Maryland Sports Betting in 2026 | Is Online Gambling Legal?

Is Sports Betting Legal in Maryland?

Sports betting is fully legal and live in Maryland and throughout the DMV — which includes Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland. Retail sportsbooks launched in December 2021, followed by online and mobile betting in November 2022.

By 2025, the Maryland market has matured into one of the most competitive in the U.S., offering bettors a wide range of regulated platforms alongside offshore options. Fans no longer need to travel to D.C. or Virginia to place wagers — they can bet from anywhere within state lines.

Maryland is home to passionate sports fans and major teams like the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens, perennial playoff contenders, and the MLB’s Baltimore Orioles. Combined with a vibrant college sports scene and a large daily fantasy sports community, the state’s betting market remains one of the most active and diverse in the country.

Top 5 Maryland Online Betting Sites

Knowing a lot about sports in Maryland is not enough to place great MD sports bets. In fact, even knowing a lot of sports betting is not enough. You also have to sign up at a top sportsbook legally available in Maryland in order to really and truly be able to place the best sports bets.

Without a great sportsbook, the meat and potatoes of sports wagering, then all your research, knowledge, and anticipation is for nought. If you have a slow sportsbook, with a difficult user interface, and unfortunate odds, then even if you know which bet you want to place, it may just be impossible.

Similarly, the live betting platform really has to be excellent. If you are with an older and out of step Maryland betting site, good luck placing live bets at all. It will be more of a headache than anything else.

This is why signing up at one of these top 5 sportsbooks available in Maryland is an important part of placing the best sports wagers! Check out these top 5 online betting sites that we recommend for bettors in MD.

BetOnline

BetOnline is a popular offshore sportsbook that Maryland players can still access in 2025, even though it is not licensed or regulated by the state. Operating out of Panama, it accepts Maryland bettors without the geolocation checks or state restrictions found on regulated platforms.

One of BetOnline’s main draws is its generous welcome bonus. For those using cryptocurrency, the offer can be even bigger, with additional perks for Bitcoin and other digital assets. Crypto deposits are typically processed within minutes and come with lower fees compared to traditional banking methods, making them a favorite for many experienced bettors. It is also popular for its competitive odds, broad market coverage, and fast crypto payouts.

BetOnline offers the best crypto betting options in Maryland

BetOnline is a premier online betting platform that offers a variety of cryptocurrency betting options in Maryland. With a reputation for providing one of the best user experiences in the industry, BetOnline provides users with the opportunity to place bets using a variety of popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. With its simple and user-friendly interface, BetOnline allows users to easily navigate through their extensive range of sports and markets to find the perfect bet to suit their needs. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer to the world of online sports betting, BetOnline’s impressive selection of crypto-betting options is sure to please.

BetOnline’s Mobile Betting Experience in Maryland

BetOnline is a popular offshore sportsbook that Maryland players can access in 2025, but it does not offer a native betting app in Maryland. Instead, it provides a mobile-optimized website that works seamlessly on iOS and Android devices. By adding a shortcut to your home screen, you can launch it just like an app and access all the platform’s features without downloading anything.

The mobile site allows users to place bets on sports, casino games, and horse racing events, as well as enjoy live betting, quick payment options (including cryptocurrency), and 24/7 customer support. While the interface is designed for smooth navigation and fast load times, players should remember that BetOnline is not licensed by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency, meaning it operates outside the state’s regulatory framework.

Bonus:

50% up to $250

Bet now

Sportsbetting.ag

SportsBetting.ag offers a high level of convenience to bettors in Maryland. This is a nice thing to have and can really encourage you o make the best bets. The easier it is to do, the better you will be able to do it, all while having a good time! One thing that really makes this site convenient is that bettors can sign in with just one account and then have access to a sportsbook, casino, and racebook. You can use their live betting platform and all with just one account to access all their products. This sportsbook is highly regarded for its generous welcome promo and refer-a-friend bonus.

SportsBetting.ag for European Markets in Maryland

SportsBetting.ag is an offshore sportsbook accessible to Maryland players in 2025 that offers extensive coverage of European sports events. Bettors can find markets for popular leagues and competitions across soccer, tennis, basketball, and more, alongside competitive odds and regular bonuses. The platform supports multiple deposit and withdrawal options, features a user-friendly interface, and provides customer service around the clock.

Bonus:

50% up to $250

Bet now

Bookmaker

Bookmaker is a great sportsbook for bettors in Maryland who are good at eyeing odds. If you are more of a sharp bettor who is fascinated by the odds, then Bookmaker is great for you. This is because they are always some of the first to publish their odds. They set the trends, and you, therefore, can also be the first one on the train. Another really nice thing at Bookmaker is that you can earn a rebate every week at the racebook. If you have a bad week and come out in the red, Bookmaker will refund you a certain % depending on the type of bet you make. Bookmaker is another site that will give you extra bonuses if you use Bitcoin. Bitcoin bettors will not be disappointed if they choose Bookmakers, which allows you to be among the smartest sports bettors out there.

Bookmaker provides unique lines in Maryland

Bookmaker is a popular online sports betting website that provides unique lines for its users in the state of Maryland. The website offers a wide range of betting options and markets, including but not limited to sports like football, basketball, baseball, and tennis, along with other events like political elections, reality TV shows, and more. By offering unique lines, Bookmaker gives its users a chance to bet on events and sports with odds that are different from other sportsbooks. This allows bettors to get better odds and win more money potentially. If you’re in Maryland and looking for a reputable sports betting website, Bookmaker is definitely worth checking out.

Bonus:

25% up to $500

Bet now

BetUS

BetUS is a well-established offshore sportsbook that Maryland players can access in 2025. It offers a strong all-around betting experience, combining competitive odds, a wide range of markets, and a generous welcome bonus for new customers. The mobile betting platform is fully optimized for both iOS and Android devices, ensuring smooth navigation whether you’re on a smartphone or tablet. While BetUS is popular for its promotions and user-friendly interface, it’s important to note that it is not licensed by Maryland regulators and operates outside the state’s legal sports betting framework.

BetUS offers great deposit methods to players in Maryland

BetUS is a popular online betting platform that offers an extensive range of deposit methods for its players in Maryland. The website strives to provide a seamless and hassle-free betting experience to all its users, and the deposit methods available on their platform reflect this goal. From credit cards and e-wallets to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, BetUS offers a wide array of options that cater to the different needs and preferences of its players. With its commitment to user convenience and security, BetUS is a trusted and reliable choice for bettors looking to enjoy online betting in Maryland.

BetUS provides the widest range of betting lines in Maryland

BetUS is a premier sports betting platform that offers a wide variety of betting lines for sports enthusiasts in Maryland. With its comprehensive coverage of sporting events from around the world, BetUS enables users to bet on their favorite teams, players, and outcomes. From football and basketball to hockey and tennis, there is a broad range of sports and markets available on the platform. As a result, sports fans in Maryland can enjoy the experience of placing bets on their favorite games, and potentially earning big payouts. BetUS’s extensive selection of betting lines and excellent user interface make it a top choice among sports bettors in Maryland.

Bonus:

225% up to $3,625

Bet now

WagerWeb

This sportsbook is based out of Costa Rica, which allows it to be easily available to bettors in Maryland. WagerWeb has been around and delivering on its promises since 1994. Very few online sportsbooks have this kind of history backing them up. This makes WagerWeb one of the most trusted sportsbooks available. Plus, they come with a great signup bonus. You can also contact WagerWeb in English or Spanish any time and any day of the week. It is a priority to have this kind of customer service available when we are choosing the right sportsbook for us.

WagerWeb constantly updates its bonuses in Maryland

WagerWeb is a popular online betting platform that offers a variety of bonuses to its users in Maryland. These bonuses are updated regularly to provide users with the best possible deals and incentives. Whether you are a new user or a seasoned player, WagerWeb has something for everyone. By offering updated bonuses, WagerWeb ensures its users have a great experience and are likelier to continue using the platform. So if you’re in Maryland and looking for a reliable and exciting online betting platform, check out WagerWeb and see what bonuses they offer!

WagerWeb is the best for NHL betting in Maryland

The NHL betting market in Maryland is highly competitive, with many sportsbooks vying for customers. However, WagerWeb stands out as the top choice for NHL betting enthusiasts. With a wide range of betting options and competitive odds, WagerWeb offers an unparalleled experience for those who want to bet on NHL games in Maryland. Whether you’re a casual fan or a serious bettor, WagerWeb has everything you need to make your NHL betting experience enjoyable and profitable. So if you’re looking for the best place to bet on NHL games in Maryland, look no further than WagerWeb.

Bonus:

50% up to $1,000

Bet now

Legal Sportsbooks in Maryland

Sports betting is legal in Maryland, and the list below includes all sportsbooks currently authorized to operate in the state. Both retail and online sports betting are live, with major platforms like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars available to Maryland residents and visitors.

Maryland Quick Facts

Maryland offers a fully operational sports betting market, with both online and retail options available statewide. Bettors can place wagers through popular platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings, or visit licensed retail sportsbooks at casinos and stadiums. With strong state regulation and a variety of choices, Maryland is one of the more accessible and bettor-friendly states in the U.S.

Why It’s Better To Use Offshore Betting Sites Over the Legal Ones

While Maryland has legalized both retail and online sports betting, many savvy bettors are turning to offshore sportsbooks for a more flexible and rewarding experience. The offshore betting sites we recommend are often a better fit for U.S. players thanks to their generous bonuses, broader betting options, and fewer restrictions.

Here’s Why Offshore Sportsbooks Are Often Better:

• Better Odds and Higher Payouts—Offshore sportsbooks aren’t tied down by heavy state taxes and regulatory fees, so they can consistently offer better odds and higher returns.
• No State Restrictions – Nationwide Access—You can bet from anywhere in the U.S., not just within Maryland’s borders. Perfect for travelers or those moving between states.
• No Mandatory Personal Data Sharing with U.S. Regulators—Offshore books value your privacy and don’t require sensitive data to be handed over to U.S. authorities.
• Access to a Wider Variety of Betting Markets—Enjoy betting on political events, global sports leagues, reality TV, and other niche markets that aren’t available on Maryland’s regulated platforms.
• Crypto-Friendly Deposits & Withdrawals—Many offshore sportsbooks support Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for fast, secure, and anonymous payments.
• Lower Betting Limits & More Flexibility for Small Bettors—Great for casual players—offshore sites offer smaller minimum bets and more leniency for lower-stakes gamblers.
• No Arbitrary Limits or Account Restrictions—Offshore books are less likely to ban or limit you for winning too often—something many U.S. bettors have experienced on domestic sites.
• Bigger Bonuses and Better Promotions—Get more value from sign-up offers, reload bonuses, and ongoing promos that go far beyond what legal Maryland sportsbooks offer.
• Less Strict Verification & Faster Account Approvals—Offshore platforms let you register and start betting quickly, without excessive ID checks or location verification.
• No Withholding of Winnings for Tax Purposes—Offshore sportsbooks don’t report your winnings to the IRS, allowing you to keep more of what you earn.

What Can’t You Bet On in Maryland?

Even with legal sports betting available in Maryland, there are still some limitations that don’t exist with offshore sportsbooks. For example:

• No betting on political or entertainment outcomes.
• Limited or no options for betting on esports tournaments.
• Restrictions on in-state college props or niche international events.
• Heavier regulation around live or in-play betting formats.

Who Can Legally Bet in Maryland?

If you want to bet through a legal Maryland sportsbook, here’s what you need to know:

• Age Requirement: You must be 21 or older.
• Location Requirement: You must be physically located within Maryland while placing your bets.
• Eligible Participants: You don’t have to be a resident, but you do have to be in-state when betting.

Restricted Individuals Include:

• Athletes, coaches, and officials involved in the sports being bet on.
• Employees of sportsbooks or betting-related companies.
• League executives and sports governing body members.
• Individuals on state exclusion or self-ban lists.
• Retail Betting Restriction: While Maryland has many retail sportsbooks at casinos and stadiums, you still need to be on-site to place a bet—limiting flexibility compared to online options.

With Our Offshore Sportsbooks:

• You can place bets from anywhere in the U.S. or abroad.
• You only need to be 18 or older in most cases.
• No in-state restrictions or location tracking.
• Simple registration and faster access to betting markets.

OffShore Bookies Available in Maryland

Offshore sports betting remains accessible to Maryland residents in 2025, even with a fully regulated state market in place. Offshore sportsbooks — operators based outside of the United States — were once the only option for Maryland bettors before legalization. Their presence was a key factor in the push to regulate sports wagering nationally, as states sought to capture tax revenue that was flowing overseas. The Maryland Lottery remains popular alongside sports betting, continuing to generate significant revenue for the state.

While legal sports betting has been live in Maryland since 2021 (retail) and 2022 (online), some players still choose offshore sites for reasons like larger bonuses, broader betting markets, or cryptocurrency support. However, these platforms are unregulated in Maryland, meaning they don’t offer the same consumer protections as state-licensed sportsbooks.

Maryland legislators began seriously pursuing sports betting after the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2018 repeal of PASPA, which allowed states to set their own wagering laws. Early legislative efforts in 2018 didn’t gain enough traction, but they started the conversation that would lead to full legalization just a few years later.

Five Reasons to Bet on Sports in Maryland

Maryland could be one of the best wagering markets in the nation. There are numerous reasons that you should take part in Maryland gambling through your phone and at retail locations throughout the state. Here are five reasons to bet on sports in Maryland.

Great Bonuses

In Maryland, the legal sports betting market offers plenty of choices, but most are dominated by large corporate operators like DraftKings and FanDuel. While these licensed platforms are heavily marketed, they often come with smaller bonuses, tighter betting limits, and more restrictions compared to their offshore counterparts.

Offshore sportsbooks such as BetUS and BetUS continue to attract Maryland players in 2025 because they offer more generous promotions, fewer wagering restrictions, and broader betting markets — including events you can’t bet on with state-regulated sites. Their welcome bonuses can be substantial, and BetUS even boosts the value if your first deposit is made with cryptocurrency, providing faster transactions and lower fees.

For many bettors, these offshore platforms provide a more flexible, rewarding experience than what’s available through Maryland’s regulated sportsbooks.

Line Shopping

Bonus money is always a plus, but eventually, you’ll be wagering with your own funds — and that’s where finding the best odds matters most. In 2025, Maryland bettors can “line shop” across both legal and offshore sportsbooks, but offshore platforms often make this easier and more rewarding. With so many offshore sites competing globally, odds are frequently sharper, and markets more diverse, than what you’ll find on regulated Maryland apps.

While Maryland’s legal market does offer multiple providers, they still operate under state restrictions and taxes, which can impact pricing and promotions. Offshore sportsbooks, on the other hand, face fewer limitations and can pass those savings on to bettors in the form of better lines and higher payouts. If you want to maximize your returns, comparing odds across offshore platforms should be part of your betting strategy.

Sports Teams

The sports betting environment in Maryland is fantastic with the Baltimore Orioles (MLB) and Baltimore Ravens (NFL). Having professional sports teams to wager in the state is an excellent thing for bettors. There is nothing like winning a wager on a hometown team. When you do this in Maryland, you will be hooked.

The professional sports teams will have a deal with sportsbooks. The Ravens have already partnered with BetMGM. These sportsbooks will run special bonuses for hometown teams which adds an additional element to Maryland sports betting.

Great Reputation

The books that will operate in Maryland will have an excellent reputation. There will be a ton of sites, so you will have to do your wagering research. Although, it will be tough to go wrong betting on the significant sites in Maryland like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Pointsbet, Caesars sportsbooks, etc.

All these sites have an excellent reputation, and they are safe. You will never have to worry about personal or financial data being stolen. All these sites have stringent security measures, which adds to their terrific reputation. The wagering experience is first-class with all these sites.

Offshore sportsbooks like BetUS, BetOnline, and MyBookie also have a great history and reputation. They are safe, fast and offer several deposit and withdrawal methods.

Customer Service

If you have technical problems in Maryland on your sportsbook, they will be solved quickly. Depending on the sportsbook you are utilizing, you will have access to multiple customer service options.

Most sites have a loaded FAQ page where you will find answers to all your questions. If you would like to speak to a real person, there are phone and text lines that you can contact. The best sportsbooks utilize a live chat feature where all issues are solved immediately.

Problems should be rare in Maryland sports betting because of the superiority of the books. Nevertheless, you will be given a quick answer to any issues you encounter, reducing frustration and allowing you to focus on betting.

Casinos in Maryland

Maryland is home to six state-licensed casinos, all offering a mix of slots, table games, poker rooms, and in some cases, retail sportsbooks. While brick-and-mortar venues don’t typically match the bonuses of online or offshore platforms, they offer a lively atmosphere and in-person gaming experience that many players still enjoy.

Maryland’s Casinos in 2025:

• Live! Casino & Hotel – The largest casino in the state, located in Hanover.
• MGM National Harbor – Upscale resort casino with luxury amenities, located in Oxon Hill.
• Horseshoe Casino Baltimore – Urban casino close to sports stadiums and downtown entertainment.
• Hollywood Casino Perryville – Maryland’s first casino, opened in 2010.
• Ocean Downs Casino – Near Ocean City, also features seasonal live harness racing.
• Rocky Gap Casino Resort – Lakeside resort with a golf course and scenic mountain setting.

The Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course remains another highlight of Maryland’s betting scene, drawing both racing fans and casual bettors each year.

Maryland Sports Betting Timeline

Here we provide some more details about all the happenings before and after the legalization of sports betting in Maryland. This is where you can find some of the most exciting stories around this topic.

Maryland Sports Betting Resources

Expand your understanding of legal sports betting in Maryland by exploring these essential resources:

• Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission (MLGCC): Regulates all aspects of Maryland sports betting, ensuring compliance and oversight.
• Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC): Responsible for reviewing and awarding Maryland sports betting licenses.
• Maryland Sports Betting Law (HB 940): Legislative framework governing sports betting in the state.
• Alliance for Responsible Gambling: Provides resources and support for individuals facing gambling-related challenges.
• Maryland Sports Wagering Regulations: Comprehensive guide to betting rules and regulations in Maryland.
• Mobile Sports Wagering Operators: A complete list of approved online sports betting operators in Maryland.
• Land-Based Operators: Details the approved retail sportsbooks across the state.
• Eligible Sporting Events: A list of all sporting events approved for wagering in Maryland.

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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