JUMP TO:
- Is sports betting legal in Maryland?
- Online sportsbooks available in Maryland
- How to sign up and place a bet in Maryland
- What you can't bet on in Maryland
- Maryland sports betting promos and bonus offers
- Responsible gambling resources in Maryland
Maryland voters approved the legalization of sports betting in the November 2020 election, with the generated revenue designated for education.
Governor Larry Hogan signed the legislation into law in May 2021, and in December of that year the first Maryland retail sportsbook launched. By the following Thanksgiving, online sportsbooks in Maryland went live.
So, what do you need to know as an aspiring Maryland sports bettor, or just as a sports bettor planning a visit to the Old Line State? Here are all the details you'll need to get started, including laws, how to join a sportsbook, which sportsbooks are offered in Maryland and the best promos and sign-up bonuses available.
MORE: Complete guide to betting on the NFL
Is sports betting legal in Maryland?
Yes! Maryland officially legalized sports betting in May 2021, and it rolled out its first retail sportsbooks and online betting apps later that year. Online sportsbooks launched in Maryland in 2022.
The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) primarily regulates all Maryland betting. The MLGCA works alongside the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission and, specifically for sports betting licenses, the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC).
To place sports bets in Maryland, you will need to be:
- at least 21 years old
- physically in the state (verify with GeoComply)
- able to verify your sportsbook account
Please note that it's illegal to bet on college sports player props in the state of Maryland.
MORE: What to know about betting on the NBA
Online sportsbooks available in Maryland
Here are the online sportsbook options in the state of Maryland.
How to sign up and place a bet in Maryland
The process to start your sports betting journey in the Old Line State is quite simple. Here are the three steps:
Step 1: Choose a licensed/registered Maryland 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 Maryland.
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 Maryland
While sports betting is legal in Maryland, there are still some restrictions on what bettors can wager on. Here's a look at what's available for sports bettors in the Old Line State.
- Online and retail sports betting are BOTH legal in Maryland
- NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, UFC, golf, motorsports and other pro sports and leagues
- College sports lines, totals and futures
- Olympics
- Esports
- Horse racing
What you can't bet on in Maryland
There are some nuances as to what can be bet on in Maryland. With college sports, for example, it is legal to wager on lines, totals and futures, but you cannot wager on college player props. Here are the restrictions to keep in mind.
- Unlicensed iGaming or online casino gambling
- Prop bets on college athletes
- High school sports
- Political events
- Greyhound dog racing
- Placing wagers at an unlicensed sportsbook
- Must physically be in Maryland to place wagers
MORE: Why bettors should utilize multiple sports books
Maryland sports betting promos and bonus offers
When deciding which sports books to use, it also makes sense to take a look at what promotional offers may be available to you.
- 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: Get 20+ $100 no sweat bets in FanCash back if your football bet loses
- Crab Sports: 100% first bet profit boost up to $500
- BetMGM: Get up to $1,500 back in Bonus Bets if your first bet doesn't win!
- Bet365: Bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets win or lose
- Caesars Sportsbook: Bet $1, double your winnings your next 20 bets!
Popular teams to bet on in Maryland
- Baltimore Ravens (NFL)
- Washington Commanders (NFL)
- Baltimore Orioles (MLB)
- Maryland Terrapins (NCAA)
Responsible gambling resources in Maryland
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, there are several resources available for help.
- 24-hour Gambling Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
- Maryland Alliance or Responsible Gambling (MARG)
- Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling
- Maryland Council on Problem Gambling
- Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP)
- Support groups like Gamblers Anonymous
MORE: Everything to know about odds in American sports betting