Ohio joined the legal online betting scene in 2023, and you’ve got full access to sportsbook apps offering regulated real-money wagers. Whether you fancy betting on the Browns or March Madness, maybe the best Ohio betting bonuses designed to give you more play for less risk. Importantly, only licensed operators are allowed, so you’re protected by state laws, not gambling in the dark like in years past.
Continue reading to find everything from legality to casino and sportsbook betting and more.
Is Online Betting Legal in Ohio?
Absolutely, you can legally place bets online in Ohio, as of January 1, 2023, launch day for both web and app-based sports wagering under House Bill 29. You have full access to licensed online sportsbooks, apps and in-person betting at casinos, racetracks, and even bar kiosks. The legal age of over 21 and wagering from within Ohio are mandatory.
The Ohio Casino Control Commission holds exclusive regulatory authority over all these operations, managing licenses (Type A, B, and C), rule-setting, compliance checks, and enforcement. Thus, your online bets are not only legal but also backed by one of the most structured regulatory frameworks in the country. It empowers online betting with both confidence and clarity.
Legal Gambling Options in Ohio
The legal gambling environment in Ohio is rich, featuring online sports betting, casino gaming apps, daily fantasy sports (DFS), horse‑race wagering, and retail bookmaking. There are 16 live sportsbook apps in the market now, including FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, bet365, ESPN Bet, and more. Plus, there are 14+ brick-and-mortar sportsbooks in casinos, racinos, and select bars.
DFS has been legal since 2017, with big names like DraftKings and FanDuel running contests well before sports betting rolled out. The Ohio Casino Control Commission governs every form and requires licensed operators to offer responsible gaming tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion, and the PauseBeforeYouPlay app. Plus, 2% of sports-betting tax revenue funds the Problem Gambling Network and statewide helplines.
Top Legal Online Sportsbooks in Ohio
For legal, regulated wagering in Ohio, these four licensed sportsbooks stand out:
DraftKings Ohio
It offers a $1,350 welcome deal. Its streamlined app delivers fast cash-outs, typically within 24 hours, and provides robust live‑betting tools and same‑game parlays. Users praise its intuitive UI and daily odds boost for the NBA, MLB, and NHL.
Caesars Ohio
It delivers a generous first‑bet profit boost, matching up to $2,500 across ten winning bets. The platform is sleek and user-friendly, featuring exclusive Ohio promos and a deeper focus on MLB.
BetMGM Ohio
Features risk‑free first bets up to $1,500 and solid NFL-focused markets. The platform earns high marks for usability, offering early‑cashout and loyalty integration with MGM Rewards.
FanDuel Ohio
Regarded as the best overall app, it offers “Bet $5, win $200” promos. The mobile experience is smooth, with frequent same‑game parlay boosts, fast cash-outs, and competitive odds, particularly for NFL and college sports.
How to Start Betting Online in Ohio?
Ohio’s legal online betting system is backed by strong regulation and consumer safeguards. Everything from app licensing to age and location checks ensures you bet with confidence. Follow these steps to get started safely and legally:
- Select an Ohio‑licensed betting site – Choose from top platforms regulated under HB 29 via the Ohio Casino Control Commission.
- Sign up and verify identity – Submit basic personal information and your Social Security number digits. Most platforms verify accounts in minutes.
- Fund your account – Deposit instantly via debit, ACH, PayPal, or Bitcoin, depending on the platform’s options.
- Enable geolocation – Ohio law requires location verification for every session, confirming you are within the state borders.
- Confirm your age and place a bet – You must be 21 years or older. After verifying, browse markets and lock in your first wager.
Safety First: Betting the Right Way
To stay safe while betting, always bet with Ohio‑licensed operators overseen by the Ohio Casino Control Commission. These platforms guarantee fair odds, secure payouts, and consumer protections. But if betting ever feels overwhelming, resources are just a call away.
Need support with gambling?
Reach out anytime to 1‑800‑589‑9966 (Ohio Helpline) or call 1‑800‑522‑4700 for national assistance. Free treatment and expert guidance are also available at GamblingHelpOhio.org or through the Problem Gambling Network of Ohio.
