Is Online Sports Betting Legal in North Dakota?

North Dakota hasn’t legalized sports betting, but it is offered at a few tribal locations in the state because of gaming compacts. Over the past few years, several attempts to legalize statewide sports betting have been made, but all have faced challenges and ultimately did not pass. On this page, we’re checking in on the current situation of sports betting in North Dakota and how it might look when it arrives in the state.

Best Social Sportsbooks Available in North Dakota

While you can't engage in regular online sports betting in North Dakota, there are some alternatives in the form of social sportsbooks. They work like your average sweepstakes site. Therefore, they don't require a gambling license, but fall under the sweepstakes laws. In North Dakota, there are two social sportsbooks available: Fliff and Sportzino. You can find more info about them in our Fliff and Sporzino review.

North Dakota Sports Betting Overview

What Is the Current Sports Betting Landscape In North Dakota?

Legislation allowing for sports betting in North Dakota was enacted in December 2021, when the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Tribe went over its gaming compacts with the state and concluded it was legally possible to launch a sportsbook. However, statewide online and retail sports betting is not legal in the state; it is restricted to tribal locations. 

In October 2022, the five tribes asked for sole rights to offer sports betting beyond their casinos, which Gov. Doug Burgum declined. However, he did allow them to lower the legal age for gambling in tribal casinos from 21 to 19.

Numerous attempts have been made to legalize statewide sports betting in the past. The first was HB 1254, introduced in 2019, which was introduced by lawmakers aiming to legalize sports betting as a “game of chance”; it failed to pass the Senate. 

In 2021, another bill called HB 3002 was introduced that would allow voters to decide if sports betting should be legalized statewide. While the bill received resounding approval from the House, it narrowly failed to pass through the Senate with a 22-23 vote. HCR 3002 was introduced in January 2023, which proposed an amendment to the constitutional ban on sports betting to be put on the ballot for voters. Once again, in April 2023, it was unsuccessful in the Senate.

When Is Sports Betting Expected To Launch in North Dakota?

It’s difficult to say. As the Senate did not pass HCR 3002 in April 2023, it will not be on the 2024 ballot for voters in North Dakota. It’s possible that the Senate might reconsider HCR 3002, given that it did in the past. However, we can’t know for sure.

Since the North Dakota Legislative Assembly only convenes for regular sessions in odd-numbered years, it won’t be in 2024. If the Senate doesn’t reconsider the bill, then it’ll probably be 2025 before lawmakers look at this topic again. 

North Dakota Sports Betting Updates

Here is a timeline of the main events in North Dakota sports betting:

• April 3, 2023 - The push for a sports betting expansion fails in the Senate, postponing changes until 2024.

• March 15, 2023 - Rep. Greg Stemen introduces House Concurrent Resolution 3002, which seeks to place a constitutional amendment for sports betting on the ballot.

• Dec. 2, 2022 - Governor Doug Burgum and representatives from five tribal casinos reach a gaming agreement valid for a decade, which includes online sports and casino betting on tribal lands.

• Dec. 1, 2021 - Dakota Magic Casino & Hotel opens the Dakota National Sportsbook.

• March 22, 2021 - The Senate turns down HB 3002 with a narrow 22-23 vote.

• Feb. 23, 2021 - HB 3002 progresses to the Senate following approval in the House.

• Feb. 2, 2021 - The House receives HB 3002, which proposes that voters can decide on the legalization of sports betting.

• March 25, 2019 - The Senate rejects HB 1254.

• Feb. 20, 2019 - The House approves HB 1254, sending it to the Senate. However, HB 1295 fails in the House.

• Jan. 3, 2019 - Rep. Jason Dockter introduces HB 1254, which aims to legalize professional sports betting. Rep. Thomas Beadle introduced HB 1295, allowing statewide sports betting.

What Sportsbooks Are Expected To Launch in North Dakota?

1. FanDuel Sportsbook

Best for: Mobile Experience

FanDuel holds the title for the highest betting revenue, making it America’s best sportsbook. If you’re looking for a leading sportsbook that puts its users first, have a look at the most popular sportsbook in the US.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced bettor, the process of signing up, exploring the betting options, and cashing out at FanDuel is seamless and hassle-free. The platform is well-designed and modern, but it truly shines in its commitment to user convenience. It fulfills all that you’d want and expect from a modern sportsbook. For anyone who prefers mobile betting, I can’t recommend FanDuel enough. It’s clear to understand why it is considered the best when exploring its user-friendly and intuitive app. It's one of the best sports betting apps on the market right now.

Users can enjoy quick payouts, having their withdrawals in their pockets within 24 hours by using PayPal, Venmo, or PrePaid+. If you need help, the customer service is valuable and friendly. They’re available around the clock and can be contacted through live chat, email, or social media. 

Take a look at our in-depth FanDuel review to learn more about our top sportsbook.

• WSN rating: 4.8/5

• Sign up offer: Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets

• App rating: 4.9/5 (iOS); 4.6/5 (Android)

Pros

• Fast payouts

• Highly-rated app

• Beginner-friendly platform

Cons

• Loyalty scheme could be improved

• No phone number

2. DraftKings Sportsbook

Best for: Versatile Platform

DraftKings is another top contender in the betting industry, providing an innovative and sophisticated online sportsbook. If you want a platform that excels at going the extra mile, DraftKings is the sportsbook for you.

DraftKings is packed with features to keep you engaged, from live betting and DFS to a social hub and even an online casino and poker room in some states. You’ll also find a huge variety of markets with many unique options and detailed betting guides to help you make informed wagers. There’s a lot going on, but the site doesn’t feel cluttered or overwhelming. In fact, I’m a big fan of how sophisticated and sleek the design of the dark interface is.

Payments are simple and convenient, with a selection of methods, a low minimum deposit of only $5, and fast payouts. Bettors are treated to many rewards, whether perks through the ‘DraftKings Dynasty loyalty club’ or regular promotions like daily odds boosts. You can also easily access your account and place bets through the highly-rated mobile app. 

Head over to our in-depth DraftKings review for more information.

• WSN rating: 4.8/5

• Sign up offer: Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly

• App rating: 4.7/5 (iOS); 4.6/5 (Android)

Pros

• Low deposit limits

• Daily odds boosts

• Excellent mobile app

Cons

• Limited live streaming

• Automated live chat

3. Caesars Sportsbook

Best for: Caesars Rewards

Caesars is a long-standing name in the hospitality and entertainment sector, taking this expertise into the modern era with its online sportsbook. If you’re searching for a platform that knows how to reward its bettors, Caesars Sportsbook is a great choice.

Exploring the sportsbook, you’ll find a platform that mirrors the luxury and sophistication of the Caesars brand. In addition to aesthetics, the platform is straightforward and intuitive, making it a breeze to explore the huge variety of markets and find odds that are often better than any other sportsbook. 

My favorite part of Caesars Sportsbook is the integration of the Caesars Rewards scheme, which is as lavish as you’d expect from this brand. All activity with Caesars earns you credits, whether betting, dining, shopping, and hotel stays. These credits can be exchanged for amazing perks like hotel discounts, room upgrades, exclusive events, shopping gift cards, or restaurant vouchers. After signing up for the sportsbook, you’ll receive 1,000 free credits as part of your welcome bonus, ideal if you’re already a regular at Caesars’ resorts.

Explore our Caesars Sportsbook review for an in-depth overview. 

• WSN rating: 4.3/5

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

• Promo Code: WSN1000

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

Pros

• Backed by reputable brand

• Competitive odds

• Exclusive member offers

Cons

• Less frequent promotions

• Live streaming could be improved

4. BetMGM

Best for: Promotions

BetMGM is owned by the renowned MGM Resorts, bringing an experienced and reliable online sportsbook to the table. If you want a dependable platform full of bonuses and promotions, check out BetMGM.

BetMGM is jam packed with promotions, such as odds boosts, prizes, competitions, refer-a-friend bonuses, and plenty more. It is worth regularly checking the promotions page, as you’re sure to find something new for different seasons and events. Using these offers, you can get a taste of the broad selection of sports markets, from mainstream sports and leagues like the NFL to niche options such as darts or table tennis.

All of this can be easily navigated as the platform delivers a seamless user experience, free from any issues. Live betting is also excellent, where bettors can stream games, access detailed stats to make informed wagers and have the option for early cash-out. Joining BetMGM automatically makes you a part of MGM Rewards. Similar to Caesars Rewards, you can earn points to unlock certain rewards tied to the MGM Brand, such as tickets to events, hotel stays, and dining experiences.

Read our full BetMGM review for more details. 

• WSN rating: 4.4/5

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

• Promo Code: WSNMGM

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

Pros:

• Regular bonuses

• Top live betting, streaming & stats

• MGM Rewards scheme

Cons:

• Withdrawal times could be faster

• Betting history isn’t tracked

5. ESPN Bet

Best for: Exclusive Content from ESPN

At the tail end of 2023, ESPN launched its online sportsbook, ESPN Bet, in collaboration with PENN Entertainment, which has quickly taken the betting world by storm. If you’re looking for a fresh, informative, and engaging option, try out ESPN Bet as your next online sportsbook.

ESPN Bet is the newly-branded version of Barstool Sportsbook, with a familiar feel and interface to its predecessor. In fact, if you’re previously a Barstool user, you can still use your existing account on ESPN Bet. The difference is that the platform now utilizes ESPN’s exclusive access to sports content and analysis for bettors to benefit from. The quality of the live betting is also enhanced by ESPN’s sports content, which includes real-time data and insights you won’t find in any other sportsbook.

Through the partnership with PENN Entertainment, users will also have access to the PENN Play Rewards program. This loyalty scheme leverages the PENN Entertainment brand, which is among the biggest hospitality and entertainment companies in the US.

Head over to our in-depth ESPN Bet review for more information.

• WSN rating: 4.6/5

• Sign up offer: Bet $10, Get $150 in bonus bets

• App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.4/5 (Android)

Pros:

• Penn Play Rewards

• Top quality live streaming

• New platform

Cons:

• Site is a little bland

• Not accessible via mobile browser

6. Fanatics Sportsbook

Best for: Withdrawal Process

Going live at the start of 2023, Fanatics Sportsbook has quickly become a top choice for US bettors. If you’re on the hunt for a fresh and innovative online sportsbook, try out Fanatics Sportsbook.

Fanatics has a well-established reputation in merchandising and has expanded its reach to offer a mobile sportsbook. It’s a no-brainer option if you’re already a fan of Fanatics, as you can grab merchandising benefits through the sportsbook using their promotional FanCash. I’m a big fan of the withdrawal process on this platform, where you can helpfully track your payouts. Waiting around for your withdrawal can be frustrating, and this tool addresses that problem. It’s a unique feature I’ve never seen on any competitor’s platform.

If you prefer desktop betting, Fanatics is not an option for you, as it is only available through a mobile app. However, considering how many bettors prefer mobile betting these days, it’s not a big deal for most. I’ve got to hand it to their customer service as well. They were friendly and informative about any question that I had and can be conveniently contacted through live chat, email, or social media.

Take a look at our detailed Fanatics review to learn more.

• WSN rating: 4.3/5

• Sign up offer: Bet $5 for 10 Days, Get $1,000 in bonus bets

• App rating: 4.7/5 (iOS); 4.5/5 (Android)

Pros:

• Withdrawal tracker

• Discounts on merchandise

• Excellent customer support

Cons:

• Not available on desktop

• Limited option of payment methods

Nearby Betting States

North Dakota is bordered by Minnesota on the east, South Dakota on the south, and Montana on the west. All three of these states have had a complex journey with sports betting. Minnesota is the only state that doesn’t allow any form of sports betting, but it has repeatedly tried to pass a bill, so we can hopefully expect to see sports betting in the state soon.

In 2020, South Dakota legalized retail sports betting but only in Deadwood and tribal casinos. Online betting is allowed at approved casinos in Deadwood but not throughout the state. Legislation to allow voters to decide if online sports betting should be legalized in South Dakota has been proposed, but it never made it through the legislative process.

Montana has fully legalized retail sports betting, and there are hundreds of locations where you can place sports bets across the state. However, online sports betting is not legal statewide, and the only option for an online sportsbook is the Montana Lottery’s own platform, which can be accessed at retail locations.

North Dakota residents can travel to specific locations for retail and online sports betting, but this is less than ideal compared to other states in the US, where you simply have to cross the border to access online sportsbooks.

What Sports Will You Be Able To Bet On in North Dakota?

If sports betting does arrive in North Dakota, you’ll have the chance to bet on popular sports and take advantage of specific promotions:

NFL Betting

The NFL is America’s most followed league, making it a prime betting choice. From the season kickoff in September to the Super Bowl in February, sportsbooks have a significant increase in activity. In fact, the Super Bowl is the country’s most bet-on event. This period has a selection of different types of bets, ranging from traditional bets to unique prop bets, like the length of the national anthem or the color of Gatorade poured over the winning coach. There are also plenty of NFL-specific promotions all year long, more than any other league. Take a look at our NFL betting promo page for examples.

NBA Betting

The NBA is the top basketball league in the world, attracting dedicated fans in the US and globally. From betting on a player's performance to predicting who will win the NBA Championship, there’s an extensive range of betting options. Sportsbooks see a huge surge during the NBA season. During this period, you can find the best promotions and bonuses on offer. Check our NBA promotions page to see what is offered in detail.

MLB Betting

Baseball has a rich and storied history in the US, with the MLB being the pinnacle of professional baseball. Running from the start of April to October, the MLB season is packed with over 2,000 games. Bettors have a plethora of opportunities to support their favorite teams. During this time, especially around the World Series, you’re sure to find a decent selection of offers on sportsbooks. Our MLB bonuses page has all the details.

NHL Betting

The NHL season, which runs from September to April, is a thrilling time for hockey fans with many betting opportunities on sportsbooks. The NHL attracts a lot of futures bets, such as who will be the season’s MVP, the best rookie, or who will win the Stanley Cup. The season also has many NHL-specific promotions for hockey fans. For further information, our NHL betting promotions page can help you find the best offers.

UFC Betting

The UFC is the most popular MMA organization in the world and has quickly become one of the most followed sports in the US. This surge in popularity has made UFC betting a significant market at sportsbooks. Given the global events across 11 weight divisions, you can explore a huge variety of betting options. Explore our UFC betting guide to get started with this rapidly-growing sport.

What Wager Types Will Be Available in North Dakota?

If sports betting becomes legal in North Dakota, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the different betting options offered by sportsbooks. Here’s a rundown of the standard betting markets you’ll be able to explore:

Moneyline Bets

A moneyline bet involves predicting the winner of a game or event. The potential payouts on winning bets on the favorite and underdog are expressed through the odds. Positive odds represent a lower likelihood of winning, while negative odds show a higher likelihood. Here’s an example:

• LA Dodgers (-185)

• MIN Twins (+154)

Understanding odds is easier when thinking in $100 increments. Here, you’d have to bet $185 on the Dodgers to win $100, for a total payout of $285. For the Twins, a $100 bet would win $154 for a return of $254. You can find more details about it in our moneyline betting guide.

Point Spreads

Point spread betting is also very popular among bettors. It focuses on the number of points by which a team wins or loses. Essentially, you are betting on the margin of victory, with the spread of points balancing the playing field for teams. Take a look at this example:

• LA Dodgers -1.5 (-115)

• MIN Twins +1.5 (-105)

To win a bet on the Dodgers, they would need to win the game by 2 points or more. The Twins need to avoid losing by 2 points or win the game for a bet to payout. Point spread bets tend to have odds of around -110 for each side. Check out our points spread betting guide for more information.

Totals

Also called an over/under bet, totals involve betting on the combined score of the game. Bettors predict whether the final score will exceed a set number or fall below it. It can look like this:

LA Dodgers vs. MIN Twins:

• Over 8.5 (-118)

• Under 8.5 (-115)

See our over/under betting guide to find out more.

Prop Bets

Prop bets cover a range of different scenarios in a game that are not necessarily related to the final outcome. They can be anything from individual player or team milestones to unique situations or occurrences in a game. For instance, in the NBA, you can find prop bets on how many layups a specific player makes or how many rebounds a team makes. You’ll also find more fun and unique prop bets for major events like the Super Bowl, such as who the MVP thanks in his speech or the result of the coin toss. Find even more interesting information in our prop betting guide.

Futures

A future bet is a long-term wager on an event that is set to happen well in the future. Popular future bets are made on the winners of major championships or competitions, like the Super Bowl or the NBA Championships. Since they can be quite unpredictable over a long season, they tend to have attractive odds attached. You can make these bets any time of the year, keeping the excitement ramped up regardless of the time of season. Some legendary futures bets have earned their punters quite a sum, but these were some incredible odds. You can read more about them in our futures betting guide.

Parlays

A parlay bet involves combining multiple wagers into a single bet. For the parlay to pay out, every one of the included bets needs to win. Although the risk is higher, so is the potential payout. A teaser bet gives you a kind of safety net, as you can adjust the point spread or totals in a parlay in your favor. The catch is that the payout isn’t as high, but it can make it easier for you to win. Parlays can be quite tricky but we have some tips and tricks in our parlay betting guide that can help you out.

Live Betting

Live betting puts you in the middle of the game, allowing you to place bets in the moment as the action unfolds. This isn’t like typical betting, where all bets are placed before the game starts; instead, you tailor your strategy based on the current situation of the match. As the game progresses, the odds change depending on what’s happening on the pitch. Most sportsbooks have a designated section for live betting; some even offer live streaming and real-time stats. Check out our live betting guide and create a game plan before you watch the game.

Expected Betting Restrictions in North Dakota?

We don’t know precisely how statewide legal sports betting will look in North Dakota. However, below you can see a few typical restrictions in other states:

• Betting on politics.

• Betting on entertainment events or award ceremonies.

• Betting on high school sports.

• Betting on eSports.

State laws on college sports betting can vary. It is fully allowed in certain states, whereas in others, it’s banned. Some states have specific restrictions, such as betting on in-state college teams and events or college player prop bets.

Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, DFS operates in a legal gray area since no specific laws allow or ban it. As a result, those in North Dakota can access DFS platforms, such as these:

1. DraftKings DFS

Best For: Mobile App

Launched in 2012, DraftKings quickly climbed the ranks to dominate the DFS industry with its cutting-edge platform. It's now accessible in nearly every state. There’s a huge selection of contests covering all kinds of sports and leagues, which are hard to resist with their hefty prize pools. I have especially enjoyed the feature that allows you to make personal contests with friends and even chat with them while you play. It’s my go-to choice for creating DFS leagues with my friends. Besides this, the platform has speedy transactions, frequent bonuses, and top customer support, all of which make DraftKings one of the best in the industry. What’s more, DraftKings excels in mobile convenience with a DFS app that has a nearly perfect 4.9/5 on the App Store.

Claim your DK DFS offer today!

2. FanDuel DFS

Best For: Beginners and Free Play Games

FanDuel is also widely available across the US and is a close competitor to DraftKings in the DFS world. I’d particularly recommend FanDuel’s platform for those just starting out with DFS. Newcomers can make the most of beginner-only contests, where the entry limits restrict experienced players from dominating the competitions. You’ll also find a lot of free contests with real money cash prizes. This approach allows for a more level playing field, making DFS accessible to players of all kinds and an ideal starting point for those curious about DFS.

Grab FanDuel's 100% deposit match.

3. OwnersBox DFS

Best For: Simplified Option

OwnersBox focuses on unique game formats, like Weekly Fantasy Sports, setting itself apart from the daily formats of industry leaders like DraftKings and FanDuel. You’ll find innovative competitions over a week or the entire cycle of games, like Lightning Lineups and SuperFlex. For Lightning Lineups, users are given a selection of athletes, from which they have to decide the top three performers of the week. SuperFlex is similar to traditional fantasy sports, where you have a fixed budget to build your team selection. You can find this format for the major sports leagues, but OwnersBox has fewer sports coverages compared with the big two. 

Grab OwnersBox promo offer.

Is Fliff Legal in North Dakota?

Yes, Fliff is legal in North Dakota. Social sportsbooks are the best alternative option if you’re in a state where traditional online sportsbooks are not allowed.

As a social sportsbook, Fliff allows users to participate in free sports prediction games, with no need to use real money to get involved. Think of it as a combination of social networking and free sports betting.

Sports predictions on Fliff are made using virtual currencies called Fliff Coins and Fliff Cash. After signing up, newcomers are welcomed with a special bonus worth up to 600,000 Fliff Coin and $100 in Fliff Cash. After this, you can pick up both currencies through other promotions like social media giveaways, daily login bonuses, and more. Fliff Coins can also be purchased and only used on the platform to play games, no matter how much you win. Whereas, Fliff Cash can’t be purchased, but when you win it, it can be redeemed for cash prizes.

For a detailed breakdown, take a look at our Fliff review, which explores how social casinos work.

Claim your Fliff 100% deposit match.

Sports Teams in North Dakota

North Dakota has no major league teams, but you can find fans for teams from neighboring states like Minnesota. 

Why You Should Trust Us

As bettors ourselves, we at WSN know that it is crucial to have advice you can trust. Our team has been in the betting industry for decades, and our knowledge has grown as the industry has developed. As such, we have the expertise to back up all our recommendations and insights.

Each of our reviews is rooted in personal experience, as we ensure that we thoroughly explore and test out all the features of each sportsbook before we start writing about it. We pride ourselves on our hands-on process; we sign up, make real-money deposits, explore the different markets, and proceed with withdrawals. We share our thoughts and insights into this experience, pointing out what earns our praise and what needs improvement.

Ultimately, we want our readers to have a reliable source of information so they can make informed betting decisions.

Getting Help: Responsible Gambling in North Dakota

Despite fully legalized sports betting not arriving in North Dakota yet, there are still resources in the state that can be used for those struggling with problem gambling. If it is legalized statewide, we can expect further measures to be introduced in North Dakota. Here are the support services available in the state:

• Gambler North Dakota provides support groups, counseling, and other support for those with gambling issues. They also have a helpline that can be called at (877) 702-7848.

• The National Council on Problem Gambling is available everywhere in the US. Support can be contacted by phone at 1-800-GAMBLER, text at 800GAM, or via live chat.

• Gamblers Anonymous has meetings in every state where people can share their experiences, including North Dakota.