Best Virginia sports betting sites
Fanatics Sportsbook Benefits
- Fair Play on first half injuries
- Unique Squad Bets
- Unlock 100% profit boost tokens
bet365 Benefits
- Excellent pricing
- Gold standard layout
- Best NFL live betting
BetMGM Benefits
- Do-it-all parlay builder
- Consistent daily NFL promos
- Classy MGM Rewards program
DraftKings Benefits
- Lightning fast withdrawals
- Supreme navigation
- Best for grading winners
FanDuel Benefits
- Excellent user experience
- Best for NFL betting
- World-class mobile platform
Hard Rock Bet Benefits
- Great interface for in-play betting
- Legendary Reward Drops program
- Good coverage of niche sports
10 x $100 Bet Match in FanCash
Virginia sports betting key details
Browse the pertinent details about the Virginia sports betting market in 2026 below:
| Virginia Betting Facts | |
|---|---|
| Virginia online sports betting status | Live ✅ |
| Legal betting age | 21+ |
| Number of betting licenses | 19 |
| Online betting sites | 12 |
| Tax rate | 15% |
| State regulator | Virginia Lottery |
| Last verified | Aug. 26, 2026 |
All verified Virginia sportsbook promo codes
|
VA sports betting site 🏆 |
Welcome bonus 💰 |
Promo code ✅ |
|---|---|---|
|
⭐ Fanatics Sportsbook |
COVERS |
|
|
⭐ bet365 |
Bet $10, Get $365 Win or Lose or $1,000 First Bet Safety Net |
COVERS |
|
⭐ BetMGM |
COVERS |
|
|
⭐ DraftKings |
Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets |
Claim $200 automatically$1,200 without code |
|
⭐ FanDuel |
Claim $350 automatically |
|
|
⭐ Caesars Sportsbook |
GODYW |
|
|
⭐ Hard Rock Bet |
Claim now without code |
|
|
⭐ BetRivers |
Claim $500 without code |
|
|
⭐ Bally Bet |
Claim $50 without code |
|
|
⭐ theScore Bet |
Claim $100 without code |
|
|
⭐ Sporttrade |
Claim $100 without code |
Is sports betting legal in Virginia?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Virginia. Lawmakers in Virginia approved Gov. Ralph Northam's amendments to two sports betting bills on April 22, 2020, and the state's first online sportsbooks arrived on Jan. 21, 2021.
Currently, there are 12 legal sports betting sites active in the Old Dominion.
Top 6 Virginia sports betting apps reviewed
The six best VA sports betting apps may be similar, but each offers features and promotions that separate them from the rest of a crowded pack of legal sportsbooks.
Below, we'll explain why each operator landed in our list of the best sports betting apps in August 2026:
- Fanatics Sportsbook - Best for merch rewards
- bet365 - Best live streaming
- BetMGM - Best overall experience
- DraftKings - Best for grading winners
- FanDuel - Best user experience
- Caesars Sportsbook - Best rewards program
1. Fanatics Sportsbook Virginia
Fanatics — a popular licensed sports merchandiser in the U.S. — went live with its online sportsbook in Virginia in November 2023, marking the seventh state to welcome the operator. Fanatics Sportsbook is a great emerging online sports betting site, offering competitive odds, a range of markets, an intuitive mobile app, and one of the best live streaming experiences in the industry.
Check out our Fanatics Sportsbook review to learn more.
| Fanatics Sportsbook | |
|---|---|
| Is Fanatics Sportsbook live in Virginia? | Yes ✅ |
| App Store rating | 4.8/5 (135.7K reviews) |
| Android rating | 4.6/5 (29.3K reviews) |
2. bet365 Virginia
With bet365 now available in Virginia, local bettors can access one of the most renowned international sportsbooks of 2026. Offering a vast selection of niche betting markets for unique sporting events and an exceptional mobile app, bet365 also provides two welcome promotions for new users to choose from. Simply put, there’s plenty to appreciate about bet365 Virginia.
| bet365 Sportsbook | |
|---|---|
| Is bet365 live in Virginia? | Yes ✅ |
| App Store rating | 4.8/5 (187.5K reviews) |
| Android rating | 4.5/5 (33.9K reviews) |
Bonus bet amounts not returned with winnings. Min. deposit required. Must register with app only. T&Cs, time limits, and exclusions apply. 21+. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET (AZ, CO, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA) or 1-800-BETS OFF (IA). 21+ only. Please gamble responsibly. Must be present in AZ/CO/IA/IL/IN/KS/KY/LA (select parishes)/MD/MI/MO/NC/NJ/OH/PA/TN/VA.
3. BetMGM Virginia
Expert Verdict
BetMGM maintains our favorite Virginia sports betting apps thanks to a rich user experience with in-play betting, instinctual navigation, and many secure banking methods. The feature-laden app is stylish, and access to live streaming events is one tap away. You'll find no shortage of markets with the BetMGM app, and you can wager with confidence knowing the platform is entirely secure.
Refer to our BetMGM bonus code review for an in-depth analysis.
| BetMGM Sportsbook | |
|---|---|
| Is BetMGM live in Virginia? | Yes ✅ |
| App Store rating | 4.8/5 (239.4K reviews) |
| Android rating | 4.2/5 (36.6K reviews) |
4. DraftKings Virginia
DraftKings remains near the top of the best Virginia sports betting apps, and with good reason. Their elite mobile app is visually appealing and easy to use — evidenced by its stellar App Store and Google Play reviews — and is firmly cemented on our list of the best sports betting apps. Live streaming of select sporting events around the globe and live in-game betting of select matchups are hallmarks of the DraftKings app.
Our DraftKings promo code review pages offers an in-depth look at this great sportsbook.
| DraftKings Sportsbook | |
|---|---|
| Is DraftKings live in Virginia? | Yes ✅ |
| App Store rating | 4.8/5 (845.7K reviews) |
| Android rating | 4.3/5 (175K reviews) |
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET, (800) 327-5050 or visit http://gamblinghelplinema.org (MA)
Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit http://ccpg.org (CT), or visit http://www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-981-0023 (PR).
21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/NH/PR/WY). Void in CAN. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new DraftKings customer. $5+ first-time bet req. Max. $200 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets. Stake removed from payout. Reward issued as $50 in Bonus Bets every 7 days via click-to-claim for 21 days. Bonus Bets and click-to-claims expire 7 days (168hrs) after issuance. Terms: http://sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos . Ends 9/20/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.
5. FanDuel Virginia
FanDuel was the first operator to accept a legal wager in the state. Today, the FanDuel app is top-tier thanks partly to its intuitive layout and robust features, including single-game parlays, odds boosts, and a surplus of banking options. No matter if you’re a novice or a seasoned bettor, FanDuel Sportsbook will provide you with a worthwhile experience.
Check out our FanDuel review for further analysis.
| FanDuel Sportsbook | |
|---|---|
| Is FanDuel live in Virginia? | Yes ✅ |
| App Store rating | 4.9/5 (1.9M reviews) |
| Android rating | 4.6/5 (382K reviews) |
6. Caesars Sportsbook Virginia
Caesars — a brand synonymous with U.S. gambling — boasts one of the best Virginia betting apps due to its modern design, expansive markets, and renowned live-betting interface, which is equipped for the NFL. Notably, its customer support is commendable due to the availability of a 24/7 live chat, ensuring responsive and effective assistance. Beyond its promo for first-time bettors, the sportsbook also delivers a sensational rewards program.
Visit our Caesars Sportsbook review for more information.
| Caesars Sportsbook | |
|---|---|
| Is Caesars Sportsbook live in Virginia? | Yes ✅ |
| App Store rating | 4.7/5 (89.3K reviews) |
| Android rating | 4.5/5 (30.7K reviews) |
Comparing top Virginia sports betting sites
| Compare | ||||||
| Welcome bonus | 10 x $100 Bet Match in FanCash | $1,500 First Bet Offer | Bet $10, Get $365 Win or Lose or $1,000 First Bet Safety Net | Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets | Get up to $350 in Bonus Bets | Bet $1, Get 10 100% Profit Boost Tokens |
| Promo code | COVERS | COVERS | COVERS | Automatically applied after registration | Automatically applied after registration | GODYW |
| Payout speed | Within 24 hours | Within 48 hours | Within 24 hours | Within 24 hours | Within 24 hours | Within 24 hours |
| Odds provider | Amelco | BetMGM | bet365 | SBTech | Flutter | Caesars |
| Top feature | Merch rewards | Overall experience | Live streaming | Grading winners | User experience | Rewards program |
| Live streaming? | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ | Yes ✅ |
| Covers BetSmart Rating | ⭐ 4.6/5 | ⭐ 4.9/5 | ⭐ 4.7/5 | ⭐ 4.5/5 | ⭐ 4.8/5 | ⭐ 4.6/5 |
| Claim Bonus | Claim $1,000 | Claim $1,500 | Claim $150 | Claim $150 | Claim $1,000 | Claim Now |
Best Virginia sports betting offers and bonuses
Virginia sports betting sites will continue to offer new users a wide variety of attractive welcome offers throughout the year. While not all sportsbook operators' sign-up bonuses are worth the hype, the best Virginia sports betting promo bonuses of 2026 are definitely worth a look in the Old Dominion:
Fanatics Sportsbook - 10 x $100 Bet Match in FanCash: Use the Fanatics Sportsbook promo code COVERS during registration to claim its latest welcome offer. You can receive up to $1,000 Matched in FanCash. Simply place a daily $1 wager on a market with -200 odds or longer. If the wager settles as a win or loss, you'll receive one (1) bonus bet equal to the amount of your wager, up to $100, for your first 10 days using the operator. This offer expires Sep. 20, 2026.
BetMGM - $1,500 First Bet Offer: Virginia sports bettors can claim a first bet of up to $1,500 paid back in bonus bets with the "King of Sportsbooks." If you lose your first wager, BetMGM VA will refund up to $1,500 in the form of bonus bets. Bonus bets expire after seven days. Use BetMGM bonus code COVERS to redeem this offer, which expires on Sep. 1, 2026.
FanDuel Sportsbook - Get up to $350 in Bonus Bets: Sign up with FanDuel AZ to get up to $350 in bonus bets. Just wager $5 for seven consecutive days to unlock a $50 daily bonus bet. No FanDuel promo code is required, but the offer expires on Sep. 20, 2026.
bet365 - Bet $10, Get $365 Win or Lose: Use our exclusive bet365 bonus code 'COVERS' and turn a $10 bet into $365 in bonus bets guaranteed. Make a $10 minimum initial deposit and place a qualifying wager on odds of -500 or greater that settles within 30 days of opening their account to access this promo. New users also have the option to choose to claim up to a '$1,000 First Bet Safety Net' offer that applies to their initial wager instead. Both promos must be claimed via the bet365 Sportsbook app and are valid until Sep. 22, 2026, at 6:59 a.m. ET.
Bonus bet amounts not returned with winnings. Min. deposit required. Must register with app only. T&Cs, time limits, and exclusions apply. 21+. GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-MY-RESET. 21+ only. Must be physically located in VA.
Caesars Sportsbook - Bet $1, Get 10 100% Profit Boost Tokens: Enter our exclusive Caesars Sportsbook promo code 'GODYW' while registering a new account, make a minimum deposit of $10, and place your first real money wager of $1 within 30 days. Caesars will issue you 10 100% profit boosts. Each boost has a maximum bet of $25 and has a total value of $2,500. New users have 14 days after receiving the bonus, which expires on Mar. 2, 2027.
DraftKings - Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets: First-time DraftKings Virginia customers earn $200 in bonus bets (two $25 bonus bets every seven days for 21 days), following a $5 deposit and $5 initial wager. No DraftKings promo code is needed to secure the offer, which expires on Sep. 20, 2026. Once your wager settles, you should get the bonus bets instantly.
Hard Rock Bet - Up to $100 Back: Interested in earning up to a $100 bonus bet without using a Hard Rock sportsbook promo code? Create a new account and make an initial deposit and wager of at least $10. Should that wager lose, you'll receive your stake back, up to $100, as a bonus bet. This offer is valid until Dec. 31, 2026.
Terms and conditions apply to all bonuses and promotional offers.
Compare Virginia sportsbook apps
|
Virginia betting apps |
App Store rating (iOS) |
Google Play rating (Android) |
|---|---|---|
|
Fanatics Sportsbook |
4.8/5 ⭐ (154.3K reviews) |
4.8/5 ⭐ (33.6K reviews) |
|
bet365 |
4.8/5 ⭐ (208.3K reviews) |
4.6/5 ⭐ (38.8K reviews) |
|
BetMGM |
4.8/5 ⭐ (241.8K reviews) |
4.2/5 ⭐ (37.2K reviews) |
|
DraftKings |
4.8/5 ⭐ (855.9K reviews) |
4.6/5 ⭐ (185.7K reviews) |
|
FanDuel |
4.9/5 ⭐ (1.9M reviews) |
4.6/5 ⭐ (383.9K reviews) |
|
Caesars Sportsbook |
4.7/5 ⭐ (92K reviews) |
4.6/5 ⭐ (31.5K reviews) |
How we evaluate & rate VA betting apps
With so many operators embracing sports betting apps in Virginia, expect the level of competition to increase in the coming years. To mitigate choice paralysis, the best thing you can do is educate yourself beforehand on the following categories to find the best betting apps Virginia has to offer in 2026.
Welcome bonuses and promotions
The top sports betting apps Virginia bettors can access offer thousands of dollars in promotional bonuses based on actions you take, from signing up to reloading your account or betting on certain events. Plus, most promote loyalty reward systems that can lead to even more money, bonus bets, and VIP experiences.
User experience
This goes without saying, but if a sports betting app is convoluted and constantly crashes, the user experience will be sub-par. When researching the top four Virginia sports betting apps above, we looked closely at the user experience and interface. Navigation, graphics, and the app's ability to simplify the sports betting process are crucial.
Variety of bet types
Virginia is pretty strict regarding sports betting and won’t allow you to wager on in-state college teams, U.S. politics, or entertainment events such as the Oscars. Each sports betting app in Virginia still does a fantastic job offering a wide range of betting markets in the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and global sports like tennis and golf. These include your typical moneyline, point spread, Over/Unders (totals), live in-game betting, same-game parlays, and futures odds.
Banking options
Before selecting a best sports betting app Virginia offers, be sure the one you’re signing up for accepts your preferred banking method. Most accept major credit cards — like Visa or Mastercard — and debit cards, but perhaps you don’t want those cards synced up with a sports operator and prefer an alternative banking method. Aside from PayPal, operators offer several unique e-wallets and ACH bank wire transfers to move your money around.
Payout speed
Let us set the scene: The Washington Commanders just upset the Dallas Cowboys, you’ve struck it rich on a parlay and are ready to cash out. Virginia's best sports betting apps simplify withdrawal processes and don’t leave you waiting weeks for a payout. While payout speed varies based on vendor, we gravitate towards sportsbooks that can complete the job within one or two banking days.
Security
Each of the betting apps Virginia bettors can access come loaded with the latest encryption software. It is imperative that the app protects your personal and financial information to ensure the utmost security. This encryption software “hides” the data when transferred.
Customer support
The ideal sports betting app offers email, phone, and live chat support. The most trustworthy customer service teams offer 24/7 support so that when questions arise, players can get a speedy response.
Legal sportsbooks in Virginia
There are currently 12 legal online sportsbooks operating in Virginia.
On July 8, 2022, Hard Rock opened the first retail Virginia sportsbook. WynnBET shuttered its operations in August 2023, while Betr Sportsbook and SuperBook launched online platforms in September and October, respectively. Sporttrade is the most recent operator to launch, as it went live in October 2024.
Virginia sports betting sites
| Online sportsbook 🏆 | Mobile app 📱 | Odds provider 🔮 | Online casino 🎰 | Retail partner 🤝 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bally Bet | Yes | Kambi | No | N/A |
| bet365 | Yes | bet365 | No | N/A |
| BetMGM | Yes | BetMGM | No | N/A |
| BetRivers | Yes | Kambi | No | N/A |
| Betr | Yes | Chameleon | No | N/A |
| Caesars | Yes | Caesars | No | N/A |
| DraftKings | Yes | SBTech | No | N/A |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | Yes | Amelco | No | N/A |
| FanDuel | Yes | Flutter | No | N/A |
| Hard Rock Bet | Yes | GiG | No | N/A |
| theScore Bet | Yes | PENN | No | N/A |
| Sporttrade | Yes | Sporttrade | No | TBD |
Land-based Virginia sportsbooks
| Sportsbook 🏆 | Venue 🏛️ | Odds provider 🔮 | Launch date 📅 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hard Rock Sportsbook | Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Bristol | GiG | July 8, 2022 |
Latest Virginia sports betting news
Who can partake in Virginia sports betting?
In accordance with Virginia sports betting law, Adults 21 and over who have access to a mobile device or computer may place a legal sports bet. Registration can be completed from anywhere in the state, so players can get started at home or at their favorite bar.
Keep reading to learn about how to place your first sports bet in the Old Dominion.
Legal age
You must be at least 21 to place legal wagers at Virginia sportsbooks.
Mobile betting
Online Virginia sports betting involves a computer or mobile device to access a sports betting website or sportsbook app. The Virginia Lottery regulates all VA sports betting operators and their activity in Virginia.
Remote registration
Remote registration allows Virginia bettors to create accounts with Virginia sports betting sites, make deposits, and place their first bets from anywhere in the state.
Within state borders
Geolocation technology is used by all online Virginia sportsbooks to confirm your location within the state. While you don’t need to reside in Virginia to place a bet, you will be required to enable location services to prove you’ve got both feet on the ground in the Old Dominion.
Retail sportsbooks
There is only one retail sportsbook in VA: Hard Rock Sportsbook in Bristol. Lawmakers have approved up to five new brick-and-mortar casinos, and plans are already in motion to begin constructing casinos in three other Virginia cities: Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth. Each land-based casino is forecasted to house its sportsbook.
Taxable winnings
Virginia sports betting winnings that exceed $600 are subject to a 24% federal tax. Losses can offset winnings, so keeping a record of both could lessen the burden during tax season.
The rate at which your winnings are taxed, at the state level, depends on the amount you’ve won that year. These rates range from 2% - 5.75%.
The pros and cons of Virginia sports betting
Sports bettors have been able to enjoy fully online Virginia sports betting from the get-go. The average tax rate and high population make Virginia a worthwhile market for new sportsbooks.
A lack of retail sportsbooks is a current drawback in Virginia — although that will change in the coming years.
How to start betting in Virginia
Read below to learn how to sign up and claim Virginia welcome offers in minutes:
- With legal online betting open, Virginia bettors have multiple online sportsbooks they can register with today.
- Consider sign-up bonuses, odds pricing, supported banking methods, and the look and feel of each sports betting platform before getting started.



- After choosing your sportsbook(s), you’ll have to create an account in Virginia.
- Enter your name, email, and address, and follow the prompts provided by the online platform.
- Once you’ve confirmed your identity and location, your account will be active.



- Virginia sports betting sites are vying for your attention by offering the most common sportsbook sign-up bonuses, including second chance bets, bet and gets, and deposit match bonuses.
- Be sure to enter a sportsbook promo code, if necessary.



- Online betting sites support a wide variety of sportsbook deposit and withdrawal methods, including credit cards, debit cards, e-wallets, online banking, and more.
- Bettors should understand each payment method fully and look for potential fees charged by banks or financial institutions.



- Bettors will find a wide range of sports bet types, including moneylines, point spreads, Over/Unders (totals), same-game parlays, futures, teasers, and live betting.
- Once you’ve identified the best price for your bet(s), fill up your bet slip and confirm your wager(s).



- With licensed and regulated VA sportsbooks, accessing your sports bet winnings is painless.
- Expect to wait a few days to see your funds arrive in your bank account or e-wallet, though some withdrawal methods offer almost instant access to your bankroll.






What you can't bet on in Virginia
Until recently, Virginia has been a mostly conservative gambling state aside from esports. Today, some limitations remain, including the following:
esports
Esports betting has become increasingly popular and is now legal in Virginia. In 2020, SB384 included clear language permitting esports betting sites in the Old Dominion.
Politics
You cannot bet on any political event in Virginia. Politics are off-limits at Virginia betting sites — and sportsbooks in every other U.S. state.
NFL Draft
The NFL's major offseason event is big with bettors. However, Virginia sportsbooks are on our list of states that prohibit wagering on the NFL Draft.
VA college sports
Virginia sports bettors may not place wagers on any of the Commonwealth's collegiate teams. However, bets may be placed on out-of-state college teams.
Awards shows
Much-hyped celebrity and pop-culture events, such as the Academy Awards, are off-limits to Virginia bettors.
Virginia sports betting handle
Virginia sports bettors wasted no time getting in on the sports betting action in 2021. After taking in over $236 million in sports wagers in April, Virginia became the fastest state to $1 billion in total sports betting handle — a record multiple states have since broken.
Since launching mobile sports wagering, Virginia has seen its sports betting handle reach over $20 billion in total wagers.
Here’s a Virginia revenue tracker and handle breakdown:
Yearly breakdown
| Year | Total handle | Revenue | Hold percentage | Tax revenue |
| 2026 | ||||
| 2025 | $7.66B | $842.9M | 11.1% | $118.2M |
| 2024 | $6.93B | $684.9M | 9.9% | $92.3M |
| 2023 | $5.53B | $560.2M | 10% | $72.3M |
| 2022 | $4.9B | $481.2M | 9.79% | $51.8M |
| 2021 | $3.21B | $285.9M | 8.9% | $20.3M |
Monthly handle
| Year | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Total |
| 2026 | $683.9M | $571.6M | $666.4M | $608.5M | $574.9M | $585.9M | |||||||
| 2025 | $736.7M | $556.8M | $689.7M | $609.7M | $595M | $477.8M | $429.3M | $506.3M | $731.5M | $824M | $793.6M | $705.3M | $7.66B |
| 2024 | $652.9M | $545M | $635.6M | $563.5M | $505.6M | $415.4M | $377.6M | $416.7M | $622.1M | $696.1M | $760.9M | $734.4M | $6.93B |
| 2023 | $513.2M | $433.8M | $511.6M | $425.9M | $403.7M | $322M | $293.6M | $319M | $520.3M | $571.3M | $638.8M | $633.2M | $5.53B |
| 2022 | $485.5M | $401.8M | $469.5M | $399.5M | $351.5M | $295.2M | $266M | $284.7M | $411.3M | $528M | $518.8M | $503.1M | $4.9B |
| 2021 | $58.9M | $265.8M | $304M | $236.4M | $227M | $235M | $161.9M | $182.4M | $293.8M | $427.3M | $402.5M | $426.6M | $3.21B |
Virginia sports teams to bet on
Despite not having a professional team, Virginia is a huge interest market for the major sports leagues. It’s no surprise that sports bettors have come out in full force since Virginia sports betting was legalized in January 2021.
But like all gamblers, it’s vital that Virginia bettors be cautious when placing wagers on their favorite clubs in any major sports leagues. Our how to bet guides are a handy resource for new bettors. Sports betting has no allegiances, so be sure to remain neutral and read the odds carefully.
Virginia betting law
Virginia betting law calls for up to 19 online sports betting operators and sportsbooks in five land-based casinos.
Here's a snapshot of the current state of legal Virginia betting:
- The Virginia Lottery regulates all online and retail wagering.
- You must be 21 or older to bet on sports in VA.
- 12 legal online sportsbooks do business in Virginia.
- Land-based and online sportsbooks are taxed at 15% of gross gaming revenue.
- Betting on in-state college sports, the NFL Draft, politics, and celebrity awards shows is illegal in VA.
- esports wagering is legal in Virginia, provided the majority of participants are 21 or older.
Other types of gambling
Virginia is inching closer to unveiling more land-based casinos. While residents are currently limited to Hard Rock Bristol, local gamblers will soon be able to enjoy an abundance of gambling opportunities at brick-and-mortar locations in VA.
Casino
Four Virginian cities have approved casino plans to date. Hard Rock Bristol was the first to welcome local gamblers when it opened its temporary location on July 8, 2022.
For online gamblers, sweepstakes casinos like Chumba Casino and LuckyLand Slots are the lone options in Virginia. No formal law regulates real money online casinos in the state.
Poker
Virginia’s gambling law does not explicitly outlaw poker, but there are no poker rooms to be found in the Old Dominion. However, this should change with the arrival of casinos in a few years.
Online poker has not been legalized but could be a consideration in the future as Virginia continues to expand on its regulated gambling offerings.
Horse racing
Following a five-year hiatus, Colonial Downs has been up and running since 2019. Virginia’s lone horse racetrack offers live racing, pari-mutuel betting, and HHR (historical horse racing).
Online horse bets can also be placed online with TVG, TwinSpires, and other horse racing betting sites.
Daily fantasy sports
Virginia was the first to legalize daily fantasy sports (DFS). DraftKings and FanDuel have been running DFS contests in the Commonwealth since 2016. Additionally, you can sign-up and claim the ProphetX promo code today.
Predictive sports trading
Predictive-based sports trading is becoming one of the most popular alternatives to traditional betting in 2026. You can use to best prediction market sites to buy, sell, and trade 'Yes' or 'No' contracts based on the speculative outcome of sports and various unique events, such as politics, pop culture, weather, and more. Register with the Kalshi bonus code 'COVERS35' to access the top predictive-based platform today.
Responsible gaming in Virginia
While the launch of legal sports betting has been a source of excitement and entertainment for many in Virginia, there will inevitably be some who fall into the downward spiral that is gambling addiction. With this in mind, the Virginia Lottery has worked to develop programs for those in need.
At the head of their efforts is the Voluntary Exclusion program. This allows individuals to exclude themselves from all forms of gambling for two years, five years, or a lifetime. Legal online sportsbooks also allow users to place a wide range of restrictions on themselves. Players can set deposit and betting limits or permanently join the self-exclusion list.
Visit the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling
You can also contact the following National organizations outlined below for additional support if required.
U.S. gambling helplines
| Organization 🤝 | Phone number ☎️ |
|---|---|
| Gam-Anon | 718-352-1671 |
| Gamblers Anonymous | 855-2CALLGA |
| National Problem Gambling Helpline | 1-800-GAMBLER |
| Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association | 1-800-662-HELP (4357) |
Legal U.S. sports betting markets
In addition to Virginia, these U.S. jurisdictions have legalized sports betting:
Recent legal U.S. sports betting launches
Missouri launched legal online sports betting in December 2025, allowing locals to access up to eight sportsbooks on day one.
North Carolina sports betting launched legal online wagering on March 11, 2024, ahead of the March Madness Tournament. Tar Heel State bettors now have access to 7 online sportsbooks with lucrative sign-up offers.
Legal Vermont sports betting went live on Jan. 11, 2024. Three operators — FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics Sportsbook — were available on launch day to sports bettors.
Potential legal U.S. sports betting markets
Here are the states moving toward legal sports betting which may potentially offer the practice soon:
Virginia sports betting history
After careful consideration, Virginia lawmakers came together to approve both online and retail sports betting in 2020. Nearly a year later, the first mobile sportsbooks went live. Virginians can now place legal wagers at 12 online betting sites and one brick-and-mortar sportsbook.
2024: Sporttrade becomes the 12th online operator in Virginia.
2023: bet365 and Betfred join the online Virginia sports betting market, going live on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, respectively. August marked the end of WynnBET Virginia. Betr launched in September, while SuperBook opened its virtual doors to VA bettors in October. Fanatics Sportsbook joined the fun in November.
2022: Voters reject HB 1127 and SB 576 — two bills looking to legalize in-state college sports betting.
Hard Rock Sportsbook and SI Sportsbook launch online operations in VA. Hard Rock also opens Virginia's first retail sportsbook.
2021: FanDuel takes Virginia's first legal online wager on Jan. 21. By the end of 2021, 11 online operators are accepting bets in VA, and Virginia bettors make over $3.21 billion in sports wagers.
2020: Virginia sports betting is officially approved when lawmakers accept Gov. Northam's amendments to two bills on April 22.
Four cities — Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth — approve new casinos.
2019: The Virginia Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) finds that online sports betting could bring in $55 million in annual gaming tax revenue. JLARC also suggests online sportsbooks could launch ahead of brick-and-mortar locations.
2018: With the fall of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, each U.S. state is free to legalize sports betting and establish its own set of sports wagering rules and regulations.
List of Virginia resources
Use the following resources to dive deeper into the world of legal Virginia sports betting:
- Virginia Lottery: Regulating body in Virginia
- Virginia Council on Problem Gambling: Help and support for problem gamblers
- House Bill 896: Virginia online and mobile sports betting bill
- Senate Bill 36: VA casino gambling bill
- Virginia sports betting regulations: Rules governing legal VA sports wagering
Virginia sports betting conclusion
Considering Virginia had little to no gambling activity in 2020, the state continues to punch above its weight in terms of prosperity. Sports betting has been legal since January 2021, and today, 12 online Virginia sportsbooks are fully operational.
Virginians can wager on all sports betting markets, but they cannot wager on the NFL Draft. In addition to sports betting, VA is also picking up steam with casino gaming. Bettors in neighboring states, including Maryland and Kentucky, have struggled with sports betting legalization, which continues to benefit the Commonwealth.
Sportsbooks to avoid in Virginia
See all blacklisted sportsbooks
Offshore betting sites are unreliable and should be avoided. These blacklisted sites are not regulated by the Virginia Lottery and could fold at any moment, taking your funds with them.
Reserve your wagers for legal and regulated Virginia betting sites only, and 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
Virginia sports betting FAQ
Is sports betting legal in Virginia?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Virginia for anyone 21 and older. The Virginia Lottery regulates all sports betting activity in the Commonwealth.
Is online sports betting legal in Virginia?
Yes, online sports betting is legal in Virginia. Bettors can use any of the 12 mobile sportsbooks currently available to place wagers anywhere in the state.
Do you have to live in Virginia to bet online?
Virginia sports bettors are not required to reside in the state. However, players must confirm their location within Virginia before placing an online wager at a Virginia betting site.
Does Virginia have sports betting on college teams?
Yes, you can bet on college sports in Virginia. However, you are not able to place wagers on in-state college teams like the Virginia Cavaliers or the Virginia Tech Hokies.
Where can I bet on sports in Virginia?
Virginia sports bettors can now place online and retail sports bets. Online wagers can be confirmed anywhere within state borders, while retail bets can be placed at the Hard Rock Sportsbook in the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Bristol.
How do you place a sports bet in Virginia?
Virginians can place a sports bet by using a legal sports betting website, downloading a sports betting app, or visiting the Hard Rock Sportsbook in the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Bristol
How much money does Virginia make on sports betting?
Virginia generated over $92.3 million in sports betting tax revenue in 2024.
What are the biggest sports betting cities in Virginia?
Virginia's biggest sports betting cities include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Richmond.
Can I bet on Barstool Sportsbook in Virginia?
No, the Barstool Sportsbook app is no longer available in Virginia or in any other state.
Is DraftKings legally allowed to operate in Virginia?
Yes, DraftKings is legal in Virginia, as it launched in the state on Jan. 23, 2021.
Does FanDuel operate legally in Virginia?
Yes, FanDuel was the first sportsbook to take a legal sports bet in Virginia. The industry giant has partnered with the Washington Commanders.








