North Carolina Sports Betting Guide

Yes. North Carolina legalized online sports betting through the Sports Wagering Act, and the first online sportsbooks launched statewide in March 2024. Retail sports betting has been legal at tribal casinos since 2021.

The North Carolina State Lottery Commission oversees all betting regulations, licensing, security protocols, consumer protections, and responsible gaming programs.

Quick facts

• Online betting launched in 2024
• Retail sportsbooks legal since 2021
• 21 plus and located in NC to bet online
• Regulated by the NC Lottery Commission

North Carolina launched with a strong group of major national sportsbook brands. Licensed operators include DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, ESPN BET, Fanatics Sportsbook, bet365, and others approved by the state.

We recommend opening multiple accounts to compare odds, maximize promotions, and find the best interface for your betting style.

The list of licensed operators may grow or change over time. Always confirm that a sportsbook is approved by the North Carolina Lottery Commission before depositing.

North Carolina’s betting rules are similar to many other legal states but include specific restrictions on college markets.

Who can bet in North Carolina

• You must be at least 21 years old
• You must be physically located in NC when placing online bets
• You must complete identity verification when signing up

What you can bet on

• Professional sports (NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, MLS)
• College sports including UNC, Duke, NC State, Wake Forest and others
• Golf, motorsports, tennis and global sports
• Game props, moneylines, spreads, totals and parlays
• Live betting on approved markets

What you cannot bet on

• College player prop bets (banned statewide)
• Unauthorized or unregulated offshore sportsbooks
• High school or youth events
• Non-approved novelty or unsanctioned events

Important restriction

North Carolina allows betting on in-state college teams, but individual player props on all NCAA athletes are prohibited.

North Carolina is one of the few states that allows wagering on in-state college teams but includes strict limitations on player-specific markets.

Allowed on college sports

• Moneylines, spreads and totals on all NCAA teams including UNC and Duke
• Team futures such as ACC titles or national championships
• Live betting on approved markets

Not allowed on college sports

• Individual player props for any college athlete
• Unauthorized exotic or unsanctioned bets

Sportsbooks may remove certain college markets even if allowed by law for integrity reasons. Always defer to the live menu in your sportsbook app.

Both operators and bettors face tax obligations under state and federal rules. North Carolina’s sports betting tax rate is relatively moderate compared to some large states.

Taxes on North Carolina sportsbooks

• Online operator revenue taxed at 18 percent
• Retail revenue taxed separately at lower rates
• These taxes do not reduce individual bet payouts

Taxes on bettors and gambling winnings

• Sports betting winnings are taxable income at the federal level
• North Carolina taxes gambling winnings as state income
• Sportsbooks may issue W-2G forms for large wins
• Players must report net winnings when filing taxes

This information is general and not personal tax advice. Consult a professional for guidance on your specific situation.

Retail sports betting began in North Carolina in 2021 at tribal casinos. Today, retail betting is limited to a small number of approved locations.

Current NC retail sportsbook locations

• Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
• Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino
• Catawba Two Kings Casino (temporary facilities)

Additional commercial retail sportsbooks may open in the future, depending on legislative updates and licensing.

Getting started is quick and straightforward. Most online sportsbooks allow you to sign up and place your first wager in minutes.

• Choose one or more licensed North Carolina sportsbook apps.
• Create an account and complete identity verification.
• Enable location services to confirm you are within state lines.
• Deposit funds using online banking, card, or wallet methods.
• Review promotional terms if claiming a bonus.
• Place your first wager and track odds from your phone.

Opening multiple accounts gives you access to better odds, more promos and a wider variety of betting markets.

Compare top North Carolina sportsbooks

North Carolina bettors can maximize value and avoid common mistakes by adopting a few smart habits early.

Positive habits

• Set a monthly betting budget
• Use multiple sportsbooks to compare lines
• Track your wagers and closing line value
• Follow injury reports and market movement
• Use responsible gaming tools if needed

Things to avoid

• Chasing losses or betting emotionally
• Using offshore or unlicensed sportsbooks
• Betting college player props (not allowed)
• Overbetting live markets without research

If sports betting stops being fun, reach out to the NC Problem Gambling Program for confidential support.