Best California Sportsbook Promos & Betting Bonuses for Today

California sports betting promos quick facts

What betting are legal in California? (DFS alternatives explained)

California is still without legal traditional online betting sites or sports betting apps in 2025 after its most recent proposals were rejected during the November 2022 ballot. While we await updates, Golden State bettors can make wagers and enter contests via daily fantasy sports (DFS) and social sportsbooks today. 

The top California DFS and social betting sites provide a fun and unique gambling experience, allowing you to still access typical betting markets for top leagues, but join contests and tournaments for free. You can also access predictive betting markets, which operate like the stock exchange and allow you to buy, sell, and trade bets with other users.

We've outlined the top new-user promos you can claim in California below:

Covers Expert Analysis

"DFS platforms operate in a legal grey area in California, as these sites have operated with federal approval since the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006, which declares that online contests with pre-determined outcomes based on statistical accrued during the sporting event not to be an unlawful form of wagering."

Carson Deveau, Betting Editor

DFS vs. sports betting: Key differences

DFS and sports betting share a lot of similarities, but they remain different in some crucial ways, both legally and structurally. 

Here is how they break down: 

Why DFS is the closest legal alternative to sports betting

Here are a few reasons why Californians should check out DFS operators today, which are the top alternative to traditional sports betting in 2025: 

🏆Types of bets and contests: DFS contests, especially pick'em games, typically mirror the available bet types you can find at traditional sportsbooks, as you must rely on your sports knowledge to make strategic betting choices. 

💸Payouts: Both DFS and sports betting award you with real money if you are successful. Unlike traditional betting sites, where payouts are determined by the odds you wager on, the rewards you can receive at DFS sites are dependent on the size and entry fees of the contest.

💰Bonuses and promotions: DFS sites routinely offer promotions similar to what you can find at traditional sportsbooks, such as bonus entries or bonus bets into various contests. Both betting platforms also provide welcome bonuses to new users upon registration.  

⭐ Legally available in California: Unlike sports betting, DFS is legal in California, allowing players who are at least 18 years old to sign up and wager.

When are online sportsbooks launching in California?

It is unclear at this time when a traditional online sports betting market will launch in California, unfortunately. Despite various efforts by local lawmakers, no sports betting measures have received the necessary approval to legalize online sportsbooks like BetMGM, FanDuel, or Caesars Sportsbooks within the Golden State. The latest attempt, made in 2022 via Proposition 26 and Proposition 27, failed to materialize.

We anticipate, and hope, that new bills will be brought forth again in 2026. Until then, we suggest utilizing the best California sportsbooks bonuses offered by daily fantasy sports and social betting sites, such as Thrillzz Sportsbook and Novig, for your regular online sports betting in 2025. 

How to choose the best DFS in California

These are some of the factors you should consider when choosing a California DFS app in 2025:

Top 5 daily fantasy and social sportsbook in California reviewed

We've leveraged our expertise in evaluating and crafting legal U.S. betting site reviews to bring you the definitive ranking of the five best sportsbooks in California 2025: 

1. Thrillzz Sportsbook California promo

400% Match First Purchase Offer: Spend $10, Get $50 in Coins + 60,000 FC

Code: COVERS

 Claim $50

Who it's for

We think receiving two bonuses for the price of one bonus code is an incredible deal, which is why we recommend all users take advantage of the latest Thrillzz Sportsbook welcome offer today. You can use your bonus funds to dive into the DFS platform, exploring its wide range of betting markets and contests, making it a must download sportsbook in California in 2025.

Bonus terms and conditions

To qualify, be sure to use the exclusive Thrillzz Sportsbook promo code 'COVERSBONUS'.

Once your account is set up, you’ll immediately receive the no-deposit bonus of $3 in SC and 3,000 FC.

You can then score a 400% first-bet match up to $50 in SC and 60,000 FC. Initial wager must be at least $10 to qualify.

Before receiving any bonus funds from either first-purchase offer, you'll need to complete the verification process by providing your birthdate, Social Security Number (SSN), name, and address.

The Covers-exclusive Thrillzz Sportsbook California promo is currently ongoing. 

Covers BetSmart Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5

Bonuses and promotions	⭐ 4.2/5
Banking and payout speed	⭐ 4.2/5
Key features	⭐ 4.2/5
Security and trust	⭐ 4.2/5
Customer support	⭐ 4.2/5
User experience	⭐ 4.7/5
Betting odds	⭐ 4.2/5

User reviews  

Editor's note: User reviews may be edited for clarity. 

"I saw this app on TikTok and decided to try it out because of the bonuses, and I think the app has a good start right now. It’s another “social” sports picks app so you can do ML and stuff, except some lines aren’t available as of writing this review. For example, I couldn’t choose pitching outs lines like the other apps let me just because they simply don’t offer it. I will say, though, that one of my picks settled incorrectly as a loss when it should have been a win based on the official stats, and Thrillz support responded quickly and remedied my issue quickly. Additionally, the withdrawal process was very quick to my bank account; it took about a day for it to be added.”

- App Store user

"I see a lot of people saying they can’t withdraw because their account is pending verification, which was a problem for me as well. I had to contact customer support twice, and the second time, they apologized and sent a verification link using a third-party verifier. My account was verified in a day or so, and I was able to withdraw a good amount of winnings. If you’re patient with customer support, they will get things sorted out. It’s a new app with a small user base currently, so I’m sure there are a few wrinkles they need to work out as they grow. The app has the potential to compete if the verification process is simplified.”

- Benny, App Store user

Thrillzz Sportsbook at a glance

💰 Thrillzz no-deposit bonus	$3 of SC + 3,000 FC free
💰 Thrillzz sign-up bonus	400% Match First Purchase Offer: Spend $10, Get $50 in Coins + 60,000 FC
⏩ Thrillzz Sportsbook promo code	COVERS
🏅 Top feature	User-friendly experience
💵 Minimum deposit	$5
🕒 Payout speed	Within 24 hours
App Store rating	4.4/5 ⭐ (3.3K reviews)
Google Play rating	4.4/5 ⭐ (1.1K reviews)
🌎 Eligible states	All states excluding AL, GA, ID, IN, IA, KY, LA, MI, MN, MS, NV, OH, SC, and WA
🕒 Offer expiry	Ongoing
✅ Last verified	Sept. 29, 2025

What we like

No-deposit bonus: Finding an online sports betting site that offers a no-deposit bonus is very rare, which is why the Thrillzz Sportsbook California stands out on our list.

First-bet bonus: Everyone loves options, and Thrillzz Sportsbook gives you an additional welcome bonus after making your first real-money bet of at least $10. 

Access to daily rewards: By signing up with Thrillzz Sportsbook, you can also earn exciting daily bonuses, including free spins and more.

What we don't like

Wager entire deposit: You must wager your full qualifying deposit before any bonus funds are released. 

Free Coins hold no value: The Free Coins (FC) from this promo can only be used on-site to enter contests, tournaments, or place future wagers. 

Read our Thrillzz Sportsbook promo code review for more information.

2. Novig California promo

  

Up to $100 Bonus

COVERS100

 Claim $100

Who it's for

Everybody is always looking for a deal, so we suggest all California sports bettors sign up and claim the Novig welcome bonus today. What's better is that, after claiming the no-deposit bonus, you can claim up to a $100 bonus based on your initial purchase. 

Bonus terms and conditions

Register with the Novig promo code 'COVERS100'. 

You'll automatically receive the Novig California no-deposit bonus of five Novig Cash. 

Novig Coins hold no monetary value, while you can use Novig Cash to win various cash prizes. 

All Novig California welcome bonuses are currently ongoing. 

Covers BetSmart Rating: ⭐ 4.6/5

Bonuses and promotions	⭐ 4.6/5
Banking and payout speed	⭐ 4.4/5
Key features	⭐ 4.3/5
Security and trust	⭐ 4.6/5
Customer support	⭐ 4.6/5
User experience	⭐ 4.6/5
Betting odds	⭐ 4.2/5

User reviews  

Editor's note: User reviews may be edited for clarity. 

"Talk about leveling the field against the 'Big Gambling' companies. Startup Novig achieves this and so much more, as the operator gives you odds that the house claims are revolutionary. As a lifetime gambler, I’m duty-bound to support this sportsbook, as it’s time that the 'House' gives back, and Novig is our rocket ship! I love the app. I love the odds. And you will, too!"

- App Store user

"Novig is hands-down the best app for sports bettors. The interface is smooth and intuitive, making it incredibly easy to place bets, track odds, and explore matchups. What sets Novig apart is the no-vig model, which eliminates the house edge and ensures you get the best value for your bets. Whether you’re a casual bettor or a pro, Novig has everything you need. This app has completely changed the way I approach sports betting. Highly recommend!" 

- App Store user

Novig at a glance

💰 Novig sign-up bonus	5 Novig Cash + 10% off up to $100
⏩ Novig promo code	COVERS100
🏅 Top feature	Great social sportsbook
💵 Minimum deposit	$5
🕒 Payout speed	2 days
App Store rating	4.9/5 ⭐ (891 reviews)
Google Play rating	4.9/5 ⭐ (203 reviews)
🌎 Available states	AK, AR, AZ, CA, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY, (+DC)
🕒 Offer expiry	Ongoing
✅ Last verified	Sept. 29, 2025

What we like

No-deposit bonus: No-deposit bonuses are usually only offered during state launches or major sporting events like March Madness. Needless to say, all Golden State sports bettors should take advantage of this generous offer while it lasts.

Great first-purchase offers: Novig immediately provides all new users with an additional bankroll boost by allowing you to select a great deposit-match bonus. 

No restrictions: You can use your bonus funds from all promos on any available Novig betting market. 

What we don't like

Bonus awarded in virtual currency: All Novig Coins cannot be redeemed, as they can only be used for future on-site wagers or to participate in contests.  

One deposit option: We greatly hope that Novig expands its deposit options in the near future, as you can only use Truly currently to add funds to your account. 

Check out our Novig promo code review for more information.

3. Kalshi California promo

$10 Bonus

Code: COVERS

Claim $10

Who it's for

Since the Kalshi welcome bonus is guaranteed, which is rarely seen in the U.S. in 2025, we believe the offer is ideal for all Golden State sports traders seeking an immediate bankroll boost. 

Bonus terms and conditions

Use the Kalshi promo code 'COVERS' when prompted during the registration process. 

Add a minimum of $1 to your newly created Kalshi California account. 

Explore and trade on any available Kalshi markets or events, including sports, politics, entertainment, social, and more. 

Kalshi will instantly issue you a $10 bonus into your account after you've traded at least $100 of contracts with other Kalshi users. 

Provide a government-issued ID — driver's license, passport, etc. — and your Social Security Number (SSN) to withdraw your Kalshi promo code funds. 

 This Covers-verified Kalshi Sports California promo is currently ongoing.

Covers BetSmart Rating: ⭐ 4.2/5

Bonuses and promotions	⭐ 4.0/5
Banking and payout speed	⭐ 4.5/5
Key features	⭐ 4.5/5
Security and trust	⭐ 4.8/5
Customer support	⭐ 3.5/5
User experience	⭐ 4.6/5
Betting odds	⭐ 4.3/5

User reviews  

Editor's note: User reviews may be edited for clarity. 

"Kalshi is hands down one of the best apps I’ve ever used! It’s not just another trading platform — it’s an innovative, exciting, and engaging way to make decisions based on real-world events. The interface is sleek, user-friendly, and makes navigating the markets a breeze, even for beginners like me."

- App Store user

"Events trading is really sick. I’ve added them to my portfolio as a way to get more precise exposure on a number of factors that go into a stock. I wouldn’t be surprised if this trading instrument becomes massive."

- Rick, App Store user

Kalshi at a glance

💰 Sign-up bonus	$10 bonus
⏩ Kalshi bonus code	COVERS
🏅 Top feature	Legal sports trading in 44 states
💵 Minimum deposit	$1
🕒 Payout speed	Up to 4 days
App Store rating	4.6/5 ⭐ (6.2K reviews)
Google Play rating	4.1/5 ⭐ (704 reviews)
🌎 Available states	44 states + DC
🕒 Offer expiry	Ongoing
✅ Last verified	Sept. 29, 2025

Kalshi iOS app

What we like

Guaranteed bonus: Few things in this life are guaranteed, which is why we love that Kalshi that offer new traders an automatic bonus with their latest welcome promo.  

No market restrictions: You can use the Kalshi California bonus on any available market, including sports, politics, weather, tech, and more. 

Straight-forward promo: There are no hidden terms with this offer. Simply sign up with our promo code and trade $100 in contracts to receive the Kalshi bonus. 

What we don't like

Low total value: While receiving the bonus automatically is nice, we wish Kalshi offered more than a $10 bonus to new users.

Confusing platform: Some Golden State traders, even experienced ones, may find Kalshi a bit confusing to use initially due to its unique structure.   

Our comprehensive Kalshi Sports review provides additional information about one of the best prediction market sites in 2025, including how to use the Kalshi promo code.

4. Underdog Fantasy California promo

  

Play $5, Get $100

Code: COVERS

 Claim $100

Who it's for

Due to its clear terms, we believe the DFS operator's current welcome bonus is perfect for all sports bettors. We especially feel this since you have up to 60 days — one of the longest promotional windows of all California sportsbook bonuses in 2025 — to use your funds. 

Bonus terms and conditions

You need to use the Underdog Fantasy California promo code 'COVERS' to qualify. 

Make a minimum $5 initial real-money deposit. 

Underdog Fantasy will issue you a $100 bonus after you place an initial $5 entry into any available contest.

Your bonus funds will arrive in your account within 72 hours.

The bonus comes with a 1x wagering requirement that must be fulfilled within 14 days of receiving the funds.

You have 60 days to use your Underdog Fantasy bonus before it expires. This Covers-verified Underdog Fantasy welcome bonus is currently {{bonus/underdog/primary/end_date/us}}. 

Covers BetSmart Rating: ⭐ 4.7/5

Bonuses and promotions	⭐ 4.6/5
Banking and payout speed	⭐ 4.6/5
Key features	⭐ 4.8/5
Security and trust	⭐ 4.7/5
Customer support	⭐ 4.6/5
User experience	⭐ 4.8/5
Betting odds	⭐ 4.6/5

User reviews  

Editor's note: User reviews may be edited for clarity.

"First of all, wanna give a shout-out to Andre from customer support, extremely quick and very kind. Secondly, the app is very good and very well made. There’s no rigged competition, and every game makes it possible for anyone to win. Withdrawals do take a bit longer. However, they do all withdrawals manually, and you get to communicate with real people, so it's way more worth it."

- App Store reviewer

"I just started playing on Underdog, and it is the best new daily fantasy option out there. The snamm group snake drafts are awesome to level the playing field and they even have safety measures to ID and remove any collusion between players on drafts. That way, one team doesn’t get loaded up with all the best players!”

- App Store reviewer

Underdog Fantasy at a glance

💰 Sign-up bonus	Play $5, Get $100
⏩ Underdog Fantasy promo code	COVERS
🏅 Top feature	Vulture Protection
💵 Minimum deposit	$5
💵 Minimum wager	$5
🕒 Payout speed	Within 24 hours
App Store rating	4.8/5 ⭐ (165K reviews)
Google Play rating	4.7/5 ⭐ (15.4K reviews)
✅ Last verified	Sept. 29, 2025

Underdog Fantasy iOS app

What we like

Easy to claim: As mentioned above, all you have to do is make a minimum $5 initial entry to qualify for the Underdog Fantasy welcome promo. 

Great for all bettors: The offer's minimal entry requirements make it accessible for casuals and high rollers alike. 

Long promotional window: You rarely see a sports betting site offer more than 14 days to use their bonus funds. So, it is safe to say that the 60 days leash attached to the Underdog Fantasy new user bonus is a definite positive.

What we don't like

Wait for funds: We prefer welcome bonuses that award the funds instantly or at least within 24 hours of completing the requirements. 

Low total value: We wish new users can extract more value from this offer.

Browse our Underdog Fantasy promo code page for a complete review of the operator. 

5. ProphetX California promo

Up to 200 Prophet Cash

COVERS

 Claim 200

Who it's for

We highly recommend the current ProphetX California bonus to all Peach State bettors. To qualify, simply use the promo code 'COVERS' and make an initial $10 deposit. With such a low entry requirement, CA bettors of all experience levels can easily claim this generous welcome bonus in just a few minutes. 

Bonus terms and conditions

Download and register an account via the ProphetX sports betting app. 

You must use the ProphetX promo code 'COVERS' to redeem this CA sportsbook bonus.

Make a minimum $10 initial deposit on any available purchase package.  

ProphetX California will issue a 2% bonus on every play — wager — you make during your first 30 days of using the platform. The maximum amount you can redeem is 200 in ProphetX Cash. 

Your 30-day promo period begins when you make your first real-money purchase. You must wager all earned ProphetX Cash once before it can be redeemed for prizes. 

This Covers-verified ProphetX California promo code offer is currently ongoing. 

Covers BetSmart Rating: ⭐ 4.0/5

Bonuses and promotions	⭐ 3.5/5
Banking and payout speed	⭐ 4.2/5
Key features	⭐ 4.2/5
Security and trust	⭐ 4.5/5
Customer support	⭐ 3.0/5
User experience	⭐ 4.0/5
Betting odds	⭐ 4.5/5

User reviews

Editor's note: User reviews may be edited for clarity. 

"For those of that live in states without traditional sportsbooks, ProphetX is a godsend! The odds are incredible. Just want to give a big thank you to the folks behind this app."

- App Store reviewer

"I've been using this app for a while, and it’s truly a game-changer in the world of sports betting. The biggest draw for me is the ability to get the best prices available — no more settling for whatever odds the house decides. The freedom to request better odds or propose my own is a feature I haven’t seen elsewhere, and it makes the experience so much more exciting and rewarding."

- App Store user

ProphetX at a glance

💰 Sign-up bonus	Up to 200 Prophet Cash
⏩ ProphetX promo code	COVERS
🏅 Top feature	Low commission rates
💵 Minimum deposit	$10
🕒 Payout speed	Within 24 hours
App Store rating	4.8/5 ⭐ (572 reviews)
Google Play rating	4.7/5 ⭐ (102 reviews)
🌎 Available states	All states excluding AZ, ID, LA, MI, MT, NV, OH, TN, and WA
🕒 Offer expiry	Ongoing
✅ Last verified	Sept. 29, 2025

ProphetX iOS app

What we like

Easy to claim: Although the bonus is based on the amount you wager during your first 30 days, we appreciate that you only need to make an initial $10 deposit to qualify. 

Suitable for all bettors: Since the ProphetX welcome bonus is a 'bet match' offer, you can earn ProphetX Cash regardless of whether you fully maximize the promotion or simply meet the minimum requirements.

No market restrictions: You can use your ProphetX Cash on any of the DFS operator's available betting markets, including NFL, NBA, soccer, and more.

What we don't like

Hard to track: Since you can receive a daily bonus for up to 30 days, it might be challenging for new or casual California sports bettors to keep track of the bonus amounts coming in.

Wagering requirements: While the bonus only needs to be wagered once before it can be converted into cash, we prefer welcome bonuses that let you redeem your promotional funds right away.

For additional information, please refer to our ProphetX promo code review. 

Top local teams to play DFS with in California

We've outlined below to top local teams you can wager on with DFS California sportsbooks in 2025:

🏈 San Francisco 49ers - NFL is the most popular sport at DFS sites. Notwithstanding a disappointing 2024, the Kyle Shanahan-led 49ers have been regulars in the playoffs over the past 10 years, making them a good choice for classic, season-long DFS rosters. 

🏈 Los Angeles Rams - The 2022 Super Bowl champions still possess one of the NFL's top offenses thanks to head coach Sean McVay. Adding DeVante Adams to the already pass-happy offense this offseason makes the Rams a great pick for daily head-to-head contests.

🏀 Los Angeles Lakers - Superstar players like LeBron James and Luka Doncic are always going to feature prominently in NBA pick’em contests, which focus on Over/Under style picks for stats like points, assists, and rebounds. Adding these two stat-stuffing all-stars to your daily lineups is always a smart move in our opinion. 

🏀 Golden State Warriors - While not as explosive as they were in the mid-to-late 2010s, the Steph Curry-led Warriors give DFS players multiple options for high-usage players in salary-cap contests. 

⚾ Los Angeles Dodgers - Shohei Ohtani is the best player in the MLB. That greatness carries over to DFS contests, as his incredible output and versatility make him a top candidate in almost all pick'em contests. 

⚾ San Diego Padres - With a lineup of power hitters, including Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr., Padres players can offer great value for DFS contests focused on home runs and RBIs. 

Potential California sportsbook promos (if legalized)

California remains one of the most elusive U.S. states in determining if they will or won't legalize traditional sports betting sites. While we all wait in limbo for any indicators, please browse the best potential California sportsbook promos that could arrive if legalization occurs soon: 

When will sports betting be legal in California?

Unfortunatley, the timeline for a traditional sports betting market to launch in California is unclear after two major ballot measures failed to gain any traction in 2022.

One of these ballots, Proposition 26, proposed in-person sports betting at tribal casinos and racetracks, but was rejected by a wide margin. Proposition 27 proposed legalizing online sports betting through partnerships between sportsbooks and tribes. This was also overwhelmingly rejected, with roughly 82% of voters deciding against the proposition.

Since those 2022 losses, no new sports betting legislation or ballot initiative has been on the table in California. There are ongoing discussions in the state about a possible measure for the 2026 ballot. However, as of mid-2025 nothing formal has been filed, which is discouraging. At this point, the earliest realistic window for traditional legal sports betting in California is in 2026, but it could easily be even further down the line. 

How we rate betting apps and promo offers

Read below to see what key factors we look at when evaluating a sports betting app California bettors can access in 2025:

How to get started with DFS and social sportsbooks in California

We've claimed each new-user betting promo listed on this page, ensuring each is accessible for all bettors and has no hidden terms. We can confidently say that all Golden State bettors, regardless of experience, can secure each sports betting app California bonus in minutes by following these steps: 

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