Kentucky Sports Betting: A Complete Guide to Kentucky Online Sportsbooks Dec. 2025

Yes, sports betting in Kentucky has been legal since March 31, 2023, when Governor Andy Beshear signed House Bill 551 into law. The bill was passed to boost tourism, keep more revenue within the state, and contribute to Kentucky’s growing economy.

Retail sports betting launched on Sept. 7, 2023, with in-person wagering available at licensed sportsbooks. A few weeks later, mobile sports betting went live across the state on Sept. 28, 2023. 

Kentucky sports betting gives you access to a wide variety of sports, betting options, and valuable promotions. We’ll break down the top Kentucky sportsbooks, each evaluated using the criteria on our how we rate page, and highlight the best ways to make the most of available bonuses.

1. BetMGM Kentucky

BetMGM is a premier option for KY sports betting, offering a seamless experience for new and seasoned bettors. It's a well-designed app that ensures quick navigation, making it easy to place bets and explore available markets.

BetMGM is our choice for the sportsbook with the best sports coverage. There's no shortage of wagering opportunities, from major leagues like the NBA and MLB to niche options like darts and table tennis. You'll also find exclusive NFL markets, creating one of the best NFL betting sites. Add live wagering and customizable parlays, and BetMGM stands out as a top choice.

• App Store: 4.8 out of 5 ⭐ (234.7K reviews)
• Google Play: 4.3 out of 5 ⭐ (35.6K reviews)
• Welcome bonus: Up to $1,500 in bonus bets
• Bonus code: SI1500
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

To get everything you need to know, read our complete BetMGM review. If you're interested in sharing with friends, BetMGM also offers one of the top sportsbook referral bonuses in the industry. 

2. Caesars Sportsbook Kentucky

Caesars Sportsbook brings its signature touch to Kentucky, offering a smooth app experience with a variety of sports and parlay options. However, the Caesars Rewards program is what will keep you coming back.

With every bet, you’ll earn points that can be redeemed for hotel stays, dining, and exclusive experiences. If you value long-term perks alongside one of the most well-rounded college football betting sites, Caesars Sportsbook is for you.

• App Store: 4.7 out of 5 ⭐ (86.3K reviews)
• Google Play: 4.5 out of 5 ⭐ (29.9K reviews)
• Welcome bonus: Bet $1, double your winnings on next 20 bets
• Promo code: SICZR20X
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Explore our Caesars Sportsbook review for more about this Kentucky sportsbook and why it's one of the best parlay betting sites.

3. FanDuel Kentucky

FanDuel offers a robust selection of sports and markets, all supported by competitive odds. Its platform makes it easy to explore different betting options, whether you prefer standard wagers or more advanced markets.

FanDuel delivers the best user experience for bettors in the Bluegrass State. Its app makes navigation effortless, with a clean layout, quick load times, and an easy betting process. Whether betting on a Kentucky Wildcats basketball game or building a multi-leg bet, FanDuel’s polished platform delivers a great experience from start to finish.

• App Store: 4.9 out of 5 ⭐ (1.8M reviews)
• Google Play: 4.7 out of 5 ⭐ (371.9K reviews)
• Welcome bonus: Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets if you win
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Our FanDuel review highlights the app experience, promos, and more. FanDuel is also one of the fastest payout sportsbooks in the U.S.

4. Fanatics Sportsbook Kentucky 

Fanatics Sportsbook brings its sports retail expertise to the Kentucky sports betting scene, offering a well-designed app and an amazing FanCash Rewards system. Fanatics blends fandom with betting like no other platform, as Kentucky bettors can earn FanCash on every wager, redeemable for bonus bets or official team merchandise.

Beyond its rewards, Fanatics Sportsbook delivers a fluid and intuitive user interface to go with various enticing welcome bonuses. While it’s still growing its presence, it’s already proving to be a strong contender in the KY sports betting market.

• App Store: 4.8 out of 5 ⭐ (111.7K reviews)
• Google Play: 4.7 out of 5 ⭐ (23.7K reviews)
• Welcome bonus (option #1): Up to $2,000 in FanCash
• Welcome bonus (option #2): Bet $50, get $250 in FanCash
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Learn all about this operator in our comprehensive Fanatics Sportsbook review.

5. DraftKings Kentucky

DraftKings is the best sports betting app Kentucky has to offer, providing a seamless experience with intuitive navigation. Whether you're a casual bettor or a seasoned pro, DraftKings makes it easy to explore its extensive selection of sports and markets.

Its deep player prop coverage, including head-to-head and combined props, makes it one of the very best prop betting sites.

• App Store: 4.8 out of 5 ⭐ (833.2K reviews)
• Google Play: 4.3 out of 5 ⭐ (168.4K reviews)
• Welcome bonus: Bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets if you win
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Our DraftKings review covers all the key details in one place.

Signing up for Kentucky sports betting apps is easy, but the process can feel overwhelming if you're new to it. That’s why we’re here to walk you through each step.

1. Choose a sportsbook

You don’t have to pick just one Kentucky sportsbook — download as many as you’d like. Creating multiple betting accounts gives you the ability to compare odds and claim multiple welcome bonuses. Keep in mind that some promotions have time limits, so consider staggered registrations to maximize the benefits of each offer.

2. Download the betting app 

Click one of our links on this page to unlock a bonus and begin registration. Once you've signed up, head to the App Store or Google Play Store to download the sportsbook app of your choice.

3. Register

When signing up, you’ll need to provide some personal information, including your Social Security number. We understand that this might feel uneasy, but rest assured, Kentucky sportsbooks employ advanced security measures to protect your information and funds. The registration process is quick and straightforward, so you’ll be ready to start betting in no time.

4. Claim your welcome bonus

Before you start betting, you'll want to claim a bonus. During registration, make sure to activate the sportsbook’s welcome offer by entering one of our promo codes or using a sign-up link from this page. These bonuses can give you extra funds or bet credits to get started, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to boost your bankroll.

5. Deposit

Funding your account is quick and easy across all Kentucky sports betting apps. You'll find various deposit options, including debit cards, credit cards, bank transfers, PayPal, and Apple Pay; however, the available methods may differ by sportsbook. Once your deposit is processed, which is usually instant, you'll be ready to place bets.

6. Place a bet

With so many sports and markets available, finding the right bet can initially feel difficult. But don’t worry — it gets easier. You can browse directly from the app’s homepage or use the search function to find specific bets quickly. Be sure to check any bonus terms to avoid missing out on potential value.

7. Withdraw winnings 

Just like deposits, withdrawal options vary by sportsbook. Most options support bank transfers, e-wallets, and other payment methods. While some withdrawals are processed instantly, others may take up to six days, depending on the chosen method.

Now that you know how to get started with Kentucky sports betting, we'll break down the best sportsbook promos in the industry that you can take advantage of.

BetMGM - Up to $1,500 in bonus bets

BetMGM bonus code SI1500 allows new users in Kentucky to claim a $1,500 first bet offer. Deposit at least $10 and place a wager — if your first bet loses, you’ll get a bonus bet equal to your stake, up to $1,500. 

💡 Consider placing your first bet on an underdog or a plus-money prop. Since you’ll get bonus bets back if it loses, this is a great opportunity to take a swing without the usual downside. 

Caesars Sportsbook - Bet $1, double your winnings on next 20 bets

Sign up with our exclusive promo code SICZR20X, deposit at least $10, and place a $1 minimum wager to receive 20 profit boost tokens. You can use each token on bets with minimum odds of -10000 and a maximum stake of $25, with winnings capped at $2,500 per boost.

💡 Unlike most sportsbooks that give you seven days, Caesars Sportsbook gives you 14 days to use your bonus. Use this extra time to find bets you’re confident in and maximize your profit boost tokens.

FanDuel - Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets if you win

You can get started with FanDuel in Kentucky by depositing $5 and placing a $5 qualifying wager. If you win, you'll be awarded $150 in bonus bets. As an added perk, you will not need a FanDuel promo code to redeem this bonus.

Note: You can only claim the welcome offer on the FanDuel app.

💡 Remember, your first bet needs to win to unlock this bonus. If you're a big football fan, NFL props could be a nice place to start. There are no odds limits, so you can bet $5 on a huge favorite to ensure you get the bonus bets.

Fanatics Sportsbook - Claim multiple offers

This Fanatics Sportsbook promo offers new Kentucky players the chance to claim two welcome offers.

Up to $2,000 in FanCash

This offer gives you up to $2,000 in FanCash. Just deposit at least $10 and place a minimum bet at -500 odds or longer for 10 straight days. If any of your bets lose, you’ll receive the original stake back in FanCash, up to $200 per day.

Bet $50, get $250 in FanCash

Kentucky users can place a $10+ bet on any market with odds of -500 or longer for five consecutive days within the first week of opening their account. Each day, you’ll receive $50 in FanCash, adding up to a total of $250.

💡 Consistency is key to maximizing the $2,000 welcome offer. Missing a day means forfeiting up to $200, so be ready to place a bet each day for 10 days.

DraftKings - Bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets if you win

New DraftKings Kentucky users who deposit at least $5 and place a $5 qualifying wager will receive 8 $25 bonus bets if they win. No DraftKings promo code is needed to redeem this offer.

Another offer is available, which gives 20% of the first deposit back as bonus bets, up to $1,000. We don't recommend this offer to casual bettors due to high deposit and wagering requirements.

💡 Since this DraftKings offer is not guaranteed, be sure to wager on a market that you're extremely confident in.

Important terms and conditions:

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit http://gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit http://ccpg.org (CT), or visit Home (MD).21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $200 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Token expires 1/11/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: http://sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 1/4/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.

🧑‍⚖️ Legal age

The legal age for sports betting in Kentucky is 18, making it one of the few states that allow bettors to wager before turning 21. However, bet365 and DraftKings are the only sportsbooks that accept 18-year-olds.

📲 Remote registration

Kentucky bettors can sign up and place wagers from anywhere in the state, thanks to remote registration. As long as your sportsbook’s geolocation confirms you’re in Kentucky, you can complete the entire process online in minutes.

📍 Geolocation rules

Kentucky sports betting apps use geolocation to verify your whereabouts. You don’t need to be a Kentucky resident, but you must be within state borders and have location services enabled to place a legal wager.

🏦 Tax on sports betting winnings in Kentucky

Kentucky sports bettors are subject to a 6% tax on their winnings, placing the state in the middle of the pack compared to other legal betting markets. Additionally, winnings over $5,000 are subject to a 25% federal tax.

What you can't bet on in Kentucky

Kentucky sports betting provides plenty of options, but certain wagers are off-limits. Here’s what you can’t bet on:

🏈 NFL Draft

While game betting is allowed, wagering on the NFL Draft is not legal in Kentucky.

🗳️ Politics

Kentucky, like all other states, does not allow regulated sportsbooks to offer bets on political elections.

🏆 Awards shows

Betting on events like the Oscars or Grammys is not permitted in Kentucky.

Kentucky might not have major professional franchises, but the Bluegrass State more than makes up for it with legendary college basketball programs and world-famous horse racing. For bettors, these teams and events offer plenty of excitement year-round.

🏀 Kentucky Wildcats (University of Kentucky)

When it comes to college basketball, the Wildcats are blue-blood royalty. With eight national championships and a steady stream of NBA talent, UK hoops are a staple for bettors every March, and a point of pride across the state.

🏀 Louisville Cardinals (University of Louisville)

The Cards are fierce rivals to Kentucky and have their own rich hoops tradition, including multiple Final Fours and a national title. The Battle of the Bluegrass is one of college basketball’s most intense rivalries, a must-watch (and must-bet) every season.

🏈 Louisville Cardinals Football

While Kentucky is hoops-first, Louisville football has been on the rise, producing NFL stars like Lamar Jackson. For bettors, they bring plenty of action during the ACC season.

🐎 Kentucky Derby (Churchill Downs)

The “Run for the Roses” is the most famous horse race in the world. Each spring, Churchill Downs in Louisville turns into the ultimate betting stage, drawing wagers from Kentucky and far beyond.

🏇 Keeneland Racecourse

Lexington’s Keeneland offers premier racing meets every year, giving bettors a taste of high-stakes handicapping in a historic setting.

Kentucky sports betting launched in September 2023 and quickly gained momentum, generating $886.1 million in handle in the year's final months. That fast start set the stage for a strong 2024, with Kentucky bettors wagering a total of $2.63 billion throughout the year, cementing the state as an emerging player in the sports betting market.

Yearly breakdown

Monthly handle

Kentucky sports betting offers numerous advantages for those seeking to get in on the action. However, no legal betting market is without its drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons of Kentucky sports betting:

Pros

✅ Plenty of retail options

Kentucky bettors have access to 12 retail sportsbooks, providing various in-person betting experiences across the state. Whether you prefer the convenience of online betting or the thrill of a brick-and-mortar sportsbook, there are options to suit your preferences.

✅ College sports betting

In Kentucky, you can bet on college games, including in-state teams and player props, without restrictions. Unlike some states, you don’t have to worry about where the game is played — if it's a college game, you can place a bet.

✅ Legal age of 18

Kentucky is one of the few states where you can legally bet at 18, offering a unique advantage to young adults looking to wager on sports.

Cons

✖ Tax rate

Kentucky bettors face a 6% tax on sports betting winnings. While this isn’t the highest rate compared to other states, some markets offer lower tax rates.

✖ No betting on drafts or awards shows

One notable restriction in Kentucky is that betting on the NFL Draft is not permitted, despite being available in other states. Additionally, Kentucky bettors can’t wager on non-sports events like the Oscars or political elections.

✖ Problem gambling has increased

Problem gambling has risen alongside the growth of sports betting in Kentucky. However, the state offers support resources, including the Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling and access to self-exclusion programs for those who need help.

Licensed sportsbooks in Kentucky provide strong consumer protections, ensuring your funds and personal information are secure.

In contrast, offshore sportsbooks lack these safeguards, putting you at risk. For a safe and reliable betting experience, it's best to stick with legal platforms.

Here are some online sportsbooks to avoid in Kentucky:

Kentucky sports betting gives you plenty of options both online and in person. Below is a complete list betting sites and physical locations.

Licensed online sportsbooks

Read our bet365 bonus code page to learn about another great Kentucky sportsbook.

Physical retail sportsbooks

Kentucky sports bettors can access helpful resources if they need more sports betting information, the recent updates, or help accessing responsible gambling tools.

• Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation
• Kentucky State Senate
• Approved Kentucky sports betting licenses

While sports betting is legal at the federal level, each state has its own laws and regulations, meaning a sportsbook may be legal in one state but not another. To help clarify where you can bet, here's a chart with key details about sports betting options across the U.S.

Kentucky, like all legal sports betting markets, is dedicated to promoting responsible betting. Bluegrass State bettors seeking information on available tools, such as voluntary exclusions, can visit the Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling website for guidance and support.

• Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling
• Kentucky Problem Gambling Program
• Gamblers Anonymous