Sports Betting in Kentucky 2025

Is Sports Betting Legal In Kentucky?

HB 551, passed in March 2023, officially brought legal sports betting to Kentucky. The new law became effective on June 28, 2023, paving the way for statewide wagering on professional and collegiate sports.

Kentucky’s launch of legal sports betting marked a major milestone for the Bluegrass State, providing safe and regulated access to multiple licensed sportsbooks. With a mobile-first approach, strong operator competition, and full legal protections for players, Kentucky bettors can now place wagers confidently from anywhere within state borders. At the same time, offshore sportsbooks continue to appeal to some users by offering crypto payments, fewer betting restrictions, and expanded international markets — giving Kentuckians even more freedom and flexibility when choosing how to bet.

Anyone 18 or older and located inside Kentucky can legally wager through both retail sportsbooks and approved online USA betting apps. Most major platforms feature odds on pro sports and college athletics, although wagering on certain in-state college prop markets may still be restricted.

Whether you prefer sticking with local licensed sportsbooks or exploring additional options offshore, Kentucky now offers a dynamic, competitive market for sports bettors — and it continues to grow. You can also explore how Kentucky compares with other states by reviewing the legal sports betting landscape across the USA.

Top 5 Kentucky Betting Sites

Kentucky has fully legalized and launched sports betting, with multiple licensed operators now live across the state. Retail sportsbooks and online USA betting apps are fully operational, giving Kentuckians a convenient and secure way to wager from anywhere within state borders. Major brands such as DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM help drive a strong and competitive local market.

Even with these regulated options available, some bettors still choose to explore offshore sportsbooks for additional benefits like crypto payments, higher limits, and wider international betting markets. If you’re interested in supplementing your local sportsbook experience, these trusted offshore options remain accessible to players in Kentucky. Below are our recommended offshore sportsbooks serving the state:

Bovada

Bovada is one of the most popular offshore sportsbooks available to players in Kentucky. Known for its strong reputation across the USA, Bovada offers a wide selection of sports betting markets including football, basketball, baseball, esports, table tennis, and global events you won’t always find on regulated apps.

The platform is built with ease of use in mind — from a clean interface to smooth navigation on both desktop and mobile browsers. Bettors will also appreciate Bovada’s competitive odds, deep prop markets, live betting features, and additional entertainment wagering options.

While Kentucky now provides access to regulated online sportsbooks, some players still choose Bovada for crypto-friendly banking, flexible limits, and a broader menu of international betting lines. For those exploring trusted offshore alternatives, Bovada remains a top choice.

Bovada’s current welcome bonus: 50% up to $250 (5x rollover) using promo code BVD250.

Bonus:

50% up to $250

Bet now

BetOnline

BetOnline is a well-established offshore sportsbook that continues to attract Kentucky players with its deep betting markets, regular rotating promotions, and strong reputation across the USA. The platform features a user-friendly design optimized for both desktop and mobile browsers, making it easy to place wagers on major U.S. sports, international leagues, esports, props, parlays, and more.

One of BetOnline’s standout advantages is its crypto-friendly banking. Bettors can deposit using popular cryptocurrencies for faster processing, lower fees, and added flexibility compared to many regulated betting apps in Kentucky. Whether you’re an experienced bettor or just getting started, the platform focuses on secure transactions and smooth navigation to help deliver a seamless wagering experience.

Kentucky now has multiple licensed operators live, but BetOnline remains a strong offshore alternative thanks to its large promo calendar, wide market selection, and additional crypto support not currently available on regulated platforms.

BetOnline’s current welcome bonus: 50% up to $250 (Promo Code: FREE250 – minimum deposit $50).

Bonus:

50% up to $250

Bet now

BetUS

BetUS is a popular offshore sportsbook serving players in Kentucky and across the USA, offering a wide range of betting markets including football, basketball, baseball, esports, horse racing, and major international competitions. The platform is built for ease of use, with smooth navigation and a mobile-optimized interface that allows bettors to place wagers quickly and confidently from any device.

While regulated USA sportsbooks are live in Kentucky, BetUS remains an appealing offshore alternative thanks to its broader betting menu, crypto-friendly deposits, and frequent promotional offers. Bettors who enjoy higher limits and specialty markets often find BetUS a valuable complement to their local betting apps.

BetUS is currently offering a 125% Sign-Up Bonus worth up to $3,125 with promocode JOIN125. This is split across sportsbook and casino:
• 100% Sports Bonus up to $2,500 (14x rollover)
• 25% Casino Bonus up to $625 (30x rollover)

Bonus:

225% up to $3,125

Bet now

MyBookie

MyBookie is a trusted offshore sportsbook that remains a popular option for Kentucky players who want additional betting flexibility beyond regulated USA platforms. Known for its clean design, responsive mobile site, and fast navigation, MyBookie makes it easy for bettors to browse markets, place wagers, and track action in real time.

The sportsbook offers competitive odds across major U.S. leagues like the NFL, NBA, and MLB, as well as soccer, MMA, esports, and international events. MyBookie also features fun extras — from props and parlays to live betting — giving Kentucky sports fans plenty of ways to stay engaged throughout the season.

While MyBookie is not regulated in Kentucky, many bettors continue to use it for crypto-friendly deposits, a broader set of global markets, and promotional variety that differs from what licensed USA sportsbooks currently provide in the state.

MyBookie Welcome Bonus (Crypto):
• 100% match up to $1,000
• Promo Code: CRYPTO100
• 10x rollover

Bonus:

100% up to $1,000

Bet now

XBet

XBet is another offshore sportsbook option for Kentucky players who enjoy a clean, mobile-optimized betting experience. There’s no need to download an app — the site automatically adapts to smartphones and tablets, making it easy to place bets on the go.

The platform offers betting markets across major U.S. sports, international leagues, live betting, and a solid racebook for horse racing fans. With straightforward navigation and crypto-friendly payments available, XBet appeals to bettors looking for simplicity and reliable wagering options outside Kentucky’s state-regulated apps.

XBet Welcome Bonus:
• 50% up to $200
• Promo Code: XBWELCOME50
• 10x playthrough

Bonus:

50% up to $200

Bet now

Legal Sportsbooks in Kentucky

Sports betting became legal in Kentucky in 2023, and the state has already rolled out both retail and online options. Unlike restrictive systems seen elsewhere, Kentucky allows multiple licensed operators to offer full mobile access statewide. Bettors can register, deposit, and wager entirely online—no need to visit a physical sportsbook. With competitive platforms now live and a mobile-first approach from the start, Kentucky offers a straightforward and accessible way to bet legally.

Kentucky Quick Facts

Here’s a quick overview of everything you need to know about sports betting in Kentucky. Legal since 2023, the state allows both retail and mobile wagering through multiple licensed operators. Mobile betting is fully accessible across the state, so there’s no need to visit a casino or betting venue to place a wager. With competitive apps, full online access, and a user-friendly rollout, Kentucky offers a modern and convenient betting experience for both residents and visitors.

Kentucky’s Betting Landscape – New, Legal, and Quickly Expanding

Kentucky officially legalized sports betting in 2023, and the state has already taken big steps to build out both retail and mobile wagering options. Unlike states with restrictive or state-run models, Kentucky welcomed multiple private sportsbook operators to create a competitive, accessible marketplace. Mobile betting is available statewide, meaning users can place bets from anywhere without needing to step foot in a physical casino. It’s a promising start for the Bluegrass State—but as with any new market, there are still areas where offshore sportsbooks stand out.

Kentucky now features a full lineup of licensed sportsbooks, including Bet365, BetMGM, FanDuel, BetRivers, DraftKings, Caesars, ESPN BET, and Circa Sports.

Why Some Kentucky Bettors Still Explore Offshore Sportsbooks

Even with a regulated and legal market in place, some bettors in Kentucky are looking beyond state lines for additional options. Offshore sportsbooks continue to attract users with their wider selection of betting markets, flexible payment methods, and fewer restrictions on what—and how—you can wager. For experienced bettors, offshore sites can offer features that legal Kentucky apps haven’t yet adopted.

Where Offshore Sportsbooks Still Have the Edge

Here’s why some Kentucky players are sticking with or supplementing their play on offshore sites:

• Full Mobile Freedom – Offshore platforms don’t require geolocation checks or state-based access limitations.
• Bet on More – Politics, entertainment, global markets, and esports are widely available offshore, while legal Kentucky apps may restrict them.
• Crypto Compatibility – Many offshore books support Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies for fast, secure transactions.
• High Betting Limits – Offshore platforms often cater to high-stakes users without tight caps.
• No Red Tape – Quick sign-up, no app download required, and no ID scans or long wait times to start betting.

What to Know About Betting Legally in Kentucky

Kentucky’s legal system is efficient and modern, but it still comes with regulatory controls:

• Minimum Age: 18 years old for both retail and online betting
• Location Requirement: You must be physically located in Kentucky to place mobile wagers
• Allowed Sports: Includes pro and college sports, though certain prop bets may be restricted
• Crypto Use: Not supported on licensed Kentucky sportsbooks
• Identity Verification: Required for legal betting accounts
• The Takeaway: Kentucky’s Off to a Strong Start, But Offshore Still Has a Place

Kentucky Sports Betting – Recent Updates

• October 19, 2025 — Kentucky recorded another milestone month for sports wagering as NFL and college football betting surged. Regulators say the state remains on track to exceed $2.5 billion in annual handle for the first time since launch.
• October 2, 2025 – Kentucky regulators reported that September sports betting handle surpassed $225 million, setting a new monthly record for the state. Online betting continues to dominate, accounting for over 90% of total wagers, with football driving most of the action.
• August 13, 2025 – No recent changes. Sports betting remains legal and operational under existing frameworks, with nothing new filed or advanced during this interim.
• July 21, 2025 – Sports betting is fully legal and thriving in Kentucky. Circa Sports opened a flagship retail sportsbook at Kentucky Downs in late July, and Prime Sportsbook launched online on July 28 as the state’s ninth licensed operator. Kentucky continues to see strong growth—May’s betting handle reached over $209 million, with gross revenue topping $26 million, marking double-digit year-over-year gains.
• June 17, 2025 – Lawsuits targeting prediction market operator Kalshi and trading platforms Robinhood, Susquehanna, and Webull have emerged across the U.S., with cases filed in five states including Kentucky, Ohio, Massachusetts, Illinois, and South Carolina.

Four Reasons to Bet on These Kentucky Online Betting Sites

These offshore sportsbooks are great options for bettors in Kentucky. While several regulated sportsbooks are legally operating in the state, many bettors prefer to place their wagers with offshore sportsbooks. There are plenty offshore sportsbooks and it can be stressful trying to work out which is the best one to go with. To make things easier with you, our site profiles several of the finest offshore sportsbooks on the market in 2025.

Available to Kentucky Bettors

We do our due diligence and make sure that these top Kentucky sportsbooks are available to bettors in the state. With these sportsbooks, you can gamble online in Kentucky without a problem.

Great Promotions

Great sportsbooks will have rotating promotions. In addition to a juicy welcome bonus, we also like to see promotions that correspond to the biggest sporting events of the year. Keep an eye out, especially for March Madness betting.

High-Quality Customer Service

We want customer service representatives to be available, friendly, and helpful. Basically, we want them to be able to solve our problems with a smile. The most common ways to contact the customer support team are:

• Live chat
• Email
• Phone number
• FAQs

Racebook Quality

Being the home of the world’s most important horse race, we make sure that these sportsbooks offer great Kentucky Derby bets. A great racebook will have odds up early, have specials for big races, and hopefully a weekly racebook rebate as well.

Casinos in Kentucky

Online casino gambling remains prohibited in Kentucky as of 2025. Licensed operators in the state are only permitted to offer sports betting — not online slots, table games, or live-dealer casino products. Because neither commercial nor tribal casinos are allowed under Kentucky law, the state does not feature traditional casinos with card tables or staffed gaming floors.

However, Kentuckians still have a few local options for casino-style gaming. The state’s racetracks and satellite facilities can legally operate HHR (Historical Horse Racing) machines, which play similarly to digital slot machines and have become popular alternatives to standard casino gaming. Well-known venues offering these experiences include:

• Red Mile Gaming & Racing in Lexington
• Churchill Downs in Louisville
• Kentucky Downs in Franklin
• Several additional track-owned gaming properties across the state

For those who want a more expansive casino experience — including online poker, slots, and table games — many players continue to use reputable offshore casinos that accept Kentucky residents.

While sports betting is thriving in Kentucky, full casino legalization remains a topic to watch in the coming years.

Kentucky Sports Betting Timeline

After years of legislative efforts and stalled bills, Kentucky officially entered the legal sports betting era and has quickly built a competitive market. The state’s nine horse racing tracks were granted licenses to operate retail sportsbooks, and each is permitted up to three online “skins,” creating the potential for as many as 27 online sportsbooks across Kentucky. With mobile wagering fully live statewide, licensed apps now give residents a convenient way to place bets from anywhere within state borders.

Below is a year-by-year look at how sports betting developed into a major gaming industry in Kentucky:

2025

Kentucky’s sports betting market continued its strong growth trajectory. New operators expanded the lineup of licensed platforms, with Circa Sports and ESPN BET helping fuel additional competition. Football season again drove record participation — September’s handle topped $225 million, with more than 90% wagered online. Regulators also explored future opportunities, including potential expansion of esports markets and digital wagering features.

2024

Full-year results confirmed Kentucky’s rapid rise as a sports betting state. The market surpassed $1 billion in total handle within its first 12 months, driven by NFL wagering and the state’s passionate base of college basketball bettors. With major brands like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, and Bet365 all live, the state embraced wide mobile access and competitive bonuses that boosted customer engagement.

2023

On March 31st, House Bill 551 won in the state’s Senate with a 25-12 vote. Governor Andy Beshear signed the bill into law on March 31, setting the stage for a robust market that saw DraftKings and FanDuel among the operators launching platforms. By October, Kentucky reported nearly $250 million in handle, indicating a strong start for the newly legalized sports betting sector.

2022

2022 marks the fourth consecutive year that representative Adam Koenig introduced a sports betting bill in Kentucky. As usual, the bill had no problem in Koenig’s committee. This year, there was no in-person registration requirement included in the bill.

This marks the first year that the bill cleared one of the two chambers. It has not cleared the Senate, however.

2021

In January, Governor Andy Beshear expressed his support for the legalization of sports betting in his speech “First Year Reflections.” Shortly thereafter, three bills were submitted in the KY House of Representatives. However, none of them make it out of committee.

2020

In his annual State of the Commonwealth address, Governor Andy Beshear announced his full support for Representative Adam Koening’s bill to legalize sports betting in KY,.

The very next day, Koening passed H137 through his committee. Despite support from the Senate Majority Leader and the Governor, the bill did not even pass the House.

2019

Koening’s bill was the favorite among the four bills to legalize sports betting. It also passed a committee vote successfully. This bill would have legalized sports betting, fantasy sports, and online poker.  Because this was a non-budget year, all bills needed 60% of the votes, and this did not happen in 2019.

2018

Just a month after the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, KY launched a panel to study the potential impact of sports betting in the state.

2017

Senator Julian Carroll submitted a sports betting bill which would have allowed for the regulation and oversight of a sports gambling industry.

Trent Reinsmith

Trent is a professional sports journalist specializing in UFC, MMA, and esports coverage. His work has been featured in prestigious publications such as USA Today Sports, Vice, Bloody Elbow, Fight! Magazine, UFC 360, and Narratively. Trent's connection to MMA dates back to the early days when he and his friends pooled their resources to purchase the pay-per-...

Read More About the Author