Kentucky Sports Betting Guide

Is sports betting legal in Kentucky

Yes. Kentucky legalized online and retail sports betting when House Bill 551 was signed into law in March 2023. Retail betting launched on September 7, followed by statewide online betting on September 28.

The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission regulates all sports wagering, licensing both mobile sportsbooks and retail betting locations at racetracks and their satellite facilities.

Best legal Kentucky online sportsbooks

Kentucky bettors have access to many of the largest, most trusted sportsbook operators in the United States. All apps must be licensed by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission and partner with local horse racing facilities.

We recommend using multiple apps to compare odds, access more promotions, and find the best interface for your style of wagering.

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	Bet $5 Get $150 In Bonus Bets	Clean app experience and competitive odds on many sides and totals. Does a great job with same game parlays, live betting, and user friendly interface.	4.8 / 5 ★★★★☆ Read review	Join
	Up to $1,500 In Bonus Bets	Busy but powerful app with lots of live markets. Live betting, one game parlays, regular boosts and offers.	4.7 / 5 ★★★★☆ Read review	Join
	Bet $5 and Get $200 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose	Deep international markets and sharp pricing on soccer and niche sports. Great for In play betting, soccer and tennis, alternate lines.	4.5 / 5 ★★★★☆	Join
	Up to $2,000 in No Sweat Bets FanCash	Fresh interfaces and aggressive promos as they build market. We like their promotions, live betting, newer features.	4.5 / 5 ★★★★☆	Join

Sportsbook availability can change as new licenses are granted or operators adjust market strategy. Always confirm you are betting with a licensed Kentucky operator.

Key Kentucky sports betting rules

Kentucky’s betting law is straightforward, but here are the most important rules to know before placing wagers.

Who can bet in Kentucky

• You must be 18 or older
• You must be physically located in Kentucky when betting
• You must verify your identity when creating an account

What you can bet on

• All major professional sports
• College sports, including Kentucky and Louisville
• International leagues, motorsports, golf, tennis and more
• Futures, live betting, props, parlays and same-game parlays

What you cannot bet on

• Events not approved by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission
• Unlicensed offshore sportsbooks
• Non-sporting events such as political elections

College sports betting in Kentucky

Kentucky has some of the most permissive college betting rules in the country. You can bet on all college teams, including in-state programs such as the Kentucky Wildcats and Louisville Cardinals, with no restrictions on props or live betting.

Allowed

• Moneylines, spreads, totals
• Player props
• Team props
• Live college betting
• College futures (championships, awards)

Not allowed

• Bets on unapproved college events

The exact menu of props may vary by operator, but Kentucky law permits full college betting.

Kentucky sports betting taxes

Kentucky taxes both operators and bettors. Here’s what to expect at tax time.

Taxes on sportsbooks

• 14.25% tax on online sportsbook revenue
• 9.75% tax on retail sportsbook revenue

Taxes on bettors

• Sports betting winnings are taxable income at the federal level
• Kentucky taxes gambling winnings at a flat 4.5%
• Large wins may trigger automatic withholding
• You must report net winnings on your tax return

This is general information, not personal tax advice. Speak with a tax professional if you place large or frequent wagers.

Retail sportsbooks in Kentucky

Kentucky allows in-person sports betting at licensed horse racing tracks and their satellite historical racing facilities (HRFs). These venues often feature full retail sportsbooks with betting kiosks and customer service windows.

Examples of retail locations

• Churchill Downs
• Keeneland
• Turfway Park
• Red Mile Gaming & Racing
• Ellis Park

Retail partnerships may change over time. Check with each operator for the latest on where its retail sportsbook is located.

How to start betting in Kentucky

Getting started with legal sports betting in Kentucky only takes a few minutes. Here’s how to begin:

1. Select a licensed Kentucky sportsbook app.
2. Download the app and choose “Kentucky” as your state.
3. Create an account and verify your identity.
4. Enable location services so the app can confirm you're in Kentucky.
5. Deposit using online banking, debit card or e-wallet.
6. Claim your welcome bonus if applicable.
7. Place your first bet and track your wagers in the app.

Smart tips for Kentucky sports bettors

Even in a simple, bettor-friendly market like Kentucky, using good habits can improve your long-term results.

Kentucky sports betting FAQ