Legal Status of Sports Betting in Virginia
Sports betting became legal in Virginia in January 2021 following the passage of legislation in 2020. The state adopted a fully online model without physical retail sportsbooks outside certain approved casino locations. This allows licensed online operators to offer sports wagering to residents and visitors, provided they meet strict regulatory requirements set by the Virginia Lottery. Bettors must be at least 21 years old and physically located within the state’s borders when placing wagers.
Authorized Online Sportsbook Operators
Virginia hosts a variety of licensed sportsbooks, each offering distinct features, betting markets, and promotions. Popular operators include well-known national brands such as FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, and BetRivers. Additionally, the state’s licensing process has opened the door for smaller and niche operators, creating a competitive market that benefits consumers through improved odds, extensive market coverage, and attractive bonuses.
Available Betting Markets
Licensed sportsbooks in Virginia provide a wide range of betting markets, covering professional leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL, as well as NCAA Division I college sports. However, state law prohibits betting on Virginia-based college teams and college prop bets. International markets, including soccer, tennis, cricket, and esports, are also widely available, offering bettors diverse wagering options.
Promotions and Bonuses
To attract and retain customers, Virginia sportsbooks frequently offer welcome bonuses, risk-free bets, deposit match promotions, and odds boosts. These offers are subject to terms and conditions, including minimum odds, wagering requirements, and time limits. Because promotional offerings vary significantly by operator, bettors benefit from comparing bonuses before choosing a platform.
Responsible Gambling Measures
The Virginia Lottery oversees the responsible gambling framework for all licensed operators. Sportsbooks must provide tools such as deposit limits, time limits, and self-exclusion programs. The state also partners with organizations that provide problem gambling assistance, ensuring that consumer protection remains a central priority in the sports betting market.
Taxation and Revenue Allocation
Sports betting operators in Virginia are taxed at a rate of 15% on adjusted gross revenue. A portion of the tax revenue is directed toward the state’s General Fund, with a dedicated percentage allocated to the Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund. This approach ensures that sports betting contributes to both the economy and public welfare programs.
Future Outlook
The Virginia sports betting market is expected to expand as more operators enter the state and additional features, such as live in-game betting and cash-out options, become more sophisticated. As legislation evolves, there may be discussions around permitting betting on in-state college teams or introducing additional retail sportsbook locations in future casino developments.
Summary
Sports betting in Virginia operates under a well-regulated, competitive, and consumer-friendly online model. With multiple licensed operators, diverse betting markets, and strong responsible gambling measures, the state provides a secure and engaging environment for sports wagering enthusiasts while generating significant economic benefits.
