Iowa sports betting is legal. The market has been live since 2019, with both retail and online wagering available. The market is thriving and competitive, currently offering 13 online sportsbooks for bettors to choose from.
Iowa Recent News
Below, we'll take a comprehensive look at the best sportsbook options Iowa has to offer, the state’s path toward legal sports betting, how to get started betting on sports, and much more. Read on for a complete look at Iowa sports betting.
| Iowa Regulated Sportsbooks |  FinCertified Bonus | Available States |
|---|---|---|
Image  | Not | AZ CO IA IN MA MD NJ NY OH TN VA |
Image  | Bonus is not available in your region | AZ CO IN IA KY LA NJ NC OH PA VA TN |
Image  | $1500 First Bet Offer | AZ CO DC IN IA IL KS KY LA MA MD MI NC NJ NV NY OH PA TN VA WV WY |
Image  | Not | AZ CO CT IL IN IA LA MD MI NC NJ NY OH PA VA WV |
Image  | Up to $250 Matched First Bet | AZ CO DC IL IN IA KS KY LA MA MD ME MI NC NJ NV NY OH PA TN VA WV |
Image  | Not | CO KY IA IL NC |
Image  | AZ CO CT DC IL IN IA KS KY LA MA ME MD MI NH NC NJ NY OH OR PA TN VA VT WV | |
Image  | Not | IA |
Image  | Not | AZ CO IL IN IA KS LA KY MA MD MI NC NJ NY OH PA TN VA WV |
Image  | Not | AZ CO CT DC IA IL IN KS KY OH MA MD MI NC NJ NY PA TN VA VT WV |
Image  | Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins | AZ CO CT DC IL KS KY LA IN IA MA MD MI NC NJ NY OH PA TN VA VT WV WY |
Image  | Not | IA |
Image  | Not | AZ, CO, IA, NJ, VA |
Iowa Sportsbooks
#1
Terms and Conditions
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (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. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $300 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Bet must settle by and Token expires 2/22/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/
#2
Terms and Conditions
Eligible new Caesars Sportsbook accountholders can earn up to a $250 Bonus Bet by successfully opening a new Caesars Sportsbook account with a qualifying promo code and placing their first real money wager. This promotion begins at 12:00pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, and ends at 11:59am EST on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 (“Promotion Period”). Promotion is offered by American Wagering, Inc. (“Caesars”). caesars.com/sportsbook-and-casino/promo-details/
#3
Terms and Conditions
New customers only. Deposit min. $10. Place first bet of min $5 and get $200 in bonus bets if your bet wins.
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in VA.
#4
#5
#6
Terms and Conditions
#7
Terms and Conditions
Bonus bets expire in 7 days. One new customer offer per user. Additional terms apply.
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in VA.
#8
Terms and Conditions
Must be 18+ (19+ in AL, NE; 19+ in CO for some games; 21+ in AZ, MA, and VA) and present in a state where Underdog Fantasy operates. Terms apply. See assets.underdogfantasy.com/
#9
#10
Terms and Conditions
NEW TO DRAFTKINGS CUSTOMERS. After registration, play a $5+ entry in Pick6 to receive $60 in Bonus Picks. Max 1 redemption per customer. Bonus Picks will expire after 14 days if unused. Promo Period: 1/26/2026 –2/8/2026. Eligibility: Must be 18+ years of age or older (19+ in NE, AL) (21+ in AZ, MA, VA).
#11
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in VA.
Iowa Promotions & Bonuses
Terms and Conditions
New customers only. Deposit min. $10. Place first bet of min $5 and get $200 in bonus bets if your bet wins.
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in VA.
Terms and Conditions
Eligible new Caesars Sportsbook accountholders can earn up to a $250 Bonus Bet by successfully opening a new Caesars Sportsbook account with a qualifying promo code and placing their first real money wager. This promotion begins at 12:00pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, and ends at 11:59am EST on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 (“Promotion Period”). Promotion is offered by American Wagering, Inc. (“Caesars”). caesars.com/sportsbook-and-casino/promo-details/
Terms and Conditions
Bonus bets expire in 7 days. One new customer offer per user. Additional terms apply.
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in VA.
Terms and Conditions
Eligible new Caesars Sportsbook accountholders can earn up to a $250 Bonus Bet by successfully opening a new Caesars Sportsbook account with a qualifying promo code and placing their first real money wager. This promotion begins at 12:00pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, and ends at 11:59am EST on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 (“Promotion Period”). Promotion is offered by American Wagering, Inc. (“Caesars”). caesars.com/sportsbook-and-casino/promo-details/
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in VA.
For sports bettors in Iowa, life is good because all that competition meand sportsbooks will roll out a range of promotions and bonuses designed to attract both newcomers. Often, you'll find things like this:
- Sign-Up Bonuses: Large deposit match offers and risk-free bets to get you started
- Enhanced Odds Boosts: Temporary improvements on popular markets to increase potential returns
- Free Bet Credits: Bonuses that allow you to place a wager without using your own cash
- Loyalty Rewards Programs: Points or credits earned with every bet, which can be redeemed for bonus funds or exclusive perks
To maximize these bonus offers, keep the following tips in mind:
- Read the Fine Print: Always review the terms and conditions to understand wagering requirements and expiration dates
- Compare Offers: Shop around different sportsbooks to find the most competitive promotions
- Use Exclusive Promo Codes: Access bonus codes from trusted sources for additional benefits
- Plan Your Wagers: Strategically combine bonuses with your betting strategy to meet playthrough requirements effectively
- Ask For Help: You don't have to do it alone. Trusted pick service providers like Doc's Sports and Wunderdog can help you spend those bonus bucks wisely
For more information on Iowa sports betting promos - visit our Iowa Promos page.
Is Sports Betting Legal In The Iowa?
Yes, online and retail sports betting was officially legalized in Iowa in May 2019 when Governor Kim Reynolds signed Senate File 617 into law. Iowa has grown into an ultra-competitive market with many options for bettors. Check out our complete guide to the best legal sports betting sites in the USA.
Legal Framework
- Legalized retail sports betting began in 2019 and online sports betting became official in 2021.
- All operators must adhere to strict state licensing and operational requirements.
Regulatory Bodies
- Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission: Responsible for licensing, enforcing compliance, and ensuring that all sports betting activities meet state standards.
- The Iowa Gaming Association: IGA is NOT a regulatory body, but is often confused for one. It acts in more of an advocacy role than a regulatory role.
Key Restrictions & Limitations
- Location-Based Wagering: Bets must be placed by individuals physically located within Iowa's boundaries.
- Age Restrictions: All bettors must be 21 or older to participate.
- College Prop Betting Limitations: For in-state teams like Hawkeyes and Cyclones, bettors can't place player props. Moneylines and point spreads are in-state teams are fair game.
- Fair Tax on Sportsbooks: Sportsbook operators are subject a 6.75% tax that must be paid to the state. It's a very forgiving tax rate that encourages sportsbooks to plant a seed in Iowa.
Responsible Gambling Initiatives
- The Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission mandates that operators implement tools like self-exclusion options, deposit limits, and other resources to discuss responsible gaming.
Top Iowa Sports Betting Apps
Our team has meticulously analyzed the Iowa sports betting market to bring you the cream of the crop with a selection of the most trusted and reputable sportsbooks. The market is packed with excellent options, including heavyweights such as DraftKings and FanDuel. You can check out detailed reviews of industry leaders for insight on the best places to play.
Are Online Casinos Legal in Iowa?
Online casinos are not yet legal in Iowa. Efforts to legalize online casinos have been proposed, including House Study Bill 227 in 2023. However, these legislative efforts have failed to advance, and no active bills are currently moving forward.
As a result, the timeline for online casino legalization in Iowa is unclear, and current prospects are low. Residents interested in real-money casino gaming are limited to playing at legal land-based casino locations across the state.
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Iowa?
Sweepstakes casinos are widely accessible in Iowa. These platforms operate under a sweepstakes model using virtual currencies such as Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins. Players can enjoy casino-style games and redeem prizes without wagering real money directly.
These platforms do not require a purchase to participate and offer alternate methods of entry, keeping them in line with sweesptakes laws. There have been no enforcement actions against sweepstakes casinos in Iowa, and many of the top sites are available to play.
Learn More About Sweepstakes Casinos
History of Sports Betting Legalization in Iowa
Iowa passed sports betting legislation in 2019, a year after the United States Supreme Court reversed The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) which had previously blocked states from legalizing. At first, Iowans had to drive to a sportsbook and sign up in person if they wanted to bet online, but thanks to the introduction of remote registration in 2021, sports bettors can now get started from their living room.
May 14, 2018
The U.S. Supreme Court overturns the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), clearing the way for individual states to legalize sports betting.
April 8, 2019
Senate File 617 (SF 617) introduced and placed on the Weighs and Means Committee Calendar. The bill would legalize retail and online sports betting in Iowa.
April 17, 2019
SF 617 passes in the senate by a vote of 31-18.
April 22, 2019
SF 617 passes in the house by a vote of 67-31.
May 13, 2019
Governor Kim Reynolds signs SF 617 into law, legalizing sports betting in the state.
August 15, 2019
Retail and online sports betting launches with the opening of seven Iowa sportsbooks including one at Prairie Meadows Casino in Altoona. William Hill and Elite Sports are among the first sports betting apps.
January 1, 2021
Remote registration is legalized in Iowa, meaning sports bettors no longer have to drive to a sportsbook to get started
How to start betting in Iowa
Getting started sports betting in Iowa is painless thanks to remote registration which allows bettors to register for a sportsbook and deposit money into their account from anywhere in the state. If you’re over 21-years-old and in Iowa, you can download your favorite sports betting app on a smartphone, deposit money, verify your identity, and begin betting instantly.
Select a Sportsbook
First, decide which sportsbook you want to use and download that sports betting app on your phone. Some sportsbooks will allow you to get started from their website on a computer as well. With the help of this article, make sure the app you’ve chosen is regulated in your state.
Create Account
Click the button on your sportsbooks’s app that says “signup” or “get started,” while you’re inside state lines, to begin creating an account. You’ll be required to fill in some personal information and verify your identity.
Deposit
To fund the account, select the payment option you prefer. Each sportsbook has different options for deposits, but common options include: Credit/debit card, bank transfers, PayPal, etc. Remember to keep an eye out for any fees that might be associated with the deposit.
Check out the best online betting deposit methods
Choose your bet and bet size
There are a variety of wagering options within each sportsbook. If you’re just getting started, moneylines are the most straight-forward bet and allow bettors to wager on who will win an event. Point spreads, over/unders, parlays, player props and futures bets are also popular choices.
Place a wager
Every sportsbook runs independently from each other so they each may offer different point spreads or odds on the same wager. Before placing your wager, try shopping around at other betting apps to get the best price. Once you’ve found odds you like, type in your wager amount and submit your wager. If your wager wins, your winnings and your original bet will be deposited back into your account shortly after the event you bet on finishes.
Withdraw funds
Each online sportsbook has different methods and processes for cashing out money if you’re successful betting. It’s normal for withdrawals to take longer than deposits, but the money is typically received within a couple days.
Iowa Sports Betting Partnerships
Sportsbooks in Iowa partner with brick and mortar casinos to gain access to the state, but keep in mind that doesn't always mean there will be a retail sportsbook at a partnered casino. Below are some notable partnerships in Iowa that help give bettors a more well-rounded experience.
- The folks at bet365 have partnered with Casino Queen Marquette which previously had partnered with Fubo Sportsbook.
- BetMGM has paired with Diamond Jo Casino to get market access in Iowa, but it's actually FanDuel that operates sportsbooks at Diamond Jo properties in Dubuque and Northwood.
Comparison with Other States
Iowa really incentivizes sportsbooks to enter its market and as a result there are a large number of operators, but also a large number of sportsbooks who try and fail in the Hawkeye State. Because of its friendly conditions, Iowa makes a nice petri dish for sportsbook operators thinking of experimenting in a new place.
Market Size & Wagering Handle
- Iowa's sports betting handle in 2024 was $2.8 Billion and the year prior it was $2.4 Billon after landing on $2.3 Billion in 2022. This suggests growth and is impressive in a state with no major professional sports teams.
- The state sees billions in yearly wagers, thanks in part to respected college athletics programs like Iowa and Iowa State.
- In contrast:
- Illinois: With a massive Chicago sports fan following, Illinois dwarfs Iowa's sports betting with a $14 Billion handle in 2024.
Tax Rates on Sportsbooks & Impact on the Market
- Iowa: The state only chargers sportsbooks 6.75%, which is tied with Nevada for one of the lowest rates in the country. Iowa's motto seems to be, "If we build low tax rates, they will come."
- Illinois: Iowa's neighbor to the east, Illinois, charges its sportsbooks a 15% tax rate.
Overall Implications
- Iowa shares a border with six states, but only one (Illinois) has legalized sports betting. That means people who live close to the border in Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, Missouri, and Nebraska often visit the Hawkeye State to place wagers.
- Bettors in Iowa would have to cross state lines into Illinois to legally place prop bets on in-state teams like Iowa State or Iowa.
Potential Legislative Changes & Market Growth in Iowa Sports Betting
Even More Sportsbooks?
Iowa's 19 casinos and racebooks are eligible to partner with sportsbooks and each are allowed to have up to three "skins" meaning, theoretically, there could one day be 57 different sportsbooks in Iowa. Of course that number isn't realistic, but it's worth noting that unlike some other states which cap licenses much lower, there is room for growth here.
Proxy betting bill
Lawmakers in Iowa are attempting to make it a crime to bet on someone else's behalf in the state. SF 395, introduced in February of 2025, attempts to add account sharing and proxy betting to a list of illegal gambling activities.
Tax Rate Revisions
There is no indication that Iowa plans to increase its taxes on local sportsbooks, but with such a friendly 6.75% tax, nobody would be surprised if lawmakers tried to get their hands deeper into the cookie jar on day.
Emerging Trends and Technologies in Iowa Sports Betting
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USA Betting News
Responsible Gaming Message From Iowa
The Iowa Gaming Association (IGA) is committed to helping people identify problem gambling warning signs and directing them toward help. We work with treatment providers statewide and other organizations to further prevention, awareness, and access. Our members also work directly with the Iowa Gambling Treatment Program which contracts with local agencies to provide problem gambling prevention, treatment and recovery support services.
Gambling Addiction Support:
- Access to counseling services and support groups is available through resources like the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER).
- 1-800-BETS-OFF and YourLifeIowa.org are also great resources for anyone struggling with a gambling addiction.
Responsible Gaming Initiatives:
- The Iowa Gaming Association (IGA) website has links to casino self exclusion that can be very helpful to individuals who are struggling to set healthy gambling boundaries. If you have questions, you can visit: https://www.iowagaming.org/contact/
Operator Tools and Safety Features:
- Leading sportsbooks in Iowa implement features like deposit limits, wagering limits, and self-exclusion options to help bettors manage their betting activities effectively.
- These tools are designed to empower users to make informed decisions and protect themselves from potential financial strain or who feel they may be developing unhealthy betting habits.
The voluntary self-exclusion mail-in enrollment form (https://irgc.iowa.gov/media/34/download?inline=) is available thanks to the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) (https://irgc.iowa.gov/self-exclusion-program). The form can be utilized by anyone in Iowa struggling to set boundaries gambling and especially helps those struggling with gambling temptations. People in Iowa struggling with a gambling addiction can call 1-800-BETS-OFF or text 1-855-895-8398 if they need a listening ear or wish to be connected to additional resources. A chat option is also available at https://yourlifeiowa.org/gambling.
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