The landscape of sports betting apps in the United States has changed dramatically since the Supreme Court lifted the federal ban in 2018. What followed was a wave of legalization on a state-by-state basis, with each state developing its own rules, licenses, and requirements. As a result, legal betting apps vary significantly across the country. While some states offer full mobile betting access, others restrict it or have yet to legalize it at all. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding which states have legal betting apps and how they operate.
States with Fully Legal Mobile Betting
Several states have embraced mobile sports betting and now offer a wide selection of legal betting apps. States like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Colorado, and Illinois allow users to register, deposit, and place bets entirely online. These states also host multiple licensed operators, giving bettors a competitive selection of platforms to choose from.
New York, after legalizing mobile betting in 2022, quickly became one of the largest markets in the country. The state allows several major betting apps to operate and has generated significant revenue through taxation and licensing. Similarly, states like Arizona, Indiana, and Ohio have opened their doors to mobile sports betting with regulated apps that comply with local laws.
States with Retail-Only Betting
Some states permit sports betting but restrict it to physical locations such as casinos or racetracks. In these states, mobile apps may not be available, or they may require users to register in person. For example, Mississippi allows mobile betting only within the premises of licensed casinos. Arkansas and Montana have also adopted limited mobile betting options, typically tied to state-run platforms.
States with In-Person Registration Requirements
A few states allow mobile betting but require users to register their accounts in person at a licensed sportsbook. Nevada, long considered the original hub of U.S. sports betting, still requires in-person registration for most mobile apps. Iowa initially followed this model but has since dropped the requirement, making it easier for users to sign up and bet online.
States Preparing to Launch or Debating Legislation
Several states are in the process of legalizing sports betting or expanding existing laws to include mobile betting. States like North Carolina and Vermont have recently passed legislation and are working toward launching their legal betting markets. Other states, including Georgia, Texas, and California, continue to debate legalization in state legislatures, often facing political or regulatory hurdles.
States Where Sports Betting Remains Illegal
There are still a handful of states where sports betting—online or otherwise—is not legal. These include states like Idaho, Utah, and South Carolina, where legislation has either failed to progress or is not actively being considered. In these jurisdictions, betting apps are not permitted, and residents are restricted from legally accessing mobile platforms.
How Licensing and Regulation Work
In states where betting apps are legal, they must be licensed by a state regulatory body such as a gaming commission or lottery board. These bodies enforce rules around responsible gambling, security, age verification, and financial transparency. Operators that fail to comply with state guidelines can face penalties, fines, or suspension of their license.
Many states also require apps to partner with a local casino or racetrack, creating a hybrid model that supports both online and in-person operations. This partnership often influences which brands are available in each state, and why some apps are only accessible in certain locations.
Conclusion
The availability of legal betting apps in the U.S. depends heavily on where you live. While some states offer a fully digital and competitive market, others are still in transition or remain closed to mobile sports betting altogether. Understanding your state’s laws is crucial before signing up for any betting app. As more states continue to legalize and refine their approaches, the betting landscape is likely to evolve, offering more options and improved user experiences across the country.