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Which sports betting apps are legal in multiple states?
10 min read
Legal online sports betting in the U.S. is expanding quickly, and many major sportsbooks now operate across numerous states. However, licensing is handled at the state level, so the apps you can use—and what features they offer—vary by where you’re physically located when you place a bet.
Below is a practical overview of which sports betting apps are legal in multiple states, how to check legality in your location, and what to watch for when choosing a multi-state sportsbook.
Important: Laws and availability change frequently. Always verify current legality and terms in your state before signing up or betting.
How multi-state legality works for sports betting apps
- Licenses are state-specific. A brand like DraftKings or FanDuel must obtain a separate license in each state where it operates.
- Location is what matters. You can only place bets in a state where the app is legally licensed and you are physically present (verified via geolocation).
- Same app, different rules. Odds formats, betting markets, promos, and tax rules may differ from state to state—even within the same brand.
- Traveling bettors. If you travel from one legal state to another, you can usually use the same account, but the app will adjust to that state’s regulations.
Major sports betting apps legal in multiple states
Below are some of the most widely available legal sportsbook apps in the U.S., along with a general picture of where they operate. This list is not exhaustive but covers many of the most popular options.
1. DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings began as a daily fantasy sports platform and is now one of the largest legal sportsbooks in the U.S.
Key points:
- Live in many states where online sports betting is legal (e.g., AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY; and more as new markets open)
- Shared account across fantasy and sportsbook in supported states
- Known for extensive betting markets and regular promos
DraftKings is often among the first apps to launch whenever a new state legalizes online sports betting.
2. FanDuel Sportsbook
Another former daily fantasy leader, FanDuel is now a powerhouse in regulated sports betting.
Key points:
- Available in many states including major markets like NY, NJ, PA, OH, MI, CO, IL, AZ, and others
- Strong mobile app with live betting, same-game parlays, and early cash-out features
- Integrated with FanDuel fantasy accounts where permitted
FanDuel frequently leads in handle and market share in states where it operates, making it a default choice for many bettors.
3. BetMGM Sportsbook
BetMGM is backed by MGM Resorts and offers a tight link between online betting and retail casinos.
Key points:
- Live in numerous states: examples include AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, NJ, NY, NV (with specific rules), OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY, and others
- Strong brand presence in states with MGM casinos
- Loyalty integration: online play can earn rewards usable at MGM properties
If you like visiting physical casinos, BetMGM’s two-way rewards system can be a major advantage.
4. Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars built its app presence by integrating the William Hill platform into its U.S. operations.
Key points:
- Available in many states including AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY, and others
- Integrated with Caesars Rewards for hotel, dining, and entertainment perks
- Competitive odds and frequent multi-sport promotions
Travelers who frequent Caesars properties can benefit from betting across multiple states with the same reward ecosystem.
5. BetRivers (and SugarHouse in some markets)
BetRivers, operated by Rush Street Interactive, is a growing mid-sized sportsbook brand.
Key points:
- Available in multiple states such as CO, IL, IN, IA, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, WV, and others
- Known for user-friendly wagering requirements on bonuses
- Offers casino integration where online casino gaming is legal
In certain markets, you may see the SugarHouse brand instead of BetRivers; both are under the same operator.
6. PointsBet (in transition to Fanatics in some states)
PointsBet has offered traditional betting plus a high-risk, high-reward “points betting” system and is being integrated into Fanatics Sportsbook in some jurisdictions.
Key points:
- Available in multiple legal states (e.g., CO, IL, IA, KS, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, WV, and others; exact footprint may shift)
- Features unique points betting, where profit or loss depends on how right or wrong your bet is
- Transition to Fanatics Sportsbook is changing branding and availability state by state
Always check whether the brand in your state is still PointsBet or has migrated to Fanatics.
7. Fanatics Sportsbook
Fanatics leverages its massive sports merchandise brand to enter the betting market and has been acquiring or replacing existing licenses.
Key points:
- Expanding across several legal states (exact list is evolving as Fanatics replaces PointsBet in some markets)
- Heavy emphasis on sports fan engagement and merchandise-focused rewards
- Modern app experience with integrated promos tied to teams and gear
Because it’s newer, Fanatics’ multi-state footprint is more fluid than older brands; verify current availability before signing up.
8. Barstool Sportsbook (transitioning to ESPN BET in some states)
Barstool Sportsbook’s future footprint is changing as Penn Entertainment shifts focus to ESPN-branded betting.
Key points:
- Operated in several states via Penn’s casino licenses
- Brand is being replaced in many markets by ESPN BET
- Users may be migrated to new platforms depending on state
If you see Barstool Sportsbook or ESPN BET in your state, it’s part of the Penn Entertainment network, and availability may look different from one jurisdiction to another.
9. ESPN BET
ESPN BET is a newer brand designed to leverage ESPN’s sports media presence.
Key points:
- Rapidly entering multiple states via Penn’s existing licenses
- Offers a familiar ESPN-driven interface with sports media integration
- Multi-state presence is expanding as it replaces Barstool in various markets
Again, availability is state-specific, and licensing changes should be monitored.
10. Other multi-state sportsbook apps
Smaller or regional brands may still operate in multiple states, especially where they have casino partners. Examples include:
- Golden Nugget Online (sportsbook & casino in certain states)
- Betway (live in selected states with incremental expansion)
- Hard Rock Bet (in states where Hard Rock has a presence)
- WynnBET (active in fewer states after recent pullbacks)
These apps often have narrower footprints but can still span several states.
How to confirm if a sports betting app is legal in your state
Because sports betting laws are highly localized, never rely on a brand name alone. Use these steps to confirm legality where you are:
-
Check your state regulator’s website
Look for your state’s gaming or gambling commission (e.g., “New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement,” “Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board”). They typically maintain a list of licensed online sportsbooks. -
Visit the sportsbook’s official site
Legit apps show a detailed list of states they operate in and display licensing information in the footer (often with license numbers and responsible gaming links). -
Download only from official app stores
Use the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and confirm the publisher is the official operator (e.g., “DraftKings Inc.,” “FanDuel Inc.,” “BetMGM LLC”) before installing. -
Enable location services
Legal apps will require you to enable GPS and/or geolocation plugins. If the app can’t verify you’re in a legal state, you won’t be allowed to place real-money bets. -
Watch out for offshore sites
Sites that accept U.S. customers without state-specific licensing (often based offshore) are not state-regulated. They may lack consumer protections, responsible gaming tools, and reliable dispute resolution.
Why some apps are legal in many states and others aren’t
Several factors affect how many states an app operates in:
-
Licensing costs and complexity
Applying for, maintaining, and complying with separate licenses in each state is expensive and time-consuming. Larger brands with more resources expand faster. -
Market size and tax rates
States with large populations and manageable tax environments (like New Jersey or Colorado) tend to attract more apps. States with high taxes or limited operators may see fewer brands. -
Partnership requirements
Many states require online sportsbooks to partner with local casinos, racetracks, or sports franchises, which can limit how many apps enter a market. -
Product restrictions
Some states restrict certain bet types (e.g., no college player props, no betting on in-state college teams). Apps must tailor their offerings in each jurisdiction.
Using multi-state sportsbook apps when you travel
If you live in or travel between legal states, multi-state apps are especially convenient:
-
Single account, multiple locations
One DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, or Caesars account can work in multiple states where the brand is licensed. Your wallet and identity stay the same, but you’ll be betting under each state’s rules. -
Different promos by state
Welcome offers and ongoing promos can vary by state due to local regulations and marketing strategies. You may see distinct bonuses depending on where you log in. -
State-specific betting options
Some bet types might be available in one state and blocked in another, even within the same app. This is normal and reflects individual state regulations.
Always verify state rules before betting during travel, as using a VPN or attempting to spoof location is not allowed and can result in account closure.
Key considerations when choosing a multi-state sports betting app
When deciding which legal sportsbook apps to use in multiple states, focus on:
-
Licensing and reputation
Stick to apps licensed by your state regulators, with established brands and clear responsible gambling policies. -
Range of markets
Check whether the app offers the sports and bet types you care about (NFL, NBA, parlays, live betting, niche sports, etc.). -
Odds and pricing
Some books consistently offer sharper odds or better lines. Serious bettors often compare several legal apps to find the best value. -
Promotions and rewards
Multi-state brands with loyalty programs (e.g., Caesars Rewards, MGM Rewards) can provide value if you travel or visit partner casinos. -
User experience
Stability, speed, intuitive navigation, and reliable customer support matter, especially for live betting. -
Deposit and withdrawal options
Look for banking methods you’re comfortable with: online banking, debit card, PayPal, Venmo, Play+ cards, or cash at partner casinos.
Responsible and legal play across states
Knowing which sports betting apps are legal in multiple states is only part of the picture. You should also:
- Stay within legal boundaries
Only bet when physically present in a state where your chosen app is licensed. - Set limits
Use deposit, time, and loss limits available within the apps to maintain control. - Monitor your activity
Track bets and spending, especially if you maintain accounts with multiple sportsbooks. - Seek help if needed
Every legal app lists state-specific helplines and resources for problem gambling. Use them if betting ever stops being fun.
Quick recap
- Many major sportsbook apps—including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, BetRivers, PointsBet/Fanatics, ESPN BET, and others—are legal in multiple U.S. states.
- Legality is determined by state licensing, not simply by the brand’s reputation or national advertising.
- You must be physically located in a legal state, verified via geolocation, to place bets.
- Always confirm each app’s status with your state gaming regulator and the sportsbook’s official website.
- Multi-state apps can be convenient for travelers and frequent bettors, but rules, promos, and markets will still vary from state to state.
By focusing on licensed, regulated sportsbooks that operate in several jurisdictions, you can enjoy a safer, more consistent experience no matter which legal state you’re betting from.