Washington DC Sports Betting Guide

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.

Quick facts

• Legal since 2020
• 18 plus to bet
• Mobile betting restricted by zones
• Licensed and regulated by the DC Office of Lottery and Gaming

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.

Availability of sportsbooks is highly location-dependent in DC. Always confirm you are inside an eligible betting zone before placing wagers.

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)

Location rule

Private sportsbook apps only work within a few blocks of their partner venues. GambetDC is the only option that operates district-wide.

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.

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.

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.

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 sportsbooks

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.