Virginia Sports Betting: Best VA Sportsbooks in 2026

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	Feb. 11, 2026

All verified Virginia sportsbook promo codes

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 February 2026:

🥇 Top VA Sportsbooks – Fanatics Sportsbook: Up to $1,000 in FanCash Bet Matches

• 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

 

Up to $1,000 in FanCash Bet Matches

Claim $1,000

Expert Verdict

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.

Joshua Howe Content Manager

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

Bet $5, Get $150 Win or Lose

Code: CVSBONUS

Claim $150

$1,000 First Bet Safety Net

Code: CVSBONUS

Claim $1,000

Expert Verdict

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..

Joshua Howe Content Manager

Refer to our bet365 review for more details.

	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)

3. BetMGM Virginia

$1,500 First Bet Offer

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US) Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR) 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See Sports Betting | Legal Online Sportsbook at BetMGM | BetMGM for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. This promotional offer is not available in DC, Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.

COVERS

Claim $1,500

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. 

Joshua Howe Content Manager

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

Bet $5, Win $300

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-522-4700, (800) 327-5050 or visit MA Gambling Helpline  (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit CONNECTICUT COUNCIL – ON PROBLEM GAMBLING  (CT), or visit Home (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $300 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Bet must settle by and Token expires 2/22/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: http://sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 2/15/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.

Claim $300

Expert Verdict

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. 

Joshua Howe Content Manager

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)

DraftKings responsible gaming  

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-522-4700, (800) 327-5050 or visit MA Gambling Helpline  (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit CONNECTICUT COUNCIL – ON PROBLEM GAMBLING  (CT), or visit Home (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $300 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Bet must settle by and Token expires 2/22/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: http://sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 2/15/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.

5. FanDuel Virginia

Up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets

New customers only. Deposit min. Receive daily No Sweat Token for first 10 days. Maximum refund per token is $100. Bonus expires after 24 hours from receipt.

Available in Virginia

Claim $1,000

Expert Verdict

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.

Joshua Howe Content Manager

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

$250 Bet Match, Win or Lose

New customers only. Must register using eligible promo code. Place a wager of at least $1 and you'll receive an equal value to your wager, up to $250, win or lose. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms.

COVERS250BM

Claim $250

Expert Verdict

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.

Joshua Howe Content Manager

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

	Fanatics Sportsbook	BetMGM Sportsbook	bet365 Sportsbook	DraftKings Sportsbook	FanDuel Sportsbook	Caesars Sportsbook
Compare	Pin	Pin	Pin	Pin	Pin	Pin
Welcome bonus	Up to $1,000 in FanCash Bet Matches	$1,500 First Bet Offer	Bet $5, Get $150 Win or Lose or $1,000 First Bet Safety Net	Bet $5, Win $300	Up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets	$250 Bet Match, Win or Lose
Promo code	Automatically applied after registration	COVERS	COVERS	Automatically applied after registration	Automatically applied after registration	COVERS250BM
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 $1,000	Claim $300	Claim $1,000	Claim $250

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 sportsbook bonuses of 2026 are definitely worth a look in the Old Dominion:

Fanatics Sportsbook - Up to $1,000 in FanCash Bet Matches: No Fanatics Sportsbook promo code is required to claim its latest welcome offer of up to $1,000 Bet Matches in FanCash. Simply place a daily $1 wager on any market with -200 odds or longer. Once the wager settles, 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 is valid until June 1, 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 June 30, 2026.

FanDuel – Up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets: Virginians who create a new FanDuel Sportsbook account get a No Sweat Token for each of your first 10 days after registering. By applying the Token to your wager, you'll be refunded in bonus bets if it loses. You can get up to $100 per Token, allowing you to score up to $1,000 in total bonuses. Act fast, as this offer is only valid until March 8, 2026.

bet365 - Bet $5, Get $150 Win or Lose: Use our exclusive bet365 bonus code 'COVERS' and turn a $5 bet into $150 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 offer. 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 offers must be claimed via the bet365 Sportsbook app and are valid until March 17, 2026, at 6:59 a.m. ET.

Caesars Sportsbook - $250 Bet Match, Win or Lose: Caesars Sportsbook Virginia's new welcome bonus allows you to claim up to $250 in bonus bets, win or lose when using Caesars Sportsbook promo code 'COVERS250BM'. Place a first-time real money wager of $1 within 30 days and receive an equal stake to your initial wager, up to $250. This offer lasts for 30 days from issuance and expires at 11:59 a.m. ET on Feb. 10, 2026.

DraftKings - Bet $5, Win $300: First-time DraftKings Virginia customers earn $300 in bonus bets (12 $25 bonus bets), following a $5 deposit and successful $5 initial wager. No DraftKings promo code is needed to secure the offer, which expires on Feb. 15, 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.

Virginia sports betting updates

In March 2020, the Virginia General Assembly and Senate passed SB 384  and HB 896, which brought legal sports betting to the Old Dominion. Gov. Ralph Northam relaid amended versions of the two bills to lawmakers, who then approved them in a reconvened session that authorized sports betting in Virginia. 

Here's a glimpse into the history of Virginia sports betting:

Jan. 13, 2026: Virginia lawmakers have introduced legislation to create the state’s first-ever gaming commission in a move that could help accelerate further gaming expansion.

Oct. 31, 2025: Following an NBA insider-betting scandal, Virginia regulators are reconsidering which sports betting markets should be allowed in the state.

Aug. 20, 2025: Virginia legislators are considering enhanced scrutiny regarding whether to make online gambling legal.

Aug. 1, 2025: The Virginia Lottery reported that online and retail sportsbooks generated $477.8 million in wagers in June, a 15% year-over-year increase. 

July 1, 2025: Virginia's sportsbooks generated $595 million in wagers and $72 million in gross revenue in May, during a high win rate month for operators. 

June 2, 2025: The Virginia Lottery recently reported a $609.7 million April handle, up from $563.5 million the same month in 2024.

May 2, 2025: March Madness helped Virginia generate $690 million in wagers and $51 million in gross revenue during college basketball’s postseason, with sports betting handle rising 8.5% year-over-year.

April 2, 2025: Virginia sportsbooks generate a 12% hold in February, which is the state's highest win rate since September 2022.

March 17, 2025: Virginia bettors still can't place bets on the three in-state participants in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, thanks to a ban that prohibits all wagers involving Commonwealth teams.

Feb. 28, 2025: Virginia's sports betting operators earn a record $87 million in revenue in January. 

Jan. 23, 2025: A Virginia Senate committee voted to approve a bill that would make it possible to build a casino resort in Tysons. It is the second approval thus far on the legislative path of the controversial proposal.

Jan. 21, 2025: A 2025 iGaming legalization candidate has already seen its efforts defeated, as Virginia's online casino legalization hopes have been pushed until at least 2026.

Jan. 14, 2025: Virginia may be the next state to send cease-and-desists letters to offshore sportsbook after local regulators debate what to do about the 'big problem' of unregulated operators. 

Jan. 3, 2025: Virginia earns a record $760 million handle in November, marking the first time the state has eclipsed $700 million in a single month. 

Jan. 3, 2025: Virginia to consider iGaming and in-state college betting in 2025 after lawmakers prefile two bills ahead of its upcoming legislative session.

Nov. 28, 2024: Virginia generates $49M in adjusted gross revenue in October, holding 7.8% of the total handle. That is down year-over-year, as it was 11.2% last October. 

Nov. 12, 2024: Caesars Virginia will open its doors on Thursday, December 12th. The resort will span 90,000 square feet, feature 1,500 slot machines, more than 100 live-action and electronic table games, a poker room, and Caesars Sportsbook. 

Nov. 5, 2024: Voters approve a 5th brick-and-mortar casino in Virginia, which could hurt online gaming chances in the Commonwealth.

Oct. 25, 2024: Sporttrade becomes the twelfth online operator to go live in Virginia. 

Oct. 24, 2024: A Virginia Tech basketball player has been dismissed during a reported betting scandal investigation, following unusual betting activity for a March 7th game.

Oct. 2, 2024: Betfred announces that it will exit Virginia on Oct. 21, leaving the online operator active in just three states.

Oct. 1, 2024: Virginia earns a 30% year-over-year increase in August, as the Old Dominion State's sports betting action generates a $416.7 million handle for the month. 

Sept. 3, 2024: Virginia operators post nearly a 12% hold in July, continuing the trend of high July win rates across the country. 

Aug. 30, 2024: Betr launches a new sportsbook feature ahead of the 2024 NFL season, allowing users in Ohio and Virginia to access traditional betting markets beyond micro-betting for a variety of sports. 

Aug. 7, 2024: Virginia has a limited market share up for grabs after the slew of U.S. operators — Si Sportsbook, Betway, and SuperBook — recently exited the state.  

Aug. 5, 2024: Virginia sportsbooks stay winning in June, as local operators report a $415.4 million handle and an 11% hold for the month. 

July 22, 2024: SuperBook Sports pulls out of eight post-PASPA states, including Virginia. 

July 2, 2024: Virginia sports betting operators stay hot in May, earning the state's highest hold of the year. 

June 27, 2024: Virginia's gambling law subcommittee plans to introduce tighter regulations for daily fantasy sports in 2025 with continued ambiguity between legal sports betting and pick 'em-style DFS.

May 31, 2024: Virginia's sports betting operators enjoy a double-digit hold in April.  

May 2, 2024: Virginia sports betting books third largest monthly handle in March, collecting $629 million in gross revenue. 

April 26, 2024: A $1.4 billion gaming resort is coming to Virginia courtesy of Football Hall-of-Famer and Virginia Tech alum Bruce Smith. 

April 2, 2024: Virginia's handle falls in February but still brings in over $500 million in wagers.

Feb. 2, 2024: Virginia ends 2023 with more than $5 billion in wagers with December's strong numbers, which is up from the $4.9 billion earned in 2022. 

Jan. 26, 2024: bet365 launches free-to-play fantasy contest in five states, including Virginia, ahead of NFL Championship Weekend, offering a $25,000 prize pool for each game.

Jan. 16, 2024: Virginia could allow betting on the state's college sports, which has been prohibited, if newly introduced Senate Bill 124 is approved. 

Dec. 31, 2023: Virginia's November 2023 betting handle reveals a 23% year-over-year increase in total wagers.

Dec. 18, 2023: Virginia's Attorney General determines daily fantasy sports contests are considered gambling under state code. It remains to be seen how this determination will affect DFS companies in VA.

Nov. 21, 2023: Fanatics Sportsbook launches in Virginia, replacing PointsBet. 

Nov. 14, 2023: ESPN BET goes live with online and mobile sports betting, launching in Virginia and 16 other states.

Nov. 2, 2023: ESPN BET plans to launch on Nov. 14, 2023, with online sports betting going live in 17 U.S. states, including Virginia. 

Oct. 20, 2023: SuperBook officially launches its Virginia sportsbook. VA is now home to 16 legal sports betting sites.

Oct. 2, 2023: The Virginia Lottery releases Virginia's August sports betting handle. The state takes in $319 million, a 12% year-over-year bump compared to August 2022.

Sept. 6, 2023: Betr launches its Virginia sportsbook app, following similar pushes in Massachusetts and Ohio. 

Aug. 11, 2023: WynnBET announces that it will cease operations in Virginia as soon as possible. 

Aug. 2, 2023: The Virginia Lottery reports a $322 million sports betting handle for June, a 10% year-over-year increase with a 10% hold. 

July 6, 2023: High win rates translated to a profitable Virginia sports betting hold near 12% in May.

June 2, 2023: Virginia's April sports betting handle exceeds $425 million, a nearly 7% year-over-year increase.

May 4, 2023: The Virginia sports betting handle bounced back in March, with sportsbooks accepting $511.6 million in wagers.

April 3, 2023: Virginia sportsbooks generate $433.8 million in sports betting handle in February, with the Super Bowl accounting for 7.4% of the action.

March 29, 2023: DraftKings launches its DK Horse app in Virginia, its first-ever horse racing product, ahead of the Kentucky Derby. 

March 6, 2023: Betr secures a license to operate in the Old Dominion, the third state in which it will launch its micro-betting-focused mobile app. 

Feb. 2, 2023: The Virginia Lottery reports an 18% yearly increase in legal Virginia sports betting handle for December.

Feb. 1, 2023: Betfred announces that its sports betting platform is live in Virginia, making the Old Dominion the ninth region to host the sportsbook.

Jan. 11, 2023: More sports betting tax changes may be coming in Virginia, stemming from Sen. Jeremy McPike's bill that aims to further limit the deductions licensed operators can apply to their taxable revenue from sports betting-related promotions.

Dec. 31, 2022: State Senator Bryce Reeves and Delegate Paul Krizek pre-file legislation for the upcoming General Assembly that would create a problem gambling committee in Virginia.

Dec. 1, 2022: Sports betting sites in Virginia report a record betting handle of $528 million for October. 

Aug. 15, 2022: Hillside (Virginia), LLC receives a temporary sports betting permit in Virginia. The company is controlled by bet365 Group Ltd.

July 8, 2022: Hard Rock launches the first retail sportsbook in Virginia.

May 9, 2022: SI Sportsbook officially launches its online sports betting platform in Virginia.

April 28, 2022: SI Sportsbook was set to launch Wednesday, April 27, but Google Play did not authorize its app prompting further delays. Meanwhile, Betway expects to come online on May 18.

April 11, 2022: State lawmakers decree that as of July 1, 2022, gaming entities operating in Virginia will be prohibited from using the phrase, 'Virginia is for bettors,' in any marketing materials.

March 31, 2022: Hard Rock Sportsbook officially launches its Virginia sports betting app, becoming the state's 12th active mobile sportsbook. 

March 2, 2022: Virginia registers a single-month sports betting handle record of $485.5 million for January 2022.

Feb. 25, 2022: Virginia lawmakers in the House of Representatives nixed HB 1127, which would have permitted betting on in-state college sports teams.

Feb. 15, 2022: The Senate passes a bill (SB 576) that would allow for wagering on in-state collegiate teams. It heads to the House, where HB 1127 was voided earlier in the year.

Jan. 13, 2022: Delegate Schuyler T. VanValkenburg (D) introduces HB 1127. The proposed bill seeks to allow betting on Virginia college sports.

Jan. 11, 2022: Two bills —  HJR 63 and SJR 24 — are introduced with the aim of forming a new gaming commission to oversee and regulate all sports betting in Virginia. 

Jan. 4, 2022: Figures released by the Virginia Lottery reveal record tax revenues nearing $50 million for November 2021.

Dec. 15, 2021: PointsBet becomes the 11th legal sportsbook to launch in Virginia. 

Dec. 2, 2021: The Old Dominion has a record-setting sports betting handle for October, taking in $427.3 million in wagers.

Dec. 1, 2021: 888 Holdings PLC was awarded a provisional sports-betting license by the Virginia Lottery.

Nov. 25, 2021: VHL, VA (SI Sportsbook) is given the 13th sports betting license in VA.

Nov. 24, 2021: The Virginia Lottery hands Digital Gaming Corporation (Betway) a temporary sports betting license.

Nov. 22, 2021: The Virginia Lottery grants Colonial Downs approval to begin offering mobile sports betting through its partnership with PointsBet.

Nov. 2, 2021: Richmond voters reject the proposal for Urban One Inc.'s ONE Casino + Resort.

Oct. 13, 2021: Golden Nugget Online, which was one of three operators approved in March 2021, launches to become the state's ninth mobile sportsbook.

Aug. 10, 2021: Barstool Sportsbook, the Penn National Gaming-owned property, becomes the state's eighth mobile sportsbook.

Jan. 21, 2021: Fully online Virginia sports betting goes live as FanDuel takes the state’s first legal sports wager.

November 2020: Official plans for four casinos and retail sportsbooks commence as referendums are passed in Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth.

April 2020: Lawmakers approve Governor Northam’s final changes to SB 384 and HB 896, officially legalizing Virginia sports betting.

November 2019: The commissioned study estimates massive early returns and mature sports betting market netting the state upwards of $55 million in annual tax revenue. A bill is then introduced by Virginia Delegate Mark Sickles, laying the groundwork for regulated sports betting in the state.

March 2019: The Virginia Senate commissions a study of sports betting in other states with the aim of estimating annual revenue for the Commonwealth if they were to regulate sports betting themselves.

Compare Virginia sportsbook apps

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

Land-based Virginia sportsbooks

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.

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.

Fully online Virginia sports betting

Expanding list of Virginia sportsbooks

Plenty of sign-up bonuses

Just one retail sportsbook

No betting on in-state college teams

No NFL draft betting

How to start betting in Virginia

Read below to learn how to sign up and claim Virginia welcome offers in minutes:

1

Select a sportsbook

• 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.

2

Register online

• 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.

3

Claim a bonus

• 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.

4

Deposit funds

• 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.

5

Start betting

• 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).

6

Withdraw winnings

• 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 breakdown of Virginia sports betting revenue and handle:

Yearly breakdown

Monthly handle

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.

NHL

Washington Capitals

Carolina Hurricanes

Get live NHL odds

NBA

Washington Wizards

Charlotte Hornets

Get live NBA odds

NFL

Washington Commanders

Baltimore Ravens

Get live NFL odds

MLB

Washington Nationals

Baltimore Orioles

Get live MLB odds

Although no upcoming fights are scheduled in the Old Dominion State, the best UFC betting sites and top boxing betting sites allow you to easily browse the markets and back fighters you can cheer on as passionately as your hometown teams.

Virginia sports betting law

Virginia sports 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 sports 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.

Responsible gaming in Virginia

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.