Maryland Legal Sports Betting Overview
MD Sports Betting Law Details
Status
📆 Retail Sports Betting Launch Date:
December 9, 2021
📆 Online Sports Betting Launch Date:
November 23, 2022
✅ Licensed Sportsbooks:
Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, PointsBet
💵 Legal Wagering Options:
Futures, moneylines, parlays, point spreads, same game parlays, teasers, totals
🔞 Legal Gambling Age in MD:
21+
🏈 Sports to Bet On:
NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, MMA, tennis, golf, boxing, motorsports, cricket, European soccer, college sports
🏦 Permitted Banking Options:
Mastercard, Visa, wire transfer
⚖️ Maryland Gambling Regulator:
Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA)
Maryland Governor Larry Hogan signed HB 940 in May 2021, making sports betting legal in the state. This decision was supported by 67% of voters in a November 2020 referendum. The first retail sportsbook, BetMGM, opened at the MGM National Harbor Casino on December 9, 2021.
Online sports betting became available on November 23, 2022, just in time for Thanksgiving weekend. The Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) issued licenses to 10 operators in preparation for the launch, with seven sportsbooks, including Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, and PointsBet, available for immediate betting. The state has the potential to grant up to 60 licenses for mobile sportsbooks.
Furthermore, in addition to traditional sports betting, players in Maryland can also engage in Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) games offered by platforms like ESPN, Boom, Yahoo!, FantasyDraft, DraftKings, and FanDuel.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of sports betting in Maryland, continue reading our detailed guide. We will explore recent legislation updates, explain how to place bets, and outline the requirements for legal wagering.
Maryland Online Sportsbooks Compared
The Maryland Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) was responsible for establishing the online sportsbook application process. Ten operators, including Barstool Sportsbook, Betfred, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, DraftKings, Fanatics, FanDuel, Parx Interactive, and PointsBet, received streamlined consideration from the MLGCA to expedite market opening.
Seven of these online sportsbooks were available on the launch day, while the remaining three, along with others, are expected to follow shortly. To assist you in selecting the best betting site for your needs, we have compared the top Maryland online sportsbooks across several key categories:
Best Mobile App – DraftKings
DraftKings offers an impressive sportsbook app that allows users to bet on the go. Available on both Apple and Android platforms, as well as the DraftKings website, the app features an intuitive interface, easy navigation, and live streaming capabilities. Claim your DraftKings Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023 to take advantage of the latest offers.
Best Welcome Bonus – PointsBet
PointsBet offers an attractive welcome offer among Maryland’s online sportsbooks. Their promotion, “5x $100 in Free Bets plus $200 in Free Bets,” provides users with flexibility when placing wagers. Alongside the $200 free bet bonus, PointsBet offers $500 in five different free bets, allowing bettors to spread their wagers across multiple events. Claim your PointsBet Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023 to capitalize on this generous offer.
Best for Competitive Odds – Caesars
Caesars is known for providing daily odds boosts on major league sports. Additionally, their sportsbook offers excellent betting lines for props and European soccer markets. If you’re looking for competitive odds, consider Caesars Sportsbook. Claim your Caesars Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023 to enhance your betting experience.
Best for Market Coverage – BetMGM
BetMGM, in partnership with the Baltimore Ravens, offers comprehensive coverage of all major sports markets. Furthermore, they provide numerous betting options for European sports matches. If market coverage is essential to you, BetMGM Sportsbook is a great choice. Don’t forget to claim your BetMGM Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023 to maximize your potential winnings.
Best for Beginner Bettors – BetRivers
BetRivers’ user-friendly desktop site caters to novice bettors, making it ideal for those new to sports betting. The site features easy-to-understand layouts, displaying the latest promotions and facilitating navigation between different sports markets. Additionally, their bet slip clearly separates the stake from potential winnings, simplifying payout calculations. Use the BetRivers Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023 to enhance your betting experience.
Best for Payout Speed – FanDuel
FanDuel stands out with its efficient payment processing, typically completing most withdrawals within 48 hours. The site often prioritizes specific payment methods, such as e-wallets, resulting in expedited withdrawals. Rest assured, even for first-time cashouts that may require additional processing time, FanDuel is committed to promptly handling your withdrawals. Claim your FanDuel Sportsbook promo code for Jul 2023 to benefit from their offerings.
NFL Betting Guide
Our NFL Betting Guide provides a comprehensive resource for accessing all NFL-related content in one place. Whether you’re interested in live markets, schedules, tips, or scores, you’ll find everything you need to enhance your NFL betting experience.
NBA Betting Guide
For those interested in NBA betting, our NBA Betting Guide offers insights, tips, and recommendations for the top Maryland sportsbooks catering to NBA enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just getting started, our guide will provide valuable information to enhance your NBA betting strategy.
MLB Betting Guide
Our MLB Betting Guide provides a wealth of information to assist you in wagering on MLB games. From odds and lines to prop bets and futures, this guide covers all aspects of MLB betting to ensure you have a successful betting experience.
How Does Maryland Compare to Other States?
Market Coverage
Maryland’s online and retail sportsbooks are operated by some of the biggest brands in the US, offering a wide variety of sports. Bettors in Maryland have access to a plethora of options, ranging from major league sports like NFL and NBA to niche disciplines such as MMA and NASCAR. The presence of high-profile sportsbooks ensures that Maryland bettors can access the same markets available in states like New Jersey or Indiana. In terms of college sports betting, Maryland allows wagering on in-state teams, making it one of the most welcoming states in the US for college sports betting. Similar legislation can be found in Michigan and Pennsylvania.
Competitive Odds & Prices
Maryland’s online sports betting market has quickly become highly competitive following its launch. Bettors can expect generous odds, as rival operators strive to capture their share of revenue. Online sportsbooks in Maryland often offer the same odds as their counterparts in other US states. Prominent sportsbooks like Caesars and FanDuel provide attractive odds boosts on major league sports, making them particularly appealing to sports bettors. Caesars’ prop bets and European soccer markets also offer excellent betting lines.
Gambling Revenue
Maryland imposes a 15% tax on sportsbook revenue, with all proceeds allocated to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund. This fund focuses on generating employment opportunities for marginalized communities. As of May 2022, Maryland retail sportsbooks have handled $174,811,019 in wagers, generating a revenue of $19,653,632. The state has collected taxes amounting to $2,883,063. Drawing a comparison, Indiana, a state with a similar tax rate of 9.50%, has accumulated $17,637,782 in taxes during the period from Maryland’s retail sports betting launch in December 2021 to May 2022. This highlights the potential tax revenue Maryland may have missed by not commencing online sports betting simultaneously with retail sports betting.
Betting Taxes
In Maryland, sportsbooks are required to pay a tax of 0.25% of their monthly betting handle in line with the Internal Revenue Code. Additionally, each employee involved in accepting wagers incurs an additional charge of $50. All gambling winnings are taxable, and bettors must declare their winnings to the IRS. If winnings exceed $600, individuals must complete a W-2G form. Sportsbooks are also authorized to withhold up to 25% of winnings for tax purposes. Gambling winnings must also be included in state income tax filings. Maryland employs seven different tax brackets, with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%.
How to Place a Bet in Maryland
If you’re new to sports betting in Maryland and looking to place your first wager, we’ve put together a straightforward guide to help you get started. Follow these steps to register with a sportsbook and place your first bet:
1. Select a Maryland sportsbook from our list of recommended bookmakers and click the provided link to visit their website.
2. Download the sportsbook’s app directly from the betting site or from your device’s app store. Ensure that your device’s location services are enabled to confirm your location within Maryland when placing bets.
3. Complete the registration process by providing your date of birth, address, full name, email, phone number, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. This information is required to create your account.
4. After registration, visit the cashier section of the sportsbook to redeem your welcome bonus by making your first deposit. Most welcome bonuses have a minimum deposit requirement. Choose your preferred deposit method and enter the desired amount to unlock the promotional offer.
5. Browse the sportsbook’s markets, select a betting option for your first wager, and add it to your bet slip. Determine your stake amount, and place the bet.
6. If your bet is successful, return to the cashier section of the sportsbook to process a withdrawal, following the provided instructions.
Note: Different sportsbooks may offer varying payment methods and withdrawal procedures. Please refer to the specific sportsbook’s terms and conditions for further details.
Banking Methods Available in Maryland
Online sportsbooks in Maryland offer various payment methods, although not all sportsbooks provide the same options. Many sportsbooks align with the prevalent online payment methods available in other states, including e-wallets like PayPal and Venmo, as well as credit/debit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Online bank transfers also present a viable option for Maryland sports bettors.
For retail sports betting transactions in Maryland, all payments must be made in person at a betting window or kiosk. Most retail sportsbooks accept bank cards like Visa and Mastercard for these transactions. Additionally, wire transfer deposits can be prearranged in certain cases.
Who is Not Eligible to Bet in Maryland?
To engage in sports betting in Maryland, individuals must be at least 21 years old and provide identification to prove their age. However, some individuals are prohibited from placing bets due to legal restrictions, including:
– Athletes, coaches, or members of any professional or college sports team
– Referees for professional and college sports leagues
– Individuals with the authority to influence players professionally
– Individuals with a stake in a sports team
– Individuals employed by governing bodies that create sports rules (e.g., NHL, NCAA)
– Individuals employed by organizations licensed by the MLGCA, including key staff, owners, directors, and officers
– Individuals possessing non-public information about a sports team that may impact outcomes (e.g., player medical records)
– Individuals prohibited from betting at the state or federal level due to criminal history
– Individuals who have voluntarily excluded themselves from gambling activities
Latest Maryland Sports Betting Updates
The status of sports betting in Maryland is as follows:
– Retail sports betting was launched in Maryland on December 9, 2021. Five retail sportsbooks are currently available at land-based casinos across the state.
– Online sports betting in Maryland launched on November 23, 2022. Fans can now bet with seven online sportsbooks, including Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, and PointsBet.
Current Sports Betting Status in Maryland
Maryland legalized sports betting in May 2021 after receiving overwhelming support from voters. Retail sports betting was then launched in December 2021, with BetMGM opening the state’s first retail sportsbook at the MGM National Harbor Casino. Currently, five retail sportsbooks operate in Maryland at land-based casinos.
Online sports betting became available on November 23, 2022. The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) streamlined the application process for online operators, granting licenses to seven sportsbooks for immediate betting. These include Barstool Sportsbook, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, and PointsBet.
Maryland continues to review additional license applications, and more sportsbooks are expected to launch soon.
Timeline for Sports Betting in Maryland
– November 23, 2022: Online sports betting launched in Maryland, providing seven sportsbooks for immediate betting.
– October 27, 2022: The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission applied alternative licensing standards to 10 online operators, streamlining the application process.
– October 26, 2022: DraftKings and FanDuel offered pre-launch sign-up bonuses and promotions.
– June 27, 2022: Fanatics Betting and Gaming’s BetFanatics received partial approval to launch in Maryland, pending further SWARC approval and a retail partner.
– June 14, 2022: Governor Hogan expressed concerns about the delayed launch of Maryland online sports betting in an open letter, urging the SWARC to prioritize awarding mobile licenses.
– December 9, 2021: Maryland’s first retail sportsbook, BetMGM, opened at the MGM National Harbor Casino, with Governor Hogan placing the state’s inaugural legal bet on the Baltimore Ravens and Washington Commanders to reach the Super Bowl.
– May 18, 2021: Governor Hogan signed HB 940 into law, legalizing online and retail sports betting in Maryland.
– November 3, 2020: Maryland voters favored sports betting with a 67% majority in a ballot referendum.
– March 18, 2020: SB 4 underwent Senate approval, placing sports betting on the November ballot. The bill initially aimed to legalize sports betting but was revised to include a voter referendum due to opposition from the Legislative Black Caucus.
– January 21, 2020: HB 225 received a hearing in the House but lost support.
– January 20, 2020: SB 58 received a hearing in the Senate but lost support.
– January 16, 2020: HB 225 was introduced in the House, proposing the legalization of online and retail sports betting with 16 mobile licenses.
– January 8, 2020: SB 58 was introduced in the Senate, aiming to legalize online and retail sports betting. SB 4 was also introduced, including legislation for online and retail sports betting.
– March 14, 2019: Attorney General Brian K. Frosh informed legislative leaders that a referendum would be necessary to legalize sports betting in Maryland.
– March 12, 2018: HB 1014 passed the House but failed to gain Senate support after one hearing.
– February 7, 2018: HB 1014 was introduced in the House, proposing the legalization of sports betting.
– May 14, 2018: The United States Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA), granting states the authority to legalize sports betting.
– February 8, 2017: Representatives Jason Buckel and Kevin Hornberger introduced HB 989 in the House to study the implementation of sports betting in Maryland. The bill did not progress past the committee.
– February 7, 2017: SB 4 and SB 58 were introduced in the Senate, proposing the legalization of online and retail sports betting.
– March 14, 2016: HB 1014 was introduced in the House, intending to establish a task force to study sports gaming implementation.
Maryland Sports Betting Background
Maryland has a long history of involvement in sports betting, particularly horse racing. The Preakness Stakes, one of horse racing’s Triple Crown events, has been held in Baltimore since 1873 at the Pimlico Race Course. Pari-mutuel wagering has been legal in the state since 1920.
Maryland was receptive to sports betting even prior to the US Supreme Court’s reversal of PASPA. HB 989 was introduced in the House in 2017, creating a task force to study the implementation of sports betting in the state. Although subsequent bills aimed at legalizing sports betting failed to gain sufficient support, a voter referendum in November 2020 led to its eventual legalization.
Maryland’s sports betting landscape continues to evolve, with the implementation of both retail and online sportsbooks offering a wide range of betting opportunities to residents and visitors alike.
Future of Maryland Sports Betting
Maryland’s online sports betting market has launched with seven sportsbooks, and the applications of 10 leading operators have already been licensed to expedite the market opening. The SWARC is still reviewing license applications for Class A-1 and A-2 facilities, as well as mobile operators. BetFanatics received partial licensing in June 2022 and is actively seeking a retail partner.
Betfred, Fanatics, and Parx Interactive are among the operators expected to launch their online sportsbooks in Maryland shortly. Betfred has partnered with OTB location Long Shot’s to offer a retail sportsbook experience.
Moreover, Maryland has the potential to open up to 30 Class B sportsbooks at locations such as off-track betting (OTB) venues and the Maryland State Fairgrounds.
As the market expands, Maryland bettors can look forward to a broad range of options from reputable online sportsbooks, providing an exceptional sports betting experience.
Online Sportsbooks
Top-rated online sportsbooks in Maryland offer excellent promotions and the largest bonuses. Be sure to explore these platforms to access all the benefits they have to offer.
Odds Calculator
To simplify your betting experience, use our odds calculator tool. Enter your stakes and odds, and the calculator will calculate your potential profit.
Betting Lines
Our guide on how to use betting lines across all major league sports will help you understand the intricacies of odds and determine the best betting strategies.
Maryland Sports Betting Locations
Maryland is home to six casinos, with five of them hosting sportsbooks. These casinos have the potential to launch up to ten retail sportsbooks. Here are some notable sports betting locations in Maryland:
MGM National Harbor Casino
Address: 101 MGM National Avenue, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Website: https://mgmnationalharbor.com/ Phone Number: (844) 646-6847
Operator: BetMGM
Situated near the District of Columbia, the MGM National Harbor Casino offers the first retail sportsbook in Maryland. Spanning 8,000 square feet, the facility includes a 110-foot screen and stadium-style seating for an immersive viewing experience. Betting windows and self-service kiosks accommodate wagers on an array of sports, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, MMA, tennis, golf, boxing, motorsports, cricket, European soccer, and college sports.
Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland
Address: 7002 Arundel Mills Circle, Suite 7777, Hanover, MD 21076
Website: https://maryland.livecasinohotel.com/ Phone Number: (443) 842-7000
Operator: FanDuel
Partnered with FanDuel, Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland offers a retail sportsbook, adding another dimension to their extensive offerings. The sportsbook features 40 TVs and a 100-foot video wall, ensuring that spectators catch all the action. Bettors can utilize betting windows or self-service kiosks to place their wagers. In addition to major league sports, the sportsbook covers golf, tennis, and auto racing.
Horseshoe Casino Baltimore
Address: 1525 Russell Street, Baltimore, MD 21230
Website: https://www.caesars.com/horseshoe/ Phone Number: (844) 777-7463
Operator: Caesars
Located in Baltimore, the Horseshoe Casino hosts a Caesars sportsbook on its premises. The sportsbook features 11 betting kiosks, seven betting windows, and a large LED wall displaying the latest sports events. Patrons can enjoy betting on major league sports, boxing, MMA, auto racing, and college sports. The casino’s proximity to M&T Bank Stadium and Oriole Park at Camden Yards adds an exciting element to the sports betting experience.
In addition to the aforementioned locations, there are other retail sportsbooks available. Hollywood Casino Perryville and Ocean Downs Casino provide platforms for Barstool Sportsbook and TwinSpires, respectively.
Maryland Lottery Locations
At present, there are no plans to introduce sports betting to Maryland lottery retailers. The legislation that legalized sports betting only included provisions for retail sports betting at partnered land-based casinos. Further evaluation and amendments to this legislation would be required for lottery retailers to offer sports betting.
Off-Track and Stadium Betting Locations
Retail sportsbooks with Class A licenses may launch at sports franchise stadiums in Maryland; however, no stadiums have been granted such licenses yet. Fanatics Betting and Gaming aims to open a BetFanatics sportsbook at the Washington Commanders’ FedExField in Landover. The Maryland Racing Commission oversees off-track betting (OTB) locations, with eight sites available for placing wagers on horse races from across the country. Five OTB locations, not affiliated with casinos, may apply for Class B sportsbook licenses in the future. These Class B licenses would allow for the opening of retail sportsbooks at venues such as OTB locations and the Maryland State Fairgrounds.
Below are some notable off-track and stadium betting locations in Maryland:
Greenmount Station
Address: 1631 N. Main Street, Hampstead, MD 21074
Phone Number: (410) 239-0063
Hollywood Casino Perryville
Address: 1201 Chesapeake Overlook Parkway, Perryville, MD 21903
Phone Number: (410) 378-8500
Horseshoe Casino Baltimore
Address: 1525 Russell Street, Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone Number: (844) 777-7463
Jockey Bar and Grille
Address: 7700 Old National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713
Phone Number: (301) 799-5110
Long Shot’s
Address: 5400 Holiday Drive, Frederick, MD 21703
Phone Number: (301) 694-7507
MGM National Harbor Casino
Address: 7100 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Phone Number: (844) 346-4664
Pimlico Racecourse (non-race days only)
Address: Hayward & Winner Avenues, Baltimore, MD 21215
Phone Number: (410) 542-9400
Timonium Fairgrounds
Address: 2200 York Road, Lutherville, MD 21093
Phone Number: (410) 252-0200
Teams to Bet on in Maryland
Professional Sports
– Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens, who relocated from Cleveland in 1995, have claimed victory in the Super Bowl twice (2000, 2012). Partnered with BetMGM, Caesars, and DraftKings, the Ravens have a successful history and a loyal fanbase.
– Washington Commanders: Washington’s NFL team, though named after the District of Columbia, plays its home games at FedExField in Landover, Maryland. With three Super Bowl championships, the team attracts significant attention from bettors placing wagers at FanDuel.
– Baltimore Orioles: The Orioles have been a part of Baltimore since 1954, calling Oriole Park at Camden Yards their home for the past 30 years. The team experienced a golden era between 1966 and 1983, winning six World Series appearances and three titles.
College Sports
– Coppin State Eagles: The Coppin State University Eagles, represented by fourteen varsity teams, are members of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The university, located in Baltimore, competes in both men’s and women’s sports.
– Loyola Greyhounds: Comprising men’s and women’s teams, the Loyola University Maryland Greyhounds compete in the Patriot League. They achieved significant success in men’s lacrosse, winning the Division I national championship in 2012.
– Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks: The University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks dominates women’s bowling, having won the Division I National Championship three times (2008, 2011, 2012).
– Maryland Terrapins: Representing the University of Maryland, the Terrapins compete in the Big Ten Conference. They have achieved considerable success, including NCAA championships in both men’s and women’s basketball.
– Morgan State Bears and Lady Bears: Known for their men’s basketball team, the Morgan State University Bears have made multiple appearances in the NCAA Division I Tournament. Their success extends to women’s sports as well.
– Mount St. Mary’s Mountaineers: Competing in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, the Mount St. Mary’s University Mountaineers have had notable alumni, including Peter Rono, who won an Olympic gold medal in the 1988 Olympic Games, competing in the 1500m.
– Navy Midshipmen: Representing the US Naval Academy, the Navy Midshipmen participate in 33 different varsity sports. Their annual football rivalry game against the US Military Academy draws significant attention.
– Towson Tigers: Competing in the Colonial Athletic Association, Towson University’s Tigers have a strong rivalry with the Loyola Greyhounds.
– UMBC Retrievers: The University of Maryland Baltimore County Retrievers made history as the first No. 16 seed team to defeat a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament in 2018.
Maryland also boasts successful women’s varsity sports teams across various Division I college programs. The Maryland Terrapins women’s lacrosse team, in particular, has won 14 national championships, while the Terrapins women’s basketball team has enjoyed success with a National Championship and multiple Final Four appearances.
Maryland Responsible Gambling Resources
If you or someone you know experiences gambling-related issues, the following resources are available in Maryland to provide assistance:
– Maryland National Council on Problem Gambling: This organization offers an overview of local support organizations and a nationwide live chat service. Contact them at (800) 522-4700.
– Maryland Council on Problem Gambling: This council provides treatment programs for problem gamblers, along with educational resources and event organizing. Reach out to them at (800) 426-2537.
– Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling: This center operates a 24/7 problem gambling support helpline, offers resources for problem gamblers and their families, and provides training resources for treating problem gambling. Contact them at (800) 426-2537.
Additionally, Maryland offers a voluntary exclusion program allowing individuals to ban themselves from all state casinos. However, this program currently does not cover online sportsbooks or retail sportsbooks at off-track betting (OTB) locations and stadiums. Online sportsbooks also implement responsible gambling measures, such as deposit limits, time limits, and site self-exclusions, to promote healthy gambling practices.
Who Oversees Sports Betting in Maryland?
The Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) oversees sports betting in Maryland. The MLGCA is responsible for licensing operators, establishing regulations, and ensuring compliance with sports betting laws. The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) collaborates with the MLGCA to review and decide on the application process for online sportsbooks. Ultimately, the MLGCA makes the final decision regarding licensed operators.
