Is Sports Betting Legal in Tennessee?

On this page, we’ll cover all things related to Tennessee online sports betting, going into detail about the various benefits of working with bookmakers in the state. For anyone wondering “is online gambling legal in Tennessee?”, you’ll be happy to know it was regulated as of November 1, 2020.

With a growing number of players in the state, online sports betting in Tennessee isn’t just limited to offshore bookmakers. There are a number of land-based betting facilities and casinos available to sports fans and betting enthusiasts. Despite a wealth of regulated bookmakers, offshore bookmakers are still offering some of the most competitive odds around.

From offtrack betting markets in Tennessee to major American sports leagues, the Volunteer State offers some of the most exciting opportunities online. In order to ensure our readers take advantage of the numerous bonuses, odds markets, and promotions, we’ll break down these aspects of sportsbooks to make your lives easier.

We should mention, that if you’re here and you reside in another state, we have a complete guide to US betting laws, covering all states. Also, check out the best mobile betting apps in Tennessee!

Top 5 Tennessee Online Sportsbooks

Now that Tennessee sports betting is legal, there is certainly a growing community of players demanding access to the very best markets and odds possible. The change in Tennessee gambling laws has opened the eyes of players residing in the state and give them a higher standard of expectancy when it comes to online wagering.

In order to ensure you can gamble in Tennessee with confidence, knowing you’re getting access to the very best markets, we had our team of in-house betting specialists put together a list of the very best five bookmakers in the state. These providers offer the best out there, let’s check them out!

BetUS

BetUS has everything you could ask for in a bookmaker; longevity, quality odds and a reliable provider that has been in the business almost two decades.

Bonus:
125% Sports Bonus - up to $2,000
Bet now

Bookmaker.eu

GTBets first went online in 1996 and has since become one of the most consistent odds providers online. The endless markets are backed with great bonuses and promotions to keep players entertained!

Bonus:
20% up to $500
Bet now

BetOnline

A name that is synonymous with the industry, mainly due to its staggering welcome bonus, which offers 100% match up to $1000!

Bonus:
50% up to $250
Bet now

MyBookie

A real fan favorite, as it features a unique mobile sports betting platform, allowing users to experience one of the most comprehensive betting packages on the market. Certainly one to consider!

Bonus:
50% up to $1,000
Bet now

Bovada

Names don’t come any bigger than Bovada. A company that has driven the industry forward and has shown no signs of slowing down as it pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.

Bonus:
50% up to $250
Bet now

Legal Online Sportsbooks in Tennessee

Sports betting is fully legal in Tennessee, and it’s entirely online. Since launching in November 2020, the state has built a growing market with multiple licensed operators offering mobile betting options.

Tennessee residents and visitors can legally place bets through state-approved apps, all regulated by the Tennessee Sports Wagering Council. These sportsbooks must follow strict standards to ensure secure, fair, and responsible betting experiences.

Sportsbook Available in Tennessee
FanDuel ✅
DraftKings ✅
Caesars ✅
FoxBet ✅
BetRivers ✅
BetMGM ❌
PointsBet ✅
Unibet ✅

Tennessee Quick Facts

Here’s a snapshot of everything you need to know about sports betting in Tennessee. From when it became legal to who can participate and how bets are placed, this quick guide breaks down the essentials of the state’s online-only betting landscape.

StateTennessee
Sports Betting Law PassedYes ✔️
Launch DateNovember 1st 2020
Minimum Gambling Age21 ✔️
Online Sports BettingYes ✔️
Mobile Sports BettingYes ✔️
Retail SportsbooksNo ❌
Tribal CasinosNo ❌
Daily Fantasy SportsYes ✔️
Online CasinosNo ❌
Horse RacingYes ✔️
Dog RacingNo ❌
Esports BettingYes ✔️
Last updated on: May 19, 2025

Tennessee Sports Betting – Recent Updates

Why Many Tennessee Bettors Choose Offshore Sportsbooks Over Legal Ones

Tennessee has a fully legal and mobile-only sports betting market, but it’s far from perfect. While major brands like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM are licensed to operate in the state, many bettors still turn to offshore sportsbooks for a more flexible and rewarding experience.

Between restrictions on bet types, lack of retail options, strict ID requirements, and limited promotions, Tennessee’s regulated betting scene can feel somewhat rigid. Offshore sportsbooks, by contrast, provide broader access, better odds, and a more relaxed signup process.

Advantages of Offshore Betting for Tennessee Players

  • More Markets to Wager On — Tennessee’s sportsbooks don’t offer bets on things like political elections, award shows, or many niche international events. Offshore sportsbooks do—with odds on everything from presidential races to reality TV.
  • Better Odds & Lower Juice — Offshore books often offer sharper lines and reduced juice thanks to lower operating costs, giving you better value on every bet.
  • No Geo-Restrictions — Legal sportsbooks in Tennessee require you to be physically within state lines and enable geolocation tracking. Offshore platforms let you bet from anywhere—no location locks or travel required.
  • Crypto-Friendly & Fast Payouts — Offshore books support cryptocurrency deposits and withdrawals, which are typically faster and more private than traditional banking options.
  • Simplified Signup — Skip the government ID scans and location checks. Offshore sportsbooks offer fast, easy registration with minimal personal information.

What You Can’t Bet on Legally in Tennessee

Even with mobile betting fully legalized, certain bet types are restricted on licensed platforms:

  • Political outcomes (e.g., U.S. elections)
  • Entertainment events (Oscars, Emmys, reality shows)
  • Most esports competitions
  • High school or amateur youth sports

Offshore sportsbooks typically allow all of the above, offering more variety and control over how and what you bet on.

Who Can Bet Legally in Tennessee?

To bet through a legal sportsbook in Tennessee, you must:

  • Be 21 years or older
  • Be physically located in Tennessee (verified via geolocation)
  • Register with a licensed operator and complete full ID verification
  • Use approved mobile apps only (no in-person retail betting available)

Who Is Prohibited from Betting in Tennessee?

Some individuals are banned from betting in the state, including:

  • Athletes, coaches, officials, and team employees
  • Individuals working for sportsbooks or regulatory agencies
  • People on self-exclusion or gambling restriction lists

Skip the Restrictions with Offshore Sportsbooks

Tennessee’s legal market is convenient, but it comes with limitations. Offshore sportsbooks remain a popular option for players seeking more freedom—whether that means betting on political props, avoiding geolocation checks, or just enjoying quicker payouts and crypto access. For those looking beyond the state-run apps, offshore sites offer a wider and often more rewarding betting experience.

Tennessee Sports Betting – Recent Updates

  • March 12, 2024 – Tennessee’s sports betting handle for February dropped below $400 million, marking an 18.6% month-over-month decline.
  • February 7, 2024 — According to LSR projections, the Super Bowl betting handle in Tennessee is anticipated to be approximately $34.4 million, potentially ranking among the top 15 states in terms of handle.
  • January 17, 2024 — The sports betting handle in Tennessee decreased to $495 million in December, marking a 4% month-over-month decline but still securing the second-highest total ever recorded for the state.
  • December 14, 2023 — Tennessee’s sports betting handle reached a new record high of $517 million in November, reflecting a significant 16% increase from October.
  • November 17, 2023 — The sports betting handle in Tennessee achieved a new record high of $445.1 million in October, representing a 6% increase from September.

Six Reasons to Bet on These Tennessee Betting Sites

When it comes to online gambling in Tennessee, you want to be sure you know what you’re looking for when searching the odds at any top-tier provider. But, what is it that makes a great online bookmaker? Well, sports gambling in Tennessee has come a long way and now bookmakers are required to offer only the very best. Especially when they’re competing with many legal providers across the state.

 

List Of Casinos In Tennessee

Given the fact that Tennessee remains a fairly conservative state with fairly strict gambling laws, there are zero casinos operating in the state. This means lovers of table games like Blackjack, Craps, and Pokers will have to go to neighbouring states to play. Alternatively, they can access online casinos and wager on these games that way.

Tennessee sports betting

Tennessee Sports Betting Timeline

With betting now legal in the state of Tennessee, many would assume that the new feed would stop there. However, with a thriving industry and many lobbyists and betting enthusiasts still wanting more comprehensive access to sports markets, things are always evolving.

As such, we put together this timeline to show how things have changed in the last couple of years. We’ve highlighted some of the key moments below, detailing specific occurrences that came about around the time of legalisation back in 2020. Be sure to check back with us for the latest information!

2023

Record-breaking sports betting and new platforms in Tennessee

In recent developments, Tennessee’s sports betting handle reached new highs, hitting $517 million in November, marking a 16% increase from October. Concurrently, Underdog Fantasy introduces peer-to-peer pick ’em games in Tennessee and three other states. Meanwhile, ESPN Bet goes live in Tennessee, replacing Barstool in 17 states.

 

2022

License renewals and surging sports betting figures

In October 2022, Tennessee’s sports betting regulator greenlights license renewals for major players like BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Action 24/7. Preceding this, on October 18, 2022, the state experiences a substantial increase in September’s sports betting activity, with online sportsbooks recording over $336.9 million in bets—a significant surge from the preceding month of August.

 

2021

Action 24/7 suspended by the TEL after investigation

Following an investigation into money laundering, it was found that Action 24/7 was taking part in money laundering and proxy betting activities. A federal judge put forward an injunction which would allow Action 24/7 back online. Tennessee then had a record-breaking month in November, racking in over $375 million in the betting handle.

 

2020

Legal online sports betting goes live

As of November 1st, legal sports betting in the state of Tennessee is live. Companies such as BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Action 24/7 are all opening their operations up to state residents as of today.

Tennessee Sports Betting Resources

For those interested in sports betting in Tennessee, the following resources offer valuable information and support: