Sports Betting in North Carolina: Laws, Platforms, and How to Get Started

Legal Status of Sports Betting in North Carolina

Sports betting is legal in North Carolina, but it has undergone significant changes in recent years. Initially, the state only permitted in-person betting at tribal casinos. However, in 2023, a landmark legislative shift occurred with the passing of House Bill 347, which legalized mobile sports betting statewide. As of March 11, 2024, North Carolina officially launched online sports betting platforms, allowing residents and visitors to place wagers through licensed mobile operators.

Regulatory Authority and Requirements

The North Carolina State Lottery Commission oversees the regulation and licensing of sports betting activities in the state. All operators must be licensed and meet strict compliance standards, including responsible gaming protocols and data security measures. Bettors must be at least 21 years old and physically located within North Carolina’s borders at the time of placing a bet.

Available Online Sportsbooks in NC

Several major sportsbooks are now operating legally in North Carolina. These include:

FanDuel
DraftKings
BetMGM
Caesars Sportsbook
ESPN BET
Fanatics Sportsbook
bet365

These platforms offer a range of betting markets, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, international leagues, and niche sports such as UFC, golf, and tennis.

Types of Bets Allowed

North Carolina allows a wide variety of bet types, including:

Moneyline bets
Point spreads
Over/Under totals
Parlays
Same-game parlays
Live/in-game betting
Futures
Prop bets (except on individual college athletes)

However, bets on college sports are allowed with certain restrictions. Wagering on individual performances of college athletes is not permitted to protect student-athlete integrity.

Taxation and Revenue Allocation

Winnings from sports betting are subject to federal and state income taxes. North Carolina imposes an 18% tax on sports betting operators’ adjusted gross revenue. A portion of the revenue is allocated toward education funding, responsible gaming initiatives, and athletic programs at state universities.

How to Start Betting in NC

Choose a licensed sportsbook: Visit the website or download the mobile app of an approved operator.
Create an account: Provide your personal information, including ID verification and geolocation consent.
Deposit funds: Use payment methods such as credit/debit cards, bank transfers, PayPal, or e-wallets.
Claim bonuses: Many sportsbooks offer welcome bonuses, risk-free bets, or deposit matches for new users.
Place your bets: Navigate the sportsbook, select your event, and confirm your wager.

Responsible Gambling Resources

North Carolina promotes responsible gambling through several initiatives:

Self-exclusion programs
Deposit and wager limits
24/7 support hotlines
Education campaigns

The North Carolina Problem Gambling Program (NCPGP) offers free treatment and resources for anyone affected by gambling problems.

Conclusion

Sports betting in North Carolina is now fully legal and accessible online, offering a regulated, secure, and entertaining environment for bettors. With robust consumer protections and a growing list of licensed operators, North Carolina is quickly becoming a prominent hub for legal sports wagering in the southeastern United States. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a curious newcomer, the state provides all the tools and safeguards to enjoy sports betting responsibly.