What’s Happening in DC Sports Betting Right Now

 

Here are the latest developments in Washington, DC’s sports betting market:

 

Oct. 9, 2024 — DC reported a sports betting handle of $40.5 million in August, a 48% increase from July and a 400% rise year over year.

 

Sept. 16, 2024 — The DC Office of Lottery and Gaming announced that Caesars will take over operation of sports betting kiosks from Intralot across the district.

 

Sept. 12, 2024 — Fanatics Sportsbook officially launched in DC, bringing the total number of active sportsbook apps in the district to five.

 

Aug. 27, 2024 — DC Attorney General Brian Schwalb began investigating Intralot for potential violations of the False Claims Act.

 

Aug. 27, 2024 — DC’s July sports betting handle fell to $10.7 million, representing a 63.8% drop from June.

 

Aug. 14, 2024 — A court order indicated that Intralot, the former monopoly operator behind GambetDC, could be under investigation by the DC attorney general.

 

July 26, 2024 — DraftKings Sportsbook launched district-wide through a partnership with DC United, expanding the competitive sportsbook market in Washington, DC.

 

 

Washington, DC Sports Betting Sites

 

Washington, DC’s online sports betting market has taken an unusual path. Early regulatory restrictions limited competition and effectively created a monopoly system. However, changes included in the 2024 budget expanded the market and now allow up to seven sportsbook promos to operate district-wide.

 

Currently, five online sportsbooks are live across DC, with room for additional operators in the future.

 

 

Caesars Sportsbook DC

 

Caesars operates in partnership with Monumental Sports & Entertainment, the ownership group behind Capital One Arena (home of the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals).

 

In addition to its retail sportsbook at Capital One Arena, Caesars now offers district-wide mobile betting. The app features a wide variety of betting markets, competitive odds, and live wagering options.

 

Current Offer: First Bet Match up to $250 in Bonus Bets.

 

 

BetMGM DC

 

BetMGM promo code partners with the Washington Nationals and originally operated only within Nationals Park and a limited surrounding radius. In July 2024, the app expanded to offer district-wide access.

 

BetMGM stands out for features like Edit My Bet, which allows users to modify open wagers by adjusting selections, changing bet amounts, or partially cashing out.

 

Current Offer: Up to $150 in Bonus Bets if your first wager does not win.

 

 

FanDuel Sportsbook DC

 

FanDuel promo code launched district-wide on April 15, 2024, after previously operating as a retail sportsbook at Audi Field in partnership with DC United.

 

The app is known for its user-friendly design, broad market selection, and live streaming options that allow bettors to watch select events directly within the platform.

 

 

Fanatics Sportsbook DC

 

Fanatics Sportsbook promo code launched in DC on Sept. 12, 2024, through a partnership with the Washington Spirit of the NWSL.

 

As one of the newer entrants to the market, Fanatics offers a competitive welcome package and integrates its sportsbook platform with its broader sports merchandise ecosystem.

 

Current Offer: Up to $1,000 in No-Sweat Bets for new users.

 

 

DraftKings Sportsbook DC

 

DraftKings promo code launched district-wide on July 25, 2024, following regulatory changes that expanded the market.

 

The app offers a full range of betting markets, same-game parlays, and live betting options.

 

Current Offer: Up to $1,200 in bonuses for new users.

 

 

GambetDC (No Longer Active)

 

GambetDC was the DC Lottery-operated sportsbook that held a monopoly on district-wide betting from 2020 through early 2024. The platform, operated by Intralot under a no-bid contract, faced widespread criticism over its functionality, odds, and performance.

 

In March 2024, the DC Lottery announced that FanDuel would replace GambetDC as the primary district-wide sportsbook, officially ending the monopoly era and opening the market to broader competition.

 

 

Legal Sports Betting Basics in DC

 

With the updated DC budget in place, up to seven sportsbook apps may operate district-wide. Anyone 18 years or older who is physically located within Washington, DC, can place a legal wager using an internet-connected device.

 

 

Retail Sports Betting Locations in DC

 

DC law establishes three classes of sports betting licenses:

 

 

Class A Licenses

 

Reserved for major professional sports venues within the district.

 

 

Class B Licenses

 

Available to qualifying businesses such as bars and restaurants, provided they are not solely dedicated sportsbooks. Class B locations may not operate within two blocks of a Class A facility.

 

 

Class C Licenses

 

Created under the 2024 budget expansion. These licenses allow DC-area sports franchises to partner with sportsbook operators to offer district-wide online betting.

 

Although the framework allows for broader participation, relatively few retail locations are currently active.

 

 

Where to Bet in Person in Washington, DC

 

Here are the primary retail sportsbook locations currently operating in the district:

 

 

Audi Field 

 

Home of DC United (MLS), Audi Field features a full-service FanDuel Sportsbook. The 2,550-square-foot space includes multiple betting windows and numerous self-service kiosks.

 

 

Capital One Arena

 

The Caesars Sportsbook at Capital One Arena opened in May 2021. The 18,000-square-foot facility includes 17 betting windows and 12 kiosks. It is accessible daily via the F Street entrance, even on non-game days.

 

 

Over/Under Sportsbook Rooftop Lounge 

 

Located above Cloakroom Gentlemen’s Club, this venue operates under a Class B license and began offering on-site betting in early 2023.

 

 

Grand Central Sportsbook & Café 

 

The first Class B sportsbook to launch in DC, Grand Central opened in October 2021. Operating in partnership with Elys Game Technology, it offers kiosks and a staffed betting window within the restaurant space.

 

 

Grand Central Sportsbook (H Street) 

 

Elys expanded its footprint with another retail sportsbook location at 625D H Street NE, which opened in early 2024.

 

 

Nationals Park

 

BetMGM operates the retail sportsbook at Nationals Park. While its mobile app launched earlier, the physical sportsbook opened at the stadium in 2022.

 

How to Bet on Sports in Washington, DC

 

If you live in or are visiting Washington, DC, getting started with a legal sportsbook app is straightforward. Here’s how:

 

 

Step 1: Download the App

 

Choose a licensed DC sportsbook and download the app from your device’s app store. If available, access the app through a promotional link to take advantage of any welcome offer.

 

 

Step 2: Create an Account

 

Complete the registration process by providing your legal name, address, date of birth, email, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. If a promo code is required, enter it exactly as shown.

 

 

Step 3: Verify Your Location

 

Sports betting apps use geolocation software to confirm that you are physically located within Washington, DC, at the time of the wager.

 

 

Step 4: Fund Your Account

 

Most sportsbooks offer multiple deposit options, including debit cards, PayPal, ACH/e-check, and other online payment methods.

 

 

Step 5: Place Your Bet

 

Browse available markets, select your wager, confirm your bet slip, and submit your wager.

 

 

DC Sports Betting Law

 

Washington, DC’s sports betting framework is unlike any other in the United States.

 

Initially, the DC Lottery both regulated and operated the district-wide sportsbook (GambetDC), creating a monopoly system. Other operators were limited to small geographic “exclusion zones” around stadiums such as Capital One Arena and Nationals Park.

 

That model changed in 2024. GambetDC was replaced, and new budget legislation expanded the market to allow multiple sportsbook operators to offer district-wide mobile betting.

 

 

The Three-Class License System

 

DC currently operates under a three-tier license structure:

 

 

Class A Licenses

 

Designated for major professional sports venues. These locations may host retail sportsbooks and partner with operators to offer branded mobile apps.

 

Eligible venues include:

 

• Audi Field (DC United)

• Capital One Arena (Washington Wizards & Capitals)

• St. Elizabeths East Entertainment & Sports Arena (Washington Mystics)

• Nationals Park (Washington Nationals)

 

Class A license holders pay 20% of gross gaming revenue in taxes to the district.

 

 

Class B Licenses

 

Available to bars, restaurants, and taverns. These establishments may offer on-site betting, but mobile wagering is limited strictly to the premises.

 

 

Class C Licenses

 

Allow DC sports franchises to partner with online sportsbook operators to offer betting throughout the district.

 

Operators seeking licensure must:

 

• Partner with a DC-area professional sports team

• Be licensed and active in at least five US jurisdictions

• Pay a 30% tax on gross gaming revenue

• Pay a $2 million nonrefundable application fee for a five-year license

• Pay a $1 million renewal fee after the initial term

 

 

DC Sports Betting Restrictions

 

DC law places limits on certain wagers. Bettors may not place wagers on:

 

• Colleges located within Washington, DC

• College sporting events that take place within district boundaries

• Events involving a majority of participants under age 18

 

These restrictions primarily affect local collegiate programs and certain amateur competitions.

 

How DC Sports Betting Compares to Virginia and Maryland

 

Washington, DC’s sports betting market doesn’t operate in isolation. Both neighboring states - Maryland and Virginia - offer legal sports wagering across their borders. Here’s how DC compares to its regional counterparts.

 

 

Market Structure and Access

 

 

Washington, DC & Virginia

 

DC and Virginia share a similar starting point. When they launched sports betting, neither had a large network of traditional casinos. As a result, both jurisdictions prioritized partnerships with professional sports teams and venues.

 

• In DC, the licensing structure centers around professional sports facilities and team partnerships.

• In Virginia, the market was initially mobile-first, though casinos have since opened and now also hold sportsbook licenses.

 

 

Maryland

 

Maryland entered the sports betting era with a more established gambling infrastructure. The state already had:

 

• Six commercial casinos

• A major horse racing industry

• Multiple professional sports franchises

 

Maryland’s framework allocates licenses to casinos, sports venues, and other qualified businesses.

 

Unlike Virginia, both DC and Maryland allow non-casino establishments (such as bars and restaurants) to apply for retail sportsbook licenses. However, DC’s law is unique in that it does not set a firm cap on the number of these licenses, meaning - in theory - a large number of retail sportsbooks could operate in the district.

 

 

Betting Restrictions

 

The biggest differences among the three jurisdictions involve college sports wagering.

 

 

Washington, DC

 

• No betting on colleges located within DC

• No betting on college games played within DC, regardless of which teams are involved

• No betting on events involving primarily underage participants

 

DC’s restrictions are among the most stringent in the region.

 

 

Virginia

 

• No betting on in-state college teams

• No college player prop bets

• No live betting on any college games

 

Virginia does not prohibit betting on games played within the state, provided they do not involve in-state teams.

 

 

Maryland

 

Maryland takes a more permissive approach.

 

• Betting on in-state college teams is allowed

• No blanket ban on games played within the state

 

However, like Virginia, Maryland does not permit college player prop bets.

 

 

Overall Comparison

 

• DC: Limited but expanding market with strong venue-based licensing and strict college betting rules.

• Virginia: Mobile-heavy market with restrictions on in-state college teams and live college betting.

• Maryland: Broad market access with casino-based infrastructure and fewer restrictions on college teams.

 

Each jurisdiction has carved out its own regulatory path, making the DC–Maryland–Virginia region one of the most diverse sports betting environments in the country.

 

 

Most Popular Sports to Bet on in Washington, DC

 

Although Washington, DC, covers a relatively small geographic area, it is home to several major professional sports franchises. These teams consistently attract the most betting interest in the nation’s capital.

 

 

Washington Commanders (NFL)

 

• Stadium: FedEx Field

• Location: 1600 FedEx Way, Greater Landover, MD

 

NFL games typically generate the highest betting volume, and Commanders matchups are among the most popular wagers in the DC market.

 

 

Washington Wizards (NBA)

 

• Venue: Capital One Arena

• Address: 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC

 

NBA betting remains strong throughout the season, especially for home games and marquee matchups.

 

 

Washington Nationals (MLB)

 

• Venue: Nationals Park

• Address: 1500 S Capitol St. SE, Washington, DC

 

Baseball offers a long betting season, with daily markets on moneylines, totals, and player props.

 

 

Washington Capitals (NHL)

 

• Venue: Capital One Arena

• Address: 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC

 

The Capitals maintain a loyal fan base, and NHL betting spikes during the postseason.

 

 

DC United (MLS)

 

• Venue: Audi Field

• Address: 100 Potomac Ave. SW, Washington, DC

 

Soccer betting continues to grow in popularity, particularly for MLS matches and international competitions.

 

 

Colleges and Universities

 

Washington, DC, is home to several NCAA Division I programs, including:

 

• Georgetown University

• George Washington University

• Howard University

• American University

 

However, DC law prohibits wagering on colleges located within the district or on college games played inside DC. Bettors who wish to wager on these teams must travel to neighboring Maryland or Virginia, where permitted.

 

 

Legal Betting Options in Washington, DC (2026)

 

To legally place a sports bet in DC, you must:

 

• Be 18 years or older

• Be physically located within the district

• Use a licensed sportsbook app or visit an approved retail location

 

Any sportsbook not licensed in DC and accepting bets from district residents is likely operating offshore and outside US regulations, which can carry significant safety and consumer protection risks.

 

Washington, DC does not have traditional casinos. All legal sports betting must occur through authorized mobile apps or licensed retail sportsbooks.

 

 

Washington, DC Sports Betting Timeline

 

 

2024

 

The DC Lottery announces that FanDuel will replace GambetDC as the district-wide sportsbook platform. FanDuel officially takes over on April 15.

 

In July, DC’s new budget significantly expands the sports betting market. The creation of Class C licenses allows up to seven online sportsbooks to operate district-wide. BetMGM and Caesars quickly join FanDuel in offering mobile betting across DC, with DraftKings launching shortly thereafter.

 

 

2023

 

A group led by Josh Harris and Magic Johnson purchases the Washington Commanders for a record $6.05 billion, sparking speculation about a potential new stadium or rebranding.

 

Separately, DC passes a budget that eliminates annual funding dedicated to problem gambling programs.

 

 

2021

 

DC’s market sees increased competition as BetMGM launches in June, adding pressure to the lottery-run GambetDC platform.

 

Despite criticism over pricing and performance — including concerns raised in an independent audit - GambetDC maintains its structure. The DC Lottery attempts to improve accessibility by installing betting kiosks at select restaurants.

 

In October, Grand Central Restaurant & Bar becomes the first Class B licensee to open an on-site sportsbook in the district.

 

 

2020

 

GambetDC launches in May 2020 as the first legal sportsbook in Washington, DC. The rollout is delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the cancellation of major sporting events.

 

Observers quickly note that GambetDC’s odds are often less competitive than other markets.

 

In July, William Hill (later rebranded as Caesars Sportsbook) opens a retail sportsbook at Capital One Arena, becoming the first professional sports venue in the US with an on-site sportsbook. William Hill launches its DC mobile app in December, introducing the first direct competition to GambetDC.

 

 

2019

 

Mayor Muriel Bowser signs the Sports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act into law in January. Due to DC’s unique governance structure, the legislation must also pass congressional review before taking effect. Sports betting officially becomes legal in May 2019, though no sportsbooks launch that year due to logistical challenges and the onset of the pandemic.

 

 

2018

 

Following the repeal of PASPA in May 2018, DC moves quickly. Councilman Jack Evans introduces the Sports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act of 2018, proposing both retail and online sports betting under the oversight of the DC Lottery.

 

After amendments and debate, the bill passes the DC Council in December 2018 and heads to the mayor’s desk, laying the groundwork for legal sports betting in the nation’s capital.