaliers
Caesars Sportsbook is a sports betting partner with the Washington Wizards, and you can place bets on hundreds of different NBA markets, including moneylines, spreads, and same-game parlays. Watch out for odds boosts on the Wizards as the team tries to add to the single NBA Championship earned in 1978.
Richmond Raceway is a 0.75-mile (¾ mile) D-shaped asphalt track. Over the years, it hosted major NASCAR events, including the Cup Series “Cook Out 400” and previously the “Toyota Owners 400” spring race.
Martinsville Speedway is a 0.526-mile (approx. half-mile) oval. It is among NASCAR’s oldest tracks and the only one from the original 1949 NASCAR schedule that is still hosting Cup races.
Alternatives to Legal Sports Betting in Virginia
Lottery: The Virginia Lottery operates draw games, scratchers, and online lottery ticket sales.
Horse Racing & Pari-Mutuel Wagering: Licensed racetracks and off-track betting facilities may carry pari-mutuel wagers on horse races.
Charitable Gaming: Under regulated “charitable gaming” rules, non-profit organizations may conduct certain games of chance, such as bingo or raffles.
Land-Based Casinos: Under legislation passed in 2020, casino gaming, including slots and table games, has been authorized in specific localities.
Virginia betting sites offer several different tools to help customers gamble responsibly. To tackle problem gambling, customers can take timeouts and impose deposit and bet limits.
The Virginia Lottery Board ensures that all licensed sportsbooks offer responsible gambling tools as Virginia sports betting law dictates.
Virginia Sports Betting FAQs
Can I bet on sports in Virginia?
Yes. You can bet on sports in Virginia. Sports betting launched in Virginia in January 2021 after Governor Ralph Northam signed SB 384 and HB 896.
Can I use FanDuel Dportsbook in Virginia?
Yes, FanDuel is one of the sportsbooks that the Virginia Lottery Board licenses. Virginia sports bettors can wager with FanDuel or choose to enter Daily Fantasy Sports tournaments.
Is DraftKings Dportsbook available in Virginia?
Yes. DraftKings is one of the most popular sportsbooks in Virginia. When sports betting was legalized in Old Dominion, DraftKings was one of the first Virginia sports betting sites.
What is the tax on sports betting in Virginia?
Sportsbooks are charged 15% of the generated sports betting revenue. Individuals pay taxes up to 24% on sports betting winnings to the IRS, and state income tax is also payable between 2% and 5.75%.