Ohio Sports Betting: A Complete Guide to Ohio Online Sportsbooks

Ohio sports betting summary

Yes, sports betting in Ohio has been legal since Jan. 1, 2023, just over a year after House Bill 29 passed the two chambers of the Ohio Legislature and was signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine. Ohio sports betting has 14 online sportsbooks and several retail betting options.

Yes, Ohio sports betting winnings are considered taxable income on both the state and federal levels. You will be subject to a 4% state tax on any win in Ohio. At the federal level, there will be a 24% withholding tax if your winnings exceed $5,000.

You must be 21 years old to place a sports bet in Ohio whether online or in person.

No, as of February 2024, all forms of college prop betting are prohibited. 

Buckeye state bettors can wager with a wide array of top OH sportsbooks. Below, we highlight some of the best features of each of the premier operators in the state based on the criteria defined on our how we rate page. 

1. BetMGM Ohio

BetMGM, a long-tenured and respected brand in gaming, has found success in the Buckeye State. Both the desktop and mobile interfaces are user-friendly and easy to navigate, even for novice bettors.  

BetMGM also offers an industry-leading selection of sports betting markets, ranging from popular U.S.-based options such as the MLB and NBA to more niche sports like Formula 1 Racing and the WNBA. You'll even get exclusive NFL markets, making it one of the best NFL betting sites. 

Features such as pre-built and customizable same-game parlays (SGPs), live betting, and prop bets are available. To top it off, BetMGM offers a fantastic rewards program, allowing users to earn bonus credits or redeem points for rewards at MGM Resorts, making it one of the best Ohio sportsbook apps.

• 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

Read our complete BetMGM review for more expert analysis.

2. Caesars Sportsbook Ohio

Caesars Sportsbook is a well-known brand in the gaming space. The sports betting site is designed to appeal to bettors through its premium rewards program, which lets players accumulate points that can be redeemed for hotel stays, dining, and other perks.

Caesars' user-friendly platform, ample betting markets, NFL live streaming, and excellent customer support add to the allure. The sportsbook is a fit for parlay enthusiasts, typically offering users various pre-built parlay options in many major sports. Caesars is one of the best college football betting sites, but it also has an impressive number of international markets like racing, sailing, and LIV golf. 

• 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
• Bonus code: SICZR20X
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Check out our full Caesars Sportsbook review for more information on everything you need to know about this top Ohio sportsbook.

3. FanDuel Ohio

FanDuel Ohio has adapted its already user-friendly fantasy interface to a sports betting format, making it our pick for the best user experience for both new and seasoned bettors. The FanDuel app lets players quickly identify available betting markets, special offers such as same-game parlays, and odds for each wager. We also believe you'll find one of the more rewarding sportsbook referral bonuses, which gives you $50 in bonus bets.

FanDuel offers a silky, glitch-free live betting experience where you'll find deeper markets than most of the competition. You can get started with one of the best Ohio sports betting welcome offers of $150 in bonus bets if you win your initial wager. Be sure to pick a market with short odds.

• 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

Read our comprehensive FanDuel review to learn more about the operator's features, promos, and what makes it one of the best parlay betting sites.

4. DraftKings Ohio

DraftKings, like fellow daily fantasy sports (DFS) operator FanDuel, has successfully transitioned to sports betting. The sportsbook is known for its polished interface, deep promo offerings, and seamless navigation. The combination of impressive features makes it the top sports betting app in the industry.

DraftKings Ohio offers an extensive selection of betting markets and statistical analysis to help with wager placement. DK's props markets are second-to-none, making it a go-to for prop betting sites, and they often provide early odds that you won't find elsewhere. Futures bets on major events such as the World Series, Super Bowl, and NBA Finals have their own linked hubs, making it easy to locate those bets at any time. 

• 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

Head on over to check out our DraftKings review for all the details.

5. Fanatics Sportsbook Ohio

Fanatics Sportsbook's best feature is its FanCash Rewards, which allows you to earn with every bet and trade the spoils for bonus bets and Fanatics apparel.

The Ohio betting site offers all of the major betting markets that other sportsbooks do and has odds on par with industry leaders. Since Fanatics is a mobile-only platform, it has perfected its app as one of the industry leaders. The sportsbook also features a unique 'choose your own offer' welcome bonus that provides something for all types of bettors.

• 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

Our full Fanatics Sportsbook review covers everything you need to know about one of the best betting sites in Ohio.

Ohio sportsbook promos are among the best in the country, and it’s worth claiming as many as possible. Taking advantage of multiple offers will give you bonus bets across top Ohio betting sites and the ability to line-shop for the best odds.

BetMGM - Up to $1,500 in bonus bets

BetMGM users can get started by using our exclusive BetMGM bonus code SI1500. Then make an initial deposit of at least $10 and place a bet. If you lose, you'll receive 100% of your original stake, up to $1,500, back in bonus bets.

💡 BetMGM's versatile welcome offer allows for a couple of different options. One school of thought is to bet big on a plus-money wager, knowing you'll receive your stake back in bonus bets if you lose. Another option could be to bet on a favorite, such as the Cleveland Cavaliers, on the moneyline against a weaker opponent. While the return will be modest, it's a good opportunity to add to your bankroll. 

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

Caesars Sportsbook newbies can sign up with our Caesars Sportsbook promo code SICZR20X. After making a minimum initial deposit of $10 and placing a qualifying wager of $1, you'll receive 20 100% profit boost tokens regardless of the bet’s outcome. The maximum wager for each token is $25, and they must be used on markets with minimum odds of -10000 within 14 days of receipt. 

💡 The beauty of the Caesars welcome bonus is that you have 14 days to use your boost tokens. This window allows you to pick and choose your spots to maximize profit.

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

FanDuel Ohio customers can download the platform’s app, deposit at least $5, and place a $5 qualifying wager. If your bet wins, you'll unlock $150 in bonus bets, which are valid for seven days. No FanDuel promo code is needed to claim this welcome offer.

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

💡 The FanDuel welcome bonus is a great opportunity to bet on a heavy favorite. Since you need to win your bet to claim your bonus bets, make sure you pick a team with extremely short odds. 

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

DraftKings users who make an initial $5 deposit and wager will receive 8 $25 bonus bets if they win. No DraftKings promo code is required.

DraftKings also has an offer that grants 20% of your first deposit back in bonus bets up to $1,000. However, its steep deposit and wagering requirements make it less suitable for most bettors.

💡 The bonus bets are not guaranteed on this welcome bonus, so now might be the best time to explore new markets such as alternative line MLB props.

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.

Fanatics Sportsbook - Claim multiple offers

Ohio bettors can claim two Fanatics Sportsbook promo options detailed below.

Up to $2,000 in FanCash

Alternatively, you can opt to claim only this offer on its own, which allows you to wager as little as $1. If your bet loses, you’ll receive up to $200 in FanCash daily for ten consecutive days.

Bet $50, get $250 in FanCash

The first offer allows you to place a $10 or more wager on any market with odds of -500 or longer for five days in a row. As soon as each bet settles, you’ll score $50 in FanCash, giving you extra funds to put toward your next plays. 

💡 Ensure you pick the offer that will bring the most value based on how you place bets.

Legal Ohio betting sites operate under the watchful eye of the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC), which holds operators to high standards for safety, integrity, and transparency. From secure payment systems to responsible gaming practices, these platforms must demonstrate that they can protect users and operate fairly and compliantly.

Ohio’s licensing framework is built to favor reputable companies, including partnerships with casinos and pro sports teams that have a strong local presence. Most licensed sportsbooks are also active in other regulated states, underscoring their commitment to lawful and transparent betting.

Placing a wager with a legal Ohio sportsbook means you’re using a fully vetted platform that prioritizes user protection, regulatory compliance, and financial security every step of the way.

With over a dozen licensed Ohio sports betting apps now operating in the Buckeye State, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices. Whether you're betting on the Browns, Buckeyes, or Blue Jackets, here are the key factors to help you find the best mobile platforms for your betting style and needs:

🎁 Welcome offers and promos

Ohio sports betting apps love to roll out the red carpet for new users, but not all welcome bonuses are created equal. Look for offers that are simple to activate, come with low playthrough requirements, and don’t bury you in fine print. Bonus bets and deposit matches are great, as long as they're easy to use and can be easily cashed out.

📱 Mobile app performance

Betting should be effortless. The top sports betting apps load quickly, are well-organized, and make it easy to locate your favorite sports, manage your account, and place bets without a headache. 

💳 Flexible payment options

Fast, secure transactions are a must. The best Ohio sports betting apps support popular payment methods, including PayPal, credit cards, debit cards, ACH transfers, and Apple Pay. Ensure you check the minimum deposit and withdrawal limits, as well as any associated fees.

⚡ Fast payouts

Nobody wants to wait days for their money. Whether you just hit a same-game parlay or nailed a futures bet on the Cincinnati Reds, your chosen app should offer quick payout speeds, ideally within 24 hours, with no extra charges.

🔒 Trusted security

Your financial info should always be protected. Before signing up, verify that the sportsbook uses modern encryption, offers two-factor authentication, and is fully licensed by the Ohio Casino Control Commission.

🏈 Wide range of betting markets

From NFL spreads to live MLS props, the top Ohio sportsbook apps offer deep betting menus. Explore apps that cover major leagues, college sports, and niche options like darts, golf, or international soccer. The more options, the better.

🤝 Reliable customer support

Glitches happen. Whether it’s a bonus that didn’t trigger or a withdrawal delay, responsive support matters. Prioritize apps with 24/7 live chat, email support, and detailed help centers. Bonus points if they have an active social presence to escalate issues.

Ohio residents who want to try out sports betting are just a few effortless steps away from creating an account at one of the state’s abundant selection of sportsbooks. There is no shortage of quality options, and the sign-up process for each is straightforward.

1. Choose a sportsbook 

Ohio has 14 online sportsbooks and 13 retail options to choose from. You can visit each book's online platform to better understand sign-up bonuses, ongoing promos, betting markets offered, and deposit and withdrawal options.

2. Download the betting app

Now that you've chosen which Ohio sportsbook to use, it's time to click on any link on this page to get started. You can also download the respective app from the App Store or Google Play Store.

3. Register 

The next step is creating an account so that you can eventually place bets. Typically, this involves providing basic information, including name, address, date of birth, phone number, email address, and social security number for tax purposes. Each sportsbook will verify your account.

4. Claim your welcome bonus 

Once you've created a sportsbook account, you can claim the welcome bonus that the platform is offering. Many sportsbooks place time limits on claiming offers and using bonus bets. Be sure to read the terms and conditions to check expiration dates.

5. Deposit funds

You'll need to make a minimum deposit to meet bonus requirements before you start placing bets. Online sportsbooks offer various deposit options, with the most common methods being debit cards, Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, and wire transfers.

6. Place a bet 

Once your deposit has been accepted, you are ready to begin placing wagers. The process varies slightly from site to site, but placing a bet at an online sportsbook always involves managing an online betting slip. 

These slips are typically self-explanatory. There is a field for the amount to be wagered, as well as a display of odds the bet carries. Once the wager amount is filled in, the amount that can be potentially won automatically prefills.  

7. Withdraw winnings 

Withdrawing funds from a sportsbook account is also typically streamlined. Although withdrawal methods differ among Ohio betting sites, debit cards, PayPal, Venmo, and bank transfers are the most universally available.

The response time for receiving funds after a withdrawal request varies between sportsbooks, but many now offer turnaround times of just a few hours.

Choosing an Ohio sportsbook isn’t always straightforward. Each betting app has its strengths; some focus on odds, others on promotions, or app design. That’s why many experienced bettors create accounts with multiple sportsbooks. Signing up for a few different Ohio sports betting apps can give you a serious edge. Here's why:

🛍 Line shopping

Sportsbooks don’t always agree on pricing. That same Cavaliers moneyline could be significantly different from one sportsbook to another. Since each operator uses its own odds formula, having more than one account allows you to compare prices and select the best value, which can make a meaningful difference over time.

🎁 Welcome bonuses

Ohio sportsbooks roll out generous new-user promos to get your business, including bonus bets, deposit boosts, and even bet insurance. And the good news? You’re allowed to claim them all. Opening accounts at a few different books means you can maximize your bonus funds and pad your bankroll right from the start.

🌟 Find your favorite

Each sportsbook has its own vibe. Some are lightning-fast for live betting, while others offer top-notch stats and extensive markets. By trying out multiple Ohio apps, you’ll quickly learn which one matches your betting habits and personal style.

📚 Sportsbook rules

Not all books handle bet outcomes the same way. For example, one sportsbook might refund a player prop if the athlete gets injured, while another might still grade the bet. Rain delays, stat minimums, and tie rules also vary. With more than one account, you gain the flexibility to place bets where the rules favor you most.

🧑‍⚖️ Legal age 

Individuals who are 21 or older and are physically present within the state at the time of placing a wager can participate in Ohio sports betting.  

📲 Remote registration 

Remote registration allows prospective bettors to create new Ohio sports betting accounts anywhere in Ohio. There is no need to visit a retail sportsbook to verify an account or make a deposit.

📍 Geolocation rules 

You must be physically located in Ohio to create a new sports betting account and place a bet. Ohio betting sites will not accept your wagers if you’ve wandered beyond state lines.

🏦 Tax on sports betting winnings in Ohio 

Ohio income tax is withheld at an amount of 4% of the payout for both Ohio residents and non-residents. 

What you can’t bet on in Ohio 

Legal Ohio sports betting offers many unique options like esports and college markets, but as with every state, certain bet types are prohibited. Here are some of the things you can't bet on:

🗳️ Politics

Betting on any political election is not allowed at a regulated Ohio sportsbook. This restriction eliminates the possibility of cheating in the election process. 

🎒 High school sports

These restrictions help prevent the manipulation of results and the harassment of young athletes.

⛹🏾 College sports prop betting

As of February 2024, college sports prop betting is also not allowed in Ohio. However, you can still bet on your favorite teams like the Ohio State Buckeyes or the Xavier Musketeers.

🌧️ Weather-related betting

No weather-related betting of any kind is permitted. 

🗓️ June 27, 2025: Ohio lawmakers decide not to raise the sports betting tax to 40%, keeping it at 20%.

🗓️ July 1, 2023: The state doubles the tax rate on sportsbook revenue from 10% to 20%.

🗓️ Jan. 1, 2023: Sports betting officially launches in Ohio, online and in-person, at 12:01 a.m.

🗓️ November 2022: The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) begins licensing operators ahead of the January launch.

🗓️ June 2022: The OCCC releases first draft of rules for public review.

🗓️ Dec. 8, 2021: Governor Mike DeWine signs HB 29, legalizing sports betting (effective Jan 1, 2023).

🗓️ June 24, 2021: Sports betting language from SB 176 is merged into HB 29, accelerating the path to passage.

🗓️ June 16, 2021: Ohio Senate passes SB 176 (vote: 30–2), setting out a full regulatory framework.

🗓️ May 6, 2021: SB 176 is introduced, proposing mobile, retail, and kiosk sports betting options.

Ohio sports betting got off to a highly auspicious start when it debuted in January 2023, garnering $1.1 billion in handle in its first month. That would be a harbinger of a consistently robust market, as Ohio once again exceeded $1 billion in November 2024. Here's a breakdown of Ohio's sports betting numbers from the beginning.

Yearly breakdown

Monthly handle

Ohio sports betting offers numerous benefits for bettors. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of Buckeye State betting.

Pros

✅ In-state college betting

Ohio is one of the states that allows you to bet on in-state teams. However, no college player prop betting is permitted. 

✅ Wide variety of sportsbook options

With 14 online sportsbooks (and three more in the wings) and 13 retail sportsbook locations, Ohio sports betting consumers have ample options. 

✅ Influx of tax revenue for state

Sportsbooks in Ohio are currently taxed at a rate of 20%, the sixth highest of any state. That is a sizable increase from the original 10% rate that was in place for the first six months of the industry’s in-state existence. Consequently, Ohio sports betting apps have contributed plenty of revenue to the state’s coffers.

Cons

✖ Problem gambling has increased

There is an inevitable increase in problem gambling in any legal or unregulated sports betting environment, and that has been the case in Ohio as well. However, the state does offer numerous resources for those experiencing issues with any form of gambling. 

✖ Banning or limiting of sharp bettors

There is always the possibility that bettors who repeatedly enjoy success at a sportsbook’s expense can have bet limits placed on their accounts or be restricted altogether. That holds true in Ohio sports betting as well, at the discretion of each individual sportsbook.

✖ Bonus wagering requirements

Not all Ohio sportsbooks attach wagering requirements to welcome bonuses, but some offers may include unreasonable terms.

Here's a look at the updated championship odds for Ohio teams at the top Ohio sports betting app. One of the featured games for NFL Week 14 is the Cincinnati Bengals vs. Buffalo Bills, a game with major playoff implications that pits Joe Burrow against Josh Allen. 

Odds via BetMGM Sportsbook; Updated Dec. 2, 2025

Ohio is home to storied professional franchises and powerhouse college programs, providing sports fans with numerous betting options throughout the year. From NFL Sundays to March Madness matchups, the state offers rich histories, passionate fan bases, and venues full of excitement.

🏈 Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns, established in 1946, have a long and storied history in the NFL. Playing at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, the team is known for its passionate fans and historic moments, including multiple league championships before the Super Bowl era.

🏈 Cincinnati Bengals

Founded in 1968, the Cincinnati Bengals are another Ohio NFL team. Home games at Paycor Stadium bring together devoted fans who have followed the team through playoff runs and the development of NFL talent over the decades.

🏀 Cleveland Cavaliers

Since joining the NBA in 1970, the Cleveland Cavaliers have built a strong following, highlighted by the 2016 NBA Championship. The team plays at Rocket Arena, attracting fans from across Northeast Ohio for both regular-season and playoff games.

⚾ Cleveland Guardians

Originally established in 1901, the Cleveland Guardians play at Progressive Field and are a major MLB presence in Ohio. Known for historic rivalries and memorable seasons, they remain a staple for baseball fans in the state.

⚾ Cincinnati Reds

The Cincinnati Reds, founded in 1869, are recognized as one of the oldest professional baseball teams in the U.S. They play at Great American Ball Park, providing a rich tradition and summer baseball experience for fans and bettors alike.

🏒 Columbus Blue Jackets

The Columbus Blue Jackets, established in 2000, are Ohio’s NHL team based in Columbus. Playing at Nationwide Arena, the team has built a dedicated fan base and offers consistent professional hockey action in the state.

⚽ Columbus Crew

One of Major League Soccer’s original clubs (founded in 1994), the Columbus Crew plays at Historic Crew Stadium. The team has captured multiple MLS Cups and continues to grow its following in Ohio’s soccer scene.

⚽ FC Cincinnati

Joining MLS in 2019, FC Cincinnati has quickly become a fan favorite. With home games at TQL Stadium, the club has attracted large crowds and offers high-energy soccer entertainment.

🎓🏈🏀 Ohio State Buckeyes (NCAA)

The Ohio State Buckeyes are a powerhouse in both college football and basketball. Known for national championships and producing NFL and NBA talent, Ohio Stadium and Value City Arena are always packed with fans.

🎓🏈🏀 University of Cincinnati Bearcats (NCAA)

The Cincinnati Bearcats football and basketball programs compete at a high level within the American Athletic Conference. Home games at Nippert Stadium and Fifth Third Arena showcase competitive matchups and strong local support.

Ohio's licensed sportsbooks provide robust consumer protections, ensuring your funds and personal details are safe and secure.

In contrast, offshore sportsbooks lack these protections, putting you at risk. For a secure and trustworthy betting experience, always choose legal platforms.

Here are some online sportsbooks to avoid in Ohio:

While we've highlighted the best of the best sportboooks in the Buckeye State, here's a few others that didn't quite make the cut.

bet365 Ohio

bet365, one of the most globally respected names in online sports betting, is also a favorite among Ohio bettors. Known for offering some of the sharpest odds in the industry, bet365 combines excellent pricing with a vast selection of betting options to deliver a top-tier experience.

Whether you’re wagering on your desktop or through their highly intuitive mobile app, navigation is effortless, even for first-time users. With over 30 sports to bet on, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, college sports, and global favorites such as tennis, cricket, and rugby, bet365 offers unmatched variety.

The platform offers live streaming of select events and customizable same-game parlays, making it one of the most versatile sportsbook apps in the state.

• App Store: 4.7 out of 5 ⭐ (363.3K reviews)
• Google Play: 4.6 out of 5 ⭐ (185.4K reviews)
• Welcome bonus: Bet $5, get $150 win or lose, or $1,000 First Bet Safety Net
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Read our complete bet365 review for a deeper dive on it's features, app experience, and the bet365 bonus code.

BetRivers Ohio

BetRivers has quickly carved out a solid place in Ohio’s sports betting scene, offering a smart blend of functionality, value, and local focus. 

The BetRivers app and website are clean, responsive, and easy to navigate, making it simple to jump into the action. One of the platform’s signature strengths is its iRush Rewards program, a loyalty system that lets players earn points for every wager and redeem them for bonuses, boosts, and more. 

The platform also offers early cash-out, live in-game betting, and a robust stats center, giving bettors the tools to wager smarter in real time.

• App Store: 4.9 out of 5 ⭐ (20.7K reviews)
• Google Play: 4.5 out of 5 ⭐ (8.3K reviews)
• Welcome bonus: Up to a $500 second-chance bet
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Ohio has an abundance of legal online and retail sportsbooks. Below is a complete list of licensed OH sports betting sites and physical locations.

1. Bally Bet
2. bet365
3. betJACK
4. Betly
5. BetMGM
6. Betr
7. BetRivers
8. Caesars Sportsbook
9. DraftKings
10. Fanatics Sportsbook
11. FanDuel
12. Hard Rock Bet
13. Prime Sports
14. theScore Bet

Licensed online sportsbooks

Physical retail sportsbooks

Ohio regulates sports betting through three distinct license types, each tailored to a different kind of operator. These licenses were established under HB 29, the legislation that legalized sports wagering in the state. Here's a breakdown of what each license type means and who qualifies for them.

Type A: Online sports betting license

Type A licenses are issued to entities that offer mobile or online sports betting through a website or app. These licenses are typically granted to major professional sports teams, casinos, or racinos based in Ohio. Each Type A license holder is allowed to partner with up to two online sportsbook operators, though a second skin requires additional regulatory approval. Well-known platforms like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM operate under this license category. The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) caps the total number of Type A licenses at 25.

Type B: Retail sports betting license

Type B licenses cover brick-and-mortar sportsbooks, allowing for in-person betting at physical locations. These are generally granted to facilities like casinos, racinos, and professional sports venues. Type B licensees are required to operate within specific counties, and the number of available licenses per county is determined by its population. For example, more populous counties, such as Franklin or Cuyahoga, may host multiple retail sportsbooks, while smaller counties may be limited to one or none. These establishments must also follow strict security and operational standards as outlined by the OCCC.

Type C: Kiosk sports betting license

Type C licenses permit the installation of sports betting kiosks at eligible businesses, including bars, restaurants, and bowling alleys that hold Ohio Lottery licenses and possess a D-1, D-2, or D-5 liquor permit. The Ohio Lottery Commission regulates these kiosks in partnership with the OCCC. Type C betting is more limited in scope, offering simpler wager types, such as moneylines, point spreads, and over/unders. The goal of this license is to make sports betting more accessible in smaller venues, expanding participation without requiring a full-scale sportsbook operation.

Yes, online gambling is legal in Ohio, and numerous options are available, including 14 online betting sites and nine retail sportsbooks.

🎰 Casinos

Ohio has four full-scale land-based casinos as well as seven racinos. Racino betting encompasses both racetrack and VLT betting, but excludes table games. 

Online casinos are not yet legal in Ohio.

🐴 Horse racing

Pari-mutuel betting has been legal in Ohio since 1933, regulated by the Ohio State Racing Commission. There are seven racinos and one off-track betting facility. 

🏆 Daily fantasy sports (DFS)

Ohio passed legislation in late 2017, and DFS formally became legal under state law in 2018, making it the 18th state to permit paid-entry fantasy games.

📈 Sports prediction markets

In April 2025, the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) sent cease-and-desist notices to platforms including Kalshi, Robinhood, and Crypto.com, asserting that their sports-related event contracts are considered sports betting under Ohio law and therefore require proper state licensing. These platforms were ordered to cease operations in Ohio by April 14, 2025.

🎟️ Ohio Lottery

Ohio has offered a full slate of lottery operations since 1973, run by the Ohio Lottery Commission.

Top Ohio sports betting apps provide a variety of deposit and withdrawal options. Many of these apps rank among the fastest payout sportsbooks, ensuring players can access their funds quickly. Below is a look at some of the most popular methods at leading OH sportsbooks.

Since its inception, Ohio sports betting has been supported by a common-sense regulatory framework that protects and supports the state’s residents.  

The Ohio Casino Control Commission oversees sports betting in the state, which also offers many resources for bettors who are struggling with problem gambling. 

• Ohio Casino Control Commission
• American Gaming Association - Ohio
• Sports gaming license list
• Ohio House Bill 29

U.S. sports betting laws vary by state, but most now offer some form of legal wagering. Missouri sports betting will go live in December 2025, providing both online and retail options for residents. For full details on betting in your state, check out the guides below.

Participation in Ohio sports betting is intended to be responsible and not disruptive to the bettor’s financial responsibilities or psychological well-being. Bettors are encouraged to establish and observe personal betting frequency and spending limits and utilize legal, regulated sportsbooks.  

Bettors who feel they need assistance regulating their Ohio sports betting activity in any form have plenty of resources available. Not only are bettors able to interact with the Ohio Casino Control Commission for any issues related to the state’s operators, but there are also resources available for problem gambling.  

• Ohio for Responsible Gambling
• Problem Gambling Network of Ohio
• Gamblers Anonymous
• Ohio Problem Gambling Help Line:1-800-589-9966