JUMP TO:
- Is sports betting legal in Kentucky?
- Online sportsbooks available in Kentucky
- How to sign up and place a bet in Kentucky
- What you can't bet on in Kentucky
- Kentucky sports betting promos and bonus offers
- Responsible gambling resources in Kentucky
Kentucky legalized sports betting in March 2023, after the signing of House Bill 551 made it the 36th state to green-light sportsbooks. In September of that same year, retail sports betting launched at racetracks and other licensed locations. Weeks later, several online sportsbook apps became available.
So, what do you need to know as an aspiring Kentucky sports bettor, or as just a sports bettor planning a visit to the Bluegrass State?
Here are all the details you'll need to get started, including laws, how to join a sportsbook, which sportsbooks are offered in Kentucky and the best promos and sign-up bonuses available.
MORE: Complete guide to betting on the NFL
Is sports betting legal in Kentucky?
Yes! Kentucky legalized sports betting in March 2023, and it rolled out its first retail sportsbooks and online betting apps later that year.
The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) regulates sports betting in the state. The KHRC, an independent state agency, oversees licensing and sets the standards for both retail and online sports wagering.
To place sports bets in Kentucky, you will need to be:
- at least 21 years old
- physically in the state (verify with GeoComply)
- able to verify your sportsbook account
MORE: What to know about betting on the NBA
Online sportsbooks available in Kentucky
Here are the online sportsbook options in the state of Kentucky.
How to sign up and place a bet in Kentucky
The process to start your sports betting journey in the Bluegrass State is quite simple. Here are the three steps:
Step 1: Choose a licensed/registered Kentucky sportsbook
Choose one of the sportsbooks listed above.
Step 2: Sign up, enter a promo code (if applicable), and deposit
Follow the steps to sign up for your preferred sportsbook. The book will likely ask for your social security number or driver’s license to verify your identity and age, and you will need to install GeoComply to prove you're located within the state lines.
You'll also want to enter a promo code if the sportsbook offers a sign-up promo or bonus. Scroll down to see the full array of promos offered across all books in the state of Kentucky.
Once you're all registered, you're set to make your first deposit. Most bettors prefer the simplicity of linking your bank account using direct deposit. Others like to use credit cards or an online payment app like Venmo or PayPal.
Step 3: Place your bets!
Once you have completed Steps 1 and 2, you're ready to begin your sports betting journey!
To place a bet, simply click on the sport or league, find the bet or prop you want to wager on, click it and enter your bet amount. Then click submit and get ready to root on your first bet!
MORE: How do sportsbook bonuses work?
What you can bet on in Kentucky
While sports betting is legal in Kentucky, there are still some restrictions on what bettors can wager on. Here's a look at what's available for sports bettors in the Bluegrass State.
- Online and retail sports betting are BOTH legal in Kentucky
- Horse Racing
- NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, UFC, golf, motorsports and other pro sports and leagues
- College sports lines, totals and futures
- College sports player props
- Olympics
- Esports
What you can't bet on in Kentucky
There are some nuances as to what can be bet on in Kentucky. Here are the restrictions to keep in mind.
- IGaming or online casino gambling
- High school sports
- Political events
- Entertainment awards (such as the Oscars)
- Greyhound dog racing
- Placing wagers at an unlicensed sportsbook
- Must physically be in Kentucky to place wagers
MORE: Why bettors should utilize multiple sports books
Kentucky sports betting promos and bonus offers
- DraftKings: Bet $5+ get $200 in Bonus Bets instantly + over $200 off NFL Sunday Ticket!
- FanDuel: Bet $5 get $300 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins!
- Fanatics Sportsbook: (1) Bet $10 get $100 in FanCash + up to $100 back in FanCash every football gameday! OR (2) Bet $50 get $250 FanCash! OR (3) Bet and get up to $1,000 in FanCash!
- BetMGM: (1) Get a 20% deposit match up to $1,500 in sports bonus! OR (2) Get up to $1,500 back in Bonus Bets if your first bet doesn't win!
- Bet365: (1) Bet $5, get $200 in Bonus Bets OR (2) $1,000 first bet safety net
- Caesars Sportsbook: Bet $1, double your winnings your next 20 bets!
Popular teams to bet on in Kentucky
- Kentucky Wildcats (NCAA)
- Louisville Cardinals (NCAA)
- Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
- Cincinnati Bengals (NFL)
- Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL)
Responsible gambling resources in Kentucky
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, there are several resources available for help.
- Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling (KYCPG): 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
- Kentucky Lottery Corporation
- National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): 1-800-522-4700
- Self-exclusion options through Kentucky Lottery's online "Fun Club" account
- Online self-assessment tools
- Support groups like Gamblers Anonymous
MORE: Everything to know about odds in American sports betting