Washington D.C. Online Sports Betting Guide – Compare the Best Washington D.C. Sportsbooks

Online and retail sports betting is available in the District of Columbia but with some restrictions. Retail sportsbooks are available at four sites and kiosks at several lottery retailers. Online betting is permitted anywhere in the District using the GambetDC app, operated by DC Lottery, but only within two blocks of a retail facility for other sportsbooks.

If you want to bet on sports in D.C., check out our expert guide. It includes an overview of the best Washington D.C. online sports betting sites, DC sports betting law, how to register and claim a generous welcome bonus, and answers to some frequently asked questions.

Best Virginia Sportsbooks for Each Bettor Type

Latest Washington D.C. Online Sports Betting Updates

• March 15, 2023 – GambetDC online and in-person betting handle grows $4.4 million from October to December, according to DC Office of Lottery and Gaming (OLG) figures.
• February 10, 2023 – GambetDC takes $6.4 million in handle in January, with commercial operators taking $12.2 million.
• January 20, 2023 – Washington Commanders, in neighboring Maryland, launch the first retail sportsbook at an NFL stadium as Fanatics Maryland Sportsbook opens.
• November 17, 2022 – GambetDC Sportsbook takes $7.5 million in betting handle in October, compared to $17.3 million at the commercial D.C. online sports betting sites.

Best Washington D.C. Online Sports Betting Sites Reviewed

The D.C. online sports betting market is unique, with three major sports betting operators active, two of which are limited to small chunks of the city due to geo-restricted betting laws. Our highly experienced gambling experts have analyzed the best online sportsbooks and provided reviews on each.

1. Caesars – Bet on NBA and NHL Games at Capital One Arena

• Website: https://caesars.com/sportsbook-and-casino/wa/
• Payout time: 1-3 business days
• Established: 1937
• Headquarters: Las Vegas, NV

Our Verdict (9.4/10)

An operator of land-based casinos and sportsbooks in the US and other countries, Caesars Entertainment launched its Washington D.C. sports betting site in May 2021. Caesars is an official jersey partner with the Washington Capitals and Wizards, which spells excellent odds and promotions if you want to wager on their home team during NHL and NBA seasons.

Caesars’ super responsive mobile app allows users to use features like early cashout, same-game parlays, expanded in-play betting, and odd boosts. It runs a retail sportsbook in the Capital One Arena, home to the NHL’s Washington Capitals and the NBA’s Washington Wizards. While Bettors can manage their accounts on Caesars’ mobile app from anywhere, they can only make wagers within a two-block radius of the arena.

Caesars accepts common payment methods, including debit/credit cards, PayPal, Play+ Card, PayNearMe, and ACH. They have a stand-by customer support team available 24/7 via phone, email, and live chat.

Our review team found that Caesars D.C. didn’t offer a welcome bonus to new customers, which disappointed us. Bettors can win cash prizes and match tickets through Caesar Rewards, the sportsbook’s loyalty program.

Caesars D.C. Sportsbook provides a solid app with a great depth of experience, excellent odds, and varied betting markets. Although it could offer a sign-up bonus and more promotions for existing players, it remains a top choice for D.C. bettors and sports enthusiasts.

Sections Overview

• Bonuses: N/A
• Desktop Experience: 9.2/10
• Mobile Experience: 8.5/10
• Registration Process: 9.5/10
• Account Verification: 9.5/10
• Payment Methods: 8.5/10
• Sportsbook: 8.5/10
• Customer Support: 9.5/10
• Responsible Gambling: 8.9/10

Note: Our review team currently found no welcome bonus at Caesars Sportsbook DC, but this may be temporary. Click any link to Caesars on this page and check its promotions page to see the latest Caesars D.C. bonus information.

Caesars Bonus & Promotions

2. BetMGM – Official Sports Betting Partner of Washington Nationals

• Website: sports.dc.betmgm.com/
• Payout time: 2-5 business days
• Established: 1986
• Headquarters: Las Vegas, NV

Our Verdict (9.3/10)

BetMGM is an online sportsbook operated by the global luxury hospitality powerhouse MGM Resorts International. The industry-leading sportsbook debuted in Washington D.C., in June 2021 through its partnership with Washington Nationals, making BetMGM the only mobile sports betting app available at Nationals Park.

BetMGM offers one of the most polished and user-friendly mobile apps in the sports betting industry. D.C. bettors will find its website’s search functionality, speed, and design extremely enjoyable as they wager on over 20 major sports. You can only make wagers on the app within a two-block radius of Nationals Park, which hosts a retail facility.

D.C. bettors can fund their BetMGM sportsbook account using credit/debit cards, eChecks, PayPal, PayNearMe, and online banking. The BetMGM website features an FAQs section for users, and its support team is readily accessible through email and live chat. Players also qualify for free bets and exciting perks through the MGM Rewards loyalty program.

BetMGM Sportsbook remains the foremost choice for bettors who want a premium betting experience in Washington D.C., despite its geo-restrictions. However, one improvement our review team would like to see is the sportsbook offering more sport-specific promotions and bonuses in D.C.

Sections Overview

• Bonuses: 7.2/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.1/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.0/10
• Registration Process: 10.0/10
• Account Verification: 8.6/10
• Payment Methods: 9.2/10
• Sportsbook: 9.2/10
• Customer Support: 9.5/10
• Responsible Gambling: 10.0/10

BetMGM Bonus & Promotions

3. GambetDC – D.C.’s District-wide sports betting app

• Website: https://www.techopedia.com/visit/gambetdc-sports-WashingtonDC/
• Payout time: 3-5 business days
• Established: 2020
• Headquarters: Washington, DC

Our Verdict (8.4/10)

GambetDC is the official sports betting platform of the D.C. Lottery and the only sportsbook permitted to offer district-wide mobile sports betting. Launched in May 2020, GambetDC runs on a partnership between the D.C. Lottery and Intralot, a Greek sportsbook solutions provider, to provide its mobile app services.

GambetDC offers mobile apps for iOS and Android users and an uncluttered website. Pregame and in-play wagering are supported in various domestic and international leagues for professional sports and college games. GambetDC offers odds on the traditional markets and props bets, although users find its odds uncompetitive and expensive.

D.C. bettors can get a second chance first bet bonus of up to $500 and a few other sport-specific promotions on the mobile app. Payment options accepted include online banking, credit and debit cards, Skrill, and the Play+ Card.

Although GambetDC is the only operator approved to offer mobile sports betting throughout D.C. it suffers from significant design, operation, and gaming experience flaws. Most noteworthy are its poor betting odds and limited promotions, making it quite unpopular amongst bettors.

Sections Overview

• Bonuses: 8.7/10
• Desktop Experience: 8.5/10
• Mobile Experience: 7.8/10
• Registration Process: 9.3/10
• Account Verification: 8.8/10
• Payment Methods: 7.2/10
• Sportsbook: 7.9/10
• Customer Support: 8.4/10
• Responsible Gambling: 10.0/10

Washington D.C. Sports Betting Overview

• Retail Sports Betting Launch: May 26, 2021
• Online Sports Betting Launch: May 29, 2020
• Legal Operators: BetMGM, Caesars, GambetDC
• Bet Types Available: Moneylines, parlays, same-game parlays, teasers, totals, futures, and props
• Washington D.C. Gambling Age: 18+
• Available Sports: NFL, NBA, NHL, MLS, MLB, tennis, boxing, NASCAR, European and International soccer, out-of-state collegiate sports
• Payment Methods: PayPal, Skrill, Visa, Mastercard, eCheck, Online Bank Transfer, Play+, PayNearMe
• Washington D.C. Sports Betting Regulator: Office of Lottery and Gaming

Comparing the Best Sportsbooks

With three reputable operators available to you in the District, D.C. bettors can access a range of generous bonuses, competitive odds, and great betting features at Washington D.C. online sports betting sites. Check out our comparison of the leading operators below.

Is Sports Betting Legal in Washington D.C.?

In December 2018, Mayor Muriel Bowser signed the Sports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act, which legalized sports betting in the District of Columbia. The act allowed the D.C. Lottery to regulate sports betting and offer licenses to private operators.

Pari-mutuel wagering, a form of betting on horse and dog races, has been legal in Washington, D.C. for decades. The D.C. Lottery also regulates and oversees pari-mutuel wagering in the district. However, with the legalization of sports betting, the focus has shifted towards more traditional sports wagering opportunities.

Who can Legally Bet on Sports in Washington, D.C.?

You must be at least 18 years old and physically located within Washington, D.C. to be eligible to place bets. Valid identification and personal information are required for registration with licensed operators to verify age and identity.

There are restrictions on who can participate in sports betting in Washington D.C. Individuals connected to a sports team or governing body, such as players, coaches, referees, and officials, are generally prohibited from placing bets on events they are directly involved in or have access to insider information.

Those with a history of criminal activity, particularly related to gambling or sports integrity, may also be restricted from participating in sports betting.

Previous Sports Betting Bills in Washington D.C.

As the District is not a fully-fledged state, the pathway to legalizing sports betting passed through the corridors of US Congress en route to its passage in 2019. Bill 22-944, also known as the Sports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act, was passed by Councilmembers in 2018 and approved by US Congress in 2019, launching D.C. sports betting.

2019

• The United States Congress reviews the D.C. Council legislation as Act 22-594 per the D.C. Home Rule Act and passes it to legalize sports betting in Washington D.C.

2018

• Bill 22-944, which amends current sports betting legislation, is passed by the Washington D.C. Council and signed by Mayor Muriel Bowser.

Tax on Sports Betting Winnings in Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. does not currently impose a state-specific tax on sports betting winnings. However, the District considers gambling winnings taxable income and, therefore, subject to its 8.5% income tax rate.

In the United States, sports betting winnings are generally considered taxable and subject to federal income tax. The current federal income tax rate on gambling winnings varies depending on the total amount of income and the individual’s tax bracket.

In Washington D.C., sports betting revenue from operators is earmarked for the District’s General Fund, which is used to finance various government functions. These include education, transportation, public safety, health services, and other programs and services that benefit the residents of Washington D.C..

How to Register with Washington D.C. Online Sports Betting Sites

Signing up with a Washington D.C. gambling site is quick and easy. Follow this step-by-step guide to register with a D.C. gambling site, and you can be placing bets in minutes.

1. Choose your preferred D.C. online sports betting site

Click the links on this page to visit one of our recommended Washington D.C. online sports betting sites.

2. Complete the registration process

Press the “Register” or “Sign Up” button to create a new account. Enter your name, date of birth, address, email, phone number, and Social Security number into the registration form.

3. Choose your log-in details

Decide on your username and password. Your sportsbook will advise making your account as secure as possible, rating your password’s strength.

4. Enter your D.C. promo code

Enter a bonus or promo code into the appropriate field during registration if you have one.

5. Verify your identity

Most gambling sites require users to verify their accounts via email or phone before they can start placing bets. Follow the instructions provided by the site to complete the verification process.

6. Fund your account

With your new account created, visit the site’s cashier section to deposit. Choose your preferred banking option and decide how much to deposit. Ensure you meet the minimum deposit requirement if you claim a welcome bonus.

7. Place your bets

Your cash will be available in your account instantly. Browse through your sportsbook’s list of markets and find one that appeals to you. Click to add it to your bet slip, decide your stake, and place your wager.

8. Collect your winnings

Return to your site’s cashier if you place a winning bet. You’ll find advice on how to withdraw safely.

Before you can start placing bets from your mobile device, you’ll need to enable your geolocation location services to verify that you’re within the borders of Washington D.C. Likewise, if you’re using any sportsbook except GambetDC, you will need to prove you are within two blocks of your platform’s partnered stadium.

You should receive a prompt to enable geolocation when you open your app, but you can also allow this manually in your settings.

D.C. online sports betting sites will require you to verify your account before you can withdraw by providing copies of documents. Send your sportsbook a copy of your photo I.D., proof of address, and proof of payment method to the betting site. During verification, you can keep depositing and playing.

Washington D.C. Betting Apps on Mobile

Comparing Sign-Up Bonuses

If you’re looking to sign up with a Washington D.C. sports betting site, it’s important to note that operators offer generous bonuses for new players. Read our guide to the bonuses offered at D.C. sportsbook apps.

Payment Methods in Washington D.C.

There are many secure payment methods with Washington D.C. online sports betting sites, whether you’re looking to deposit or withdraw. Here are some of the most popular payment methods available.

• Online Banking: You can make direct transfers from your online bank account by entering your banking information into your sportsbook. Making deposits with online bank transfers are fast and secure.
• VIP Preferred/eCheck: An eCheck is similar to online banking but allows you to transfer funds from your checking account to your gambling account. You don’t need a bank card to do this.
• E-Wallets: You can use e-wallets such as PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill to top up your account quickly without entering your bank information. E-wallets also offer some of the fastest withdrawals in Washington D.C.
• Bank Cards: Most U.S. residents have a bank card, and you can use cards from Mastercard and Visa to make deposits. However, some sites don’t allow bank card withdrawals.
• Play+: As a gambling-exclusive prepaid card, Play+ allows players to make fast deposits and withdrawals. Many sites offer you bonuses and rewards for using Play+.
• Check: Most Washington D.C. online sports betting sites allow you to withdraw via check, a secure option but very slow compared to other payment methods.
• PayNearMe: With cash, you can top up the PayNearMe card at retailers like CVS, 7-Eleven, and Walgreens and use it to deposit at Washington D.C. sportsbooks.
• Wire Transfer: You can securely deposit and withdraw money using a wire transfer. Wire transfers are best suited to large deposits and withdrawals.

Responsible Gambling in Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. requires all licensed online sports betting operators to have a responsible gambling section on their platforms. This section typically includes self-help tools like time limits, budgets, betting history tracking, and links to resources for problem gambling, such as helpline numbers and counseling services.

Washington D.C. also has a self-exclusion program that allows you to voluntarily exclude yourself from online sports betting for a certain period. These measures aim to promote responsible gambling and assist you in making informed decisions while managing your gambling activities.

By providing self-help tools and access to resources, Washington D.C. ensures you have the tools and support they need to maintain responsible gambling behaviors.

Washington D.C. Responsible Gambling Resources

• D.C. Gambling Support Program – 1-866-399-7094
• D.C. Lottery Problem Gambling Program – 1-800-345-2527

Teams to Bet on in Washington D.C.

Pro Sports

Washington Commanders

Washington Commanders is a member of the NFL East, playing at FedEx Field, Landover, MD. The Commanders started life as Boston Braves before moving to Washington in 1937. In a storied history, Washington has won three Super Bowls to date, in 1982, 1987, and 1991, and two pre-merger NFL championships in 1937 and 1942.

Washington Wizards

Washington Wizards is a National Basketball Association (NBA) franchise. The team has produced several notable players, including Michael Jordan, and has made four NBA Finals appearances. It plays at the Capital One Arena, which hosts a Caesars Sportsbook on-site.

Washington Nationals

Washington Nationals plays in Major League Baseball (MLB) and won the World Series championship in 2019. The Washington Nationals have a partnership with BetMGM, which includes in-stadium promotions, a branded BetMGM sportsbook at Nationals Park, and a free-to-play game on the BetMGM app.

Washington Capitals

Washington Capitals is a professional ice hockey team based in Washington D.C. founded in 1974. The team has won one Stanley Cup championship in history (2018) and has several notable players, including Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom.

College Sports

Georgetown University Hoyas

The Georgetown Hoyas football team represents Georgetown University in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). While the team has not won any recent championships, they have produced several notable players, including Brian Westbrook and Jeff Clay.

George Washington University Colonials

The George Washington University Colonials is most well known for its basketball and baseball teams, which compete in NCAA Division I’s Atlantic 10 Conference. Its baseball program has produced several notable players, including Tom Grieve and Mike O’Connor, while its basketball team has won a single National Championship.

American University Eagles

American University Eagles play in NCAA Division I’s Patriot League. While the team has not won any recent championships, it has a strong ice hockey program and competes in the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC) Hockey League.

Howard University Bison

Howard Bison University’s athletic program represents Howard University in NCAA Division I. Its football program competes in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) as part of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The school produced players like Gary Harrell and Antoine Bethea.

Types of Bets in Washington D.C.

You’ll find plenty of different betting options at every Washington D.C. betting site we recommend, with most bet types available for all events. To give you a taste of what’s available, we’ve listed some of the most popular betting options in the capital below.

• Moneyline: A straightforward bet on which team or athlete you think will win an event

• Point Spread: With a point spread, you bet on the favorite to win by a certain margin or the underdog to lose within a particular point range. The underdog can also win, and you’ll collect your profits.

• Totals: Your sportsbook will set a total for a statistic; you must guess whether the final amount will be over or under that total.

• Props: Many betting sites allow you to bet on the performances of individual players or teams. For example, you can wager on a player hitting 100 rushing yards in the NFL or a team hitting more than 15 three-pointers in the NBA.

• Futures: Futures bets allow you to bet on significant events in the far future, such as the Washington Wizards winning the NBA Championships or a player claiming the MVP.

• Parlays: You can create a parlay wager by adding multiple bets to the same bet slip. All of your predictions have to come through at once for you to win your wager. The increased risk of parlays means you get better odds than just wagering on each market separately. You can also add multiple bets from the same event into a same-game parlay.

• In-Play Betting: While you place most bets before an event starts, many Washington D.C. sportsbooks let you wager on events that have already begun through in-play betting. You’ll find many of the bet types above available for in-play betting.

• Teasers: A parlay bet where you add multiple-point spreads to one wager. You can adjust each point spreads to suit, affecting the odds you receive. For example, you could tease a six-point spread to three points in a football game.

Bets that are Illegal in Washington D.C.

In Washington D.C., betting on collegiate sports is legal, but there are restrictions on which events you can wager on. Under the law, betting on games involving District-based colleges or universities, such as Georgetown or George Washington at March Madness, is prohibited. However, betting on out-of-state college games is allowed.

However, proposition bets are not allowed for college sports in D.C. This means that bets on individual player performances or specific game events are not permitted. However, standard bets such as point spreads and moneylines are still allowed.

Bets Available at the Best Washington D.C. Betting Sites

Washington D.C. online sportsbooks offer various bets on the most popular sports for wagering. Read below for some of the most common bet types available at D.C. sports betting sites.

Washington D.C. Sports Betting Locations

Retail Sportsbooks in Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. Lottery Locations

Currently, DC Lottery is the only sports betting operator able to offer online sports betting anywhere in the district through its licensed product, GambetDC. You can also place sports bets at several lottery retailers at sports betting kiosks within these facilities.

Washington D.C. DFS

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) were legalized in Washington D.C. in 2018 through legislation that legalized sports betting. DFS games allow players to draft teams of real-life athletes and compete against others based on the athletes’ statistical performances.

DFS operators such as FanDuel and DraftKings are available to players in D.C., offering a range of sports and contests with different entry fees and prize pools.

Best Online Sports Betting Site in Washington D.C.

While each of the three Washington D.C. sports betting sites has its merits, our review team found that Caesars offers the best product if you’re looking to wager in the District. With a robust desktop client, mobile site, and apps for Android and iOS, it offers an excellent user experience.

It also offers Caesars Rewards, which give you the chance to earn points that can be exchanged for real-life prizes like hotel stays or meals at land-based Caesars’ facilities, like the nearby Horseshoe Casino in Baltimore and Caesars Virginia, currently under construction.

You can also place wagers at the retail sportsbook at Capital One Arena on Capitals and Wizards games and within two blocks of the arena on its superb mobile app. Thanks to its partnerships with the Capitals and Wizards, you’ll receive promotions throughout their seasons.

If you want to sign up for Caesars Sportsbook in D.C., click the link below or any link to it on this page to be redirected to its home page, sign up, and claim your welcome bonus.

FAQs