DC Sports Betting: Best DC Sportsbooks April, 2024

DC legalized online sports betting in May 2020 but has faced difficulty after granting Intralot a near-monopoly to offer GambetDC. However, the tide is quickly turning in DC with recent developments for online betting and new options arriving in town. On this page, we’ve covered everything related to DC sports betting, including the latest bonuses where you can place bets in the capital.

How We Rated the Top DC Sports Betting Sites

Our rating approach is grounded in a single principle: We actively register and engage with every sportsbook that we assess. We don’t rely on secondhand information but relay our personal and authentic experience to you.

Before writing each review, we ask our experts to dedicate a minimum of two hours to investigate each of these six key areas:

1. User Experience: We take our time to explore each site, gaining deep insight into its user experience. How straightforward is it to place a bet? Is the platform organized and intuitive? How appealing is the visual design? We evaluate the performance across devices, both on desktop and mobile.

2. Features: We thoroughly explore and engage with all the features and markets available on the platform. We look for unique features like DFS, live betting and streaming, picking services, and early cash-out. Novel and unique features are a plus. 

3. Promotions: We opt-into all available promotions to assess their value, asking ourselves if they’re worth our time. We make sure to go over the terms and conditions in depth. We pay particular attention to the welcome bonus, how we can claim it and how valuable it is.

4. Deposits and Withdrawals: We go through the deposit and withdrawal process for each payment method from start to finish. We assess the processing time, limits, and fees. How easy is it to make deposits? How fast are withdrawals?

5. Customer Support: We take the time and effort to reach out to customer support through emails, live chat, or phone. We ask them pre-selected questions we have for our reviews to assess how helpful and informative they are and how they compare to the support at other sportsbooks. We also check out the FAQ section or virtual help desk. 

6. Responsible Gambling: We look at the measures that the sportsbook takes to promote responsible gambling, such as links to external support services, informative resources, and specific tools like time-out, deposit/wager limits, and self-exclusion options.

After our reviews are published, our post-publication editors dedicate 5 hours per month to updating them according to the latest changes.

Why You Should Trust Us

At WSN, we aim to serve as your go-to source for all you need to know about sports betting. We offer opinions and advice based on our direct experience by personally engaging with each sportsbook. Whether sharing praise or noting an area that needs improvement, we want to ensure you know exactly what to expect.

Our team has grown and developed alongside the betting industry, so we know what makes a sportsbook stand out. We are not just writers but bettors and sports fans ourselves, so we have a genuine passion for our content. Ultimately, we provide our readers with transparent and authentic advice so that they can make informed betting decisions.

Closer Look at the Best Online Sportsbooks in DC

1. BetMGM

Best for: Promotions

BetMGM is our top sportsbook for betting in DC, even though it is not available everywhere in the nation’s capital. If you’re looking for the best online betting experience in DC, we recommend visiting National Parks to place bets on BetMGM.

Registration for BetMGM can be done from anywhere in DC. However, you must be within a two-block radius of Nationals Park to make wagers on the platform.

BetMGM has an unbeatable selection of sports and betting markets, whether popular or niche. Deposits and withdrawals are a breeze, with 13 payment options to cater to your preference. If you run into any problems, the support team is very helpful and can be contacted through email, live chat, or social media.

In addition to a great welcome bonus, you can enjoy a variety of other offers that are updated according to different seasons and events. There are plenty of parlay and odds boosts, prizes, getaways, and a referral bonus. Moreover, MGM Rewards integrates the broader MGM brand to offer fantastic prizes for members, including benefits at in-person resorts around the US.

Take a look at our in-depth BetMGM review for more information.

• WSN rating: 4.4/5

• Sign up offer: Get Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets!

• App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)

Pros

• Highly-rated app

• Excellent live betting & streaming

• MGM Rewards is very good

Cons

• No detailed betting history stats

• Withdrawals could be faster

2. Caesars

Best for: Loyalty scheme

Caesars is a brand synonymous with betting worldwide, so it is no surprise that it has a first-class sportsbook. If you want a trusted sportsbook that offers premium rewards, consider Caesars Sportsbook.

New users can sign up for the sportsbook anywhere in DC. However, to place bets, you must be within two miles of Capital One Arena.

Bettors at Caesars Sportsbook can earn points for Caesars Rewards, which follows a similar structure to MGM Rewards. It’s my favorite part of this sportsbook with top perks, including dining vouchers, event tickets, and hotel stays at Caesar venues. After signing up, you’ll receive 1,000 Tier and Reward Credits for this scheme. You’ll also be eligible for the Caesars Sportsbook welcome offer.

While exploring the platform, I was impressed with how well-designed and user-friendly it was. From signing up to placing bets to making payouts, it was a seamless experience. Whether you’re a newcomer or an experienced bettor, Caesars Sportsbook delivers an exceptional experience.

Explore our Caesars Sportsbook review to learn more.

• WSN rating: 4.3/5

• Sign up offer: $1,000 First Bet on Caesars

• App rating: 4.7/5 (iOS); 4.3/5 (Android)

Pros

• Renowned brand

• User-friendly platform

• Complimentary loyalty points

Cons

• Not many ongoing promotions

• Limited live streaming

3. GambetDC

Best for: Betting across DC

GambetDC is the sole online sportsbook available everywhere in DC, operated by Intralot and the DC lottery. If you want to place bets outside of Nationals Park and Capital One Arena, that's the only option.

Starting with the positives, GambetDC is easy to use and has a clean interface. There is a good selection of betting options, and the live betting is decent. However, it has not been well-received in DC, with many issues, including technical glitches and subpar odds. There is currently no welcome bonus.

Since the platform has been heavily criticized in the district, with many users dissatisfied with their experience, the DC Lottery has faced pressure to change the betting landscape. It has already been announced that FanDuel will replace GambetDC and become the district’s sole sports betting operator, likely in 2024.

• App rating: 3.4/5 (iOS); 3.3/5 (Android)

• Sign up offer: No offers at this moment

Full List of Legal Sportsbooks in DC

The full list of all three sportsbooks available in DC:

• BetMGM

• Caesars

• GambetDC

DC Online Sports Betting Sites

DC Retail Sportsbooks

Is Sports Betting Legal in DC?

Sports betting was legalized in DC after the Sport Wagering Lottery Amendment Act of 2018 was enacted in May 2019. There are currently five retail sportsbooks in the district.  

In May 2020, online sports betting arrived in DC with the launch of GambetDC. The DC Lottery entered a five-year contract with Intralot for GambetDC to be the sole operator across the district. GambetDC failed to achieve its goal of outperforming an open-market approach in total betting revenue. 

Caesars Sportsbook and BetMGM, while only accessible within a two-mile radius of their retail locations, gained greater popularity among DC bettors. Intalot’s contract with the DC Lottery expired in July 2023, and it has been announced that FanDuel will take over from GambetDC, likely some time in 2024. 

FanDuel is one of the leading US sportsbooks, so DC bettors are in for a treat.

How to Start Betting in DC

Beginning betting at a sportsbook is pretty simple, but the standard process has a few key steps. Below, we’ve provided a simple guide to the steps you’ll take in your betting journey.

1. Choose a licensed sportsbook. First, choose a regulated and officially licensed sportsbook in DC. There are many unlicensed sportsbooks out there, and you are not guaranteed the protection of your financial and personal information.

2. Register your account. Before using a platform, you must create an account by providing personal details like your name, email, date of birth, and address. 

3. Verify your identity. Most sportsbooks require you to confirm your identity by presenting documentation like your passport, driver’s license, or proof of address.

4. Claim your welcome bonus. Next, you can look into claiming your welcome offer. This might require a promo code or an opt-in. Remember to review the terms and conditions carefully before proceeding.

5. Deposit into your account. Find the platform’s cashier section to deposit funds so that you can place your first bet. Certain welcome bonuses need a minimum deposit or bet.

6. Place your first bet. Explore the sportsbook’s markets to choose your first wager. Then, select the type of bet you want, add it to your betting slip, and finalize your bet.

7. Withdraw your winnings. Finally, if your bet is successful, you can cash out your earnings. Be aware that withdrawal processing times, limits, and potential fees can differ from one platform to another.

DC Sportsbook Promos and Special Offers

Sportsbooks offer many different promotions, creating a rewarding betting experience for users. Welcome bonuses are the most attractive offer as they attract new bettors and introduce them to the platform.

Finding the best sportsbook promo can be tricky, so here are a few common welcome bonus types used by sportsbooks:

Bonus Bets

Bonus bets are essentially betting credits that can be used to place bets. They are given out with most promotions. It’s a standard rule that only the profits from a winning bonus bet, excluding the original stake, are yours to keep.

Sportsbooks often give out bonus bets after registering, depositing, and placing a qualifying first wager. It’s a great way to sign up and test out a site without risking a lot of money up front. 

Second Chance Bets

For this bonus, you are awarded a safety net on your first bet. If your initial wager doesn’t work out, the sportsbook will reimburse your stake in bonus bets. Although the bonus does hinge on your first bet losing, it’s a win-win situation, as you’ll either receive the bonus bets or have a winning initial bet. 

This type of bonus is ideal for anyone who plans to make a large bet as soon as they sign up, since the upper limit can be quite high. 

Deposit Match Bonuses

Here, the sportsbook will match a portion or all of your initial deposit up to a certain maximum, with the extra part coming in site credit or bonus bets. Therefore, the larger your initial deposit, the bigger your bonus. This bonus suits those who intend to make a large deposit from the start, as you get more bang for your buck.

No-Deposit Bonuses

This is any kind of bonus where you don’t need to make a deposit or bet, making it a highly sought-after offer perfect for casual bettors and brand new customers. It is pretty rare to find, and there might be additional requirements, such as eventually making a real money deposit before you can withdraw any of your winnings. No-deposit bonuses are generally of less value, ranging from $10 to $20.

While rare with sportsbooks and pretty limited, it's a completely different story when it comes to sweep casinos. Sweeps casinos are famous for their no-deposit bonuses. Find the best sweepstakes no-deposit casinos and see for yourself.

What Mobile Sportsbooks Are Available in DC?

Mobile sportsbooks have transformed how we experience online betting, introducing a new level of convenience and accessibility, especially through apps. Bettors can now place wagers from their hands whenever they want. When FanDuel replaces GambetDC, bettors in DC will have access to one of the best sports betting apps in the industry.

Here are the available sportsbook apps in DC right now:

1. BetMGM - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)

2. Caesars Sportsbook - 4.7/5 (iOS); 4.3/5 (Android)

3. GambetDC - 3.4/5 (iOS); 3.3/5 (Android)

What Betting Markets Are Available in DC?

Sportsbooks have many different betting markets, so it is essential to understand the various types of bets. We’ve listed the most popular kinds of wagers and explained them in simple terms below.

Moneyline

Placing a moneyline bet involves choosing the winner of a game or event, essentially focusing on the outcome. Sportsbooks assign odds to each side, showing their chances of winning. Positive odds represent the underdog, whereas negative odds are given to the favorite. Here’s an example:

• WAS Wizards (+550)

• CHI Bulls (-800)

Using a $100 scale as your guide is helpful to get the hang of moneyline odds. Here, the Bulls are massive favorites, so you’d have to wager $800 to win $100, for a total payout of $900. For the Wizards, you’d have to make a wager of $100 to win $550, bringing your payout to $650. If it's still a bit confusing, we have a full guide on moneyline odds.

Point Spreads

In point spread betting, you’re not just picking who wins, but also the margin of victory. This kind of betting evens the playing field between teams of differing strengths. The favorite has to win by the spread set by the sportsbook, while the other team has to win the game or lose by fewer points than the spread. Take a look at this example:

• WAS Wizards +12.5 (-112)

• CHI Bulls -12.5 (-108)

Here, to win a bet on the Bulls, they would have to win by 13 points or more to win a bet on the Bulls. The Wizards would have to either win or avoid losing by 13 points. Typically, odds for betting on the spread are around -110 for both sides. See our points spread betting guide for more info.

Totals

Here, you’re predicting the combined final score of the match. It’s also known as an Over/Under bet, as you wager on whether the total points will be above or below a number set by the sportsbook. The game's outcome doesn’t impact this bet. It’s all about the total points. It can look like this:

WAS Wizards vs. CHI Bulls:

• Over 225.5 (-110)

• Under 225.5 (-110)

Check out our over under betting guide for more tips and tricks.

Futures

Futures betting consists of wagering on the outcome of a future event well in advance. This type of bet is particularly popular for predicting the winners of major championships like the Super Bowl or the Stanley Cup. 

For instance, if you think that the Washington Commanders will win the Super Bowl, you can place a future bet before the season has even started. Many bettors prefer to lock in their predictions early. However, future betting remains available throughout the year, even during mid-season or the playoffs. Some legendary bets were made long before the competition even started. You can find more info about those bets and more in our futures betting guide.

Prop Bets

Prop bets focus on specific in-game events, mainly player or team performances and stats. It’s a more detailed and varied form of betting that doesn’t concentrate on the game’s result. Common prop bets include total passing yards for a quarterback in a football game, total assists for a player in a basketball game, or total saves by a goaltender in a hockey match. There are even some wacky novelty bets played on major events, like the Gatorade color prop bet. Learn how to place prop bets by reading our prop bet guide.

Parlays

A parlay combines several picks into one wager, requiring each selection to be successful for the bet to win. For example, you can place a parlay by selecting moneyline bets for the Washington Commanders, the Washington Capitals, and the Washington Nationals. All of these teams must win for your parlay to be successful. Teaser bets let you adjust point spreads or totals in a parlay for a lower payout. Parlays can be quite tricky but they won't be after you check out our parlay betting guide.

Live Betting

Live betting allows you to place wagers while the game is ongoing, as the odds change according to the unfolding action. Bettors can modify their bets based on real-time game developments, player performances, and other relevant factors. Most sportsbooks have information and stats in their live betting sections, while some offer live streaming. It's prudent to fully understand live betting before you start investing money. Check out our live betting guide and get ready for your first live betting match.

What Can’t You Bet On in DC?

Betting in DC is subject to a few restrictions:

• Placing bets on any political events is off-limits.

• You cannot wager on entertainment or awards ceremonies.

• There is no esports betting in the district.

Betting on College Sports in DC

Betting on college sports is only available for out-of-state games. So, you can place college sports wagers in DC, but they can’t take place in the district.

The list of NCAA Division 1 College Programs:

• American Eagles

• George Washington Revolutionaries

• Georgetown Hoyas

• Howard Bison and Lady Bison

Washington, DC Sports Betting Facts

How Does DC Online Sports Betting Compare to Other States?

DC has produced a total betting revenue of $697 million since it legalized sports betting in May 2020. For context, it has a population of around 700,000. When compared to the other states, the revenue is on the lower side. In addition to the relatively small population size, a big reason behind this is Caesars and BetMGM being restricted to their retail locations and GambetDC’s lack of popularity. 

Since DC’s betting landscape is unique, comparing the district to states that have legalized betting is difficult. Arkansas has a similar total revenue of $794 million and only three sportsbooks that aren’t top operators. However, Arkansas only legalized betting in March 2022 and also has a population of 3 million. 

DC has a low flat tax rate of 10% on sports betting revenue. States like New York and New Hampshire have the highest rates, at 51%, across the US, while Nevada's rate can be as low as 6.75%.

DC Sports Betting Updates

After PASPA was struck down, DC didn’t take long to push through the legalization of sports betting. However, it has been a difficult journey for betting in DC, since the district agreed to create a near-monopoly with Gambet.

Here’s a timeline of key events:

• March 11, 2024 - The transition of DC’s mobile sports betting operations to FanDuel from GambetDC is confirmed.

• Dec. 29, 2022 - The Over Under Sportsbook Rooftop Lounge is opened.

• Dec. 27, 2022 - The Cloakroom is given a DC sports betting license.

• Oct. 24, 2022 - Council Member Elissa Silverman proposes allowing independent mobile sportsbooks to operate.

• July 13, 2022 - The DC Council convenes to deliberate on the poor performance of GambetDC, considering terminating their contract with Intralot.

• July 8, 2022 - FanDuel’s sportsbook at Audi Field opens, marking the first MLS stadium to have a sportsbook.

• July 6, 2022 - FanDuel announces its first retail sportsbook at Audi Field.

• Jan. 31, 2022 - The BetMGM retail sportsbook at Nationals Parks begins operations.

• Aug. 2, 2021 - William Hill undergoes rebranding to Caesars Sportsbook.

• June 10, 2021 - A partnership between BetMGM and the Washington Nationals is announced. 

Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in DC?

DFS is legal in DC, as it hasn’t been forbidden in any betting regulations. DraftKings and FanDuel have excellent DFS platforms that can be accessed in the district.

Sports Teams in DC

DC has a thriving sports culture, making it a sports betting hub. The nation’s capital is home to teams from each major league, perfect for sports enthusiasts and bettors.

• The Washington Commanders - One of the oldest football teams, the Commanders have a rich and storied history in the NHL. They have won a few Super Bowls, winning in 1982, 1987, and 1991.

• The Washington Capitals - The Capitals have been part of the NHL since 1974. They achieved their first Stanley Cup success in 2018. As such, they’ve had a particularly strong following in recent years.

• The Washington Nationals - The Nationals brought baseball to DC in 2005 and became a beloved team after winning their first World Series in 2019.

• The Washington Wizards - The Wizards have been rebranded a few times, moving from state to state. In 1997, they settled in DC with the name the Washington Wizards. Although they haven’t seen recent success, they won the NBA Championship in 1978 when they were known as the Bullets.

DC Sportsbook Partnerships

DC’s professional teams have teamed up with sportsbooks:

• In January 2023, Fanatics partnered with the Washington Commanders to open a sportsbook at the FedEx Field.

• In September 2021, the Washington Capitals announced a multi-year partnership with Caesars Sportsbook.

• In June 2021, BetMGM became the exclusive sports betting partner with the Washington National. The following January, they opened the first retail sportsbook connected to the MLB at Nationals Park.

Getting Help: Responsible Gambling in DC

For those struggling with problem gambling, there are resources available in DC that can help. 

• The National Council of Problem Gambling has their headquarters in DC. The organization provides support across the US through their live chat, phone number (1-800-GAMBLER), and text message (800GAM). 

• Gamblers Anonymous is another nationwide organization which offers support to gamblers, including in-person meetings. 

DC sportsbooks also have specific tools to help manage activity:

• Deposit/wager limits: You can restrict the amount you want to deposit or bet.

• Time alerts: You are notified of your time on a platform.

• Time-outs/self-exclusion: You can take a temporary or indefinite break from the sportsbook.