DC Sports Betting: Best DC Sportsbooks October, 2024

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.

💰 Sign up offer: Get Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets
🤩 Promo Code: WSNSPORTS

BetMGM Sportsbook DC Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.4/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.8/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 3.6/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 1.2/5

Claim Your BetMGM Sportsbook Bonus

2. FanDuel DC

On April 15, 2024 FanDuel replaced GambetDC as the lone citywide sports betting provider, promising a minimum of $5 million in tax revenue. Since FanDuel is the biggest US sportsbook, this isn't as far-fetched as it might seem. Especially considering that FanDuel now has an edge over other sportsbooks in DC, which are limited to allowing mobile sports betting only near their retail locations.

With the DC council considering opening the market to other sportsbook operators, it remains to be seen if FanDuel will maintain its market dominance or if it will face more competition.

Regardless of how FanDuel continues to operate, you can't go wrong with choosing it as your DC sports betting partner. It has one of the best sports betting mobile apps, holds 43% of US market share, and offers bonuses that justify the trust of sports betting fans across the USA.

FanDuel’s welcome bonus is also sth to consider - up to $200 in Bonus Bets in exchange for a first bet of just $5, whether your bet wins or loses. It’s a great offer that is genuinely valuable for both beginners, low-stakes players, and higher rollers.

» Check out our in-depth FanDuel review for more information.

💰Sign-up offer: Bet $5, Get $300 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins

FanDuel DC Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.8/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.8/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 4.7/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 1.3/5

3. Caesars Sportsbook

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.

💰 Sign up offer: $1,000 First Bet on Caesars OR $250 in Bonus Bets
🤩 Promo Code: WSN1000

Caesars Sportsbook DC Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.3/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.6/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 4.3/5
⭐ Trustpilot: N/A

Claim Your Caesars Sportsbook DC bonus.

Full List of Legal Sportsbooks in DC

The full list of all three sportsbooks available in DC:

• BetMGM

• Caesars

• FanDuel

• DraftKings

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.

On April 15, 2024, GambetDC was replaced with FanDuel which, at the moment, operates as a single city wide available online sportsbook.

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.

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. With FanDuel replacing GambetDC, bettors in DC now have access to one of the best sports betting apps in the industry.

Here are the available sportsbook apps in DC right now:

1. FanDuel - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.7/5 (Android)

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

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

The DC Lottery acted as both the regulator for the industry and the only provider permitted to offer online sports betting citywide. That changed in 2024 when FanDuel took over from GambetDC as the only sports betting app available throughout the district, and again when sports betting expanded with a new budget in July 2024.

So now there is a three-class system in place in DC -

• Class A - four major sports venues eligible to host sports betting on their premises and partner with qualified companies to offer branded apps. Class A license holders will pay 20% of their gaming revenue in tax to the city

• Class B - bars, restaurants, and taverns throughout the district. This license has a lower fee but also restricts online sports betting services to the premises of the establishment.

• Class C - permits sports teams in the district to partner with online sports betting providers and offer betting across the city.

What is maybe most relevant under the new DC regulations is the following - each online sportsbook applying for a license will have to meet these conditions:

• Prove that the sports betting site has been subcontracted by a DC-area team.

• Prove that the company is licensed and operating a sportsbook in at least five US jurisdictions.

• Pay 30% of the company’s gross gaming revenue to the city.

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

• Pay a $1 million renewal fee once the license expires following the first term.

DC Sports Betting Updates

Here’s a timeline of key events in DC’s legal sports betting journey -

• Sept. 10, 2024 - Caesars Sportsbook lands a retail deal in Washington, D.C., adding numerous self-service kiosks.

• Aug. 6, 2024 - FanDuel generated 78% of DC's sports betting handle in June, as the sportsbook brought in $23.2 million in wagers in the state.

• July 26, 2024 - DraftKings Sportsbook is officially live in DC, offering new users a 'bet $5, get $200' welcome promotion.

• July 17, 2024 - DC sports betting has multiple online sportsbooks for the first time, with BetMGM and Caesars taking mobile bets, eliminating the need for local bettors to be within a two-block radius of its retail sportsbook.

• July 16, 2024 - FanDuel goes dark as D.C.'s sports betting market prepares for expansion.

• June 26, 2024 - New market realities emerge with an expanded sports betting market in D.C.

• June 17, 2024 - FanDuel threatens to terminate its agreement with the D.C. Lottery after lawmakers included provisions to expand the sports betting market in the recently approved 2024 state budget.

• May 10, 2024 - FanDuel exceeds expectations for its launch in DC, generating over $13 million in handle during the first 14 days of operation.

• April 15, 2024 - FanDuel officially replaces GambetDC.

• 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.

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.

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.

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.