Legal sports betting in Kentucky has been live since September 7, 2023 when Governor Andy Beshear made the first legal wager in state’s history with a ceremonial bet at Churchill Downs 🏇. That day, online sports betting in the state launched along with retail outlets at several brick-and-mortar racing and gaming facilities. Currently there are 12 retail sports betting options as well as eight online sportsbooks, including crowd favorites like DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, and BetMGM.
With eight recognizable online sportsbooks to choose from in Kentucky, new sports bettors have excellent options. I will provide you with your best legal sports betting options in Kentucky and information on how to get started betting on sports. I’ll also provide details on the state’s path toward legal sports betting, responsible gambling resources, and pros and cons for some of the top Kentucky sportsbooks.
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Kentucky Sportsbooks
No books available.
Kentucky Promotions & Bonuses
Please check back for promotions to be added for upcoming events.
Kentucky bettors have a host of sportsbooks and promos to consider. There are sports betting sign-up offers for new players, plus new sportsbook promos for existing users. Typical offers you’ll come across include:
- Welcome Bonus: Claim offers like deposit matches and no sweat bets.
- Odds Boosts: The chance for bigger profits on winning wagers.
- Bonus Bets: Place your wagers with bonus bet credits.
- Loyalty Programs: Claim various perks as you rack up points.
To make sure you get the best value from bonuses and promos, remember the following:
- Read the Terms: Review the conditions and requirements before claiming any offer.
- Consider Options: Compare the offers from top books and snag the best deals.
- Grab Promo Codes: Use codes from trusted sources for access to the best offers.
- Have a Plan: Aim for the best possible use of your bonuses and promos.
- 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 Kentucky sports betting promos - visit our KY Promos page.
top Kentucky Sports Betting Apps
The Odds Shark team knows the Kentucky sportsbook marketplace like the back of its hand. We’ve conducted extensive reviews of all of the top options and focused on what really matters to bettors while putting together our list of the most trusted and reputable sportsbooks in Kentucky.
New players can lean on our expertise to find the best places to begin, while experienced users can gain insight into which books are worth their time. Our reviews are unbiased and updated regularly, and aim to give you the info you need to find what works for you.
Detailed summaries of the best Kentucky sportsbooks are below. You can also check out our extensive reviews of industry leaders like FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars, all of which run as smooth as Kentucky bourbon with fair odds and great promos. Whichever app(s) you land on, I strongly encourage pairing it with the Outlier sports betting app, where you can get a free 7-day trial and create a customized profile featuring live odds and bet recommendation at your specific sportsbooks.
FanDuel
FanDuel is one of the most popular names in sports betting today and that's true in Kentucky as well. The popularity is justified and this is a top-notch sportsbook checks ✅ all the boxes and delivers consistently like Amazon.
There’s a big menu of sports and bet types to choose from, with odds that are generally on the money. It’s a great spot for player props, SGPs, and live betting . Thanks to its popularity, it’s also a fantastic place to keep tabs on the futures markets to see what’s capturing interest.
FanDuel isn’t shy on the bonus and promo front. Whenever there’s a big game or event on tap, it’s a go-to spot for many bettors as a result. Check out FanDuel today and you’ll quickly understand why this book has become such a big deal 🤝.
- Same-Game Parlays
- Generous Bet Boosts
- Streaming Content
- Reliable & Intuitive App
- Fast Deposit & Withdrawal
- Customer Support
- Competitive Odds
- Limited Bad Beat Refunds
FanDuel User Experience
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betMGM
Dubbing yourself as “The King of Sportsbooks” is a bold move 👑. Much like Ja'Marr Chase, BetMGM has no problem backing up the talk. BetMGM packs all of the sports and markets you could ask for into a smooth platform. The lines are generally competitive for all sports, of which there are tons to choose from.
Whether you’re into pregame, props, futures, live betting, or whatever, BetMGM has you covered with options galore. There's also a solid assortment of ongoing promotional opportunities, with regular boosts ⏫ and no sweat bets there for the taking.
Kentucky bettors are used to having plenty of options, whether it’s which team to root for or where to place their bets. BetMGM fits the bill in many ways and has become a go-to destination for fans and bettors of all stripes.
- Lucrative Promos and Oddsboosts
- Early Cash Outs
- MGM Loyalty Rewards
- Live Streaming (including MLB)
- Responsible Gambling Policy
- Limited Sports in Certain Regions
- Competitive Odds
BetMGM User Experience
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Caesars Sportsbook
In a state known for its Louisville Sluggers, Caesars knocks it out of the park with a clean interface that helps you find what you want quickly, while the intuitive search feature gets you where you want to be in an instant. There’s an awesome selection of props and futures, plus a “FireBets” 🔥 section that lets you jump on live betting as it happens.
Beyond ongoing promos, you can also rack up Caesars Rewards 🎁 as you play. Get enough points and climb tiers to get things like free best and discounted stays. Caesars takes care of its players and is one of the premier sports betting options in Kentucky.
- Live streaming of NFL Games with "Watch & Bet" feature
- Frequent Promos & Generous Offers
- Daily "Bonus Bets"
- Enhanced Live Betting
- Live Chat Feature
- Slow verification
Caesars User Experience
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bet365
Bet365 is quickly becoming one of the premier apps in states like Kentucky where it's available. The folks at bet365 keep it simple while also being jam-packed with all of the sports and markets any bettor could want.
Top features at bet365 include an abundance of props and boosts. When you’re into a top game or event, click on it and you’ll often see a boosts tab. Meanwhile, the prop menu runs deep with scores of player, team, and game markets to choose from.
Promos are also a regular occurrence here. Beyond boosts 🚀, unique offers like the early payout feature help you avoid disaster and book a win when your team gets a big lead. For another top sportsbook that does many things right, give bet365 a try.
- Generous Boosts and Super Boost
- Early Payouts
- Parlay Boost Initiative
- Fast Deposit/Withdrawal Options
- Great Customer Service
- Great Platform Design
- Competitive Odds
- Location Issues
- Props Hidden in Menu
bet365 User Experience
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DraftKings
DraftKings remains one of the market leaders in Kentucky and elsewhere across the US.
The slick and smooth platform is a huge draw. From pregame to live betting and all points in between, DraftKings makes it easy to get in the game. The menu layout is among the best you’ll find, and there’s also a regular assortment of boosts and other promos to choose from. Like a glass of whiskey after a long day, DraftKings rarely disappoints in Kentucky.
- Same-Game Parlays
- Generous Bonuses & Bet Boosts
- Player Friendly Refund Policies
- User-Friendly App
- Fast Deposit/Withdrawals
- Robust Betting Options (by sport and bet type)
- Excellent Customer Support
- Lack of Live Streaming Options
- Low Limits on Odds Boosts
DraftKings User Experience
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How to start betting in the state:
Sports betting in Kentucky is straightforward 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 Kentucky, you can download your favorite sports betting app on a smartphone, deposit money, verify your identity, and begin betting instantly. It’s worth noting that some apps allow you to wager if you’re over 18 years old, which is the state’s requirement.
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.
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.
Kentucky Sports Betting Partnerships
Despite a lack of major professional sports teams, Kentucky sports betting is alive and well thanks to sports teams close by in places like Cincinnati and several premier college teams like Louisville and Kentucky. The Bluegrass State offers wagering on all top leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and international soccer competitions, along with niche events and prop markets that cater to any fan.
Of course, the Kentucky Derby brings sports bettors from all over the country and is one of the premier sports betting events around. Bettors in Kentucky can fire up an exacta one day and build an NFL same game parlay the next day.
In Kentucky, online sports betting platforms must partner with retail sites in order to exist. Below are notable partnerships in Kentucky:
- FanDuel Sportsbook is partnered with the iconic Churchill Downs after a multi-year partnership that was announced in September of 2022. One of the highlights of their agreement is that FanDuel receives television rights for Churchill Downs races which FanDuel livestreams to its customers.
- Draft Kings Sportsbook teamed up with ECL Corbin, LLC which operates Cumberland Run and Mint Gaming Hall Cumberland. After the agreement, Draft Kings opened a retail sportsbook at both of those locations.
- Caesars Sportsbook and Red Mile Racing Gaming & Racing partnered on a deal that brought Caesars into the Bluegrass State. In September of 2023, Caesars opened a 4,600 square foot retail facility at Red Mile's Lexington location.
Is Sports Betting Legal In Kentucky?
Yes, online and retail sports betting was officially legalized in Kentucky March 3, 2023 after Governor Andy Breshear put his signature on House Bill 551. Retail sports betting launched in the state (just in time for the NFL season) on September 7, 2023, and two weeks later online sports betting followed suit. Several prominent sportsbooks like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars teamed up with the state’s horse racing tracks at retail locations.
Check back here for updates on college sports betting restrictions or any other changes to Kentucky sports betting law.
Legal Framework
- Legalized retail and online sports betting began in 2023.
- All operators must adhere to strict state licensing and operational requirements.
Regulatory Bodies
- The Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation (KHRGC): Responsible for licensing, enforcing compliance, fielding customer complaints, and managing self-exclusion system.
Key Restrictions & Limitations
- Location-Based Wagering: Bets must be placed by individuals physically located within Kentucky state lines.
- Age Restrictions: All bettors must be 18+, but many sportsbooks in the state have their own 21+ rules.
- No In-State College Betting Ban: Luckily you're allowed to bet on the Kentucky Wildcats and Louisville Cardinals.
- High Tax Rates: Sportsbooks in Kentucky must pay the state a 14.25% tax which is higher than some of its neighbors and lower than others.
Responsible Gambling Initiatives
- The Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation works closely with the the Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling, Inc. which offers a list of certified counselors in Kentucky towns like Louisville, Paintsville, London, and Owensboro.
History of Sports Betting Legislation in Kentucky
Kentucky is known for its smooth whiskey, but the state’s legislative process isn’t always smooth, as evidenced by the state’s tedious path toward legalization. Sports bettors can thank lawmakers for their tenacity because several failed bills preceded the eventual 2023 passage of a successful sports betting bill in the state. Many of the prior bills, some of which included provisions to also allow online poker, failed in 2021 and 2022. Ultimately it was Rep. Michael Meredith whose bill landed on the desk of Governor Andy Beshear and was signed into law on March 31, 2023.
May 14, 2018
U.S. Supreme Court strikes down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), paving the way for each state to legalize sports betting.
January 7, 2021
House Bill 137 (HB 137), a bill to legalize sports betting, online poker, and daily fantasy sports is introduced. The bill receives several amendments but ultimately dies.
January 9, 2021
House Bill 241 (HB 241), a bill to legalize online sports betting, daily fantasy sports, and online poker is introduced, but is never brought to a vote.
February 23, 2022
Senator David Yates introduces Senate Bill 213 (SB 213) which would legalize sports betting (online and retail) as well as online poker. The bill was never voted on.
February 28, 2022
House Bill 606 (HB 606) introduced in the House by Rep. Adam Koenig. The Bill would legalize sports online sports betting, retail sports betting, daily fantasy sports, and online poker.
March 18, 2022
HB 606 is passed by the Kentucky House of Representatives, but many leaders publicly express doubt it will pass in the senate.
April 14, 2022
HB 606 doesn’t pass on the final day of the state’s legislative session, which means sports betting in Kentucky will have to wait at least one more year.
February 22, 2023
House Bill 551 (HB 551) is introduced by Rep. Michael Meredith. The bill aims to legalize sports betting in the state and would anoint the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission as the regulatory agency overseeing sports betting.
March 13, 2023
HB 551 is approved in the house by a vote of 63-34.
March 30, 2023
HB 551 is approved in the senate by a vote of 25-12.
March 31, 2023
Governor Andy Beshear signs HB 551 into law, which officially legalizes online and retail sports wagering in the state.
September 7, 2023
Retail sports betting opens in Kentucky, with Gov. Beshear placing the ceremonial first wager in the state at Churchill Downs
September 28, 2023
Online wagering launches in Kentucky.
April 23, 2024
State lawmakers review NCAA’s request to ban betting on college player props.
Are Online Casinos Legal in Kentucky?
Online casinos are not regulated in Kentucky yet. However, those in Kentucky looking for online casino games can play safely at Sweepstakes Casinos.
Comparison with other States
Kentucky holds its own with a sports betting handle just over $2.6 Billion (2024) which isn't terrible considering a lack of professional sports teams inside state lines. Neighbors like Ohio and Indiana with big sports cities like Indianapolis, Cleveland, and Cincinnati do a lot better, but that's to be expected. Kentucky is wise to allow bettors to wager on in-state college teams and props, because that could further drain the success of Kentucky sportsbooks.
Market Size & Wagering Handle:
- Kentucky's 2024 sports betting handle was $2.626 Billion and it started January of 2025 off with an impressive $277 Million handle.
- Kentucky allows wagering on big college sports like basketball and football, while many other states don't and that helps the bottom line.
- In contrast:
- Ohio: Thanks to sports teams like the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, and Cleveland Indians Ohio was able to take home a 2024 sports betting handle of $8.9 Billion.
- Indiana: The Indianapolis Colts and Pacers helped the state notch a solid $5.2 Billion sports betting handle in 2024.
- West Virginia: Kentucky dwarfs' West Virginia'a handle as the Mountain State only mustered a $505 Million betting handle in 2024.
- Virginia: With close proximity to Washington D.C. sports teams, Virginia was able to capture an impressive $6.9 Billion 2024 sports betting handle.
- Illinois: Chicago is obviously a massive sports betting market and its helped Illinois record a massive $14 Billion sports betting handle that Kentucky state regulators dream of.
- Tennessee: Tennessee had a $5.3 Billion handle in 2024, which was about double Kentucky's.
Tax Rates on Sportsbooks & Impact on the Market:
- Kentucky: Kentucky sportsbooks pay the state a 14.25% tax rate which, as you can see below, is right in the middle of what its neighboring states pay. Places like Indiana pay less, while Ohio pays considerably more.
- Ohio: A hefty 20% tax is levied on sportsbooks in Ohio, which is one of the largest tax rates in the midwest.
- Indiana: Indiana's gentle 9.5% tax rate on sportsbooks is sportsbooks friendly as there are currently 24 other states in the country with higher tax rates.
- West Virginia: With a 10% tax rate on sportsbooks, West Virginia is more generous than Kentucky when it comes to getting its piece of the pie.
- Virginia: While it's not quite Ohio territory, West Virginia's 15% tax rate on sportsbooks in nothing to sneeze at and tanks less than a percent above Kentucky's.
- Illinois: Like Virginia, Illinois also imposes a 15% tax rate on sportsbooks and it can get away with it thanks to a ton of sports fans in the state.
- Tennessee: The sportsbook tax rate in Tennessee is more complex than other places because there are more variables, but when there's a hold just over 9%, Tennessee's tax burden is about 19%.
Overall Implications:
- Theoretically, a lower tax rate will encourage more sportsbooks to enter a state and will also give sportsbooks wiggle room to have a larger promotion budget and treat its customers well.
- With Indiana, Illinois, and Tennessee all having restrictions of some kind on college props, it's conceivable that some people living in border towns take a trip to Kentucky to place wagers.
Potential Legislative Changes & Market Growth in Kentucky Sports Betting
More Sportsbooks on the Way?
Theoretically, Kentucky has the capacity for 27 different sportsbooks. Each of the state's horse tracks has a license and each license allows for three different "skins" or platforms. This page will be updated if or when new sportsbooks are added.
Casinos in Kentucky?
While traditional casinos currently don't exist in the Blue Grass state, there are several lawmakers who would like to change that. For instance, in January of 2025, Rep. Thomas Huff introduced HB 33 which would give residents the opportunity to "opt-in" to having casinos in their area.
Kentucky to Remain NCAA Restriction Free
Despite pressure from the NCAA in April of 2024, there is no indication that Kentucky will ban college player props or betting on in-state college teams like other states have. If that changes, we'll be sure to update this page but, for now, enjoy that freedom.
Emerging Trends & Technologies in Sports Betting
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Responsible Gaming Message From Kentucky
Gambling Addiction Support:
- Access to counseling services and support groups is available through national resources like the Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER).
- Kyproblemgamblingassistance@ky.gov is an email address that can be used to learn more information about Kentucky's voluntary self-exclusion propgram.
Responsible Gaming Initiatives:
- The Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Commission (KHRGC) insists that 2.5% of the tax it collects goes toward the state's problem gambling assistance fund. The state does this to offset the negative impacts of gambling.
- The Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling offers access to certified mental health counselors on its website.
Operator Tools and Safety Features:
- Leading sportsbooks in Kentucky like FanDuel 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 Lexington Gamblers Anonymous Hotline is 513-322-5998 and the Louisville Gamblers Anonymous Hotline is 855-222-5542. Of course, the National Problem Gambler Hotline (1-800-GAMBLER) is available to anyone in Kentucky struggling with gambling addiction. The Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling (KYCPG) website (https://www.kycpg.org/) can help determine whether you or a loved one have a gambling problem and connect those in need with trained counselors.
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