Is Sports Betting Legal in Kentucky?
Yes, betting on sports is legal in Kentucky.
Yes, most offshore sportsbooks accept players from Kentucky.
- Last Updated: February 10, 2025
What sports betting apps are legal in Kentucky?
Kentucky 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 Kentucky
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What sports betting apps are legal in Kentucky?
We’ve done the homework for you by carefully reviewing and ranking the 7 best sportsbooks in Kentucky. This means we looked at factors like betting limits, customer service, sportsbook promos and competitive odds. Our expert panel considered everything that matters for a great betting experience to make sure you get the most out of every qualifying wager.
- 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 Kentucky
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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.
Kentucky Sports Betting Updates
Sports betting in Kentucky has had quite the journey, shaped by changing laws and evolving attitudes across the United States. From the first proposals to intense debates during legislative sessions, Kentucky’s journey to joining the ranks of legal sports betting states has been full of twists and turns.
The timeline covers major milestones, including the role of race tracks and the introduction of online and retail betting. Here’s a closer look at how lawmakers turned the idea of legal sports betting in Kentucky into a reality.
Bluegrass State bettors eclipsed $300 million in wagers for the first time in its sports betting history.
Kentucky sports betting saw a 17% handle increase in August despite lower revenues.
In its first year, Kentucky sports betting hit $2.6B in wagers, generating $317M in revenue and $37.2M in taxes.
Kentucky’s sports betting industry faced a downturn in June, with total handle falling to $150.3 million—a 17% drop from May. Circa Sports debuts in Kentucky with a temporary sportsbook at The Mint Gaming Hall, bringing Las Vegas to the Bluegrass State.
Kentucky’s ban on skill game machines upheld by court. Meanwhile, Kentucky’s online sportsbooks brought in almost $625 million in wagers and nearly $67 million in revenue from March to May.
Despite Governor’s reservations, Kentucky forms new gaming agency called the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Commission to supervise sports betting, pari-mutuel wagering and live horse racing.
Charlie Baker, president of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, reveals plans to reach out to regulators in states with legal sports betting to remove college prop bets from all betting markets.
Governor Andy Beshear announces that nearly $250 million has been wagered on sports in Kentucky since the start of legal sports betting.
Kentucky’s online sports betting market officially opens for business, with seven sportsbook apps launching operations. An eighth sportsbook, Circa Sports, is expected to launch soon after.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear reports that the state hauled in $8 million in revenue over the first two months since sports betting launched.
Republican Representative Michael Lee Meredith filed House Bill 551 which aims to legalize and regulate live sports betting and allow users to have online betting accounts. It would also provide the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission with regulatory authority over gaming businesses.
Kentucky regulators work towards the goal of launching sports betting by the NFL season kickoff, with the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission planning a session in early July to review and approve regulations.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear signs a sports betting bill that allows for both retail and online sports betting in the state.
For the third straight year, a bill is proposed. This time, the state house passes it, but it can’t generate enough Republican support to pass the state senate.
House Bill 106, backed by Derrick Graham, Cherlynn Stevenson and Rachel Roberts, is introduced. If approved, this would give way to retail wagering as well as online sports betting and online poker. The bill also proposes regulating fantasy sports, which operate in a grey area.
A bill to legalize sports betting in Kentucky passes through the House Licensing, Occupations and Administrative Regulations Committee.
A group of lawmakers in Kentucky introduce a bill to legalize sports betting in the state.
The U.S. Supreme Court strikes down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), clearing the way for states to legalize sports betting.
Kentucky State Senator Julian M. Carroll introduces a bill that would legalize sports betting in the state, but the bill fails to gain traction.
Kentucky officials seize the domain names of 141 online operators, including some that offered sports betting, in a high-profile case that draws criticism from internet freedom advocates.
Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear launches a legal battle to seize 141 online gambling domain names, including several sports betting websites, claiming that they are “leeching off Kentucky’s signature industry.” The move is widely criticized by the online gambling industry and internet freedom advocates.
The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) is signed into law, which effectively bans online sports betting and other forms of online gambling in the United States. Kentucky’s efforts to seize online gambling domain names in 2008 are seen as a major example of the government’s crackdown on online gambling in the wake of the UIGEA.
Since making sports betting legal in Kentucky in 2023, both online wagers through sportsbook apps and sites plus in-person wagers at retail sports betting locations have grown.
How We Rank the Best Kentucky Betting Sites
Several factors determine which mobile sites make our top 10 list for betting sites in Kentucky. That means that our top-ranked sites need to do several different things well.
When we look at major sportsbooks, we consider both retail sportsbooks and online sportsbooks to ensure you have a variety of options. Each platform’s ability to offer sports betting promos, bonus bets and a reliable rewards program also plays a significant role in their ranking. Here are some of the factors we looked at.
Multiple Betting Markets
The best major sportsbooks should have a mix of sports markets—everything from the biggest pro leagues and college games to smaller international events. On top of that, it’s great to see a variety of bet types, like singles, parlays, props, teasers, pleasers, round robin bets, futures live bets and more.
Diverse Banking Options
When you need your money, online sportsbooks should make it easy to get. The process of depositing and withdrawing funds should be fast and easy, without unnecessary delays or exorbitant fees. There should also be a wide range of deposit methods and withdrawal options like debit cards and wire transfers.
The top sites have simple, secure transactions that don’t take too long to complete. Fees should be kept to a minimum. Sites should offer many different payment options like credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), wire transfers, debit cards and even crypto to fund your account and receive money. Many sites also offer extra perks and bonuses for Bitcoin players.
Offers Live Betting & Streaming
In-play betting requires pages that load fast and bet slips that are easy to fill out and submit. Odds are changing constantly and the game is going on as you’re betting, so delays can make your bet outdated before you place it.
The best sites offer live, in-progress bets on many different sports and many different markets. Many sites also offer live streaming of events—even from popular race tracks—so you can watch as your bets unfold.
Mobile Betting Experience
A mobile sports betting app should be easy to use, loading quickly and allowing you to place a real money wager with minimal hassle. Our 10 best sportsbooks in Kentucky allow you to do everything on your mobile device that you can on the full site. Sports betting apps load quickly, are easy to navigate, are user-friendly and are laid out in a way that makes sense.
They should be easy to read and have shortcuts or menus that allow you to quickly find the bet you want to make and get your money down. With the right sports betting app, placing online wagers takes as few steps as possible, so you can focus on the thrill of the game.
Competitive Betting Odds
Some sportsbooks really stand out when it comes to offering juicier lines. Whether it’s through reduced juice, opinionated lines or odds boosts, these perks can make a big difference. That’s why many sports bettors create accounts with multiple sportsbooks—to shop around and lock in the best possible odds for their bets.
Top Sportsbook Promos & Bonuses
Not all sportsbook promos and sports betting bonuses are created equally. They can differ on how much of your deposit is matched, the level at which the amount is capped, the rollover requirements attached to the money and the areas on the site where the bonus money can be used.
Top-rated online sportsbooks should offer flexibility, allowing you to trade off one feature for another — for example, opting for a lower bonus amount that has fewer rollover requirements. Additionally, we went over non-matching bonuses, such as risk-free bets and free plays.
We also looked at all possible strings that might be attached when trying to withdraw the money. Other factors like minimum deposits, bonus percentages, maximum amounts, wagering requirements, rollovers and expiration dates, also weigh heavily.
Stellar Customer Service
If you have a question, concern or problem, the top online sports betting sites can help you with it any time of day. They should offer 24/7 customer service in multiple languages. The support agents should be professional and capable, and hold times should not be extremely long. There should be several methods of getting help, including live chat, email and telephone.
Excellent Security
Security is non-negotiable for us. If there are any concerns or questions about a site’s security, we drop it from consideration in our rankings. Everyone in our top 10 has a flawless security record and a reputation that has been cultivated over the years, if not decades, for safe, secure online gambling.
How to Sign Up for a Kentucky Betting Site
Getting started on a sports betting site in Kentucky is fast and easy. The entire process takes just a few minutes, from start to finish. Here is a step-by-step guide.
- Open a Sports Betting Account: Once you’ve decided which site you’re going to use, go to the homepage and click the “Join” button. Fill out the registration page with the requested information. You may need to verify by having them send a code to your phone.
- Choose a Payment Method: Next, you need to make your initial deposit and collect your welcome bonus. Go to the Cashier section and choose from multiple deposit options such as debit card, wire transfer, credit card or crypto. Then enter your information and the amount you want to deposit.
- Select a Welcome Bonus: New customers should be able to choose from several welcome bonuses. Many online sports betting sites, like Heritage Sports, offer deposit matches, which is a type of bonus new users can receive when they deposit funds, all or a portion of the amount is matched with bonus money. You also might get additional bonus money for depositing crypto. Lastly, be sure to enter any bonus codes or sports betting promos.
- Choose a Sport to Wager On: Now you can start betting. Pick the sport, game and type of bet you want to make and fill out the betting slip. Once your deposit is confirmed, you’re ready to place your initial wager and get in on the action.
- Place your Bet: The final step is to place your online wagers by submitting the bet slip.
Betting Markets Available for Kentucky Sports Betting
Just about every sports betting site has point spreads, moneyline bets and point totals. You want the best sportsbooks to provide a much wider menu of betting markets, so you should know about the following popular options:
- Game props
- Player props
- Alternate lines
- Same game parlays
- Live betting
- Futures
- Parlays
- Teasers
- Pleasers
- Progressive parlays
- Reverse bets
- If bets
- Round robins
You will also want to look for sportsbooks that offer a wide variety of different sports betting markets. You can expect to find popular American sports such as football, basketball and baseball at any online sportsbook. However, where some sportsbooks truly shine is their selection of more niche sports betting markets, including esports, horse racing, auto racing, rugby, cricket, snooker and many other niche offerings. You will also want to seek out an online sportsbook that offers a nice selection of international sporting events that you can bet on.
Bonuses at Kentucky Sports Betting Sites
Online sportsbooks in Kentucky offer a variety of bonus options to enhance your betting experience. These bonuses generally come in two main forms: sign-up bonuses for new accounts and ongoing promotions for returning customers. In the following sections, we explore some of the most attractive offers available at Kentucky sportsbooks.
Welcome Bonuses
One of the most popular promotions of all is the welcome bonus for new users. This is usually a deposit match up to 100% (or more) of your initial deposit, which is paid out in bonus bets. Of all the bonus offerings at online sportsbooks, this is generally the one that has the highest dollar amount of bonus money.
However, these bonuses also come with a considerable rollover requirement. This requirement is how many times you must bet the bonus money before you can withdraw any of it as real cash. Any time that you want to claim a bonus, make sure that you look at the terms and conditions so you can see if there are any wagering requirements, playthrough requirements or a minimum deposit.
Deposit Match Bonuses
A deposit match bonus is often what you see used as the welcome bonus at a site. You deposit a sum of money and that is then matched at 100% or greater in bonus bets that have a rollover requirement and expiration date.
Online sportsbooks also tend to offer reload promos, which act the same as deposit matches, though they are usually a lower rate (20-to-30%) of your cash back, but they can also be done several times instead of just once for new users.
Some platforms may have different bonus amounts depending on the deposit method. Crypto bonus amounts are typically much more substantial than bonus amounts for traditional payment methods, for example.
No Deposit Bonuses
While rare, one of the most popular bonus offerings is no-deposit bonuses. They are what they sound like: Bonus funds rewarded without having to make a deposit into your account.
You could get a no-deposit bonus as a new user where you are given a certain amount of bonus bets just for signing up. You could also get a no-deposit bonus if you bet a certain amount of money on a select market after opting into a promo.
Promotions for Returning Customers
Registered bettors who consistently engage with a sportsbook can take advantage of a variety of substantial promotions, including:
- Risk-Free Bets: Safeguard your initial wager with a risk-free option, ensuring that if your first bet does not win, you receive a refund or credit.
- Reload Bonuses: Receive additional deposit matches to support your continued betting activities, enhancing your bankroll with each deposit.
- Enhanced Odds: Benefit from improved odds on selected events, increasing your potential returns on successful bets.
- Parlay Boosters: Enjoy increased payouts on parlay bets, maximizing your earnings when combining multiple online wagers.
- Parlay Insurance: Obtain refunds for parlays that lose by a single leg, reducing the risk associated with multi-bet wagers.
- Bad Beat Insurance: Receive compensation for significant losses, providing a safety net during unfavorable betting outcomes.
- Refer-a-Friend Programs: Earn bonuses by introducing new users to the platform, rewarding you for expanding the sportsbook’s community.
- Loyalty Rewards: Accumulate points or perks based on your betting activity, which can be redeemed for various benefits and incentives.
Popular Kentucky-Based Teams for Sports Bettors
Kentucky, known for its rich sports culture, primarily revolves around college sports, as it does not host any major professional sports teams. However, the introduction of sports betting legislation has further fueled interest in wagering on local favorites across college basketball and football teams. If you love college sports betting, you’ll want to know about the Bluegrass State’s favorite teams:
- University of Kentucky Wildcats (NCAAF): The Wildcats’ football team competes in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and has gained prominence with several bowl game appearances. Their improved record and competitive college football seasons have captured the attention of fans statewide, much like their basketball team, which is celebrated nationwide.
- University of Louisville Cardinals (NCAAF): The Cardinals play in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and have a strong football tradition. They’ve produced numerous NFL players and consistently rank among the top teams in the conference. Their basketball team is equally renowned, boasting a rich history of NCAA success.
- Western Kentucky University Hilltoppers (NCAAF): Competing in Conference USA, the Hilltoppers have become a force in college football, regularly appearing in bowl games and showcasing dynamic offenses. The school’s basketball team has also earned recognition, with several NCAA tournament appearances.
- Eastern Kentucky University Colonels (NCAAF): Based in Richmond, the Colonels compete in the Ohio Valley Conference. They have a proud history in college football and maintain a dedicated local fanbase. Their basketball team continues to draw support, especially during conference play.
- Morehead State University Eagles (NCAAB): The Eagles have participated in multiple NCAA tournaments and are known for their spirited play and loyal fans. Their basketball team is a frequent underdog in March Madness, capable of pulling off surprise victories.
In the absence of major professional sports teams, Kentucky sports fans are still found wagering on college sports and professional teams from out of state. Fans aren’t only preoccupied with the NFL, NBA and collegiate sports, they’re also keen on wagering on famous horse races like the Kentucky Derby and the Blue Grass Stakes.
Deposit and Withdrawal from KY Online Sportsbooks
For sports betting fans in Kentucky, knowing the common payment methods used in the broader sports betting industry can make your betting experience smoother. Whether you’re wagering online or exploring local options, here’s an overview of traditional and electronic payment methods that may be available:
- Credit Cards & Debit Cards: Should online betting become available, Visa and MasterCard are likely to be accepted for deposits. These offer convenience but may face restrictions from some financial institutions regarding gambling transactions.
- Prepaid Cards: Casinos often offer their own prepaid cards that can be used for gaming and other amenities offered by the casino. These can be an efficient way to manage gambling expenditures.
- E-Wallets: Popular e-wallets like PayPal, Skrill and Neteller could be options for online sports betting, providing fast and secure transactions without sharing bank details with the betting operator.
- Bank Transfers & ACH Payments: Direct transfers from a bank account to a gaming account offer a secure way to deposit funds, though this would be more relevant for online wagering.
- Check or Money Order: For larger transactions or where electronic methods are not preferred, checks or money orders could be used, especially for withdrawals.
- Cryptocurrency Options: Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum and Litecoin could offer an innovative payment solution, prized for their enhanced privacy, lower transaction fees and faster processing times compared to traditional banking methods, making them an attractive option for both bettors and operators looking to streamline the deposit and withdrawal process.
These payment options give Kentucky sports bettors secure and flexible choices for handling deposits and withdrawals, whether betting online or at retail locations.
Responsible Gambling in Kentucky
In Kentucky, responsible gambling is something everyone takes seriously. Whether you’re betting online through offshore sportsbooks or at retail sports betting locations, regulators work hard to make sure licensed gambling providers always keep your safety in mind.
If you or someone you care about is having a tough time with gambling activities, the Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling (KYCPG) can lend a hand. They’re there to support you and can connect you with helpful groups and counselors who understand what you’re going through.
Conclusion
Looking to place sports bets in Kentucky? Since making sports betting legal in the Bluegrass State, residents can choose to wager online or at retail sports betting locations.
Whether you’re looking to make horse racing bets, wager on your favorite professional sports teams or Kentucky-based college teams, you’re in luck. Offshore sites like BetOnline, Everygame and Heritage Sports offer generous sportsbook promos, competitive odds and hundreds of sports betting markets—perks you just won’t find at retail sportsbooks.
Kentucky Betting Sites FAQs
Can you do online betting in Kentucky?
Yes, as long as you meet the legal betting age of 21. However, many Kentucky bettors favor international sportsbooks. In Kentucky, legal sports betting through offshore sportsbooks offer sharp lines, high betting limits and unique loyalty programs that keep players engaged across a wide range of sports.
What betting apps can I use in Kentucky?
Kentucky residents can choose mobile-optimized international sportsbooks that deliver live betting, extensive sports markets and exclusive betting props. These apps also offer user-friendly interfaces and secure banking methods, including crypto.
Is Bet365 Sportsbook legal in Kentucky?
While Bet365—a popular sportsbook for playing daily fantasy sports—is available, many Kentucky bettors use well-established global sportsbooks. These platforms provide high-limit wagers, customizable betting lines and unique markets like international soccer leagues and niche sports.
Can I use DraftKings Sportsbook in Kentucky?
Yes, DraftKings Sportsbook, a popular platform for playing daily fantasy sports, is available in Kentucky. Many local bettors choose established online sportsbooks, which provide unique perks like early access to odds, high-limit betting and generous exclusive promotions.
Is Bovada legal in Kentucky?
Yes, Bovada operates as an established online sportsbook accessible to Kentucky residents. Bettors appreciate Bovada’s extensive sports markets, live betting options and competitive odds.
Can you bet on NFL games in Kentucky?
Yes, Kentucky residents can bet on NFL games completely legally, online or from their mobile device. They have the choice of local operators or sharper offshore sites.
Kentucky Betting Guides
For gamblers looking for more than just sports betting in Kentucky, we recommend checking out our other in-depth online gambling guides:
Kentucky Betting News
Kentucky Sportsbooks Enjoy a November to Remember
November proved to be a tremendous month for sportsbooks nationwide, and Kentucky was no exception to the rule as Bluegrass State bettors eclipsed $300 million
Kentucky Sportsbooks Have a September to Remember
Mobile sports betting launched on September 28, 2023, and since that time revenues have continued to grow. A year later, the Bluegrass State has accepted
Kentucky Posts Increased Handle in August
Kentucky’s sports betting handle rose 17.2% in August, driven by early college football and NFL action. Despite the boost, revenues dropped due to sharper bettors.
First Year of Legal Sports Betting in Kentucky Outperforms Expectations
There’s no photo finish here. Celebrating a year since sports betting started in Kentucky, Governor Andy Beshear says the revenue is beyond expectations. “The first
