Is sports betting legal in Maryland? Latest 2025 Updates
- Live Coverage
Sports betting is fully legal in Maryland with both retail and online options available. Since voters approved legalization in November 2020, the industry has expanded significantly. Retail sportsbooks opened in December 2021, and online sports betting launched in November 2022. The primary regulatory authority overseeing these activities is the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission.
Geo and Platform Limitations
Geofencing technology is employed by sportsbooks in the U.S. to restrict access based on geographic locations. In Maryland, this means bettors must be within the state to place bets on legal platforms. Some bettors may resort to using VPNs to access these options, although this poses certain risks and lacks the consumer protections found with licensed Maryland operators.
Neighboring State Comparison
Compared to neighboring states, Maryland has a robust legal framework for sports betting. Nearby states like Pennsylvania and West Virginia also have established sports betting laws, creating a competitive market. However, many bettors still choose international sportsbooks for their safety and convenience, avoiding the need for physical travel across state lines.
Is sports betting legal in Maryland?
Sports betting is fully legal in Maryland with online sports betting launching back in 2022.
What is the best sportsbook in Maryland?
There are several great options to choose from, but our preferred Maryland sportsbook is BetOnline due to the availability of crypto payments.
Affiliate Disclosure: BMR may receive compensation when you click links and make purchases through our affiliate partners. This compensation helps support our research and editorial work. We maintain editorial independence and only recommend products and services we believe provide value to our readers.
Updates on Legislation or Recent Bills
For those following the developments in Maryland’s online sports betting industry, it’s essential to understand the legislative journey that has shaped its landscape. Over the years, several key bills have defined how the market operates today. From the voter-approved legalization in November 2020 to the launch of online sports betting in November 2022, Maryland has taken significant strides forward. However, recent legislative actions, such as Senate Bill 1033 filed by Senator Joanne Benson in early 2025, seek to eliminate online sports betting by January 1, 2026. This bill could be pivotal for all stakeholders involved. However, it’s unlikely that this bill will past.
Analyzing the impact of such legislative changes, it’s crucial for stakeholders to stay informed about the current status of these bills. The recent developments not only affect licensed operators but also play a significant role in shaping consumer choices. With a primary focus on maintaining competitive balance and ensuring responsible gaming, these updates will determine the framework within which Maryland’s betting industry operates. As we continue to monitor these events, Maryland bettors can be assured that the market remains dynamic and subject to the evolving regulatory landscape.
Path to Legalization
The journey towards legal online sports betting in Maryland has been marked by several major milestones. Most notably, voters approved legalization in November 2020, paving the way for the launch of retail sportsbooks in December 2021 and online sports betting in November 2022.
Over the past five years, several vital legislative changes have occurred. The introduction and passage of Senate Bill 1033 in early 2025, aiming to cease online sports betting by January 2026, marked a significant shift. This legislative change has sparked debate within the state, underscoring tensions between economic growth through sports betting and maintaining regulatory control. However, it’s unlikely that this bill will move forward.
Outlook for Legalization in Maryland
Polling data shows fluctuating public support for online sports betting in Maryland, with many residents favoring regulation to ensure safety and economic benefits. Several proposed bills and ballot measures are under discussion, indicating potential legal changes on the horizon. However, challenges remain, including concerns over problem gambling and ensuring adequate consumer protections. Expect dynamic developments in the next 2-3 years as the state navigates these complexities.
Maryland lawmakers rejected Gov. Wes Moore’s bid to double the sportsbook tax, settling on a 15% to 20% hike.
Local lawmakers reintroduce online casino bills, aiming for a 2026 referendum.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore has proposed doubling the tax rate on mobile sportsbooks.
Maryland sportsbooks set records in November with a $639.9M handle, $82.3M gross revenue, and $12M in state taxes, up 274.6% from last year.
Betfred is set to exit Maryland’s sports betting market by July 31 due to low traction, while new operators, including VSC and Bally Bet, are set to enter the market in July.
Maryland sportsbooks defied the summer slowdown with impressive earnings in May, driven significantly by parlays. Betr, co-founded by Jake Paul and Joey Levy, has received initial approval for a sports betting license; the operator could be Maryland’s first online operator to launch in 2024.
Maryland’s casino industry boomed in May 2024, with six casinos generating $173.2 million, a 2.2% increase from May 2023.
Budget negotiations by Maryland lawmakers conclude, leaving out online casinos. Now, a referendum may wait until 2027 at the earliest. Maryland’s online casino bill faces an uncertain future as Senate opts out. Supporters will have to wait until 2026 for another chance. Maryland legislators approve a bill to renovate Pimlico Race Course and transition its ownership to the state. Gov. Wes Moore is expected to sign it into law.
Maryland lawmakers propose a bill (HB 1087) that seeks to ban betting on college campuses in the state.
Senator Ron Watson announces he will file an online casino bill in Maryland’s upcoming legislative session.
Best Offshore Sportsbook Apps Maryland (2025)
BetOnline - Where Sharp Bettors Feel Right at Home
BetOnline is known for sharp lines, competitive odds, and wide betting coverage. From major leagues to niche matchups, it consistently delivers reliable pricing. Parlay and teaser payouts are among the best in the business. Plus, the platform loads fast and runs clean across all devices.
Responsive customer service and VIP-style treatment help BetOnline stand out as a long-trusted offshore sportsbook.
- Opinionated lines on major sports
- Broad range of bonus offers
- Faster than most sportsbook apps
JustBet
- Excellent rewards program
- Impressive depth of betting markets
Bovada - Fast, Fun, and Built for Mobile Bettors
Bovada is one of the most reliable offshore sportsbooks, earning its reputation through strong customer service and consistent payouts for over a decade. Plus, it keeps things sharp with fast crypto payouts, slick mobile navigation, and betting lines you won’t find anywhere else. From politics to reality TV, it’s the go-to for more than just game-day action.
If you want speed, variety, and a book that’s been doing it right for years, Bovada delivers.
- An intuitive, user-friendly mobile interface
- Unique props on sports and entertainment markets
- Mobile site performs as well as apps
Heritage Sports - Built for Smart, Long-term Bettors
Heritage Sports has a reputation as a dependable pick for value-focused bettors. With -108 odds, no messy rollover rules, simple betting with no strings, and nice little perks like birthday parlays and cashback, your money goes further on this offshore sportsbook. It’s the kind of place loyal players stick with because it works.
If you’re tired of chasing bonuses that aren’t worth the hassle, Heritage offers a smarter way to bet.
- Competitive bonuses and perks
- Comprehensive live betting options
- Quarterly cash back for 149+ sports bets
BookMaker - Trusted by Pros and Casual Bettors Alike
BookMaker built its reputation on high betting limits and early line releases, making it a favorite among serious players. Professional bettors rely on its early lines and sharp odds, while casual players appreciate the straightforward interface and wide market selection. This offshore sportsbook treats all action with respect, and backs it up with a loyalty program that rewards consistency.
With no-nonsense navigation and decades of experience, BookMaker remains one of the most dependable names in the business.
- High betting limits
- Renowned sports betting loyalty program
- Competes with the best sportsbook apps
BetAnything - Perfect for Value Savers with Reduced Juice
BetAnything is an offshore sportsbook that keeps it simple and sharp. If you’re all about stretching your bankroll, this site makes it easy. The site offers reduced juice lines at -105, so you’re saving a little more every time you bet. And thanks to its “Less Juice Package,” smart bettors save from day one. Plus, you’ll find action on everything from college games to global matchups.
BetAnything offers consistent savings and reliable payouts. No clutter. No gimmicks.
- Best reduced juice sports lines at -105
- Quick and reliable payouts
- Works like the best sports betting apps
MyBookie - Great for First-timers and Regulars Alike
MyBookie is built for convenience and versatility with a quick-loading platform, deep market selection, and nonstop promos. From major leagues to politics and entertainment, this site covers a wide range of options while keeping the interface clean and beginner friendly. It’s a great option whether you’re just getting started or betting every week.
And with regular promotions and a strong welcome bonus, MyBookie is a solid offshore sportsbook for bettors at any experience level.
- Robust live betting platform
- Depth of sports markets
- Outperforms many traditional sportsbook apps
Welcome to your 2025 guide to sports betting in Maryland, where legal wagering is now live, and players have more options than ever to enjoy their favorite sports. After residents approved a 2020 referendum and lawmakers passed enabling legislation, the state opened its first retail sportsbooks in December 2021. Then, on November 23, 2022, mobile and online sports betting officially launched, bringing licensed, regulated sportsbooks into the palms of Marylanders’ hands.
Today, Maryland bettors can choose among a growing lineup of licensed apps and retail venues. Whether you like to place a quick bet from your phone or visit a casino sportsbook in person, the options are extensive, legal, and built with modern convenience in mind.
This guide serves as your go‑to resource: we’ll break down what’s legal, who can bet, what kinds of platforms are available, and how to pick the right sportsbook for your style. Let’s get started.
Maryland Online Betting At-a-glance
- Legal and live: Sports betting in Maryland is fully legal. You can place wagers via licensed retail sportsbooks or online/mobile apps.
- Retail launched in December 2021: The first brick‑and‑mortar sportsbooks opened that month.
- Online/mobile betting live since November 23, 2022: That’s when Marylanders gained the ability to wager on sports from anywhere inside state lines.
- Minimum betting age is 21: Only adults 21 or older can legally bet in Maryland.
- Many sportsbook choices: As of 2025, there are a dozen online sportsbooks operating in Maryland.
- Regulated and licensed: The Maryland Lottery & Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) oversees licensing and regulation of all sportsbooks in the state.
- Wide variety of betting options: Bettors in Maryland have access to major pro leagues, college sports, in‑game/live betting, and likely live‑horse‑racing and other pari‑mutuel offerings (where licensed) under the state sports‑betting regime.
- 2025 handle record: For the full fiscal year 2025 (July 2024–June 2025), bettors wagered over $6.2 billion across retail and online platforms (up significantly compared with the prior fiscal year).
- Online/mobile wagering dominates: in recent months, mobile handle has consistently accounted for the large majority of the total handle (e.g. in October 2025, mobile handle was ~ $723.3 million vs much smaller retail handle).
- Sports betting proceeds contributed significantly to state programs: in 2025, all gaming sources delivered a combined $1.589 billion to public-purpose funds, with sports wagering as a meaningful portion of that.
International Sports Betting: a Legal Grey Area
While sports betting is fully legal in Maryland, some bettors still place wagers with international (offshore) sportsbooks. That raises important legal and practical questions. Regulated sportsbooks are authorized by state laws and offer a structured betting environment. In contrast, offshore sportsbooks operate internationally, providing diverse payment methods and odds but lack state oversight and consumer protections. Because not all betting markets—props, entertainment odds, international matches, or niche events—are always offered by domestic apps, many Maryland bettors continue to use international sportsbooks for a broader selection, different odds, or crypto‑friendly payment methods.
| Aspect | Sportsbooks | Regulated Sportsbooks |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Status | Operate internationally, not regulated by Maryland | Regulated by state authorities |
| Market Accessibility | Wide variety of global markets | Focused on U.S. markets |
| Betting Limits | Varies, often higher | State-regulated limits |
The Rise of Betting Apps
With the legalization of sports wagering, betting has moved off the casino floor — and right into your pocket. Since Maryland Lottery & Gaming Control Agency approved mobile sportsbooks, digital and mobile apps have become the preferred way for fans to place wagers across the state.
What makes these apps so popular? For one: unmatched convenience. Instead of driving to a casino or sportsbook, bettors can open an app, make a deposit, and place bets from literally anywhere in the state. This flexibility has transformed sports betting into a seamless, everyday activity for many fans.
- Convenience: Place bets anytime, anywhere with just your smartphone.
- Security/Privacy: Advanced encryption to keep your data safe.
- Exclusivity of App Features: Enjoy app-specific offers and custom promos.
- User Experience: Clean, intuitive interface even supporting multiple languages.
Beyond convenience, apps bring feature-rich, modern experiences: live betting, odds updates, real‑time stats, easy bet tracking, and quick payouts. For users, that means less friction and more control. And for the market, it’s driven rapid growth and engagement.
- Push Notifications: Stay updated with real-time alerts.
- Line Alerts: Never miss a favorable bet shift.
- Live Streaming: Catch the action live within the app.
Mobile and browser‑based sportsbooks have reshaped how Marylanders bet, turning sports wagering into a user‑friendly, always‑on part of game day (and beyond).
But First, About Bookmakers Review
At Bookmakers Review, our mission is simple: give bettors honest, data‑driven guidance so you can navigate sportsbook options with confidence. We’re not a marketing arm. We’re a team of seasoned industry professionals—oddsmakers, analysts, compliance experts, and long‑time bettors—who started publishing reviews in 2003 and have grown with the changing world of sports wagering.
Think of Bookmakers Review as your trusted betting‑industry navigator: no hype, no hidden agendas, just the facts. That way you can make informed, safer decisions.
Our editorially independent and impartial review practices set us apart. We’re committed to advocating for players’ best interests, ensuring you avoid pitfalls like misleading bonuses or unreliable payouts. It’s this dedication to players, combined with a player-first advocacy mentality, that builds trust in our recommendations.
The Top Maryland Sportsbooks of 2025
As Maryland’s sports‑betting scene continues to expand, a few sportsbooks stand out for bettors looking for reliability, odds, and variety. Here are five that consistently perform well for Maryland users:
Let’s dive deeper into what makes these sportsbooks the best Maryland sportsbooks for 2025:
- BetOnline: A veteran offshore sportsbook that consistently delivers sharp pricing, broad sport/market coverage, and dependable performance. Good for bettors who want breadth and reliability.
- Heritage Sports: Known for simpler odds lines (less “juice”), straightforward terms (no overly complicated rollover), and a no‑frills experience. It’s ideal if you prefer transparency and fair odds over flashy promos.
- Everygame: With decades in the industry, EveryGame offers strong live betting interfaces, good market depth (including international/niche sports), and a track record trusted by many offshore bettors.
- BetAnthing: Its “less‑juice” lines (e.g. -105) provide better value over time, helping maximize ROI and stretch your betting bankroll. Good for bettors focused on long-term value.
- BookMaker: Offers high betting limits, early lines, wide market coverage. BookMaker is great for those who wager larger amounts or want early access to odds.
How We Rank Maryland Sportsbooks
At Bookmakers Review, we don’t pick “top sportsbooks” based on hype, flashy marketing, or shallow metrics. Instead, we rely on a consistent, rigorous methodology—grounded in real‑world performance, user feedback, and data—to evaluate each sportsbook.
A rating isn’t static. It’s a living document. We continuously monitor books for changes in policy, new dispute patterns, and shifts in their treatment of players, ensuring our ratings reflect the current reality. We use five critical factors that other review sites conveniently ignore or downplay. These pillars separate legitimate operators from devastating experiences, forming the BMR Standard.
Why does this methodology matter?
- No single factor dominates: A sportsbook with great bonuses but terrible payouts doesn’t rank high. Every pillar must meet a reasonable standard.
- Dynamic, not static: Ratings can rise or fall based on performance, so what’s “top” today may change tomorrow if issues surface.
- Transparent & accountable: We don’t hide affiliate relationships or overlook complaints. Our methods and criteria are published publicly so readers know exactly how we judge.
After all, our goal is to help you make informed decisions with confidence.
Key Features to Look for in Maryland Betting Apps
When evaluating the best Maryland betting apps, it’s crucial to look for certain key features that ensure a smooth and secure betting experience. Here are the critical features you should prioritize:
- User-friendly interface: An intuitive interface enhances the overall experience and makes navigation easier for users.
- Reliability: Choose apps with a proven track record and high ratings.
- Market variety: The best online sportsbook Maryland offers should cover a wide range of sports and events.
- Bonus offers: Look for generous promotions and clear terms.
- Robust security measures: Ensure the platform uses SSL encryption and other protective technologies.
- Secure banking options: Consider platforms with fast payout methods across multiple, secure banking options.
Making an informed decision is vital, and that’s where consulting trustworthy resources like Bookmakers Review becomes essential. Our unbiased reviews aim to guide you toward the safest Maryland betting sites and provide resources for evaluating legitimate platforms.
Popular Betting Markets
Maryland is home to a passionate mix of pro and college sports fans — especially around Baltimore Ravens (NFL) and Baltimore Orioles (MLB), two of the state’s major‑league favorites. Football consistently tops the list, but baseball remains a close second thanks to a long tradition at Camden Yards. Beyond that, college‑level sports enjoy strong followings, reflecting the state’s deep college‑sports culture. Soccer, lacrosse, golf, and various alternative sports also have a solid fan base, showing that Maryland’s sporting interests remain broad and diverse.
Maryland Teams
Maryland sports fans rally behind some of the most recognizable teams in both the professional and college ranks. The Baltimore Ravens (NFL) and Baltimore Orioles (MLB) dominate the pro landscape, drawing statewide support each season. In college sports, the Maryland Terrapins—especially in football, basketball, and lacrosse—are a major point of pride, with their lacrosse programs often ranked among the nation’s best.
The state also has strong followings for nearby D.C.-area teams, including the Washington Capitals (NHL) and Washington Wizards (NBA), making Maryland a vibrant hub for both pro and collegiate athletics.
Major Maryland Sporting Events
Maryland plays host to a wide variety of major sporting events that draw fans from across the country and around the world. One of the most iconic is Preakness Stakes (the second jewel of horse‑racing’s Triple Crown) held every May at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. Beyond horse racing, the state also hosts:
- Maryland Cycling Classic: a high‑level UCI ProSeries race
- Games at &T Bank Stadium and Oriole Park at Camden Yards
- Navy vs. Army football game: A historic matchup that draws significant engagement from bettors.
- Baltimore Running Festival: A unique event that attracts both runners and bettors alike.
Together, these events make Maryland a hub for sports fans of many interests and contribute to a vibrant sporting calendar year‑round.
Online Betting Tips for Maryland Residents
Engaging in Maryland’s offshore sports betting scene requires strategic insights for success. If you’re thinking about placing wagers with offshore sportsbooks while living in Maryland, it’s worth understanding the practical, legal, and risk‑management aspects before you dive in. Here’s what you need to know:
- Shopping Lines: Get the best value by comparing odds across different sportsbooks.
- Bet with Your Head, Not Your Heart: Make decisions based on data, not favoritism.
- Look for Value Bets: Identify opportunities where the odds might not reflect true probabilities.
- Fade the Public: Bet against the general public consensus to exploit market inefficiencies.
- Employ Underdog Strategies: Take calculated risks on underdogs where statistical trends support this choice.
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1
Pick Your Sportsbook
Choose an offshore sportsbook available in your area, like the books listed above. Register by clicking “Join” and fill out the form with your name, email address, and phone number. -
2
Claim a Bonus
Select from available promotions for new bettors. Keep in mind that many mobile betting apps offer larger bonuses for bettors using crypto. -
3
Deposit Funds
Decide between depositing with credit cards, wire transfers, or crypto. Send and confirm your initial deposit. -
4
Place a Bet
Pick your sport and add bets to your slip. Enter your stake, then start wagering.
Starting an Account with a New Sportsbook
Here’s a straightforward guide to sign up with Maryland-recommended sportsbooks. Follow these steps for a smooth start.
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1
Pick Your Sportsbook
Choose an offshore sportsbook available in your area, like the books listed above. Register by clicking “Join” and fill out the form with your name, email address, and phone number. -
2
Claim a Bonus
Select from available promotions for new bettors. Keep in mind that many mobile betting apps offer larger bonuses for bettors using crypto. -
3
Deposit Funds
Decide between depositing with credit cards, wire transfers, or crypto. Send and confirm your initial deposit. -
4
Place a Bet
Pick your sport and add bets to your slip. Enter your stake, then start wagering.
Responsible Gambling in Maryland
The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) takes responsible gambling seriously. Under its guidelines, all licensed sportsbooks and gaming venues must follow strict rules and offer support to help bettors stay in control. Here’s what you can do as a bettor to stay in control and having fun:
- Treat betting as entertainment, not income. Gambling should be viewed as a form of entertainment. Before placing bets, set aside only what you can afford to lose.
- Use betting limits and self‑control tools. Many sportsbooks and the MLGCA encourage users to set deposit, wager, or loss limits to avoid chasing losses.
- Stay informed and self‑aware. Recognize signs of problematic gambling like chasing losses, betting beyond budget, or feeling compelled to bet. If gambling stops being fun, take a break or seek help.
- Leverage support when needed. If you start feeling gambling may be a problem, call 1‑800‑GAMBLER or reach out to MARG for confidential advice or self‑exclusion options.=
Help is available 24/7. If gambling becomes a problem, Maryland residents can call the Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling (MARG) hotline at 1‑800‑GAMBLER. The helpline connects callers with counselors, peer‑support specialists, and free treatment or support options, regardless of insurance or income.
Taxes on Online Winnings
When it comes to online gambling winnings in Maryland, it’s crucial to understand the tax obligations both at the federal and state levels to avoid penalties. Federal tax requirements dictate that all gambling wins must be reported as income, regardless of the amount. Maryland also imposes its own income tax rules on these winnings, including those from cryptocurrency. Understanding these responsibilities is vital to avoid unexpected fines or issues with the IRS.
- Calculate your total winnings, which includes all forms of online betting income, whether from regulated or unregulated platforms.
- Keep detailed records of your gambling activity, including wins and losses, as these will be crucial for accurate reporting and tax filing.
- Use IRS Form W-2G if you meet specific thresholds, such as $600 for bingo or slot games, or $5,000 for poker tournaments.
- Report all winnings as income on your federal tax return using Form 1040 Schedule 1.
- If you’ve engaged in cryptocurrency gambling, pay attention to the fluctuating value of these assets and report any gains. Follow the IRS guidelines for reporting crypto transactions.
- File your Maryland state taxes, ensuring to include all gambling winnings as per state requirements, and consider any applicable deductions for gambling losses.
Key Takeaways for Maryland Sports Betting in 2025
Maryland’s sports betting landscape has evolved rapidly — from retail wagering at casinos to a fully operational online market for licensed apps and offshore-friendly sportsbooks. As of 2025, residents have more options, better odds, and a richer variety of betting markets than ever before. Whether you’re placing a casual moneyline bet or diving into props, parlays, or futures, the state’s gambling environment offers flexibility, convenience, and competitive value.
If you’re looking for a reliable, time‑tested sportsbook that checks all the boxes—odds, payout speed, usability, and market breadth—BetOnline stands out. With sharp lines, a wide selection of leagues and bet types, and a smooth user experience across devices, BetOnline has earned its reputation as a trustworthy option for Maryland bettors. It remains a top pick for both newcomers and experienced players alike.
Ready to get started? Consider opening an account with BetOnline today. It typically takes just a few minutes to sign up. Then claim your welcome bonus, deposit funds, and start betting on your favorite teams or matchups. With the right approach and a trusted sportsbook, you’ve got everything you need to dive into Maryland’s sports betting scene.
Ultimately, we recommend maintaining a cautious approach to betting by engaging only with trusted platforms and claiming bonuses responsibly to enhance your betting experience.
Sports Betting FAQs
When looking to engage with sports betting in Maryland, many bettors have common questions about where to bet, how to wager responsibly, and what legal considerations exist. Below, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you navigate the Maryland sports betting landscape.
Maryland Sports Betting News
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