Finding reliable online sportsbooks can be challenging, so we’ve done the hard work for you. Our comprehensive list features the top Texas sports betting sites, ensuring you get the best odds, bonuses and betting markets.
Texas, also known as the Lone Star State, offers a massive population base of sports fans eager to explore online gambling activities despite the current legal restrictions.
But, with trusted offshore sportsbooks, you’re just a click away from an exceptional sports betting experience in Texas. Discover the best Texas sports betting options today.
Lawmakers, sports figures, and advocates weigh in on the potential to legalize sports betting in 2025. Texas’ recent election results add another Republican to the state Senate, which could hinder future sports betting legislation. The Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas has asked the Texas Senate to intervene and halt online lottery sales, a move that impacts the online gambling industry.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Texas?
Sports betting is illegal in Texas. Changing that requires a constitutional amendment, which is a tough process. Lawmakers need two-thirds approval from both the House and Senate before putting it to a statewide vote. So far, no sports betting bills have made it through both chambers.
For now, Texans looking for legal sports betting turn to offshore sportsbooks. These sites are licensed in other countries and accept Texas bettors legally. They offer betting on major leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB and NCAA. Many also accept crypto deposits, which are faster and have lower fees. Offshore sportsbooks provide the most reliable options for Texas sports betting, offering Texans access to a wide range of markets and promotions.
Horse racing is one exception to Texas gambling laws. Pari-mutuel betting is legal at tracks like Lone Star Park and Sam Houston Race Park. Historical Racing Machines (HRMs), which allow bets on anonymized past races, are also legal. Online horse race betting is not addressed under Texas law, so many bettors use offshore racebooks.
The future of sports betting in Texas remains uncertain. Efforts to legalize it stalled again in 2023. Lobby groups, pro sports teams, and business leaders support it, but strong opposition in the Senate keeps it from moving forward. Experts think the earliest chance for legalization will come in 2025.
For now, offshore sportsbooks are the most reliable option for Texas sports fans looking to place wagers.
Texas Sports Betting Timeline
Texas is set to become the nation’s biggest sports betting market, if lawmakers can manage to pass any sports betting bills, but it’s hard to say when major operators may get the green light. The timeline below shows the history of sports betting and other forms of gambling in the Lone Star State:
Lawmakers, sports figures, and advocates weigh in on the potential to legalize sports betting in 2025. Texas’ recent election results add another Republican to the state Senate, which could hinder future sports betting legislation. The Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas has asked the Texas Senate to intervene and halt online lottery sales, a move that impacts the online gambling industry.
Texas forms a new committee to explore the potential of legalizing casino games and expanding current gambling opportunities, as advocates prepare for the 2025 legislative session.
Amid Texas’s legal gambling controversy, the Dallas Cowboys are breaking new ground by partnering with Las Vegas-based Aristocrat Gaming, marking a significant step for major league teams in promoting sports betting.
The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas plans a new casino resort on tribal land, despite ongoing debates about statewide gambling expansion.
Efforts to pass a constitutional amendment on sports betting stall, pushing any initiatives to 2025. Despite progress in the House, HJR 102 faces strong opposition in the Senate and from Lieutenant Governor Patrick, signaling a major blow to proponents of Texas sports betting regulation.
The Texas legislature plans to discuss SJR-17 and other sports betting proposals, reflecting the increasing interest in revenue from sports betting and its potential economic benefits.
The Texas House of Representatives approves legislation to legalize betting on specific events via a constitutional amendment but fails to earn Senate support. Separately, SB 1820 aims to prohibit online lottery sales while further complicating options for sports betting in Texas.
HB 1942 and HJR 102 move to the House Committee, however, it’s unlikely that the Senate will pass either. The state’s professional teams voice their support for the approval of sports betting, emphasizing the potential for responsible gaming and economic growth.
Despite having four sports betting bills for consideration, lawmakers continue to stall on their discussion. Lawmakers grapple with concerns over licensing, taxation, and regulation in the online sports betting market.
Senate Joint Resolution 17 (SJR-17) is introduced, proposing the creation of a Texas Gaming Commission, an authoritative body to oversee licensed sportsbooks and other gambling operations.
The Texas Sports Betting Alliance starts working to push for sports betting in the state in 2023. Their main focus is to show the importance of legalized sports betting in Texas.
Three additional bills — HJR 97, SB 715 and HB 1942 — are introduced to regulate gambling within the state. Notably, major teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Astros remain key advocates for change.
A Supreme Court ruling stops Texas from banning tribal-run e-bingo.
Congress members from opposing groups urge the Department of Justice to address concerns over offshore sports betting operators. These platforms dominate the online sports betting apps market in Texas.
BetMGM partners with the Houston Astros, marking one of the first high-profile sportsbook deals in Texas. This partnership reflects the growing alignment between major operators and major league teams in the state.
Preliminary discussions begin in the Texas legislature about the possibility of legalizing sports betting, in response to increasing interest and potential revenue benefits.
A bill to legalize sports betting is introduced in the Texas legislature but does not advance. This reflects the state’s historically conservative stance on gambling.
Texas lawmakers begin to explore the implications of the nationwide trend towards sports betting legalization, with initial discussions focusing on potential regulatory frameworks.
Major sports teams in Texas start to express interest in sports betting, recognizing its potential impact on fan engagement and revenue.
The Texas Lottery Commission begins exploring options to expand gambling offerings in the state, including the potential for sports betting.
Texas experiences a surge in illegal sports betting activities, mirroring a national trend, despite the state’s restrictive gambling laws.
Despite no legal forms of gambling beyond the state lottery and pari-mutuel horse racing, there is a growing interest in sports betting among Texas residents.
The Texas legislature debates various gambling expansion proposals, including casinos and allowing betting at horse racing tracks, but retail sportsbooks remain off the table.
The state of Texas maintains a strict anti-gambling stance, with no significant movement towards legalizing sports betting or other forms of gambling.
Texas introduces the state lottery, marking the state’s first foray into legal gambling, but no further gambling expansions, including sports betting, are considered at this time.
As discussions continue, Texas’ approach to sports betting serves as an example of how states can evolve their gambling policies in response to changing societal and economic landscapes.
Top 10 TX Sportsbooks Reviewed
| SPORTSBOOK | TRUST SCORE | ONLINE SINCE | Expert Review | BONUS | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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2001
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100% Free Play
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1996
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$500 Cash Bonus
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2014
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50% Free Play
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2001
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$250 Free Bet
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2002
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55% Cash Bonus
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2011
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$750 Cash Bonus
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1996
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$500 Cash Bonus
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Best Texas Sports Betting Sites
We’ve thoroughly evaluated numerous offshore sportsbooks offering online betting in Texas to identify the most reliable and trustworthy betting platforms. These selected operators provide legitimate services with various sports betting options, including moneylines, spread bets, totals, parlays and props, among others:
- BetOnline – Offers same-day payouts for Texas bettors
- Bovada – Best mobile interface overall
- Heritage Sports – Provides exceptional 24/7 customer service for bettors
- BetAnySports – Provides the lowest house edge in Texas
- Everygame – Features more sports markets than competitors
- WagerWeb – Offers the fastest payouts for Bitcoin users
- SportsBetting.ag – Offers a variety of sports for Texas residents
- BetUS – Features generous promos for new and loyal customers
- JustBet – Provides early lines and high limits for Texas bettors
- BookMaker – Provides the sharpest lines on all sports
The online betting sites we recommend are highly-rated operators that pay out on time and set their customers’ needs as a priority, making them an ideal choice for any Texas sports betting fan who is looking to bet on their favorite professional sports teams or college sports teams.
Top Texas Sports Betting Sites for U.S. Players
If you’re an avid sports bettor or just starting out, finding the best Texas sports betting sites has never been easier.
We’ve put together in-depth reviews of the top 5 online sports betting apps and sites for the Lone Star State. These platforms stand out for their fast payouts, top-notch customer service, and generous sports betting bonuses. Each site is an industry expert favorite, offering seamless mobile wagering through web apps that perform exceptionally across the board.
1. BetOnline: Best Texas Sportsbook for Opinionated Lines
Key Features:
- Faster payouts than most competitors
- Opinionated lines that are released early
BetOnline is a leading online sportsbook, renowned for its comprehensive markets of major leagues like the NFL and MLB. The platform supports mobile wagering, allowing sports betting enthusiasts to place bets seamlessly through any device. BetOnline’s mobile platform mirrors the website’s clean design, offering effortless navigation across a wide range of sports betting markets.
In addition to live betting and early lines, BetOnline accepts virtual currency, making it a top pick for those looking to avoid delays with traditional funding methods like debit cards. The site also offers sports betting bonuses and promotional codes, such as “FREE250” for a $250 bonus and 100 free spins for casino games.
2. Bovada: Best Mobile Interface & Mobile Experience Overall
Key Features:
- Excellent support for iOS and Android
- The most popular poker room in America
Bovada has been a trusted name in the online gambling industry since 2011. Known for its user-friendly online sportsbook app, it’s perfect for Texas bettors looking for smooth mobile sports betting sites. Bovada offers same-game parlays, futures wagers, and a wide range of markets for football, basketball, soccer, and other popular sports.
Rated 10/10 by industry experts, Bovada’s app is ideal for sports betting enthusiasts who value real-time wagering. Their bonuses include a $750 crypto deposit match for bettors using virtual currency, making it a top choice for responsible gaming fans seeking a secure option.
3. Heritage Sports: Best Customer Support in Texas
Key Features:
- Straightforward interface makes it easy for online bettors
- Great live betting options
Heritage Sports is a favorite among Texans, especially those who value excellent customer service and a mobile sports betting platform. Although it doesn’t yet have a dedicated app, its site runs flawlessly on any mobile browser, offering access to major sportsbooks and retail sportsbooks alike.
New customers can take advantage of a 100% Deposit Match up to $500, which adds to the appeal of their sports betting bonuses. For bettors who enjoy online gambling activities, Heritage Sports also supports electronic wallet deposits for faster, more secure transactions.
4. Everygame: Features the Widest Variety of Sports & Leagues
Key Features:
- Provides betting lines for niche and international sports
- A simple-to-use mobile interface
Everygame, formerly Intertops, offers an unmatched range of sports, from major league teams to niche international markets. Bettors can explore same-game parlays, futures wagers, and props, making Everygame a versatile platform for sports bets.
With strong ties to the online gambling market, Everygame also includes a casino where bettors can enjoy casino wagers or hit the poker tables. For players seeking mobile gaming licenses, Everygame ensures its offerings meet industry standards. Their promotional codes and 100% match bonuses sweeten the deal for both new and returning players.
5. BookMaker: Best Site for Sharp Bettors
Key Features:
- Market leader in early betting lines and high betting limits
- Offers same-day Bitcoin payouts with no fees
Although BookMaker is home for professional bettors due to its high wagering limits, BookMaker caters to active bettors in Texas, offering early betting lines for major leagues like the NFL, NBA and MLB. Known for high limits and sharp odds, it’s a favorite for experienced players and newcomers alike.
The site also supports mobile wagering and provides seamless navigation on mobile browsers, making it one of the most trusted offshore sports betting operators. In addition to betting on major teams, users can explore their online sportsbook app for features like props and parlays.
How We Rank the Best Texas Sportsbooks
To rank the best online sports betting apps, our experts evaluate key factors like performance, ease of use, and the range of sports offered. Below are some criteria we prioritize:
Mobile Betting Experience
It’s challenging to select the best Texas sports betting app. We understand that bettors will sometimes need to place their wagers through their mobile devices or that they may even prefer the convenience of wagering on their favorite sports while away from home.
We focus on apps and sites that provide a smooth experience without lag. The best mobile sports betting sites support bettors who enjoy options for sports betting on the go.
Betting Apps
Whether sportsbooks in Texas offer a downloadable app or an accessible website through a phone’s browser, we always prioritize performance and quality.
The app must be simple to use and bonus points are awarded when the operator’s website is almost identical when used on a mobile device. We recommend sports betting in Texas with the sites reviewed on our list since they provide a wide selection of sports, banking methods and promotions.
Mobile Betting Bonuses
Any reputable offshore sports betting app in Texas should be offering a welcome bonus of some sort. However, reviewing the types of sports betting bonuses available in each sportsbook is essential. From as much as 100% Deposit Match offers to other promotional codes, we analyze how these bonuses cater to sports betting enthusiasts.
We study the available bonuses and rank them based on their requirements and desirability. In addition, we consider bonus percentages, minimum deposits, and wagering requirements. Operators that provide the most generous promo codes or have the lowest minimum deposit requirements get extra points from us.
In addition to the aforementioned methods of ranking Texas State betting apps and mobile sports betting sites, we also consider the following when forming our top-rated lists:
- Live mobile betting & streaming features
- Banking options, including debit cards and virtual currency
- Customer service quality
- Licensing & security compliance
These are just some of the key factors that our team of industry experts evaluates when comparing sportsbooks for the Lone Star State.
How To Sign up for a Texas Betting Site
The steps are simple for Texas State residents wanting to join a sports betting app. Here’s a short guide taking you through the sign-up process:
- Open a Sports Betting Account: Firstly, you’ll need to select your preferred offshore sportsbook; use our detailed reviews to find the sportsbook that suits your needs. Alternatively, you can register with multiple sportsbooks. In this example, we’re signing up with BetOnline. Once you’ve entered the URL address for BetOnline on your mobile browser, select the “Join” button, proceed to the registration page and complete the short form with your details.
- Select a Payment Method: Once you’ve completed the registration process, you’ll need to fund the account you just created. Look for a “cashier” or “bank” tab and select the deposit method you require, such as credit cards, wire transfers or debit cards. Enter the amount of crypto or cash you want to deposit and confirm. At some online betting sites, using cryptocurrencies for deposits can help players get a larger deposit bonus when they sign up.
- Choose a Welcome Bonus: New customers will automatically qualify for a welcome bonus, be sure to review which promotions the sportsbook you’ve chosen offers. Some operators will give you a choice and deposit match bonuses will differ depending on your deposit amount.
- Select Your Sport & Place a Bet: Now that you’ve established a bankroll with your initial deposit, it’s time to browse the sports betting markets. Whether you’re an NFL, NBA, NHL, EPL, UFC or MLB fan, browse the available bets and add them to your betting slip. Once you’ve chosen a bet to make, enter your stake and confirm your wager.
With your account set up, you’re now fully equipped to start betting on your favorite teams in Texas or across the globe.
Texas Betting Options
Texans have a wide range of betting options to explore at the best offshore sportsbooks. While many bettors stick to traditional wagers like moneylines, point spreads, and totals, there are plenty of additional markets to enhance your betting experience. Here are some popular choices:
- Game Props: Wager on specific events within a game, such as which team will score first, or betting on the margin of victory.
- Player Props: Focus on individual player performance, like total points scored or passing yards.
- Alternate Lines: Adjusted spreads or totals with varying odds to fit your strategy.
- Parlays: Combine multiple bets into one for a larger potential payout, but all picks must win.
- Same Game Parlays: Build a parlay from bets within a single game for added excitement.
- Futures: Predict the outcome of major events, like championship winners or season awards.
- Teasers: Parlay bets with adjusted spreads for a better chance of winning at reduced odds.
- Pleasers: Opposite of teasers — bets with tougher spreads but higher potential payouts.
- Progressive Parlays: Parlays that allow partial payouts if not all picks hit.
- Live Betting: Place wagers as the action unfolds, with odds updating in real-time.
- Round Robins: Create multiple smaller parlays from a larger set of bets for more chances to win.
- If Bets: Conditional bets where one wager depends on the outcome of another.
- Reverse Bets: Two if bets placed in both forward and reverse order.
Understanding these betting options can help you diversify your wagers, make informed decisions, and maximize your overall betting strategy in Texas.
Sports Betting Bonuses and Promotions
Sportsbooks offer a variety of bonuses to attract new bettors and keep existing players coming back. These promotions provide extra value, whether you’re signing up for the first time or making regular deposits. Below are the most common types of sports betting bonuses and how they work, with a focus on Texas players:
- Welcome Bonuses: Welcome bonuses are designed to reward sports bettors for signing up. The most popular promo offered by online sportsbooks are deposit matches. For example, depositing $200 with a 100% deposit match would give you $200 in bonus credits. Many offshore sportsbooks offer larger bonuses for crypto deposits due to lower fees and faster transactions, making Bitcoin a popular choice for Texas bettors.
- No-Deposit Bonuses: This bonus gives you funds without requiring a deposit. It’s a risk-free way to test the sportsbook. However, these offers often come with higher rollover requirements that must be met before withdrawing any winnings.
- Free Bets: Free bets let you place a wager using bonus funds instead of your own money. If the bet wins, you’ll receive the winnings but not the original free bet amount. Some sportsbooks may require a small deposit to qualify. Texas bettors often use these for popular sports like NFL and college football.
- Reload Bonuses: Similar to welcome bonuses, these reward existing customers for making additional deposits. For example, a 50% reload bonus up to $100 means a $200 deposit would earn $100 in bonus credits. Reload bonuses give Texas bettors added value throughout the football and basketball seasons.
- Risk-Free Bets: With this promotion, if your qualifying bet loses, the sportsbook refunds your stake as bonus credits. A $100 risk-free bet means you’ll get $100 back if the wager doesn’t win.
- Cashback & Insurance Promotions: These offers refund a percentage of a losing bet as bonus credits. For example, parlay insurance refunds your stake if one leg of a multi-leg parlay bet loses. This is popular with Texas bettors who enjoy multi-team NFL and college football wagers.
- Referral Bonuses: Sportsbooks reward players for referring friends. Once your friend signs up and deposits, you earn a bonus in the form of free bets or bonus credits.
- Odds Boosts: Sportsbooks increase the odds on selected events to improve potential payouts. For example, a +150 bet might be boosted to +200. These boosts are especially common for major events like Cowboys games or March Madness matchups.
- Crypto Bonuses: Offshore sportsbooks often offer bigger bonuses for crypto deposits, including Bitcoin and Ethereum. This is ideal for Texas bettors looking for faster transactions and lower fees compared to traditional banking methods.
When claiming a bonus, Texas players should review the terms and conditions. Most offers include rollover requirements, minimum deposits and time limits. By understanding these details, bettors can maximize the value of promotions during football season, March Madness and other major sporting events.
Popular Teams to Bet on in Texas
Texas is a hotbed for sports, boasting a wide variety of teams across various leagues. Whether you’re into football, basketball, baseball or hockey, the Lone Star State has some impressive professional sports teams to bet on. Below is a list of the most popular teams in Texas for online bettors:
- Dallas Cowboys & Houston Texans (NFL): Football is deeply ingrained in Texas culture, and NFL betting is at the heart of it. The Dallas Cowboys, often referred to as “America’s Team,” are one of the most iconic professional sports franchises in the country. With a storied history that includes multiple Super Bowls and a passionate fan base, the Cowboys are always a popular choice for NFL betting fans. Meanwhile, the Houston Texans may be newer to the league, but they’ve established themselves as an exciting team to follow each season, drawing significant betting activity.
- San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets & Dallas Mavericks (NBA): Basketball fans in Texas are spoiled for choice, with three competitive NBA teams to bet on. The San Antonio Spurs have a reputation for consistent performance and multiple NBA championship wins, making them a favorite for basketball bettors. The Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks also deliver thrilling games and exciting betting opportunities, especially during the playoffs and the NBA Championship.
- Houston Astros & Texas Rangers (MLB): When it comes to baseball teams, Texas takes pride in the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers. The Astros have solidified their position as one of MLB’s top teams, especially with their recent playoff runs and World Series appearances, making them a top pick for baseball betting. The Texas Rangers, with their loyal fan base and exciting gameplay, also provide plenty of betting options throughout the MLB season. Whether you’re betting on regular-season matchups or high-stakes playoff games, Texas baseball teams bring the action.
- Dallas Stars (NHL): Hockey might not be the first sport associated with Texas, but the Dallas Stars have carved out a loyal following in the NHL. With exciting gameplay and passionate fans, the Stars offer a unique angle for sports bettors looking to diversify their bets.
- FC Dallas & Houston Dynamo FC (MLS): Soccer is growing in popularity, and Texas represents the sport well with FC Dallas and Houston Dynamo FC. These major league teams bring exciting betting opportunities to fans, with intense matches and rising interest in the sport statewide.
- Texas Longhorns (NCAA): College betting is a big deal in Texas, and the University of Texas Longhorns are one of the most major teams in the state, in terms of both popularity and performance. Known for their powerhouse football program, the Longhorns attract avid bettors during college football season.
- Texas A&M Aggies (NCAA): The Texas A&M Aggies also have a strong presence in the college sports betting scene, particularly in college football betting. Their football team, based in College Station, boasts a dedicated fan base that fuels significant betting activity each season.
- Texas Tech Red Raiders (NCAA): Texas Tech University in Lubbock brings competitive action to both football and basketball. The Red Raiders attract bettors looking for thrilling college sports matchups, especially during March Madness.
Whether you’re betting on professional sports franchises like the Houston Astros or Dallas Cowboys, or diving into college betting with Texas Longhorns or Aggies, Texas has something for every sports fan. From Super Bowls and World Series games to NCAA championships and regular-season thrillers, the state’s top teams leave residents with tons of options for sports betting.
Online Sportsbook Banking Methods in Texas
Online sportsbooks make the basic process of depositing funds quick and convenient by offering a variety of payment methods. Offshore sportsbooks stand out by accommodating both traditional options and modern solutions like virtual currency.
Here are the most common deposit methods:
- Major Credit Cards: Widely accepted options like Visa, MasterCard and American Express provide a simple and fast way to fund accounts.
- Debit Cards & Prepaid Cards: Great for players looking to control spending while enjoying similar convenience to credit cards.
- Online Banking & E-Checks: Secure transfers directly from your bank account, perfect for added flexibility.
- Bank Wires: Ideal for players making larger transactions with an added layer of security.
- Peer-to-Peer Services: Platforms like PayPal allow seamless and familiar payment transfers.
- E-Wallets (Skrill & Neteller): Skrill electronic wallets are a popular choice for fast, private and reliable deposits and withdrawals.
- Cryptocurrencies: Options like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin are favored for their speed, anonymity, and low fees. Virtual currency methods are especially popular with Texas sports fans looking to avoid banking delays and reduce transaction costs.
When choosing the best funding method, consider things like fees and withdrawal times. PayPal and bank wires can come along with fees, while crypto doesn’t. You may need to wait several days or weeks for your money from PayPal, but crypto withdrawals can be completed in minutes.
Conclusion
While legal sports betting in Kentucky is still evolving, the best Kentucky betting sites provide a reliable and exciting way for residents to wager on their favorite teams.
These offshore sportsbooks offer competitive odds, a wide variety of markets, and generous bonuses to help bettors get started. With features like fast payouts, crypto-friendly deposits and live betting options, these trusted platforms give Kentucky sports fans everything they need for a seamless betting experience. Until local options expand, offshore Kentucky betting sites remain the best choice for safe and legal online wagering.
Texas Sports Betting FAQs
Is Bovada legal in Texas?
Yes, Bovada offers legal Texas sports betting. Residents can place all kinds of wagers on everything from major sports teams all over the world to the top local college teams.
Can I sports bet online in Texas?
Yes, but you have to use licensed sportsbooks that operate overseas. DraftKings Sportsbook and other popular sportsbooks based in America are not available, but offshore sites like BetOnline and Bovada are legal to use.
What are the best sports betting apps in Texas?
Our team of experts recommends Bovada and BetOnline as the top two online sports betting apps in Texas. Both platforms features a wide range of sports and bet types, along with other forms of gambling like horse racing and casino games.
Is DraftKings legal in Texas?
DraftKings is only available for daily fantasy sports in the Lone Star state. For real-money Texas sports betting, residents have to turn to offshore sites.
How can I bet on sports in Texas?
To sports bet in Texas, pick your favorite Texas sports betting site, make an account and claim a welcome bonus. Once you fund your account, you can start placing sports wagers on your favorite professional sports teams and events.
Texas Betting Guides
If you’re looking for an online experience that can rival a retail casino, or check out the other forms of gambling available, we recommend checking out one of our other comprehensive guides for Texas:
