State guide
Washington DC Sports Betting Guide
Washington DC is one of the most unique legal sports betting markets in the United States. Instead of a traditional state-based system, DC features a mix of district-wide mobile betting through the government-run GambetDC platform and highly localized, geo-fenced online sportsbooks tied to professional sports venues. This guide explains how DC’s system works, which sportsbooks are legal, how location rules impact betting, what you can wager on, and how to bet safely in the nation’s capital.
View best DC sportsbooksMust be 18 plus and physically located within an approved Washington DC betting zone to wager. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, contact the DC Department of Behavioral Health for help.
Is sports betting legal in Washington DC
Yes. Washington DC legalized sports betting in 2019, and the first sportsbooks launched in 2020. DC’s system is different from traditional states because betting is regulated by the Office of Lottery and Gaming, and operators are divided into two categories:
- District-wide mobile: GambetDC (lottery-run)
- Geo-fenced mobile apps: Private operators offering online betting only within 2-block zones around partner venues
Retail sportsbooks are also available at certain stadiums and approved physical locations.
- Legal since 2020
- 18 plus to bet
- Mobile betting restricted by zones
- Licensed and regulated by the DC Office of Lottery and Gaming
Best legal Washington DC online sportsbooks
Washington DC has a mix of district-wide and geo-fenced sportsbooks. GambetDC is the only app available everywhere in the District, while private operators operate within specific areas surrounding arenas or bars.
We recommend using multiple DC sportsbooks when possible, especially within operator zones, to compare odds and promotions.
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Up to $1,300 New User Bonus | Deep market coverage and strong same game parlay tools. We love the the player props, live betting, golf and NFL markets. | Join | |
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Bet $1, Double Your Winnings On Next 20 Wagers | Integrated Caesars Rewards for hotel and dining value. Rewards program, promos tied to local teams and events. | Join | |
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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. | Join | |
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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. | Join |
Availability of sportsbooks is highly location-dependent in DC. Always confirm you are inside an eligible betting zone before placing wagers.
Key Washington DC sports betting rules
DC’s rules are centered around location restrictions and operator partnerships. The minimum betting age is 18, which is lower than most states.
Who can bet in DC
- You must be at least 18 years old
- You must be physically located inside Washington DC
- You must be inside an approved operator zone for geo-fenced mobile apps
- You must complete identity verification
What you can bet on
- Professional sports in the U.S. and internationally
- College sports (with restrictions)
- Most major events including soccer, golf, tennis, motorsports
- Moneylines, spreads, totals, parlays, live betting and select props
What you cannot bet on
- High school or youth sports
- Certain in-state college markets
- Sportsbooks outside DC’s legal operators (including offshore sites)
Private sportsbook apps only work within a few blocks of their partner venues. GambetDC is the only option that operates district-wide.
College sports betting in Washington DC
DC allows college sports betting but enforces certain restrictions to protect student-athletes and maintain compliance.
Allowed
- Betting on most Division I games
- Futures such as NCAA tournament winners
- Moneylines, spreads and totals
Not allowed
- Props on individual college athletes
- Live college player props
- Any markets restricted by the DC Lottery
Operators may limit college markets beyond what is required by law depending on risk and integrity considerations.
Washington DC sports betting taxes
Taxes on operators
- Private sportsbooks pay a 10 percent tax on revenue
- GambetDC revenues go directly to the District
- Taxes do not directly impact posted odds
Taxes on bettors
- Sports betting winnings are taxable federally
- District residents must report gambling income
- Large winnings may trigger automatic withholding and a W-2G form
Tax rules vary based on residency. Consult a tax professional for personalized guidance.
Retail sportsbooks in Washington DC
DC features a handful of retail sportsbooks connected to professional sports venues and select bars or restaurants licensed through the Lottery.
Examples of DC retail sportsbooks
- Caesars Sportsbook at Capital One Arena
- FanDuel Sportsbook at Audi Field
- Lottery-licensed retail betting at approved bars and restaurants
Retail operators and partnerships may evolve over time, so check the DC Lottery’s official list for updated locations.
How to start betting in Washington DC
The signup process is quick, but your available sportsbook options depend on your exact location within DC.
- Choose a DC sportsbook available in your zone (GambetDC or a geo-fenced operator).
- Download the app or visit the official website.
- Create your account and complete ID verification.
- Enable location services so the app can confirm you’re in an eligible area.
- Deposit using online banking, debit card or wallet methods.
- Place your first bet and track it directly within the app.
Because DC’s market is divided by location, it helps to familiarize yourself with operator zones so you can take advantage of better odds and promotions near stadiums.
Compare top DC sportsbooksSmart tips for DC sports bettors
With its unusual mix of operators, DC rewards bettors who understand how the zone system works. These tips can help you maximize value.
Positive habits
- Check odds across multiple operators when you're in a geo-fenced zone
- Set a monthly gambling budget
- Track bets and closing line value
- Use responsible gaming tools when needed
Things to avoid
- Assuming your app works everywhere in DC
- Using unlicensed offshore sites
- Chasing losses with larger live bets
- Betting emotionally on local teams
If betting becomes stressful or problematic, contact DC’s mental health and addiction services for support.
Washington DC sports betting FAQ
When did sports betting become legal in Washington DC
Sports betting became legal in 2019, with the first sportsbooks launching in 2020.
How old do you have to be to bet on sports in DC
You must be at least 18 years old, which is lower than most U.S. jurisdictions.
Is GambetDC the only legal sportsbook
No. GambetDC is the only district-wide sportsbook, but private operators such as Caesars and FanDuel operate within geo-fenced areas near stadiums and partner venues.
Can I use sportsbook apps from Maryland or Virginia in DC
No. Apps licensed only in Maryland or Virginia cannot accept wagers placed within Washington DC.
Are college sports betting allowed in DC
Yes, but college player props are prohibited.
Do I have to pay taxes on sports betting winnings
Yes. Winnings are subject to federal income tax and must be reported on your individual tax return.
Are offshore sportsbooks legal in DC
No. Offshore sportsbooks are not licensed or regulated in Washington DC and offer no legal consumer protections.