Arizona Legal Sports Betting Overview
AZ Sports Betting Law Details
📆 Retail Sports Betting Launch Date:
November 18, 2021
📆 Online Sports Betting Launch Date:
September 9, 2021
✅ Licensed Sportsbooks:
Bally Bet, Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, Betfred, BetRivers, Betway, Caesars, Desert Diamond, DraftKings, FanDuel, Fubo, Golden Nugget, Hard Rock Sportsbook, SaharaBets, SuperBook Sports, TwinSpires, Unibet, WynnBET
💵 Legal Wagering Options:
Live bets, moneylines, parlays, point spreads, props, teasers, totals
🔞 Legal Gambling Age in AZ:
21+
🈠Sports to Bet On:
NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, WNBA, MLS, MMA, boxing, eSports, minor league baseball, motorsports, golf, European soccer, Olympics
🦠Permitted Banking Options:
Mastercard, PayNearMe, PayPal, Play+, Skrill, Visa, Automated Clearing House (ACH), online banking, casino cage cashier
âš–ï¸ Arizona Gambling Regulator:
Arizona Department of Gaming
Arizona legalized sports betting when Governor Doug Ducey signed HB 2772 on April 15, 2021. The state’s first online sportsbooks launched on September 9, 2021, just in time for the NFL season. In-person betting soon followed, with AZ’s first retail sportsbook, BetMGM at the Gila River Hotels and Casino, launching on November 19, 2021. The online-first launch was not the only intriguing aspect of Arizona’s sports betting. AZ regulations differ from other state gambling laws, as ten of its potential sportsbooks can sign partnerships with local sports franchises rather than casinos. Currently, 18 sportsbooks operate in the Grand Canyon State, licensed by the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG). Arizona bettors can bet with big US operators like DraftKings and Caesars or smaller, more local bookmakers, like SaharaBets, Desert Diamond, and SuperBook Sports. Our comprehensive guide brings you up to date with sports betting in Arizona. Read on to learn about AZ’s best online sportsbooks, retail betting, bonuses, and the state’s legal landscape.
Arizona Online Sportsbooks Compared
Arizonans have plenty of options when searching for the best Arizona sportsbook, and it’s all down to personal preference. We’ve highlighted some of the best bookmakers’ key selling points to get you started:
Best Mobile App – BetMGM
While some sportsbook apps are cluttered with options, menus, and buttons, the BetMGM app is all about clean design and a user-friendly experience. The ‘Edit My Bet’ feature lets you change your bets, edit your stake, and cash out early on many BetMGM wagers. Claim your BetMGM Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023.
Best Welcome Bonus – DraftKings
DraftKings offers a fantastic welcome bonus for new players. It provides up to $1,000 in bonus funds. The package includes a 20% deposit match bonus, so you must deposit $5,000 to claim the full amount. It’s essential to gamble responsibly and only bet with money you can afford to lose. The offer has some pretty reasonable terms, with wagering requirements for these bonus funds at 25x. You also need to wager the funds on sports betting odds of -300 or above. Get your DraftKings Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023.
Best for Competitive Odds – Caesars
All sportsbooks in Arizona offer competitive odds, but Caesars is a step above the rest. Its betting lines on major US sports are often the best you can find, especially for prop betting. Caesars also offers daily odds boosts and regular betting promotions. Claim your Caesars Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023.
Best for Market Coverage – FanDuel
FanDuel is known for extensive sports market coverage with major US sports, international competitions, and minor leagues. While most sportsbooks offer similar coverage of these sports, no other operator can match FanDuel’s wide variety of markets and in-depth analysis. Get your FanDuel Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023.
Best for Beginner Bettors – BetRivers
BetRivers is the perfect betting app for beginners looking for the quickest and most entertaining way to place bets. Powered by the renowned Kambi gambling technology platform, everything on the BetRivers sportsbook app is easy to find and use. Claim your BetRivers Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023.
Best for Payout Speed – FanDuel
One of the essential factors in a good betting experience is withdrawing winnings quickly and without hassle. Payout speeds are similar throughout US sportsbooks, but FanDuel tends to speed things up. For example, Play+ withdrawals are estimated to take two to five days with most sportsbooks. With FanDuel, they take 48 hours to process.
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How Does Arizona Compare to Other States?
Market Coverage
Even though it was a little slower than some states to join the sports wagering market, Arizona has one of the most expansive sportsbook selections in the country. Along with states like Maryland and Virginia, professional sports teams can qualify for sports betting licenses. This opens the market for many more legal sportsbooks to launch in the state. Sportsbooks cover the same range of sports and betting types as other states in the US.
Competitive Odds & Prices
When comparing odds across the biggest sportsbook brands, prices tend to remain pretty consistent within each state. In Arizona, odds at sportsbooks like DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, and BetMGM are often in line with those in other regions.
Gambling Revenue
Since sports wagering went live in the state in August 2021, sportsbooks across the state have handled $2,306,944,233 in wagers. From this amount, sportsbook revenue stands at $200,6994,135, with an 8.7% hold. That hold is slightly above average for US states, which is surprising for a recently launched market.
Betting Taxes
There is an 8% tax on retail sportsbook wagers and a 10% tax on online bets. This is low compared to states like New Jersey (14.25%) and Pennsylvania (36%). However, it is higher than places like Iowa (6.75%) and Michigan (8.4%). Arizona’s tax rates have brought in nearly $8 billion in revenue for the Grand Canyon State.
Banking Methods Available in Arizona
Every Arizona sportsbook has a dedicated cashier section in which you choose the banking method to deposit funds to your account and withdraw winnings. The most common options are Visa and Mastercard. However, some banks will block gambling transactions on cards. Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers are also available with many sportsbooks, and prepaid cards like Play+ allow you to top up money in retail locations and then use it on sportsbooks. You can buy a PayNearMe card at 7-Eleven and CVS stores or use e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill. Visit a land-based sportsbook partner to make retail deposits and withdrawals.
Who is Not Eligible to Bet in AZ?
To bet and download a sportsbook app in Arizona, you must be at least 21 years old and within the state’s borders. These requirements will cover most Arizona bettors. However, more specific restrictions apply to certain jobs and positions, including:
– Individuals who own a stake in a professional sports team.
– Employees of licensed sports betting providers like key staff, directors, owners, and officers.
– Individuals with authority in a position to influence players.
– Professional sports players, coaches, and athletes.
– College sports players, coaches, and athletes.
– Referees for major league, minor league, and college sports.
– Individuals employed by rule-making sports leagues (e.g., NBA, NHL).
– Directors and officers of sports teams.
– Individuals restricted from betting at a state or federal level (e.g., due to criminal history).
– Individuals that have voluntarily excluded themselves from gambling activities.
Latest Arizona Sports Betting Updates
Current Sports Betting Status in Arizona
Arizona sports betting has been legal since being signed into law in April 2021 and then the subsequent market launch in September 2021. Currently, Arizona has 18 licensed online sportsbooks and several retail betting venues, operating in partnerships with Indian tribal operators and sports teams. You can bet on a variety of sports, including college sports. However, you can’t place prop bets on college games. eSports betting is also legal.
Timeline for Sports Betting in Arizona
– April 1, 2022: The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) releases a report showing a record $563.7 million in handle generated in January, producing nearly $2 million in state tax revenue.
– February 15, 2022: The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) releases a list of ten operators licensed to offer limited event wagering in retail sportsbook establishments.
– January 31, 2022: Senator Sally Ann Gonzales introduces a new bill to award additional mobile betting licenses available to tribal operators, increasing the amount from 10 to 22.
– January 13, 2022: BetMGM announces it will open a retail sportsbook at State Farm Stadium in partnership with the Arizona Cardinals.
– November 19, 2021: BetMGM launches Arizona’s first retail sportsbook at the Gila River Hotels and Casino.
– September 9, 2021: Legal sports betting officially launches in Arizona with the first online sportsbook.
– July 26, 2021: The ADG finalizes the betting rules and opens a two-week license application period on the same day.
– April 15, 2021: HB 2772 and SB 1797 are signed into law by Gov. Ducey. The bills legalize retail and online sports betting, as well as Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). The law validates 20 online sports betting licenses, 10 that require sportsbooks to partner with a sports team and ten with an Indian tribal gambling operator.
– 2020: Sen. Sonny Borelli and Representative Steve Pierce introduce SB 1525, which proposes legalizing AZ sports betting by licensing the state’s 24 tribal casino operators to offer sports betting through retail venues and kiosks. The bill would prohibit online and mobile sports betting in Arizona. The bill fails on its second attempt in 2020.
– 2019: Sen. Borelli, Rep. Mark Finchem, and Rep. Leo Biasiucchi introduce SB 1158. The bill would allow betting on kiosks inside bars and alcohol-serving establishments across Arizona. The bill fails to pass the committee.
– May 2018: The US Supreme Court rules the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA) unconstitutional, effectively ending Nevada’s near monopoly on sports betting. This paves the path for each US state to legalize its own sports betting market.
Arizona Sports Betting Background
Arizona has a long history of gambling due to its former status as a frontier state and its proximity to Nevada. The state prohibited most forms of gambling by the mid-20th century, with the Arizona State Lottery, formed in 1980, as the only form of gambling besides HHR (Historical Horse Race) terminals and Indian tribal casinos. Recently, attitudes towards most forms of sports betting changed. Before 2021, Daily Fantasy Sports were illegal in Arizona. However, after the sports betting bill was passed, AZ launched its legal fantasy sports market on August 28, 2021.
Future of Arizona Sports Betting
Arizona’s tribal nations will likely affect the future of sports betting as tribes that were excluded from receiving operating licenses appeal. The Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe filed a motion against Gov. Ducey and ADG Director Ted Vogt. In February 2022, Sen. Sally Ann Gonzales stated she is in discussions with other state legislators and the tribes to advance her bill to grant more tribal licenses. This pressure may yield more licenses and see additional sportsbooks entering the state.
Arizona may see more retail sportsbooks launching soon. Notably, BetMGM released plans to open a 17,000 square-foot retail sportsbook at Arizona Cardinals’ State Farm Stadium. Additional plans include a Caesars sportsbook next to Arizona Diamondbacks’ Chase Field, a FanDuel sportsbook in Phoenix Suns’ Footprint Center, and a DraftKings sportsbook at TPC Scottsdale.
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Arizona Sports Betting Locations
There are ten casinos with ADG licenses to partner with sportsbooks and provide retail sports betting. The first retail sportsbook at a casino launched in November 2021.
– Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino
– Mazatzal Hotel and Casino
– Gila River Hotel and Casino at Vee Quiva
– Apache Gold Casino and Resort
– Desert Diamond (Sahuarita)
– Desert Diamond (Tucson)
– Desert Diamond (West Valley)
– Paradise Casino
– Spirit Mountain Casino
– We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort
Arizona Lottery Locations
The Arizona State Lottery has not signed any partnerships with sportsbooks to date. Therefore, you cannot place sports wagers with AZ lottery retailers.
Off-Track Betting and Stadium Betting Locations
Arizona sportsbooks can sign partnerships with sports franchises and venues, so retail sportsbooks will be launching at the stadiums of several major league franchises. This makes the Grand Canyon State one of the best for stadium wagering.
Teams to Bet on in Arizona
– Arizona Cardinals
– Phoenix Suns
– Arizona Diamondbacks
– Arizona Coyotes
– Arizona State Sun Devils
– Arizona Wildcats
– Grand Canyon Antelopes
– Northern Arizona Lumberjacks
– Arizona Outkast
– Phoenix Mercury
Arizona Responsible Gambling Resources
Arizona Council on Compulsive Gambling – Promotes awareness and education about problem gambling and provides support to struggling gamblers and their relatives. It offers a confidential peer support helpline.
Arizona Tribal/State Funded Out-Patient Treatment – Subsidizes treatment for individuals struggling with problem gambling and those affected by it, including friends, family, and employers. Individuals can seek treatment with any of the state’s registered counselors or call the helpline.
International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems – Provides research and support in identifying and understanding critical factors in youth problem gambling. It also provides problem gambling support to adults. Arizona legislation requires all sportsbooks licensed by the ADG to provide resources and support for those struggling with problem gambling. Like many states in the US, this includes access to Arizona’s self-exclusion program, which allows bettors to prohibit themselves from accessing betting content across the state. Sportsbooks are expected to provide account tools like deposit limits, wager limits, cool-offs, session limits, and loss limits. Operators also provide links to external support organizations like those listed above.
Who Oversees Sports Betting in Arizona?
The Arizona Department of Gaming oversees sports betting in Arizona. The ADG is split into four smaller departments: Tribal Gaming, Racing, Boxing & MMA, and Problem Gambling. The ADG regulates all types of wagering within these departments, including tribal gaming, racing and pari-mutuel betting, event wagering, daily fantasy sports contests, and unarmed combat sports. Indian tribes fund the Gaming Division as part of the Arizona Tribal-State Gaming Compacts. These compacts exist between the state and 22 Arizonan tribes. A percentage of the money is given to the Instructional Improvement Fund, the Trauma and Emergency Services Fund, the Arizona Wildlife Conservation Fund, the Tourism Fund Account, and funding programs to treat and prevent problem gambling. Financing for the Racing Division comes from regulatory wagering and advanced deposit wagering assessments, licensing fees, and dark day assessments. The budget is used to regulate and enforce the Boxing & MMA division, regulate horse racing, enforce racing statutes and rules, protect the welfare of all race competitors, and the administration of other Racing Division programs.
Is betting legal in Arizona?
Yes, betting is legal in Arizona. You can wager on various sports, horse racing, and daily fantasy sports online and at retail locations. You can also participate in casino gambling at tribal-owned casinos, though online casino gambling is not legal in Arizona.
Who governs sports betting in Arizona?
Sports betting in Arizona is governed by the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG). The ADG licenses and regulates all land-based and online sportsbooks in the state.
How old do you have to be to bet in Arizona?
You must be 21 or older to participate in any kind of betting in Arizona, including land-based gambling, online horse racing, charitable gaming, sports wagering, and the lottery.
When did sports betting launch in Arizona?
Residents and visitors to AZ have been able to wager on sports online since the first legal sportsbooks launched in September 2021. The first retail sportsbook launched in November of the same year.
What sportsbooks are legal in Arizona?
The sportsbooks currently legal in Arizona are Bally Bet, Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, Betfred, BetRivers, Betway, Caesars, Desert Diamond, DraftKings, FanDuel, Fubo, Golden Nugget, Hard Rock Sportsbook, SaharaBets, SuperBook Sports, TwinSpires, Unibet, and WynnBET.
Are sportsbooks in Arizona safe?
Arizona’s legal sportsbooks are partnered with a professional sports organization or gaming tribe. These casinos are licensed and regulated by the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG), so they are safe to use. Any sportsbooks not partnered with an official organization or tribe are not legal and should be avoided.
Do I have to pay taxes on betting winnings in Arizona?
For residents in Arizona, any winnings generated from gambling are subject to tax. There are four tax brackets that use your federal adjusted gross income as the base. The state filing requirement for non-residents of Arizona is $15,000, so collecting less than that amount in winnings may mean that you don’t need to file a non-resident return.
Can you play DraftKings in Arizona?
Yes. DraftKings is partnered with the Waste Management Phoenix Open of the PGA Tour, so you can use the sportsbook in Arizona. Check out our DraftKings promo code for Jul 2023.
Can you play FanDuel in Arizona?
Thanks to its partnership with the Phoenix Suns, bettors in Arizona can play FanDuel. See our FanDuel promo code for Jul 2023.
Can you play BetMGM in Arizona?
Yes, its partnership with the Arizona Cardinals and Gila River Hotels & Casinos means you can play BetMGM in the state. Take a look at our BetMGM Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023.
Can you play Caesars in Arizona?
Yes, you can use Caesars in Arizona. The sportsbook has a partnership with the Arizona Diamondbacks. View our Caesars promo code for Jul 2023.
Can you play TwinSpires in Arizona?
You can play TwinSpires in Arizona thanks to its tribal partnership with the Tonto Apache Tribe. However, AZ bettors should be aware TwinSpires will be shutting down their sportsbook operation later this year.
Which sportsbooks will be available in Arizona in the future?
MaximBet has partnered with the White Mountain Apache Tribe, while SolSports has joined forces with the Pascua Yaqui Tribe. The two sportsbooks look set to launch in Arizona soon, though an official date has not yet been announced.
