Maryland Sports Betting in 2023: Top 7 Legal Maryland Sportsbooks
Legal online Maryland sports betting launched at 9 a.m. ET on Nov. 23, 2022.
Read on to learn about the best Maryland sportsbooks and claim exclusive sign-up bonuses of up to $5,000 total from some of the nation's best sports betting sites.
Best Maryland sports betting sites
#1 Top-rated sportsbook
BetSmart™ Rating: 4.7/5- Competitive pricing
- Offers same-game parlays
- Exclusive live streaming
Payout Speed:Deposits & withdrawals
BetSmart™ Rating: 4.3/5- Weekly promotions
- Over 20 sports available
- Offers same-game parlays
Deposits & withdrawals
BetSmart™ Rating: 4.4/5- User-friendly mobile app
- Good deposit options
- Offers same-game parlays
Deposits & withdrawals
BetSmart™ Rating: 4.7/5- Generous welcome bonus
- Offers same-game parlays
- Ample betting options
Deposits & withdrawals
BetSmart™ Rating: 4.6/5- Well-designed mobile app
- Live same-game parlays
- 24/7 customer support
Deposits & withdrawals
BetSmart™ Rating: 4.6/5- Good live betting section
- Offers same-game parlays
- User-friendly interface
Deposits & withdrawals
BetSmart™ Rating: 4.4/5- Top-rated sportsbook
- Ample markets
- Fast and secure banking
Deposits & withdrawals
BetSmart™ Rating: 4.1/5- Modern betting platform
- Convenient banking
- 24/7 customer support
Deposits & withdrawals
BetSmart™ Rating: 4.2/5- Frequent special offers and promotions
- Proprietary online sportsbook software
- Fast withdrawals
Deposits & withdrawals
BetSmart™ Rating: 4.3/5- Awesome welcome bonus
- Consistently good pricing
- Offers same-game parlays
Deposits & withdrawals
- Full online launch: 9 a.m. ET on Nov. 23, 2022
- Online and retail sports betting live
- 7 online sportsbooks
- Exclusive sign-up bonuses below
Maryland sports betting updates
Two years after voters approved the practice via a referendum, legal online sports betting in Maryland went live. Seven Maryland sports betting apps "soft" launched on Nov. 21, 2022, and officially commenced mobile operations on Nov. 23, 2022.
Read about more notable moments in Maryland sports betting history here:
Jan. 26, 2023: MLGCC approves SuperBook's applications for online and retail sports betting in Maryland. Crab Sports Maryland is also advanced. The applications are handed off to SWARC for licensing.
Jan. 20, 2023: Fanatics opens the first retail sportsbook inside an NFL stadium — Fanatics Sportsbook at FedEx Field.
Jan. 12, 2023: Fanatics will open its first U.S. retail sportsbook — Fanatics Sportsbook — at FedEx Field on Jan. 20, 2023.
Dec. 16, 2022: BetMGM Maryland is fined $146,000 for inadvertently accepting over $2,000 in live bets during a pre-launch test on Nov. 16, 2022.
Dec. 14, 2022: Maryland's SWARC awards mobile sports betting licenses to Bally Bet and WynnBET.
Dec. 12, 2022: Maryland gets off to a strong start, generating $186 million in online sports betting handle in just nine days in November. Online wagers account for 84% of Maryland's total handle for the month.
Dec. 4, 2022: The Baltimore Ravens fail to cover against a punchless Denver Broncos offense, squeaking out a 10-9 victory on home turf.
Dec. 1, 2022: MLGCC advances two more Maryland online sports betting applications. Now, Bally Bet and WynnBET could be awarded licenses by SWARC on Dec. 14. Betway's application was removed from a revised agenda and will be discussed at a later date.
Nov. 28, 2022: MLGCA will meet Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022, to determine if Bally Bet, Betway, and WynnBET are qualified to enter the Maryland online sports betting market. If approved for sports betting licenses, SWARC may award licenses during a Dec. 14 meeting.
Nov. 23, 2022: Legal Maryland online sports betting officially launches.
Nov. 22, 2022: Maryland sports betting sites halt online operations as state regulators review their platforms and practices. Online Maryland sportsbooks will fully launch at 9 a.m. ET on Nov. 23, 2022.
Nov. 21, 2022: Maryland online sports betting begins. Legal sportsbooks accept wagers from 2 p.m. until 10 p.m. EST during the state's "soft launch."
Nov. 18, 2022: Betfred officially opens its temporary sportsbook across from Long Shot's after a four-day controlled demonstration. The permanent, 6,000-square-foot facility is expected to be ready in early 2023.
Nov. 17, 2022: Maryland Lottery Director John Martin announces that Maryland online sports betting will launch on Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022. Seven sportsbooks will be ready to go live: Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, FanDuel, and PointsBet will begin taking wagers at this time.
Nov. 16, 2022: SWARC approves 10 mobile sports wagering licenses. The 10 companies holding these licenses will provide Maryland online sports betting via the following sportsbooks: Barstool Sportsbook, Betfred Sports, BetFanatics, BetMGM, betPARX, BetRivers, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, FanDuel, and PointsBet.
Nov. 15, 2022: Caesars Sportsbook launches its Maryland sports betting app. New users can now sign up and deposit $20 to get $100 in free bets.
Nov. 14, 2022: The Maryland SWARC will meet on Nov. 16, 2022, to award up to 10 Maryland online sports betting licenses. The state's first online sportsbooks could go live in time for Thanksgiving.
Nov. 10, 2022: BetMGM Maryland introduces a pre-registration offer worth $200 in free bets to its new MD customers.
Nov. 3, 2022: FanDuel Maryland enhances its early registration offer — $100 in free bets — to include a free three-month subscription to NBA League Pass.
Oct. 27, 2022: The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) announces that 10 online sportsbook operators are qualified to hold Maryland sports betting operator licenses. Barstool Sportsbook, Betfred, BetMGM, betPARX, BetRivers, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, Fanatics, FanDuel, and PointsBet could have licenses awarded by SWARC on Nov. 21.
Oct. 25, 2022: The Maryland sports betting applicants seeking permits include 10 of the industry's best-known operators.
Oct. 21, 2022: Applications for Maryland online sports betting licenses must be submitted by 5 p.m. ET today. The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) will publicly announce its list of qualified applicants on Thursday, Oct. 27.
Oct. 18, 2022: DraftKings tells Covers the online "sportsbook is coming soon" to Maryland.
Oct. 12, 2022: Maryland sportsbooks registered increases in September, largely thanks to a bump in NFL betting.
Oct. 6, 2022: Caesars officially submits its online sportsbook application in Maryland with the expectation that a license will be awarded within about a month's time.
Oct. 4, 2022: John Martin, Director of Maryland Lottery and Gaming, says, "I am confident that there will be mobile wagering in the state of Maryland in 2022," noting that the MLGCA is waiting on SWARC to award sports betting licenses. Maryland bettors can expect the first online sportsbooks to arrive sometime between the end of November and mid-December.
Sept. 22, 2022: Maryland regulators opt to award licenses on a rolling basis, meaning Maryland online sports betting could arrive before the end of 2022.
Sept. 13, 2022: After four months of decline, Maryland's August sports betting handle exceeds its July output. The state's retail sportsbooks take in nearly $18.7 million in total bets for the month.
Sept. 6, 2022: Maryland regulators begin accepting applications for sports betting licenses. The official deadline for applications is Oct. 21, 2022.
Aug. 26, 2022: The Maryland SWARC publishes a set of approved proposed regulations, bringing legal sports betting another step closer. A 30-day comment period now begins.
Aug. 25, 2022: DraftKings earned preliminary approval from the MLGCA, setting the stage for opening a retail sportsbook at the Maryland State Fairgrounds.
Aug. 17, 2022: The SWARC reveals that Marylanders may be able to utilize online sports betting platforms by the 2023 Super Bowl but will not set a firm timetable in place yet.
Aug. 10, 2022: The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission gives initial approval for three retail sports betting licenses, including one that would allow for a sportsbook at the Washington Commanders' FedEx Field.
Aug. 3, 2022: The Washington Commanders have yet to announce a partner for their proposed physical sportsbook at FedEx Field. However, the team's license application is expected to be discussed at an upcoming Maryland Lottery meeting.
Aug. 1, 2022: BetRivers opens Maryland's first non-casino retail sportsbook in partnership with Bingo World. The location becomes the sixth facility to offer sports betting in Maryland.
July 13, 2022: The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) pushes legal mobile sports betting in Maryland a step closer to launch by approving proposed draft rules.
July 6, 2022: Betfred Sports partners with Long Shot's in Frederick. Betfred will open a temporary retail sportsbook for the 2022 football season, while a permanent “state-of-the-art” sportsbook will ultimately reside at Long Shot's. An online sportsbook will launch when permitted by the Maryland Lottery and SWARC.
June 23, 2022: Maryland Lottery approves Fanatics' application for a sports wagering facility operator license. If SWARC approves the license, Fanatics could become the 10th licensee in the state.
June 16, 2022: Two days after Hogan's letter, SWARC increases its urgency in moving toward launching mobile sports betting. Maryland lawmakers still have no firm timeline set in place.
June 14, 2022: Gov. Hogan, via a direct letter, takes aim at SWARC over its failure to launch mobile sports betting in Maryland in a decisive manner and the needless bureaucratic delays.
June 7, 2022: Crab Sports strikes a deal with sportsbook platform provider Gaming Innovation Group Inc. (GiG). Crab Sports expects to launch in Maryland sometime in the second half of 2022.
March 16, 2022: Online Maryland sports betting still appears to be months away. Regulators hope to launch mobile betting by the start of the 2022 NFL season.
Feb. 24, 2022: MLGCC approves Bingo World in Anne Arundel County for a sports betting license. Bingo World becomes the ninth facility to obtain a license but will have to gain final approval from SWARC before launching operations.
Feb. 18, 2022: DraftKings announces during its Q4 earnings call that it has secured market access in Maryland, a required step in the eventual launch process.
Jan. 11, 2022: Casino sportsbooks in MD took more than $16 million in bets over the first month of legal wagering.
Dec. 23, 2021: Hollywood Casino in Perryville opens its doors for in-person Maryland sports betting.
Dec. 17, 2021: Ocean Downs Casino becomes the latest location to offer legal sports betting. Maryland is up to four retail sportsbooks.
Dec. 16, 2021: MLGCC approves amendments to allow bettors to check their bankrolls, but not bet, at online sportsbooks when they’re across state lines.
Dec. 10, 2021: Horseshoe Casino and Live! Casino become the second and third retail locations to offer legal sports betting in Maryland.
Dec. 9, 2021: MGM National Harbor Casino becomes the first retail location in the state to launch legal sports betting, making Maryland the 11th state to establish the practice in 2021.
Dec. 8, 2021: State regulators award sports betting licenses to Riverboat on the Potomac and Long Shot’s.
Dec. 2, 2021: The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission announces it is preparing for a soft launch in December. Five retail sportsbooks will be watched closely by MLGCC staff over a two-day period. Additionally, MLGCC forwards two off-track betting facilities — Riverboat on the Potomac and Long Shot’s — to SWARC after qualifying the locations for sports betting licenses.
Nov. 18, 2021: SWARC awards casino sports betting licenses to Hollywood Casino Perryville (Barstool), Horseshoe Baltimore (Caesars), Live! Casino Maryland (FanDuel), MGM National Harbor (BetMGM), and Ocean Downs (TwinSpires).
Nov. 16, 2021: During a VIXIO GamblingCompliance webinar, Maryland Lottery and Gaming Director John Martin says the state is "a long way away" from launching mobile sports betting. SWARC has yet to define regulations or what the operator application process will look like in MD.
Nov. 4, 2021: Following Sports Wagering Application Review Commission's (SWARC) refusal to award five retail sports betting licenses on November 3, Maryland Lottery and Gaming Director John Martin indicates sports betting is unlikely to arrive in Maryland until early 2022.
Sept. 8, 2021: the Baltimore Ravens and Caesars Entertainment, Inc. announced a broad partnership with Caesars Sportsbook. The agreement further increases Horseshoe Baltimore's standing as the team's lone official casino partner.
Aug. 2021: Gov. Hogan told Maryland Matters that legal sports betting won't be ready by the start of the NFL regular season but is optimistic about a launch in time for the playoffs and the 2022 Super Bowl.
July 2021: The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) approved draft rules for sports betting regulations to guide the state’s licensing and operational rollout. The 228-page document was posted to the Maryland Register. The public comment period lasts 30 days, with a public meeting locked for Sept. 22, 2021.
May 2021: Governor Lawrence J. Hogan, Jr (R) signed sports betting bill HB 940 into law.
April 2021: Both Maryland state houses pass HB 940, greenlighting retail and online sports betting. Maryland will allow up to 60 mobile and online sportsbooks to operate in the state.
March 2021: The House Ways & Means Committee sends HB 940 to the House floor for a vote. The bill provides accommodations to expand the number of licenses and allow retail sportsbooks at all Maryland casinos and big-league sports venues.
Nov. 2020: Voters approve legal sports betting via a referendum on the 2020 ballot. Neighboring Mid-Atlantic states had already legalized sports betting, and MD state legislators moved to avoid being left behind.
Is sports betting legal in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland sports betting is legal. Online wagering arrived when the Old Line State allowed sportsbook operators to fully launch on Nov. 23, 2022, and retail betting commenced on Dec. 9, 2021.
Voters had their say and opted to legalize Maryland sports betting via a 2020 referendum. The state legislature passed a sports betting measure in April 2021, and Governor Lawrence J. Hogan, Jr (R) signed sports betting bill HB 940 into law in May 2021.
On Dec. 9, 2021, MGM National Harbor Casino became the first of five casinos awarded licenses by the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) on Nov. 18, 2021, to go live with in-person sports betting. Maryland regulators doled out two more sports betting licenses on Dec. 8, 2021 — one to Riverboat on the Potomac and the other to Long Shot’s. Two more locations — Horseshoe Casino and Live! Casino — launched on Dec. 10, 2021, and Ocean Downs Casino followed on Dec. 17, 2021.
The remaining casino, which has already been given the green light — Hollywood Casino — opened its doors on Dec. 23, 2021.
Follow Maryland's and each state's progress with our sports betting legal tracker.
Best offers and bonuses in Maryland
Online Maryland sports betting has arrived, and operators are now dishing out generous sign-up bonuses in the Old Line State.
These Maryland sports betting bonuses and promo codes won't be available for long, so claim the offers below before they disappear.
Caesars Sportsbook - Up to $1,500 on Caesars: Caesars Maryland will return your first wager of up to $1,500 if it comes up short. Bet a minimum of $100 to qualify, and be sure to use your bet credit within 14 days of receipt. Use Caesars promo code COVERSBONUSPICS to snag this offer.
BetMGM - $1,000 back in bonus bets: Place your first bet of up to $1,000 with BetMGM Maryland. If you lose, BetMGM will pay back the entire amount, up to $1,000, in bonus bets. You don't need a BetMGM promo code in Maryland.
DraftKings Sportsbook - Bet $5, get $200 in free bets: New DraftKings users do not need a DraftKings promo code to claim $200 in free bets. Simply deposit and wager $5 on any sport, and the operator will instantly add $200 to your new account. This offer expires on Feb. 12, 2023.
FanDuel Sportsbook - $3,000 no sweat first bet: FanDuel Maryland is presenting Maryland bettors with a $3,000 no sweat first bet welcome bonus. Download the FanDuel MD app today, make a $10 deposit, and place a first wager on any sports market. Should it lose, you'll get your stake back, up to $3,000, as bonus bets. No FanDuel promo code is required.
BetRivers - Up to a $500 free bet: New BetRivers users will receive a second chance bet of up to $500. If you lose your first wager, the sportsbooks will return the full amount in the form of one free bet. Use BetRivers promo code SPORTS to get started.
Top five Maryland sports betting sites
With 21 sports betting operators submitting applications to do business in Maryland, local gamblers will soon be flush with sportsbook options. For now, here are our picks for the top five Maryland sports betting sites:
1. DraftKings Maryland
Bet $5, get $200 in free bets
No code required
With the arrival of online sports betting, DraftKings MD is the top mobile platform in the state of Maryland. With tons of betting markets, regular odds boosts, and a smooth and reliable betting app, DraftKings should be the go-to option for most Maryland sports bettors.
Read our DraftKings Sportsbook Review to learn more.
- App store rating: 4.8 (iOS); 4.6 (Android)
- Sign-up bonus: Bet $5, get 200 in free bets
- Payout speed: 1-3 days
2. PointsBet Maryland
Up to $500 in free bets
Code: 5X100RC
Quickly becoming a staple of the sports betting industry, Marylanders now have the opportunity to experience PointsBet in full. Aside from its well-known, unique bet types, PointsBet boasts fantastic sports coverage with quality odds, a reliable mobile app, and plenty of post-registration promotions.
Dive into our PointsBet Sportsbook Review to discover all you need to know about the operator.
- App store rating: 4.8 (iOS); 4.7 (Android)
- Sign-up bonus: Up to $500 in free bets
- Payout speed: 1-5 days
3. FanDuel Maryland
$3,000 No Sweat First Bet
No code required
With its statewide online platform joining its retail sportsbook in Maryland at Live! Casino & Hotel, FanDuel has extended its Maryland footprint. With its intuitive interface, snappy performance, and sheer volume of betting opportunities, the FanDuel app promises to be one of the best Maryland sportsbooks.
Check out our FanDuel Sportsbook Review for more expert analysis.
- App store rating: 4.8 (iOS); 4.7 (Android)
- Sign-up bonus: $3,000 no sweat first bet
- Payout speed: 1-5 days
4. Caesars Maryland
Up to $1,500 on Caesars
Code: COVERSBONUSPICS
Root for the Baltimore Ravens? Caesars Sportsbook is the team's official sports betting partner, and you can benefit from special access to tickets, merchandise, and meet and greets, among other perks. New Caesars MD customers can register a new account to secure its sign-up offer and test-drive its stellar mobile betting app before legal Maryland sports betting comes to fruition.
Interact with our Caesars Sportsbook Review to learn more about the betting site.
- App store rating: 4.6 (iOS); 4.4 (Android)
- Sign-up bonus: Up to $1,500 on Caesars
- Payout speed: 1-5 days
5. BetMGM Maryland
$1,000 back in bonus bets
No code required
Marylanders seeking access to the best betting sites have one of the greats at their fingertips. What awaits at BetMGM Maryland? An excellent mobile app with tons of betting markets and a bevy of solid sports betting promos.
Uncover more helpful details via our BetMGM Review.
- App store rating: 4.8 (iOS); 4.3 (Android)
- Sign-up bonus: $1,000 back in bonus bets
- Payout speed: 2-8 days
What sportsbooks are legal in Maryland?
Elated sports bettors welcomed seven legal Maryland sportsbooks to the Old Line State for a Nov. 21 "soft launch." A full mobile launch took place on Nov. 23, 2022. While Betfred, betPARX, Fanatics Sportsbook, Bally Bet, and WynnBET are also licensed, the sportsbooks have yet to go live in Maryland.
- DraftKings - Best sportsbook
- PointsBet - Unique bet types
- FanDuel - Best for live betting
- Caesars - Best sign-up bonus
- BetMGM - Best for deposits
- BetRivers - Best weekly promos
- Barstool - Loads of markets
- Betfred - Daily odds boosts
- WynnBET - User-friendly
- betPARX - Modern platform
- Bally Bet - 24/7 chat feature
- Fanatics Sportsbook - Coming 2023
Legal sportsbooks in Maryland
Maryland online sports betting has arrived in time for Thanksgiving 2022. Several sportsbook operators have established partnerships with casinos and professional sports teams in Maryland and have launched online operations.
The following 10 entities received Maryland online sports betting licenses on Nov. 16, 2022:
- Arundel Amusements/Bingo World (BetRivers)
- BetMGM Maryland Sports LLC (BetMGM)
- Crown MD Online Gaming LLC (DraftKings)
- CZR Maryland Mobile Opportunity LLC/Horseshoe Casino Baltimore (Caesars Sportsbook)
- Greenmount OTB LLC (betPARX)
- Long Shot’s LLC (Betfred)
- Maryland Stadium Sub LLC/Washington Commanders (Fanatics)
- PENN Maryland OSB LLC/Hollywood Casino Perryville (Barstool Sportsbook)
- PPE Maryland Mobile LLC/Live! Casino and Hotel (FanDuel)
- Riverboat on the Potomac (PointsBet)
Seven of Maryland's 12 licensed sportsbooks briefly went live during a Nov. 21, 2022, "soft" launch and returned for good on Nov. 23 after a one-day hiatus. betPARX has yet to announce its launch day, while Fanatics Sportsbook and Betfred plan to officially enter the Maryland sports betting market early in 2023.
Bally Bet and WynnBET were approved by Maryland Lottery and Gaming on Dec. 1, 2022, and awarded mobile sports betting licenses by SWARC on Dec. 14, 2022. If the two operators conduct a successful controlled demonstration, Maryland will soon have two more active online sportsbooks.
Maryland sports betting sites
| Online sportsbook | Mobile app | Odds provider | Launch date | Retail partner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Bally Bet |
Yes | Bet.Works | TBD | N/A |
| Barstool Sportsbook |
Yes | Kambi | Nov. 23, 2022 | Hollywood Casino Perryville |
| Betfred Sports |
Yes | Playtech | Early 2023 (est) | Long Shot's |
| BetMGM |
Yes | BetMGM | Nov. 23, 2022 | MGM National Harbor Casino |
| betPARX |
Yes | Kambi | TBD | Greenmount OTB |
| BetRivers |
Yes | Kambi | Nov. 23, 2022 | Bingo World |
| Caesars Sportsbook |
Yes | Caesars | Nov. 23, 2022 | Horseshoe Baltimore Casino |
| DraftKings |
Yes | SBTech | Nov. 23, 2022 | Timonium Racetrack (expected) |
| Fanatics Sportsbook |
Yes | TBD | Early 2023 (est) | Washington Commanders (FedExField) |
| FanDuel |
Yes | Flutter | Nov. 23, 2022 | Live! Casino & Hotel |
| PointsBet |
Yes | PointsBet | Nov. 23, 2022 | Riverboat on the Potomac |
| WynnBET |
Yes | GAN | TBD | N/A |
There are 10 locations for retail sports betting in MD right now: MGM National Harbor Casino, Horseshoe Casino, Live! Casino, Ocean Downs Casino, Hollywood Casino Perryville, Bingo World, The Riverboat on the Potomac, Greenmount Station OTB, and Long Shot's.
More licenses have been granted, but the following Maryland retail sportsbooks have yet to launch:
- Boonsboro OTB
Land-based Maryland sportsbooks
| Sportsbook | Venue | Address | Phone Number | Odds Provider |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Betfred Sportsbook | Long Shot's | 5400 Holiday Dr, Frederick, MD 21703 | (301) 694-7507 | OpenBet |
| BetMGM Sportsbook & Lounge | MGM National Harbor Casino | 101 MGM National Avenue, Oxon Hill, MD, 20745 | (844) 646-6847 | BetMGM |
| BetRivers Sportsbook | Bingo World | 4901 Belle Grove Rd., Baltimore, MD, 21225 | (410) 636-0311 | Kambi |
| Caesars Sportsbook | Horseshoe Baltimore Casino | 1525 Russell St., Baltimore, MD, 21230 | (844) 777-7463 | Caesars |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | FedEx Field | 1600 Fedex Way, North Englewood, MD 20785 | (301) 276-6000 | Amelco |
| FanDuel Sportsbook | Live! Casino & Hotel | 7002 Arundel Mills Cir, Hanover, MD, 21076 | (443) 842-7000 | Flutter |
| Greenmount OTB | Greenmount Station OTB | 1631 N Main St Suite C, Hampstead, MD 21074 | (410) 239-0063 | Kambi |
| PointsBet Sportsbook | Riverboat on the Potomac | 301 Beach Terrace, Colonial Beach, VA 22443 | (804) 224-7055 | Kambi |
| The Sportsbook at Hollywood Casino | Hollywood Casino Perryville | 1201 Chesapeake Overlook Pkwy, Perryville, MD 21903 | (410) 378-8500 | Kambi |
| TwinSpires Sportsbook | Ocean Downs Casino | 10218 Racetrack Rd., Berlin, MD, 21811 | (410) 641-0600 | Kambi |
Latest Maryland betting news
Who can bet on sports in Maryland?
Residents aged 21 or older are eligible to wager on sports. The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission regulates all sports betting in the state.
Review these tips with legalized Maryland sports betting now open for business.
Legal age
Sports betting in Maryland is reserved for individuals 21 and older.
Mobile betting
Expansive licensing for as many as 60 mobile betting operators could allow Maryland to eventually eclipse Colorado as the state with the most active online sportsbooks. A total of 21 sports betting operators submitted applications for mobile licenses prior to an Oct. 21, 2022, deadline, and 12 mobile licenses have been approved.
Seven Maryland sportsbooks went live on Nov. 23, 2022.
Remote registration
Fully remote registration is in effect with Maryland. Persons within the state can register, deposit, claim bonuses, and wager with Maryland sportsbooks from anywhere within state lines.
Within state borders
Maryland sports betting sites leverage geolocation tracking software to verify your location. MD residency is not a requirement, but you must be physically present within the state's borders to partake in online sports betting in Maryland.
Retail sportsbooks
Retail licenses were awarded to Maryland's six casinos, Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course thoroughbred racing tracks, and the affiliated stadiums for the Baltimore Orioles, the Baltimore Ravens, and Washington Commanders. In total, Maryland sports betting law calls for up to 47 retail sportsbook licenses.
Taxable winnings
In Maryland, winnings in excess of $5,000 are subject to 25% withholding for federal and state income tax purposes. That figure climbs to 28% if you do not furnish or provide your Social Security number.
The pros and cons of MD sports betting
The Free State legalizing sports wagering and implementing the necessary infrastructure is encouraging — as many as 60 online Maryland sportsbooks are allowed to operate in MD.
There's also potential to open more retail sportsbooks at professional sports stadiums, casinos, and race tracks. Plus, up to 30 additional license holders for brick-and-mortar betting facilities. In total, regulators could hand out up to 107 sports betting licenses in Maryland.
Online sports betting to launch two years after voter approvalLost revenue to neighboring states prior to laumchCrossing state lines: Nearby betting sites in 2023
Legal online sports betting in Maryland is now a reality. Bettors can also seek out nearby neighborly options, such as Pennsylvania, West Virginia, DC, and Virginia. Each has legalized and regulated mobile sports betting, with all but Virginia offering in-person options.
Anyone physically located in those jurisdictions is free to register and place a sports bet. Online bettors can download one of the authorized mobile sports betting apps and follow the prompts to start betting.
How to start betting in Maryland
With as many as 60 online sportsbooks eligible to enter the Maryland sports betting market, plus the option of visiting a retail sportsbook, MD bettors should eventually have access to more options than any other state. Read on to familiarize yourself with the general setup process.
Select a sportsbook
Maryland's list of confirmed operators includes BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, and FanDuel. We're expecting to see even more prominent industry players get a seat at Maryland's sports betting table in the coming months.
Researching each feature and reading sportsbook reviews is vital — you'll want to identify which Maryland sports betting sites best satisfy your wagering requirements.
Register online
The promise of fully remote registration means sports bettors have the option to sign-up with Maryland sportsbooks from anywhere in the state. All users must share their personal information, and identity verification checks are made using your driver's license or Social Security Number.
Claim a bonus
The potential record number of Maryland betting sites on hand should benefit new sportsbook users. The most common sportsbook sign-up bonuses should be coming down the turnpike, including risk-free bets, no-deposit bonuses, and deposit match bonuses.
Deposit funds
Adding real money funds to your Maryland sports betting account before choosing any wagers is necessary.
Regulated Maryland operators support the best sportsbook deposit and withdrawal methods. Maryland betting sites authorize the use of credit cards, debit cards, ACH transfers, pre-paid cards, and digital payment methods like PayPal for minimum deposits.
Choose your bet types
Maryland sports bettors can find these popular bet types: moneylines, Over/Unders (totals), point spreads, same-game parlays, parlays, teasers, futures, and live bets.
Start betting
Maryland's competitive landscape benefits its consumers. We always advise players to shop betting lines and compare pricing before making a bet. You'll often find more favorable wagers when using multiple Maryland sportsbooks.
Withdraw funds
The speed at which you secure sports bet winnings is important. Review the sportsbook's terms and conditions and read sportsbook reviews to gauge their response times. Depending on the sportsbook or withdrawal method, you may incur fees on the transaction.
Reading the odds
Maryland sports betting sites follow the lead of all U.S. states and display American odds as the default selection.
You can spot favorites by looking for the minus sign (-), and the value that follows identifies the amount you must wager to win $100. In this example, -190 odds mean you need to risk $190 to win $100.
Look out for the plus sign (+) to identify underdogs, highlighting the amount you would win if you placed a $100 bet. For example, +110 odds indicate that a $100 wager would net $110 in profit.
We developed an odds converter to help you toggle between American, fractional, or decimals odds.
What you can't bet on in Maryland
Marylanders can place wagers at 10 retail sportsbooks and seven online sportsbooks. All professional, college, and Olympic sports are viable plays in 2023.
Politics
It is illegal to wager on political activity in Maryland at the state or federal level. Maryland sportsbooks do not offer bets on politics.
Entertainment award ceremonies
Betting on various awards shows, including the Academy Awards, are not permissible in MD.
What about Maryland college sports?
Maryland sports betting sites allow college sports betting, including wagering on in-state collegiate teams.
MD sports betting handle
Maryland recorded a modest benchmark in December 2021 to begin its foray into the legal sports betting market. The five retail operators in the state took in a combined $16.5 million in sports betting handle. After MD's first full month of legal wagering in January 2022, that number rose significantly to $32.5 million.
The addition of legal Maryland sports betting sites has already taken the state's monthly betting handle numbers to unprecedented levels. According to GeoComply Solutions Inc., there were 16.5 million geolocation transactions recorded over Maryland's first five days of legal online sports betting. Maryland sportsbooks took in $186 million in online bets during the first nine days of mobile wagering in November 2022.
Yearly breakdown
| Year | Total handle | Revenue | Hold percentage | Tax revenue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | - | - | - | - |
| 2022 | $980.6M | $149.2M | 15.2% | $6.1M |
| 2021 | $16.5M | $3.2M | 19.2% | $469K |
Monthly handle
| Year | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Total |
| 2023 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 2022 | $32.5M | $25.5M | $31M | $26.9M | $23.1M | $19.1M | $15.5M | $18.6M | $31.4M | $39.7M | $219M | $497.1M | $980.6M |
| 2021 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | $16.5M | $16.5M |
Home team advantage: MD sports
Researching your bets is a great way to eliminate bias. Backing the home team feels good but might damage your bankroll.
Our how to bet guides provide actionable insights for new and intermediate bettors in Maryland.
Other types of gambling
Marylanders are fond of gambling: In addition to retail sportsbooks, residents and visitors frequent casinos and racetracks. Online horse race betting and daily fantasy sports cater to online gamblers in the Old Line State.
Casino
Maryland is home to six land-based casinos, each of which received licenses for in-person sports betting. Traditional table games and slots aplenty are found at each of the casinos.
Online gamblers will have to look elsewhere as the Old Line State has yet to legalize real money online casinos.
Poker
In Maryland, no laws prohibiting playing online poker exist. It falls within a grey area, meaning offshore sites are in play. However, there are four legit poker rooms in Maryland, including Maryland Live! Casino. The state’s largest casino hosts one of the stops on the World Poker Tour.
Horse racing
Maryland boasts a rich horse racing history. The state is home to Pimlico Race Course, the host site for the annual Preakness Stakes, one of the sport’s Triple Crown events.
Horse racing enthusiasts can enjoy races at one of MD's five tracks. Betting-wise, they can wager online with the best horse racing betting sites in the U.S. — TVG, TwinSpires, and BetAmerica.
Daily fantasy sports
Maryland was one of the first states to pass a law explicitly legalizing fantasy sports. DFS operators are not required to complete a registration process or pay any registration fees, making it easier for new entrants to operate. DraftKings, FanDuel, Monkey Knife Fight, and Yahoo are among the more popular operators.
Quick facts: Maryland sports betting
Maryland's total handle is primed to explode now that mobile sports betting has gone live. To keep up to date on relevant Maryland sports betting facts, consult our quick facts table:
| Retail launch date | Dec. 9, 2021 |
| Online soft launch date | Nov. 21, 2022 |
| Online full launch date | Nov. 23, 2022 |
| Legal age for betting | 21 |
| Online sports betting | Yes ✅ |
| Number of betting licenses | 12/60 (online) |
| Number of betting sites | 7 |
| Remote registration | Yes ✅ |
| Retail sportsbooks | Yes ✅ |
| Online casino sites | No ❌ |
| Online poker | Yes ✅ |
| Retail casinos | Yes ✅ |
| Betting on college sports | Yes ✅ |
| Betting on esports | Yes ✅ |
| State population | 6.15 million |
| Total handle (2021) | $16.5 million |
| Tax rate | 15% |
| State regulator | Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency |
Responsible gaming in Maryland
The collection of Maryland gambling taxes and fees contributes to funding responsible gambling education and support programs. Marylanders with gambling problems can leverage resources only a phone call — or a click — away.
Additionally, every licensed and legal Maryland sportsbook anticipated to launch in Maryland addresses responsible gaming as part of its platform.
Legal U.S. sports betting markets
Maryland has caught up with its already legalized Mid-Atlantic neighbors. The following U.S. jurisdictions have established sports betting laws:
Upcoming legal U.S. sports betting launches
Now that online Maryland sports betting is a reality, we turn our attention to states that will go live with mobile wagering early in 2023.
Ohio sports betting arrived on Jan. 1, 2023, with legal online and retail sportsbooks.
Retail sportsbooks in MA will begin taking in-person wagers on Jan. 31, 2023. Online Massachusetts sports betting is expected to go live in March 2023.
Potential legal U.S. sports betting markets
States moving toward legal sports betting are still numerous. Here are those which have the potential to legitimize sports gambling in the near future:
Maryland sports betting conclusion
The sky is the limit in Maryland. With up to 60 mobile sports betting licenses up for grabs and nearly 50 retail sportsbooks permitted, the Old Line State is shaping into a sports bettor's haven.
There are few betting restrictions in Maryland, giving locals the freedom to wager on nearly anything sports-related. Just seven Maryland sports betting sites have gone live since the state's Nov. 23, 2022, launch, but we expect 2023 to be a big year in MD.
Sportsbooks to avoid in Maryland
See all blacklisted sportsbooks
Legal, regulated online Maryland sportsbooks have arrived – and more are on the way.
If you come across an offshore sports betting site in Maryland, stay away. Don't risk your bankroll with illegal operators. Avoid the following websites:
- Allegations of withdrawal issues
- No license information available on site
- Poor customer service
- Multiple reports of slow payments
- Allegations of non-payments
- Risk of account closure simply for winning bets
- Reports of confiscated winnings
- Slow customer support response times
Maryland sports betting FAQs
Yes. Seven online Maryland sportsbooks launched on Nov. 23, 2022, and there are currently 10 regulated retail sportsbooks in in the state.
The minimum gambling age is 21 for casino-style games and is the same for sports betting in Maryland. The legal age is 18 for bingo, lottery games, and pari-mutuel betting.
You can gamble on sports online or in person at a retail sportsbook in Maryland. Seven total sports betting sites took part in a Nov. 21, 2022 "soft" launch and officially launched on Nov. 23, 2022.
Yes, Marylanders have the ability to wager on esports. House Bill 940 includes references "requiring certain fantasy competition operators to register with the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission."
Yes. Maryland allows betting on local professional teams and college sports, including wagering on in-state collegiate teams.
The Maryland Lottery & Gaming Control Agency is tasked with regulating sports wagering.
Maryland will issue as many as 60 online licenses. Holders of a retail license can apply along with mobile-only sportsbooks.
No. Residents and visitors can place wagers online in Maryland.
There could technically be up to 60 online Maryland sportsbooks when all is said and done (though this is highly unlikely). Seven online sportsbooks launched on Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022.
Yes, DraftKings is a legal Maryland sportsbook. The betting platform opened its virtual doors to MD gamblers on Nov. 21, 2022, for the state's online sports betting "soft" launch and officially launched on Nov. 23, 2022.
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Joshua Howe is a sports betting editor at Covers, helping make smarter sports bettors since 2021. The experienced writer and editor has reviewed over 20 sportsbooks and has been placing his own wagers for three years and counting. He prefers FanDuel for its sleek app design and variety of NBA markets.
