Is Sports Betting Legal in Virginia?
Yes, betting on sports is legal in Virginia.
Yes, most offshore sportsbooks accept players from Virginia.
- Last Updated: February 10, 2025
What sports betting apps are legal in Virginia?
Virginia bettors have access to apps such as FanDuel and DraftKings, as well as trusted offshore sportsbooks such as BetOnline and Bovada which both have 20+ year track records.
Trusted betting sites for players in Virginia
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What sports betting apps are legal in Virginia?
We included more detailed reviews of our top seven sportsbooks, each of which has received a high rating. These sites are located internationally in countries where online gambling is regulated, so they all accept Virginia players:
- Competitive reduced juice odds at -108
- Comprehensive live betting options
- Best reduced juice lines at -105
- Quick and reliable payouts
- Robust live betting platform
Nowadays Bovada is best known for their superior mobile app and large variety of political and entertainment bets. Bovada’s bonuses and aggressive rewards program remains among the best.
- An intuitive, user-friendly mobile interface
- An expansive range of betting markets
- Opinionated Lines
- Broad range of bonus offers
- High betting limits
- Renowned loyalty program
- Variety of promotions
- Excellent customer service department
How to Bet on Sports in Virginia
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1 Pick Your SportsbooksChoose an offshore sportsbook available in you prefer. Register by clicking “Join” and complete the simple form.
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2 Claim a BonusSelect from available promotions and deposit match offers. It’s recommended to use crypto if available since generally speaking welcome bonuses are larger if using crypto.
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3 Deposit FundsFind the cashier, pick your payment method—credit cards, wire transfers, or crypto—and confirm your deposit.
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4 Place a BetPick your sport—NFL, NBA, NHL, or more—and add bets to your slip. Enter your stake, then confirm your wager.
Virginia Sports Betting Updates
Since making sports betting legal in Virginia, the state’s sports betting law has evolved significantly, shifting from a strict anti-gambling stance to embracing sports betting and expanding other gambling options.
This timeline of events highlights key milestones in the development of Virginia’s gambling laws, including granting sports betting licenses to major betting operators. Today, the state features both retail sportsbooks and online sportsbooks like FanDuel Sportsbook and DraftKings Sportsbook, giving residents a variety of popular options. Take a look at how sports betting law has changed in Virginia through the years:
Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell takes on the push for a Tysons Corner casino, facing opposition over security and local concerns.
Virginia’s casinos report $57M in October revenue, a 15% year-over-year rise. Local sportsbooks had another banner month with a sports betting handle that exceeded $700 million in November, the first time that milestone has been breached in the state’s history.
Virginia casinos reached $63M in August 2024, a 6% monthly increase and over 14% year-over-year.
Virginia’s Governor Youngkin aims to legalize skill games while imposing stringent regulations. However, in a 34-6 vote, the state Senate rejected his proposed amendments. Now the bill is headed back to the governor’s desk.
A Virginia House subcommittee rejects a proposal to allow cruise ships to operate their casinos off the coast of Virginia.
The Virginia Senate postpones until 2025 a bill to allow betting on college sports.
Virginians set a new record for monthly handle with players betting nearly $639 million, a 23.1% increase from November 2022
Once they acquired their sports betting licenses from the state, many of the top retail sportsbooks (FanDuel Sportsbook, DraftKings Sportsbook, Caesars Sportsbook, BetMGM Sportsbook, etc.) open live operations in Virginia.
Rivers Casino Portsmouth opens as Virginia’s first full casino, including BetRivers as a retail sportsbook for in-person betting.
Discussions in the Virginia legislature focus on further expanding sports betting to include additional sportsbook operators and potentially new betting options, reflecting the growing trend in the United States towards diverse betting platforms.
In anticipation of the launch of sports betting, Virginia’s regulatory bodies finalize rules and regulations, setting the groundwork for a robust sports betting environment.
Virginia Governor signs a bill legalizing sports betting in the state.
The Supreme Court overturns PASPA. Each state can now choose whether or not to make sports betting legal.
Virginia legislature forms a committee to study the potential impacts of legalizing sports betting.
Virginia legislature approves a bill legalizing sports betting in the state.
Virginia lawmakers begin initial discussions about legalizing sports betting, acknowledging the potential revenue and interest in the state following national trends.
Virginia is the first state in the country to formally legalize daily fantasy sports (DFS), a big move for legitimizing DraftKings and FanDuel as licensed operators.
A proposal to expand gambling options in Virginia, including the potential for sports betting, is introduced but does not advance. This reflects the state’s cautious approach to gambling expansion beyond DFS.
The Virginia State Lottery begins exploring the implications of online lottery sales, setting the stage for future discussions about the legalization process for online gambling, including sports betting.
Despite a nationwide trend towards the legalization of gambling, Virginia remains steadfast in its prohibition of all forms of gambling, except for the state lottery and DFS.
Despite no legal gambling options beyond the state lottery, there is growing interest in sports betting among Virginia residents, with many participating in informal and unregulated betting pools.
Virginia’s gambling landscape remains limited to the state lottery, with no significant movements towards legalizing other forms of gambling, including sports betting.
The state of Virginia maintains a strict anti-gambling stance, with no legal casinos or sports betting options, reflecting the conservative attitudes towards gambling prevalent in the state.
Virginia introduces the state lottery, marking the state’s first legal foray into gambling and signaling potential openness to future gambling expansions.
As Virginia continues to assess the performance and impact of sports wagering on its economy, the state’s history in gambling serves as a guide to its potential future. This includes possible updates to current sports betting laws, regulation of online casino platforms and strategies to maximize sports betting revenue and overall tax revenue from gambling.
We will get into our rating methodology below, but for an online sportsbook to offer a solid user experience, we need a wide variety of betting options, banking options, customer service contact methods and a mobile site that can handle live betting to keep up with the rest of the sports betting industry. Here’s a list of the criteria we use to rate online sports betting sites:
Competitive Betting Odds
Smart sports bettors know it pays to have accounts with multiple sportsbooks because odds can vary from site to site. Shopping around for the best betting odds are like comparing prices at your favorite stores—you want the best value for your money.
Some online sports betting sites even offer reduced juice, meaning you might see -105 or -108 lines instead of the standard -110. This can add up to big savings over time, so it’s always worth checking a few sites before placing your bets.
Variety of Betting Markets
The top sportsbooks do a good job of being competitive about this, but you want to see as many sports and leagues as possible. Some people just love popular ones like the NFL and NBA, but we want to see some respect for cricket and snooker, too.
Beyond the major sports leagues, we need to see a wide range of betting options, including straight bets, spreads, totals, parlays, same-game parlays, multi-sport parlays, props (game/team/player), round robins, teasers, pleasers and the aforementioned live betting markets.
Banking Methods
When time’s running out and you need to place a bet before the game starts, depositing money quickly becomes a top priority. That’s why we look for sportsbooks with a wide range of banking options for both deposits and withdrawals.
Not everyone wants to rely on standard methods like credit cards, bank transfers or prepaid cards. We prefer sites that also support eWallets and crypto, giving you more flexibility than what most land-based casinos offer.
Great Sportsbook Promo Codes & Bonuses
Who doesn’t love sports betting promos? It’s always great to grab a welcome bonus when you sign up and make your first deposit—sometimes entering a sportsbook promo code gets you even more rewards. We also like seeing ongoing deals for returning players, such as risk-free bets and odds boosts on popular games. Those extra perks can really add value to your betting experience.
Live Betting Options
Live betting is non-negotiable—it’s a must on our list of essential features for any top-tier sportsbook. Most bets are placed with a mobile device, so it is only natural that live betting would take on greater importance in this digital age. People want to watch the game and bet on the go, so a good live betting section is critical now.
We also like to see more than just the moneyline, spread and total offered as live betting markets, especially for the popular leagues like NFL and NBA, where there are always so many good prop wagers.
Mobile Site Quality
When it comes to placing bets, live mobile betting and easy banking options are key. Whether you’re betting on fantasy sports or making a last-minute pick, having a mobile site that’s fast, easy to use and free of any annoyances makes all the difference. You don’t want to experience any lag if you’re making a deposit on your phone or trying to lock in a bet before the game starts. A smooth, reliable platform means you’ll never miss out on a great betting opportunity.
Customer Service Options
Stuff happens—maybe there’s a last-minute player injury, a stat correction after the game, or even a mix-up about a player’s active status. When things like that come up, you need a reliable customer service team that’s ready to help and will help you get back on track. We look for sportsbooks that offer 24/7 availability and multiple ways to get in touch, like live chat, email, phone support and messaging options.
Security Features of the Online Sportsbook
Any online sports betting app or mobile site needs to be using strong security features to ensure your data is safe and your connection is secure. This is why we only recommend trustworthy online sportsbooks with a great reputation and a longstanding history in the online sports betting industry. We feel safest sharing our personal data with such sites.
Popular Virginia Betting Options
Virginia sportsbooks provide an exciting mix of betting options that cater to all types of players. Here’s what you can expect:
- Futures: Predict the winners of championships, MVP races or other long-term outcomes.
- Parlay Bets: Combine multiple bets into one for a chance at a bigger payout, with all selections needing to win.
- Player Props: Focus on specific player stats, such as how many points, touchdowns or rebounds they’ll achieve.
- Totals (Over/Under): Bet on whether the combined score of both teams will go over or under a set number.
- Same Game Parlays: Combine bets from a single game into one wager, like wagering on a winner, total points and player props all at once.
- Moneylines: Pick the outright winner of a game, regardless of the score difference.
- Game Props: Wager on specific game events, such as the first team to score or total turnovers.
- Live Betting: Bet on games in real-time as the action unfolds, with odds that change dynamically.
- Point Spreads: Place bets on the margin of victory or defeat, leveling the playing field between favorites and underdogs.
Virginia bettors have no shortage of options, whether you prefer simple wagers or want to get creative with combinations. The variety ensures every game can be as exciting as you make it.
The Best Virginia Sports Betting Bonuses
Since making sports betting legal online, there are tons of sportsbook promos and bonuses. Some sports betting bonuses may require a bonus code and some may only ask you to opt in first. Also remember that things like playthrough requirements and wagering requirements vary from sportsbook to sportsbook. In the following sections, we look at the most common bonuses a user can expect to see.
Welcome Bonuses
Welcome bonuses, also called sign-up bonuses, are usually the biggest offers you’ll get when joining a sportsbook. These work by matching your first deposit, often up to 100% or more, depending on the site.
Keep in mind, these bonus funds come with a rollover requirement, meaning you’ll need to place a qualifying wager, including the bonus amount a certain number of times before you can cash out. If you’re looking for the best way to start strong, a welcome bonus is the way to go.
Deposit Match Bonus
A deposit match bonus is a common type of promotion where the sportsbook matches a percentage of your deposit with bonus funds. For example, welcome bonuses often match 100% or more of your first deposit, while returning customers might see smaller matches, such as 30% or 50%. To get the full bonus, you’ll need to make sure to meet any minimum deposit requirements.
Keep in mind, these bonus funds typically come with an expiration date, so be sure to use them before they expire.
No-Deposit Bonuses
Online gambling sites will sometimes offer a no-deposit bonus, which is arguably among one of the best sports betting bonuses you can find. This could be done by placing a bet of a certain amount of money, then you will receive a bonus bet in your account once your bet settles. Always review the playthrough requirements for no-deposit bonuses.
Free Bets & Bet Insurance
Sportsbooks often have risk-free bets, which can be played on singles or a same-game parlay depending on the site. Basically, you place the bet and if your bet loses, you get bonus bets or second-chance bets in your account equal to a certain amount (usually your wager up to a limit). Those bonus bet credits must be used on the sportsbook and cannot be withdrawn for cash.
Odds Boosts
Many online sportsbooks will offer odds boosts each day or multiple days a week on select markets. For example, instead of getting -200 odds on two NBA superstars scoring 20 points that night, you might get an odds boost for them to do that with +100 odds.
Keep in mind odds boosts are almost always ineligible for parlays, they can only be bet on once and there is usually a strict limit to how much you can bet on one like $25 or $50.
VIP & Loyalty Programs
Most online gambling sites offer some sort of VIP or loyalty program. Basically, the more you bet, the more points you accumulate in this program, which can then be redeemed for perks like bonus bets, bonus credits or profit boosts. This is a good thing to join for a site that you plan on frequently wagering at. Loyalty programs regularly offer sportsbook promos specifically to people that bet regularly.
Virginia's Favorite Teams to Bet on
Virginia might not have any major league professional sports teams of its own, but its sports culture is alive and well. College sports teams draw passionate fans, and plenty of people cheer for nearby pro teams in Washington, D.C., and beyond. This gives sports bettors plenty of exciting options to explore when placing wagers.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular professional and college teams in Virginia:
- Washington Commanders (NFL): As the closest NFL team geographically, the Washington Commanders garners significant support from Virginians. Betting on the Commanders often revolves around analyzing their divisional games within the NFC East, which are notoriously competitive and unpredictable. They won the Super Bowl in 1982, 1987 and 1991.
- Washington Wizards (NBA): The Washington Wizards are a professional basketball team based in Washington, D.C., competing in the NBA’s Eastern Conference. Originally established as the Chicago Packers in 1961, the team eventually adopted the Wizards name in 1997.
- Virginia Tech Hokies (NCAA Football & Basketball): A powerhouse in college sports, Virginia Tech competes fiercely in both football and basketball within the ACC. Bettors should note this college sports team’s strong home-field advantage in football at Lane Stadium and the competitive nature of ACC basketball.
- University of Virginia Cavaliers (NCAA Basketball): The Cavaliers have become a dominant force in college basketball, known for their stifling defense. Bettors focusing on UVA games should consider under bets on total points and closely watch ACC tournament play, where the Cavaliers often excel.
- Virginia Commonwealth University Rams (NCAA Basketball): The VCU Rams have made a name for themselves during March Madness with consistent appearances in the NCAA Tournament. Their up-tempo style and aggressive defense make them unpredictable, especially in underdog and over/under scenarios.
- Washington Nationals (MLB): The Nationals, based in the nation’s capital, are a favorite among Virginia’s MLB fans. For sports betting enthusiasts, the key is to monitor the pitching rotation and the team’s performance against division rivals in the NL East. The Nationals have shown they can compete at the highest levels, making them a potentially lucrative team for futures bets.
- Washington Capitals (NHL): The Capitals have a strong following in Virginia, especially after their recent Stanley Cup victory. NHL bettors should consider the Capitals’ strong offensive play and consistency during the regular season when placing wagers, particularly in head-to-head matchups and over/under on goals scored.
Whether it’s the strategic depth of college basketball, the physicality of NFL games, college football games or the unpredictability of NHL matchups, Virginia’s sports teams provide a wide range of options for online sports bettors.
Online Sports Betting Banking Methods in Virginia
You should find a wide selection of sportsbook banking options at the best Virginia sportsbooks. The top operators accept:
- Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
- Debit or Prepaid Card
- Check (via online banking)
- Bank Wire Transfers
- P2P Payment Services like PayPal
- Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum or Litecoin
Virginia sports bettors benefit from a variety of secure and efficient banking methods, making transactions hassle-free. It’s best to select the option that best fits your financial preferences. This wide range of options can be especially great if you’re interested in mobile sports betting.
Conclusion
You can place bets legally in Virginia through online sportsbooks and through in-person retail sportsbooks. However, the best sportsbooks — such as BetOnline, BetAnySports and Everygame — are located internationally.
Not only do these online sportsbooks offer quick sign-ups and high limits, but they also offer competitive odds and bonuses that you won’t find at retail sportsbooks.
Virginia Betting Sites FAQs
Can you bet online in Virginia?
Yes, online sports betting is available in Virginia. For those looking for a wide range of options and flexible payment methods, trusted international sportsbooks offer a variety of markets, better odds and convenient crypto deposits.
How many online sportsbooks are there in Virginia?
Virginia hosts several online sportsbooks. But seasoned bettors often choose established offshore sites, which feature high betting limits, fast payouts and a wide selection of niche sports markets that go beyond what’s locally available.
Is Bovada legal in Virginia?
Yes, Bovada is a respected international sportsbook accessible to Virginia players. Known for its extensive sports coverage, strong odds and easy payouts, Bovada provides Virginia bettors with a trusted platform that delivers the options and reliability they want.
Is BetMGM Sportsbook legal in Virginia?
Yes, BetMGM operates legally in Virginia, covering popular sports. Bettors looking for more variety, early lines and higher limits often turn to reputable global sportsbooks, which provide added flexibility and options beyond what state-regulated apps offer.
Can I use DraftKings Sportsbook in Virginia?
Yes, DraftKings Sportsbook, a popular platform for playing daily fantasy sports, is available in Virginia. For those interested in higher payout limits, reduced juice lines and unique betting markets, international sportsbooks are a go-to choice for Virginia bettors who want more than the basics.
Virginia Betting Guides
For bettors who are looking for more ways to gamble in Virginia, we recommend checking out one of our other comprehensive guides:
Virginia Betting News
Virginia’s Proposed Gaming Authority Stalls Again
A pair of lawmakers have reintroduced legislation to establish a regulatory agency to oversee Virginia’s burgeoning gaming industry, but their efforts have been stymied yet
Virginia Sets Back-to-Back Sports Betting Records
Virginia’s sportsbooks had another banner month with a sports betting handle that exceeded $700 million in November, the first time that milestone has been breached
Betfred Announces Exits From Virginia and Arizona
Betfred has recently announced that it will shutter operations in Virginia and Arizona with many industry insiders speculating it is only a matter of time
Virginia Casino Revenue Jumps 6.27% in August
Virginia’s casino industry hit new heights in August 2024, with revenue climbing over $63M. Rivers Casino Portsmouth led the way, with Caesars Virginia and HR
