Sports Betting in Kentucky 2025

Is Sports Betting Legal In Kentucky?

HB 551, passed in March 2023, has opened up the opportunity to legally place bets from anywhere in Kentucky. The new law became effective on June 28th, 2023.

Kentucky’s launch of legal sports betting is a major step forward, giving players legitimate access to a variety of licensed sportsbooks. The mobile-first rollout, range of operators, and full legal protection make it a solid option for most bettors. Still, for those who want access to crypto, fewer limits, or betting on global events, offshore sportsbooks remain a compelling complement. Whether you stick with local apps or explore beyond, Kentucky now gives you the freedom to choose.

Once the market goes live, you’ll be able to wager on professional leagues and collegiate sports. School events, however, will remain forbidden. If you’re at least 18 years old and within state borders, you will have access to both retail betting locations and online US sportsbooks.

While you wait for the official launch of sportsbooks in Kentucky, you can keep betting on your favorite sports with the best offshore bookmakers. Check them out and read on to get the latest news on Kentucky gambling. You can also check out the legal sports betting situation across the United States.

Top 5 Kentucky Betting Sites

Although Kentucky has successfully legalized sports betting, there is still uncertainty as to when sportsbooks will become operational. We also still don’t know exactly which sportsbooks will be granted licenses from the Bluegrass state.

That’s why, no matter what happens with the legalization of sports betting in Kentucky, we recommend using these great sportsbooks that are licensed offshore. They avoid the tax burden of local sportsbooks and are therefore able to offer much better deals. Here are our top 5 Kentucky sportsbooks:

Bovada

Bovada is the king of sportsbooks. They are the most used sportsbook in Kentucky, and this is likely because of their great sports betting markets and hot odds.

Bovada provides the best sport-focused betting lines in Kentucky

Bovada provides a wide variety of sports betting lines. If you’re living in Kentucky and prefer to bet on sports, you can rely on Bovada for providing the best and most accurate betting lines in the industry. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newbie, Bovada offers a great betting experience for all kinds of sports fanatics. Plus, their seamless user interface and user-friendly platform make it easy for you to place your bets and up your chances of winning big. So, if you’re looking for a trusted platform for sports betting, Bovada is worth checking out.

Bovada is the name in sports betting in Kentucky

It cannot be stated enough how much sports betting has exploded in popularity in recent years, and a key player in the game is Bovada. Specifically, Bovada is the go-to source for sports betting for those living in Kentucky state. They offer many options, from traditional sports such as football and basketball to niche favorites like eSports and table tennis. And with their easy-to-use interface and trusted reputation, it’s no wonder that Bovada is the name in sports betting for Kentuckians.

Bonus:

50% up to $250

Bet now

BetOnline

BetOnliner has an enormous amount of rotating promotions. You can really have a great time all year round as they are always coming up with something new.

BetOnline boasts a complete range of crypto deposit methods to players in Kentucky

BetOnline offers a comprehensive range of crypto deposit options to players in Kentucky. This means that players can use various cryptocurrencies to make deposits into their BetOnline accounts, providing more convenience and flexibility than traditional payment methods. With a focus on security and ease of use, BetOnline ensures that every transaction is safe and seamless, allowing players to enjoy their favorite games and place bets on their preferred sports teams with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just getting started, BetOnline has everything you need to have a great gaming experience.

BetOnline is the leading mobile betting platform in Kentucky

BetOnline is a top-rated mobile betting platform that has been making waves in the state of Kentucky. With its user-friendly interface and a vast selection of betting options, it is no wonder why BetOnline is considered the leader in mobile betting. Its state of the art technology allows users to place bets easily and securely through their mobile devices from anywhere, at any time. Whether you are a seasoned bettor or a newbie, BetOnline provides a seamless betting experience that ensures maximum excitement and satisfaction. So, it’s no surprise that BetOnline has become the go-to platform for all sports enthusiasts in Kentucky and beyond.

Bonus:

50% up to $250

Bet now

BetUS

BetUS has a huge welcome bonus. They will give you a 125% match on your initial deposit, worth up to $2,500.

BetUS provides a great range of betting options in Kentucky

BetUS offers a vast range of betting options for sports enthusiasts in Kentucky. Whether you are a fan of football, basketball, baseball, or any other sport, BetUS has got you covered with its wide range of betting options. With an easy-to-use website and a user-friendly interface, BetUS makes online betting a breeze for Kentucky residents. So if you are looking to place bets on your favorite team or player, BetUS is the perfect platform.

BetUS has excellent mobile betting in Kentucky

BetUS has top-notch mobile betting services to its customers in Kentucky state. With its user-friendly and intuitive mobile platform, BetUS allows users to place their bets quickly and easily from anywhere, at any time. The platform is optimized for mobile devices, ensuring a smooth and seamless betting experience. BetUS also offers a wide range of betting options and markets, from popular sports such as football, basketball, and baseball, to more niche options such as esports and horse racing. With its excellent mobile betting services, BetUS is a top choice for sports bettors in Kentucky.

Bonus:

125% Sports Bonus - up to $2,000

Bet now

MyBookie

MyBookie really stands out for being easy to use. Their customer service and website design are truly top-notch!

MyBookie ensures it’s promotions are up-to-date in Kentucky

MyBookie makes sure to keep all of its promotions up-to-date and compliant with Kentucky state regulations. This is a key aspect of maintaining a positive relationship with customers in the state, as well as ensuring that the company is operating within legal boundaries. By carefully reviewing and updating their promotions, MyBookie can offer attractive incentives to players while also remaining in good standing with state regulators. This commitment to compliance and customer satisfaction is a hallmark of MyBookie’s business philosophy.

MyBookie has the best sports betting app in Kentucky

MyBookie offers its users one of the best sports betting apps in the state of Kentucky. The app has an easy-to-use interface that allows users to quickly and easily place bets on their favorite sports teams and events. In addition to its user-friendly design, MyBookie’s sports betting app also offers competitive odds and a variety of betting options, ensuring that users have access to the best lines and odds possible. Whether you’re a seasoned sports bettor or a newcomer to the world of sports betting, MyBookie’s app is the perfect tool for making informed, strategic wagers on your favorite sports.

Bonus:

50% up to $1,000

Bet now

XBet

XBet has a great mobile betting platform. You do not need to download an XBet app for this one, as you can just access the website via your mobile device and it will automatically adjust.

XBet offers some great promotions and bonuses in Kentucky

XBet offers amazing promotions and bonuses to its customers in the Kentucky area. XBet is the perfect place for Kentucky-based players who wants to take their sports wagering experience to the next level. With XBet, you will get access to a wide array of different markets on major US leagues, as well as international matches. Some of their offers include: a 50% cash bonus (up to $500) after making your first deposit; 10% referral program; special discounts within the Loyalty Program; rotating & reload bonuses and more. If you live in Kentucky, then make sure to check out XBet today and take advantage of all their amazing promotional offers!

XBet boasts a first-class horse book in Kentucky

XBet offers Kentucky horse bettors a first class betting experience. Their platform boasts a wide variety of betting options including win, place, show, trifectas, superfectas and several special daily wagers that can’t be found anywhere else in the state. With competitive lines and great features such as live streaming directly from the track, they make it easy to get started wagering on horses in Kentucky. Whether you’re an experienced horse racing fan or just getting into the sport, XBet is sure to provide a quality horse betting experience.

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.

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

• 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.
• June 9, 2025 – April sports betting volume in Kentucky surged 17.3% year-over-year, with operators maintaining strong profitability by posting double-digit hold rates in four of the last six months.
• May 1, 2025 – The Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation reported $293.2 million in wagers for March, marking the state’s third-highest monthly handle since sports betting launched in September 2023.
• April 4, 2025 – Kentucky saw a 19.2% drop in sports betting handle for February, totaling just over $218.9 million for the month.
• February 28, 2025 – Churchill Downs is ending in-person sports betting at its racetrack, with Sunday marking the final day for placing bets on-site.

Four Reasons to Bet on These Kentucky Online Betting Sites

These offshore sportsbooks are great options for bettors in Kentucky. While sports wagering is already legal in Kentucky, no sportsbooks have launched yet. Nevertheless, you can access offshore sportsbooks online with zero issues!

But we do not recommend just any sportsbook. We take a hard look at what each one offers and make sure to only highlight the best ones.

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 is banned in Kentucky. However, you can easily access offshore casinos and poker rooms. As for retail casinos, there are currently no commercial or tribal casinos in Kentucky because they are strictly forbidden. The best option for Kentucky residents is going to the few racetracks that offer casino-like games. These racetracks include Red Mile Gaming & Racing in Lexington, Churchill Downs in Louisville, and Kentucky Downs in Franklin.

Kentucky Sports Betting Timeline

After years of struggles, Kentucky has finally legalized sports betting. The state’s nine horse racing tracks were granted sports betting licenses by the legislators. Each track can have up to three online skins, which means potentially 27 online sportsbooks could launch in Kentucky.

Licensed websites and apps will also be available for placing bets.

Let’s delve into the progress made each year in bringing legal sports betting to Kentucky:

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-...

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