What’s the status of legal sports betting in California, and when could it realistically launch?
What This Means for CA Sports Betting Apps Now
Hey California, Martin Green here — Editor-in-Chief at Bookmakers Review.
On this page, we’re breaking down the most trusted sports betting apps in the game. We’ve taken a deep dive into the top California sports betting apps — testing every promo code, bonus and betting feature.
Sweat the game, not the payout …
Bovada
Signup Bonus:
DEPOSIT BONUS
75% Crypto
Max Bonus: $750 | Rollover: 5x (bet balance 5 times prior to withdraw)
DEPOSIT BONUS
50% Credit Card
Max Bonus: $250 | Rollover: 5x (bet balance 5 times prior to withdraw)
Bovada offers California players an intuitive, easy-to-use interface on both desktop and mobile.
New bettors enjoy generous welcome bonuses and unique prop bets.
The platform provides a helpful resource center for beginners.
- An intuitive, user-friendly mobile interface
- Unique props on sports and entertainment markets
- Mobile site performs as well as apps
BetOnline
Signup Bonus:
FREE BETS
$250 w/ $500 Deposit
Max Bonus: $250 | Rollover: 1x (bet balance 1 time prior to withdraw)
BetOnline is known for sharp lines, competitive odds, and a wide selection of betting markets.
The site features a simple interface with a visible betslip and real-time odds updates.
Fast live chat support and frequent bonus offers make it a reliable option for all bettors.
- Opinionated lines on major sports
- Broad range of bonus offers
- Faster than most sportsbook apps
Heritage Sports
Signup Bonus:
OFFER
100% Free Play
Max Bonus: $500 | Rollover: 10x (bet balance 10 times prior to withdraw)
Heritage Sports stands out for its reduced juice lines and generous welcome bonus.
California bettors receive quarterly cash back with no rollover, plus access to competitive perks and bonuses.
The site offers smooth live betting, an intuitive props builder, and broad coverage of major and niche sports.
- Competitive bonuses and perks
- Comprehensive live betting options
- Quarterly cash back for 149+ sports bets
BetAnything
Signup Bonus:
BONUS
150% Free Play
Max Bonus: $750 | Rollover: 10x (bet balance 10 times prior to withdraw)
BetAnything offers California bettors industry-leading reduced juice lines at -105.
New customers can choose from multiple bonus options.
The popular Less Juice Package offers consistent long-term savings.
- Best reduced juice sports lines at -105
- Quick and reliable payouts
- Works like the best sports betting apps
BookMaker
Signup Bonus:
DEPOSIT BONUS
20% Crypto
Max Bonus: $500 | Rollover: 8x (bet balance 8 times prior to withdraw)
CREDIT CARD DEPOSIT BONUS
100% Free Bet
Max Bonus: $400 | Rollover: 1x (bet balance 1 time prior to withdraw)
BookMaker offers early access to sharp betting lines and high betting limits for sharp players.
California bettors have access to a wide range of markets.
BookMaker is renowned for their comprehensive loyalty program.
- High betting limits
- Renowned sports betting loyalty program
- Competes with the best sportsbook apps
California Sports Betting Bonuses (Verified Nov 2025)
These offshore apps offer real-money welcome bonuses that work on mobile and support payouts in crypto or standard currency.
BetOnline – Best for Bigger Bonus Offers
- Offer: 50% bonus up to $250
- Promo Code: FREE250
- Min Deposit: $55
- Rollover: 10x (sports)
- Best Payment: Bitcoin or USDT
Bovada – Best Choice for Crypto Bettors
- Offer: 75% bonus up to $750 (Crypto only)
- Promo Code: BTCSWB750
- Min Deposit: $20 in Bitcoin
- Rollover: 5x (sports)
- Best Payment: Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash
BetAnything – Best for Reduced Juice
- Offer: 150% bonus up to $750
- Promo Code: BMR150
- Min Deposit: $50
- Rollover: 10x (with minimum odds of -140)
- Best Payment : Credit card or bitcoin
Heritage Sports – Competitive Free Play
- Offer: 100% Free Bet up to $500
- Promo Code: BMR100
- Min Deposit: $50
- Rollover: 10x (sports)
- Best Payment: Credit or debit card
BookMaker – Fast Signup and Bitcoin Perks
- Offer: 100% Free Bet up to $400
- Promo Code: GET100
- Min Deposit: $50
- Rollover: 1x (sports)
- Best Payment: Credit or debit card
Weekly Bonus Promotions Available
- BetOnline: Ongoing 25% reload with code LIFEBONUS
- Bovada: Weekly contests, mobile-only boosts, and free bets
- BetAnything: Rebates and rotating odds boosts
Bonus Tip: What to Watch For
- Crypto-based bonuses usually come with lower rollover hurdles, but they require BTC, ETH, or USDT for activation.
- Most wagering requirements fall in the 4x to 10x range. Make sure to double-check before you opt in.
🏆 How We Rate California Sportsbook Apps
Although sports betting has not been legalized statewide in California, many residents opt to use reputable offshore sportsbooks to place wagers on their favorite teams and sporting events.
Our team conducts thorough, hands-on evaluations to determine and rank the most secure, trusted betting sites available to California bettors.
We base our reviews on the following key factors:
- Security: Licensing status, robust encryption, and fair gaming practices
- Speed: Quick deposits and withdrawals, plus responsive betting interfaces
- Value: Competitive odds and attractive bonus offers
- Experience: User-friendly navigation and top-notch mobile functionality
By assessing each offshore sportsbook against these standards, we highlight the safest and most rewarding choices for Californians seeking a secure and smooth online betting experience.
💳 1. Banking Options & Payout Speed
California bettors deserve sportsbooks that manage their funds securely and efficiently.
We thoroughly test each site’s deposit and withdrawal systems to ensure transactions are safe, simple, and quick—no unnecessary waiting.
What We Assess:
- Deposit methods: Major credit/debit cards, popular e-wallets (Skrill, Neteller), and leading cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT).
- Withdrawal process: We verify payout speeds—only sites that process withdrawals within hours or a single day receive top marks.
- Security standards: SSL encryption, advanced fraud prevention, and two-factor authentication protocols.
- Transaction limits & fees: Clear minimums and fair, upfront fee structures.
💡 Pro Tip: The top offshore sportsbooks for California provide instant crypto deposits and 24-hour payouts—no bank delays or hold-ups.
📱 2. Mobile Compatibility & App Performance
Key Evaluation Points:
- Responsive design: Seamlessly adapts to any iOS or Android device.
- Smooth live betting: No lag or glitches during real-time games.
- Full feature access: All desktop functions (deposits, withdrawals, promotions) are smoothly integrated for mobile users.
- App and browser quality: We test both dedicated apps and mobile browser experiences for optimal performance.
Leading platforms allow California players to bet, withdraw, and manage accounts effortlessly while on the move.
3. Customer Support & Service Quality
Here’s What We Look For:
- Multiple contact options: Live chat, email, and international phone support.
- 24/7 assistance: Round-the-clock help tailored to California time zones.
- Fast replies: Friendly, helpful responses in under five minutes.
- Comprehensive resources: Detailed FAQs, betting guides, and support documentation.
The best sportsbooks deliver responsive, U.S.-friendly customer service—so California bettors always have help when it counts.
📊 4. Competitive Odds & Value
What We Analyze:
- Sports coverage: NFL, NBA, MLB, NCAA football, MMA, tennis, golf, and more.
- Enhanced odds: Frequent boosts, reduced juice, and parlay specials.
- Consistency: Fair odds for both pregame and live markets.
- Limits: Flexible betting for everyone from beginners to sharp bettors.
💡 Pro Tip: Even small odds differences can have a big impact on your total returns throughout the season.
🎯 5. Range of Betting Options
Top offshore sportsbooks go beyond just the basics. California bettors want flexibility and variety—from traditional markets to creative prop bets and dynamic live options.
In Our Review:
- Mainstream wagers: Point spreads, totals, and moneylines.
- Advanced bets: Parlays, teasers, and player props.
- Niche sports: eSports, rugby, horse racing, and international action.
- Live betting: In-game markets with real-time odds updates.
The broader the selection, the more strategies California players can employ. Many leading California betting apps also offer online poker and casino games.
💰 6. Bonuses & Promotions
Promotions can make a real difference in your bankroll. We examine offshore sportsbook bonuses to ensure California users get valuable, accessible offers.
What We Consider:
- Welcome bonuses: Deposit matches and risk-free bets for new users.
- Reload and loyalty perks: Ongoing rewards and incentives for active players.
- Wagering requirements: Realistic rollover terms and transparent conditions.
- Frequency: Regular promos, contests, and crypto-specific bonuses.
We only recommend sportsbooks with genuine, reasonable bonuses and clear policies.
💡 Pro Tip: Always read the terms—some offers come with steep rollover requirements that can make them hard to cash out.
✅ Summary: California’s Best Offshore Sportsbooks
Our evaluations ensure you only play with platforms that deliver:
- Top security and licensing
- Fast banking and crypto compatibility
- Mobile-friendly design
- Competitive odds and fair bonuses
Explore our trusted list of offshore sportsbooks for California players to start betting safely, securely, and confidently today.
Crypto Deposits & Fast Payouts for California Bettors
- Faster Deposits: Apps like BetOnline and Bovada credit Bitcoin transfers in seconds.
- Smooth Withdrawals: Bitcoin payouts land in your wallet in just a few hours.
- Low fees: Cheaper than bank wires or card payments.
- Bank Independence: Avoid California banks declining sportsbook transactions.
👉 Pro Tip: I tested Bitcoin withdrawals on Bovada and BetOnline. Each payout hit my wallet in under 4 hours — no delays, no middlemen.
Live Bitcoin Data (2025 Update)
| App | Crypto Accepted | Avg Payout Speed | Mobile Wallet Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| BetOnline | BTC, ETH, USDT | Under 2 hours | Full QR + Wallet |
| Bovada | BTC, BCH, LTC | 1-2 hours | Seamless mobile payouts |
| Heritage Sports | BTC, ETH, LTC | 1-2 days | Full QR + Wallet |
| BetAnything | BTC, ETH, LTC | 1-2 days | Basic integration |
| BookMaker | BTC, ETH, LTC, BCH | 1-2 days | Basic integration |
Why California Bettors Should Choose Crypto
- Speed: Get winnings in hours.
- Privacy: Extra anonymity compared to banks.
- Control: Direct wallet-to-wallet transfers.
The Golden State of California — shining bright since 1850.
How to Bet on Sports in California (Step-by-Step)
Step-by-Step for Sportsbooks, Offshore Betting Sites & Bitcoin Deposits
Here’s your complete California sports betting guide — including how to choose the best sportsbook, deposit with crypto, and start betting confidently.
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1 Pick the Best California-Friendly Sportsbook or Offshore Betting SiteBecause California doesn’t yet have state-regulated sportsbooks, most players use reliable offshore betting sites that accept U.S. customers.
Top options include:- Offshore sportsbooks: BetOnline, Bovada, BetAnything, and Heritage Sports — all open to California bettors.
- What to compare: Betting odds pricing (-110 vs. reduced juice), betting markets, live in-game betting, same-game parlays, bonuses, and payout speed.
Pro Tip: Open accounts with 2–3 offshore sportsbooks to shop lines and maximize Bitcoin bonuses. -
2 Create & Verify Your AccountGetting started takes just a few minutes:
- Click Join or Sign Up on your sportsbook of choice.
- Enter your personal details (name, email, phone, DOB, address).
- Verify your identity (KYC) when requested.
- For crypto bettors, most offshore sportsbooks offer instant signup without traditional banking verification.
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3 Claim Your Sportsbook Bonus (Read the Fine Print)Nearly every offshore sportsbook offers welcome bonuses for new California players:
- Deposit match bonuses (often 100% up to $1,000)
- Free bets and parlay boosts
- Reload and crypto-exclusive promotions
Crypto advantage: Bitcoin users frequently get bigger bonuses and faster clearing, since crypto payments process instantly and carry lower fees. -
4 Deposit Funds — Bitcoin Makes It EasyDeposit options vary, but offshore sportsbooks make it simple:
- Debit/credit cards
- Bank wires or ACH transfers
- E-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller)
- Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Tether (USDT)
- Instant deposits with no middleman
- Minimal or zero transaction fees
- Secure, private, and borderless
- Fastest withdrawals — often within minutes
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5 Choose Your Sports & Bet TypesOffshore sportsbooks serving California cover every major U.S. and international sport, including a variety of NFL and college football action.
Popular bet types:- Moneyline: Pick the outright winner.
- Point Spread: Bet on the margin of victory.
- Totals (Over/Under): Wager on combined points.
- Props: Player and team stats.
- Same-Game Parlays (SGPs): Combine multiple outcomes for bigger payouts.
- Live Betting: Bet during the game.
- Futures: Predict season-long results or awards.
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6 Build Your Bet Slip & Place Your WagerOnce you’ve picked your market:
- Add selections to your bet slip.
- Enter your stake and confirm.
- Review potential payout and betting rules.
- Use cash-out options (if available) to secure profit or limit losses early.
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7 Manage Your Bankroll WiselySmart betting starts with discipline:
- Set a budget (weekly or monthly).
- Log your bets, deposits, and withdrawals.
- Use Bitcoin wallet tracking for easy records.
- California levies a state income tax on gambling winnings, and federal taxes still apply.
- Set limits or timeouts if you need a cool-off period.
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8 Withdraw Your Winnings FastAfter meeting any bonus rollover requirements, you can cash out:
- Bitcoin payouts are the fastest and most reliable — usually processed in minutes.
- Traditional methods like bank wires can take several days.
- Always verify your ID and check withdrawal limits before requesting funds.
California Legalization Updates (Bills & Timeline)
California has long been a hub for legal gambling. Live poker has been available at licensed cardrooms since before the state joined the Union in 1850. It’s also home to legendary horse racing venues including Santa Anita Park and Del Mar. But when it comes to legal online sports betting, California has yet to join the masses. The soonest we could see a new motion to legalize sports betting in CA is 2026.
What needs to happen for California sportsbooks to become legal?
For local sports betting to be legal in California, California lawmakers need to propose and pass an amendment to their state laws. Prop 26 and Prop 27 both attempted this, but were unfortunately vetoed each time. But because there have been attempts to legalize sports betting in the recent past, there is a good chance we will see further propositions in the near future.
California cardrooms spent millions targeting lawmakers post-vote. Their goal: to push back against efforts that could limit their operations or favor tribal casinos.
California’s Assembly passed SB 549, which gives California tribes a one-time legal chance to sue cardrooms over offering games like blackjack — arguing that these games should be exclusive to California’s tribal casinos.
California’s cardroom debate reignites as the “Tribal Nations Access to Justice Act” (SB549) advances in the Assembly. This controversy overshadows progress on sports betting legalization.
The California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) questioned whether daily fantasy sports (DFS) and pick’em-style games are legal in the state.
The Sports Betting Alliance — which includes FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM and Fanatics — publicly opposed the current efforts to bring legalized sports betting to California in early 2024.
FAQs: California Betting Apps & Sportsbooks
Is it legal to bet on sports online in California?
Yes, but only through offshore sportsbooks. California has not yet legalized or launched any state-regulated online sports betting, but residents can legally place bets on platforms licensed outside the U.S.
Which betting platforms actually work in California?
Sites like Bovada and BetOnline are fully operational in California. These reputable offshore sportsbooks allow you to wager on sports and casino games from your computer or smartphone, with no geolocation blocks.
Do I need a VPN to sign up?
No VPN or location-masking tools are needed. These leading offshore sportsbooks welcome California players and work seamlessly in standard web browsers.
Which apps are the best for crypto?
If you want to deposit or withdraw using Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies, BetOnline and Bovada are top choices. They offer fast, secure crypto transactions in several popular digital assets.
Are there any California-based sportsbook apps?
No, there are currently no California-licensed or state-regulated sportsbook apps. Until new laws are enacted, players use trusted offshore platforms for online betting.
Can I bet from my phone?
Absolutely! These offshore sites are fully optimized for mobile betting, so you can place wagers right from your smartphone browser—no app download needed.
Do offshore sportsbooks for California offer bonuses?
Yes. Leading offshore platforms like Bovada and BookMaker offer substantial welcome bonuses, free bets, reloads, and ongoing promotions for California bettors. Always read the bonus terms and wagering conditions before opting in.
How old do I need to be to bet on sports in California?
Most offshore sportsbooks require you to be at least 18 years old to register and bet, but always check the age requirements of your chosen sportsbook.
Do California sports betting sites accept credit cards?
Top offshore operators such as BetOnline and Bovada take credit card deposits (including Visa and Mastercard). As some U.S. banks may block gambling transactions, confirm successful deposits before betting.
Is it safe to use offshore sports betting platforms in California?
Respected offshore sportsbooks with a strong history and regulatory credentials—like BetOnline and Heritage Sports—are considered safe for California bettors.
Are there deposit or withdrawal fees?
Most offshore sportsbooks do not charge fees for crypto transactions. However, credit card or bank transfers may involve processing fees. Always check the site’s banking section for the latest information.
CA Sports Betting Apps Comparison
| App | Best For | Welcome Bonus | Payout Speed | Mobile UX (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BetOnline | Fast crypto payouts | $250 Welcome Bonus | Under 24 hours | 4.5/5 |
| Bovada | Live betting | $750 Bitcoin Bonus | 1-2 hours | 4.5/5 |
| Everygame | Casual bettors | $500 Sign-up Bonus | 1-2 days | 4/5 |
| SportsBetting.ag | Sharp-friendly | 100% Free Play | Under 24 hours | 4/5 |
| Bookmaker.eu | High-limit action | 25% Cash Bonus | 24-48 hours | 3.5/5 |
Notes:
- Each app was tested for speed, stability, and mobile responsiveness.
- Withdrawal times are based on crypto options like Bitcoin and USDT.
- Bonus terms may differ slightly between platforms.
- All apps listed are available to California users and work without a VPN.
If you want to place real-money sports wagers from your phone, offshore betting apps are currently your only reliable option. I tested every site featured here to confirm that they’re legit and smooth to use from within the state.
Here’s the quick breakdown:
- Best for mobile bettors who want crypto deposits, live game action, and quick access without jumping through hoops.
- Not ideal if you’re waiting on an official California-regulated platform. As of now, those don’t exist and likely won’t until 2026 or beyond.
- My recommendation? Try BetOnline first. It’s fast, offers solid odds, and the layout is incredibly user-friendly. Bovada is another solid choice if you want more custom betting features.
| Category | Score (1-5) |
|---|---|
| Mobile UX | 4.5/5 |
| Bonuses | 4.3/5 |
| Crypto Support | 4.8/5 |
| Trust & Payouts | 4.4/5 |
Top Mobile Features I Used:
- In-Game Wagering: Lines refreshed quickly, even as plays unfolded.
- Custom Parlay Tools: Simple options for building multi-leg or same-event bets.
- Real-Time Notifications: Instant alerts for scoring plays, line changes, and promo offers.
- Secure Login Options: Access via fingerprint or facial recognition.
- Crypto Support: Send and receive BTC, ETH, and USDT straight from your mobile wallet.
- Live Game Viewing: Some platforms let you stream events directly while placing bets.
| Feature | BetOnline | Bovada | Everygame | BetUS | MyBookie |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-Play Betting | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Crypto Payouts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Live Dealer Casino | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Biometric Login | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Push Notifications | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Parlay Builder | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Live Streaming | No | Yes | No | No | No |
I ran hands-on tests with each California-accessible betting app using both iPhone and Android. I paid close attention to load times, how quickly I could place a bet, and how smooth the layout felt on mobile.
- BetOnline and Bovada loaded fast, usually under 3 seconds, even on spotty data.
- Everygame and SportsBetting.ag came in just behind, hovering around 4 to 5 seconds.
- BetUS took the longest to launch during high-traffic hours, but once it opened, it ran steady.
How Fast You Can Place a Bet
I timed how long it took to go from the app homepage to hitting “Confirm” on a live bet:
- Quickest overall: BetOnline, clocking in at 7 seconds flat.
- Easiest interface: Bovada, thanks to an automatic bet slip that updates in real time.
- Most frustrating: MyBookie, which made me dig through extra menus just to find prop bets.
Mobile Layout and Navigation
None of these sportsbooks offer native apps in California, so everything runs through your mobile browser. That said, most are clearly built with touchscreens in mind:
- Sticky menus along the bottom made it easy to jump between sports and bet types.
- Odds and game lines updated live without needing to refresh the page.
- Account features like deposits, withdrawals, and bet history were never more than a tap away.
Real Bet Test: Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers
California Sports Betting News
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Sports Betting Apps provided by international Sportsbooks have risks. For safe play, check a Sportsbook’s payout reputation and years in business.
Affiliate Disclosure:
Sportsbook content is independently reviewed for accuracy and fairness. Published pages and articles may include affiliate links that earn us a commission.