Betting
Washington DC Sports Betting
Betting

Washington DC Sports Betting

Updated Apr. 20, 2026 7:18 p.m. ET

Washington DC sports betting is fully legal and available district-wide, with FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, Fanatics, and theScore Bet all operating after the market expanded significantly in 2024.

Competition has led to strong DC sportsbook promos, including bet-and-get offers, first-bet insurance, and ongoing odds boosts.

This guide covers the top Washington DC sportsbook apps, the best bonuses available right now, and everything you need to know to get started betting in the District.

 

Washington DC Sports Betting Overview

📆 Online Sports Betting Launch Date:May 3, 2019
📱 DC Sportsbooks Available:6 (FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, Fanatics, theScore Bet)
🏬 Retail Sports Betting:✅ Legal
🎂 Legal Betting Age:18+ (some operators require 21+)
🏈 College Sports Betting:⚠️ Permitted with restrictions — no DC-based college teams, no in-district events
🎰 Online Casinos:❌ Not legal in DC

Is Sports Betting Legal in Washington DC?

Yes. Sports betting is legal in Washington DC, with both online and retail sportsbooks available district-wide. The Sports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act of 2018 was signed by Mayor Muriel Bowser in January 2019 and took effect in May of that year.

DC sports betting is regulated by the Office of Lottery and Gaming (OLG). Bettors must be physically located within the District to place wagers, which operators verify using geolocation technology. The minimum legal betting age is 18, though some operators — including BetMGM and Caesars — require bettors to be 21 or older.

The following online sports betting apps are currently available in Washington DC:

 

College Sports Betting in DC: No Bets on In-District Teams or Events

College sports betting is permitted in Washington DC, but with important restrictions. Bettors cannot wager on games involving DC-based college programs — such as Georgetown, Howard, or American University — or on any sporting events taking place inside the District. Live in-game betting on college games is also prohibited.

Pre-game bets on college teams from outside DC are permitted, including spreads, totals, moneylines, and futures for out-of-district matchups.

How DC's Betting License Structure Works

Washington DC issues three classes of sports betting licenses. Class A licenses are reserved for the four major sports venues — Capital One Arena (Caesars), Nationals Park (BetMGM), Audi Field (FanDuel), and Northwest Stadium (DraftKings). 

Class B licenses are available to qualifying bars, restaurants, and businesses that wish to offer betting on their premises, though not within two blocks of a Class A facility. 

Class C licenses, introduced via the 2024 DC budget expansion, allow sports franchises to partner with mobile sportsbooks for district-wide coverage.

Best Washington DC Sportsbook Promos for April 2026

 

All six licensed sportsbooks in Washington DC offer competitive welcome bonuses. Here is a quick comparison of current welcome offers:

SportsbookWelcome Bonus
FanDuelBet $5, Get $250 in bonus bets if your first bet wins
BetMGMGet a $50 BetMGM Reward Bonus + $1,500 back in bonus bets if your first bet loses with code FOXSPORTS
DraftKingsBet $5, Get $300 in bonus bets if your first bet wins
CaesarsBet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 10 Wagers with code FOXDYW
FanaticsBet $20, Get $200 in Bonus Bets
theScore BetGet a Bet Reset Up to $1,000

For a full breakdown of available offers, see our Sportsbook Promos page.

Top Washington DC Sportsbook Apps Ranked & Reviewed

Washington DC now offers one of the more competitive mid-sized sports betting markets in the country, with six licensed operators available across the district. The reviews below cover each app's welcome offer, usability, betting features, and overall value for DC bettors.

 

FanDuel Washington DC: Best Mobile Betting App

 
  • Best known for: Most popular sportsbook in the US. Best-in-class mobile app, same-game parlay builder, and fast, intuitive bet slip.
  • Welcome offer: Bet $5, Get $250 in bonus bets if your first bet wins.
  • App experience & notable features: Industry-leading SGP tools, quick odds updates, live game tracking, and frequent sport-specific boosts. FanDuel was the first district-wide mobile app in DC, replacing the government-run GambetDC in 2024, and maintains a strong operational advantage.
  • Retail presence: Operates a 2,550-square-foot sportsbook at DC United's Audi Field, with stadium-style seating, a full bar, and 18 betting kiosks.
  • Final take: Ideal for casual and experienced bettors who want a smooth app with strong same-game parlay options and reliable live betting during packed sports calendars.

BetMGM Washington DC: Best Welcome Bonus

 
  • Best known for: Tournament promos, the Edit My Bet feature, and one of the most generous first-bet bonuses in the DC market.
  • Welcome offer: Get a $50 BetMGM Reward Bonus + up to $1,500 back in bonus bets if your first bet loses with code FOXSPORTS.
  • App experience & notable features: The Edit My Bet feature allows bettors to swap out legs of open bets, adjust wager amounts, or partially cancel a bet — a flexible tool that stands out among DC's available apps. BetMGM operates through its Class A partnership with the Washington Nationals and has been available district-wide since July 2024.
  • Retail presence: 4,000-square-foot sportsbook at Nationals Park with 17 betting kiosks.
  • Final take: Best for bettors who want the largest potential welcome bonus and value flexibility in managing active bets.

DraftKings Washington DC: Best for Ongoing Promos

 
  • Best known for: Frequent promotions, deep prop markets, alternative lines, and fast live odds.
  • Welcome offer: Bet $5, Get $300 in bonus bets if your first bet wins.
  • App experience & notable features: Customizable betting carousel, robust live betting hub, wide same-game parlay options, and detailed stat integration. DraftKings launched in DC in July 2024 through a Class C partnership with DC United and has quickly become a go-to for prop and live bettors.
  • Final take: Ideal for bettors who value regular rotating promotions and a deep betting menu across all major sports and markets.

Caesars Sportsbook Washington DC: Best Rewards Program

 
  • Best known for: Caesars Rewards integration and one of DC's longest-running physical sportsbook operations.
  • Welcome offer: Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 10 Wagers with code FOXDYW.
  • App experience & notable features: Bettors automatically become Caesars Rewards members upon signup, earning Reward Credits on all wagers — at kiosks, online, and in person at Capital One Arena. Credits can be redeemed for bonus bets, hotel stays, dining, and entertainment at Caesars properties.
  • Retail presence: Permanent sportsbook at Capital One Arena with 100 TVs, nearly 20 betting windows, and 12 self-serve kiosks. Caesars also operates nearly 50 betting kiosks at bars and businesses across the district.
  • Final take: Best for DC bettors who want ongoing lifestyle rewards beyond standard bonus bets, especially those who visit Caesars properties for travel or entertainment.

Fanatics Sportsbook Washington DC: Most Consistent Rewards Structure

 
  • Best known for: FanCash rewards that accumulate across bets and can be redeemed for bonus bets or Fanatics merchandise.
  • Welcome offer: Bet $20, Get $200 in Bonus Bets
  • App experience & notable features: A clean interface and straightforward bet slip paired with the FanCash wallet. Fanatics entered DC through a partnership with the Washington Spirit women's soccer team. Rather than a single large bonus, FanCash accumulates steadily over multiple bets, making it especially useful for bettors who are active throughout the season.
  • Final take: Strong complementary sportsbook for rewards-driven bettors, particularly those already using the Fanatics shopping ecosystem for sports merchandise.

theScore Bet Washington DC: Best Media-Integrated Experience

 
  • Best known for: Seamless integration between live scores, news, and betting markets in a single app.
  • Welcome offer: Get a Bet Reset Up to $1,000
  • App experience & notable features: theScore Bet connects real-time scores, injury updates, and team news directly alongside betting markets, allowing users to move from live game updates into wagers without switching apps. The platform rebranded from ESPN BET in late 2025 and has been growing its user base in DC and nationally since.
  • Final take: A strong option for bettors who want media context alongside their betting — particularly for NBA, NHL, and NFL games where lineup news and live updates can influence wagering decisions.

How We Rank the Best DC Sports Betting Apps

FOX Sports evaluates Washington DC sportsbooks based on a consistent set of criteria focused on the actual betting experience for District residents. With six licensed operators now available, we compare apps across the following factors:

  • Line Value: How competitive each sportsbook's odds are relative to other DC operators and how that affects long-term betting returns.
  • Welcome & Recurring Promotions: The strength of sign-up offers plus the frequency and usefulness of ongoing promos for regular bettors.
  • Betting Selection: Coverage across leagues, wager types, and props, along with availability of live and futures markets.
  • App Design & Performance: Ease of navigation, bet placement speed, and reliability across iOS and Android devices.
  • Deposits & Withdrawals: Available banking options in DC and typical payout turnaround times.
  • In-Game Betting Tools: Live odds movement, cash-out availability, and access to stats or trackers during events.
  • Customer Assistance: Accessibility and responsiveness of support via chat, email, or phone.

Best Washington DC Sportsbook Promos & Welcome Offers (2026)

 

FanDuel DC Promo Code  — Bet $5, Get $250 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins

 

Offer Summary:

Key Details:

  • Minimum deposit: $5
  • Qualifying bet: $5+ wager
  • Bonus conditions: Bonus bets expire in 7 days and cannot be withdrawn

How to Claim:

  • Sign up for FanDuel Sportsbook in Washington DC.
  • Deposit $5 or more.
  • Place a $5+ qualifying wager on any eligible market.
  • Win to receive $250 in bonus bets.

BetMGM DC Bonus Code — Up to $1,500 Back + $50 Reward Bonus with Code FOXSPORTS

 

Offer Summary:

Key Details:

  • Minimum deposit: Varies
  • Qualifying bet: First real-money wager
  • Bonus conditions: Bonus bets issued if first bet loses; subject to BetMGM terms

How to Claim:

  • Sign up for BetMGM Sportsbook in Washington DC.
  • Enter promo code FOXSPORTS during registration.
  • Place your first wager.
  • If your bet loses, receive up to $1,500 back in bonus bets plus a $50 Reward Bonus.

DraftKings DC Promo Code — Bet $5, Get $300 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins

 

Offer Summary:

Key Details:

  • Minimum deposit: $5
  • Qualifying bet: $5+ wager
  • Bonus conditions: Bonus bets expire in 7 days

How to Claim:

Caesars DC Promo Code — Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 10 Wagers with Code FOXDYW

 

Offer Summary:

How to Claim:

  • Sign up for Caesars Sportsbook in Washington DC.
  • Enter code FOXDYW at registration.
  • Place a $1+ qualifying wager.
  • Receive doubled winnings on your next 10 eligible bets.

Fanatics Sportsbook DC Bonus Code — Bet $20, Get $200 in Bonus Bets

 

Offer Summary:

How to Claim:

theScore Bet DC Promo Code — Get a Bet Reset Up to $1,000

 

Offer Summary:

  • New users can receive a bet reset of up to $1,000 if their first wager loses. No promo code required.

How to Claim:

  • Sign up for theScore Bet in Washington DC.
  • Place your first qualifying wager.
  • If the bet loses, receive your wager back as bonus bets up to $1,000.

How to Start Betting on Sports in Washington DC

1. Choose a Legal DC Sportsbook

Start by comparing the six licensed Washington DC sportsbook apps. Consider welcome bonuses, odds competitiveness, mobile usability, and any promos tied to the Commanders, Capitals, Wizards, Nationals, or DC United. Signing up for more than one sportsbook lets you claim multiple bonuses and shop for the best lines.

2. Register Online

Washington DC allows fully remote online registration. When creating an account you will typically be asked to provide:

  • Full name
  • Email address
  • Date of birth
  • Last four digits of your SSN
  • Physical home address

Sportsbooks use geolocation technology to confirm you are physically within the District before allowing wagers.

3. Claim a Welcome Bonus

Click any Claim button on this page to be automatically opted into the sportsbook's welcome offer. Review terms carefully before placing your first bet, including qualifying bet requirements, minimum odds, and bonus expiration windows.

 

4. Deposit Funds

After registering, fund your account using one of the common payment methods accepted in DC, including:

  • Credit or debit cards
  • Online banking / ACH
  • PayPal
  • Venmo
  • Apple Pay
  • Play+ prepaid card

Minimum deposits typically range from $5 to $20 depending on the operator.

5. Place Your First Bet

Once funded, select a wager that qualifies under the promo terms. Example: Bet $5 on a Capitals or Wizards moneyline at FanDuel or DraftKings to unlock bonus bets if your wager wins. You can also start with a spread, total, or same-game parlay if it qualifies under the offer terms.

6. Withdraw Winnings

Winnings can be withdrawn through each sportsbook's cashier. E-wallets like PayPal and Venmo typically process the fastest, sometimes within 24 hours. Bank transfers may take a few business days. Available withdrawal methods generally mirror your deposit options.

Washington DC Sports Teams to Bet On

Washington DC is home to four major professional sports franchises and one of the most passionate fan bases on the East Coast. Betting markets are available on all DC-based professional teams at every licensed sportsbook in the District.

Washington CommandersNFL | Northwest Stadium (formerly FedExField)
Washington CapitalsNHL | Capital One Arena
Washington WizardsNBA | Capital One Arena
Washington NationalsMLB | Nationals Park
DC UnitedMLS | Audi Field
Washington SpiritNWSL | Multiple venues

 All DC professional teams are available for moneylines, spreads, totals, futures, and player props at the six licensed DC sportsbooks. Note that college teams based within the District — including Georgetown, Howard, and American University — are not available for betting under DC regulations.

Benefits of Signing Up for Multiple Washington DC Sportsbooks

With six licensed operators now active in Washington DC, there are real advantages to holding accounts at more than one sportsbook:

  • Claim multiple welcome bonuses: Each operator offers a unique sign-up promo. Signing up for several apps lets you take advantage of multiple offers before placing your regular bets.
  • Shop for better odds: Odds vary across sportsbooks, especially on moneylines and player props. Having two or three accounts lets you consistently find the best price on your preferred bets.
  • Access more markets: Some books offer deeper prop menus (DraftKings, FanDuel), while others stand out for futures pricing (bet365 — where available) or rewards (Caesars, Fanatics). Using multiple platforms maximizes your options.
  • Take advantage of ongoing promos: Each sportsbook runs different rotating offers. DraftKings and BetMGM are known for frequent opt-in specials; Caesars offers loyalty rewards. Holding multiple accounts lets you pick the best offer each week.
 

Responsible Gambling

Sports betting should be entertaining and done in moderation. Only wager what you can afford to lose and avoid chasing losses. Setting time and deposit limits can help keep betting a recreational activity rather than a financial decision.

If gambling stops being fun or begins affecting your daily life, help is available. Support services are free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day.

Responsible gambling resources:

The minimum legal betting age in Washington DC is 18, though some operators require bettors to be 21 or older. You must be physically located within the District to place a wager. All promotions are subject to individual sportsbook terms and conditions.

Washington DC Sports Betting FAQ

Is sports betting legal in Washington DC?

Yes. Sports betting has been legal in Washington DC since May 2019. The market has expanded significantly since 2024, with six licensed mobile sportsbooks now available district-wide.

How old do you have to be to bet on sports in DC?

The minimum legal betting age in Washington DC is 18. However, some operators — including BetMGM and Caesars — require users to be 21 or older to create an account. Check each sportsbook's age requirements before registering.

Which sportsbooks are available in Washington DC?

There are currently six licensed online sportsbooks in Washington DC: FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars Sportsbook, Fanatics Sportsbook, and theScore Bet.

Can I bet on the Washington Commanders, Capitals, or Wizards in DC?

Yes. All Washington DC professional sports teams are available for betting at every licensed sportsbook in the District. You can place bets on spreads, moneylines, totals, futures, and player props for the Commanders, Capitals, Wizards, Nationals, and DC United.

Can you bet on college sports in Washington DC?

Partially. College sports betting is permitted in DC, but you cannot bet on games involving DC-based college programs such as Georgetown, Howard, or American University. Bets on events taking place inside the District are also restricted. Live in-game betting on college games is not permitted.

Is there a retail sportsbook in Washington DC?

Yes. Washington DC has several retail sportsbook locations tied to its major sports venues. Caesars Sportsbook operates at Capital One Arena, BetMGM at Nationals Park, FanDuel at Audi Field, and DraftKings at Northwest Stadium. Caesars also operates betting kiosks at dozens of bars and businesses across the District.

Are online casinos legal in Washington DC?

No. Online casino gaming — including slots, blackjack, and table games — is not currently legal in Washington DC. Only sports betting is permitted through licensed mobile and retail operators.

Can I use a DC sportsbook app from outside the District?

No. Washington DC sportsbooks use geolocation technology to verify that you are physically within the District before allowing wagers. You cannot place bets if you are located in Maryland, Virginia, or any other state, even if you are a DC resident.

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