Virginia sports betting market was legalized in 2021 and includes over 10 licensed sportsbooks offering plenty of promotions, competitive odds, and fast payment options. The best ones are FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM and Caesars and Fanatics.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about sports betting in the Old Dominion – how to sign up with the best Virginia sportsbooks, bet on the Baltimore Ravens, and much more.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some links on this page are paid (affiliate) links to licensed operators. If a link is used to sign up or deposit, we may earn a commission at no added cost to players. Compensation does not determine our scores, reviews follow the transparent criteria outlined in our rating methodology.
Best Virginia Sportsbooks Ranked (2025)
Our team of experts has tested every licensed online sportsbook in Virginia to help you pick the one that fits your preferences.
Their focus was on the most important aspects of sports betting in Virginia like promotions, the website and mobile app quality, variety of betting markets, odds competitiveness, and payment methods.
Here are some of the top Virginia online sports betting sites that stood out:
FanDuel Sportsbook Virginia
FanDuel VA is one of the best overall VA online sportsbooks. The app is quick and easy to use and works perfectly on iPhone and Android as it does on desktop.
Live betting is also great as the odds are updated in real time, and placing live bets gets done instantly so you don’t miss a second of action.
Payments are supported by plenty of platforms available in Virginia like PayPal, online banking, and credit cards. Deposits are typically processed within seconds, while withdrawals take between 24-48 hours.
| VA Sportsbook | FanDuel VA |
|---|---|
|
⭐️ Our Rating: |
4.8/5 |
|
⌛ Operating Since (VA): |
January 2021 |
|
🎖️ Best For: |
Mobile experience, Same Game Parlays |
|
🏈 Top VA Markets: |
NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, NCAA |
|
📱 Mobile Apps: |
iOS & Android |
|
⚡ Withdrawal Speed: |
24-48 hours |
The Same Game Parlay feature allows you to stack multiple bets on a single matchup and is designed so you have full control over your bet-slip until you confirm your wager.
Add in strong welcome offers, regular odds boosts, and a rewards system that builds value over time, and you’ve got the market leader in the state.
DraftKings Sportsbook Virginia
DraftKings is one of the most popular VA sportsbooks thanks to its wide range of markets and promos. They offer lines on nearly every sport you can think of, from NFL and NBA to darts and cricket.
Their mobile app stands out with its custom parlay builder, giving bettors the chance to craft unique wagers and see instant odds updates. The live hub tracks the drives, shots, and shifts in real time, which helps when you bet the next play or the next goal.
| VA Sportsbook | DraftKings VA |
|---|---|
|
⭐️ Our Rating: |
4.7/5 |
|
⌛ Operating Since (VA): |
January 2021 |
|
🎖️ Best For: |
Live betting hub, stats and pools |
|
🏈 Top VA Markets: |
NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, NCAA |
|
📱 Mobile Apps: |
iOS & Android |
|
⚡ Withdrawal Speed: |
24-72 hours |
DraftKings’ stats pages and quick links make pre-game work simple. You can sort by team, player, or market and build a view that sticks to your habits. You will also find free competition pools, quick-hit promos for Commanders’ games, and a wide range of player props.
Banking options are solid, completing your withdrawals in 24-72 hours. Overall, DraftKings is a great fit for players who want both depth and flexibility in their VA online betting experience.
Caesars Sportsbook Virginia
Caesars Sportsbook stands out in Virginia for its powerful rewards program. Every bet earns points through Caesars Rewards, which can be used for hotel stays, dining, and entertainment at Caesars properties. The sportsbook also plans to tie into the upcoming Caesars Danville casino, giving VA players even more ways to benefit.
| VA Sportsbook | Caesars VA |
|---|---|
|
⭐️ Our Rating: |
4.6/5 |
|
⌛ Operating Since (VA): |
January 2021 |
|
🎖️ Best For: |
Caesars Rewards, odds boosts |
|
🏈 Top VA Markets: |
NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, NCAA |
|
📱 Mobile Apps: |
iOS & Android |
|
⚡ Withdrawal Speed: |
24-72 hours |
You will see strong moneyline numbers on NHL and MLB and spread prices that match or beat competition on the NFL market. For Wizards and Capitals game-nights, odds boosts tend to land by mid-day with clear and attractive terms.
With a polished app, competitive odds, and a wide variety of sports markets, Caesars appeals to bettors who want strong loyalty perks besides traditional sports betting in VA.
BetMGM Sportsbook Virginia
BetMGM has established a reputation as one of the best sports betting sites in Virginia thanks to its huge market range and ties to MGM Resorts. The app lists odds for all the big leagues, plus niche sports that most other operators skip.
Live streaming is built into the platform, allowing bettors in Virginia to watch games and follow their wagers. The “Edit My Bet” feature gives you a way to adjust a slip mid-game if the momentum changes.
| VA Sportsbook | BetMGM VA |
|---|---|
|
⭐️ Our Rating: |
4.6/5 |
|
⌛ Operating Since (VA): |
January 2021 |
|
🎖️ Best For: |
Market depth, live streaming |
|
🏈 Top VA Markets: |
NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, NCAA |
|
📱 Mobile Apps: |
iOS & Android |
|
⚡ Withdrawal Speed: |
24-72 hours |
Where BetMGM Sportsbook shines is in the long list of props on each game. Player combos, team bands, and period or quarter markets show up early, which is suitable for bettors who like to script a game and build a ladder across time.
Another great advantage is the link with MGM Rewards. Every bet earns points that can be used at MGM properties in places like Las Vegas or Maryland. For Virginia players who want a sportsbook backed by a trusted brand and a broad menu of betting options, BetMGM is a top pick indeed.
Fanatics – Best for Merchandise & Fan Rewards
Fanatics turns every bet into FanCash you can accumulate and later spend on sports gear. The sportsbook is perfect for betting fans who like to follow games in team colors. Their odds are fair, the mobile app has a clean design, and the parlay building feature is easy to use.
| VA Sportsbook | Fanatics VA |
|---|---|
|
⭐️ Our Rating: |
4.5/5 |
|
⌛ Operating Since (VA): |
2023 |
|
🎖️ Best For: |
FanCash, merch perks, simple parlays |
|
🏈 Top VA Markets: |
NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, NCAA |
|
📱 Mobile Apps: |
iOS & Android |
|
⚡ Withdrawal Speed: |
24-72 hours |
With Fanatics Virginia, you can expect to see regular boosts and other daily specials on major US sports leagues. You will find strong coverage of NFL and NBA with props that fit multi-legged parlay bettors.
They don’t lack banking options and process your withdrawals quickly, typically within 24-72 hours. If you want consistent sports betting value and loyalty benefits that go beyond bonus bets, then Fanatics Virginia is the right sportsbook for your next wager.
Virginia Sports Betting Key Facts
Virginia legalized sports betting in early 2021 and became one of the most competitive sportsbook markets in the US in just a couple of years.
In the table below, you’ll find the most important details every bettor in the state should know:
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
|
Launch Date |
January 2021 |
|
Legal Age |
21+ |
|
Online Sportsbooks |
15+ licensed operators |
|
Retail Sportsbooks |
Limited — casinos in Norfolk, Danville, Portsmouth, and Bristol (others planned) |
|
Regulator |
Virginia Lottery |
|
Betting Allowed On |
Pro sports, college sports (but no betting on in-state college teams) |
|
Tax Rate |
15% of adjusted gross revenue |
|
Monthly Handle (2024 Avg.) |
Around $500 million |
Virginia Sports Betting Updates – (December 2025)
According to the state revenue reports, the best betting sites in Virginia are recording high wagering handles year after year, which is a clear sign of growth heading into the next pro sports season.
Here are the five key sports betting updates every VA sportsbook user should know right now:
| 🔑 Key Point | 📊 December 2025 Details |
|---|---|
|
Market Handle |
$477.85M in June – +15% YoY, despite seasonal summer slowdown |
|
Revenue & Hold |
$57.11M GGR on 11.95% hold – best hold rate of 2025 so far |
|
Active Sportsbooks |
12 online operators + 3 retail locations live statewide |
|
Seasonal Trends |
June dip offset by stronger hold; NFL/college football to drive rebound |
|
Regulatory Snapshot |
Virginia Lottery continues oversight with room to license more operators |
The sports betting market in Virginia is always on the move, so make sure to come back to this page regularly to stay up to date with changes.
How to Start Betting Online in Virginia
Taking the first step on your sports betting journey with Virginia online sportsbooks licensed by the Virginia Lottery is simple – just follow the guide below and you can place your first wager as soon as today:
Step 1: Register Your VA Sports Betting Account
To sign up with legal sportsbooks in Virginia, you’ll need to provide basic personal information:
- Your full legal name
- Date of birth
- Home address
- Your email
Make sure to enter accurate information because the Virginia Lottery requires identity verification to ensure all bettors are of legal age and physically located in Virginia.
Step 2: Depositing Funds into Your Virginia Account
Funding your Virginia sportsbook account is straightforward if you follow the steps below:
- Log into your sports betting VA account.
- Go to the Balance/Wallet section.
- Select a payment method.
- Enter the amount to deposit.
- Confirm the transaction and receive your funds.
Some of the most common deposit methods in Virginia include:
| Payment Method | Notes |
|---|---|
|
Debit Cards |
Instant, widely accepted |
|
PayPal |
Fast, secure, linked to bank account |
|
ACH / eCheck |
Direct bank transfer, slightly slower |
|
Play+ Card |
Prepaid card, reloadable |
|
Credit Cards |
Allowed, but some banks may block gambling transactions |
Step 3: Placing Your First Bet on a VA Betting Site
Once your account is funded, this is how to place your first bet with Virginia sportsbooks:
- Log in and navigate to the sports section (NBA, NFL, NHL, and other).
- Browse available bets and make your pick.
- Create your betting-slip, enter your stake, and review the potential payout.
- Confirm the bet and enjoy watching the game.
Remember that, for new players, it is usually possible to start betting using Virginia sportsbook promos and bonuses.
Step 4: Withdrawing Winnings from VA Sportsbooks
When you win a bet with Virginia sportsbooks and want to take out your winnings, the withdrawal process is simple if you do the following:
- Visit your balance section.
- Select the payment method.
- Enter the amount to withdraw.
- Confirm the action and await your winnings.
You should be aware that your first withdrawal may require additional verification, like submitting ID documents or having a live-call with the sportsbook’s customer support staff. This step is required to comply with Virginia Lottery rules.
Betting on Virginia’s Favorite Teams
Virginia is home to passionate sports fans who show their support through unmatched betting activity on local favorites.
Here’s how you can bet on the squads that matter most in Virginia and the promos that sportsbooks are rolling out for them:
Washington Commanders Betting (NFL)
The Washington Commanders hold a unique place in Virginia sports culture. They train in Ashburn, VA, and have long been the go-to NFL team for much of Northern Virginia.
The Commanders are in a rebuild phase, so making futures bets on them (like win totals or playoff chances) seems to be more unpredictable, but potentially more rewarding.
Some of the most common Commanders bets are:
- Point spreads and totals on weekly NFL games
- Moneyline wagers on NFC East matchups against the Cowboys, Eagles, and Giants
- Player props on key names like Terry McLaurin and rookie quarterback prospects
- Futures markets: Commanders’ chances to make the playoffs or win the NFC East
Sportsbooks also spotlight the Commanders through popular promos. BetMGM, for instance, has boosted odds for Washington moneyline wins against division rivals, while FanDuel has had bet-and-get style bonuses tied to first touchdowns scored by Commanders players.
Washington Wizards & Capitals Betting (NBA/NHL)
The Washington Wizards and Capitals may play in DC, but their fan base extend deep into Virginia. The Capitals are perennial playoff contenders with a Stanley Cup banner, while the Wizards are in rebuild mode and often attract longshot futures betting.
These are the most popular Wizards & Capitals bets:
- Wizards: point spreads, over/under totals, and player props for stars like Kyle Kuzma or Jordan Poole
- Capitals: moneyline bets during playoff pushes, puck line wagers, and totals on Alex Ovechkin’s scoring output
- Futures: Wizards’ draft positioning or playoff odds, Capitals’ Stanley Cup chances
- Parlays combining NBA and NHL outcomes on the same night
Promotions tied to these teams often pop up in crossover form. For example, Caesars has offered bonus bets for Capitals fans when Ovechkin scores, while DraftKings has run boosted odds for Wizards’ first basket markets.
During NHL postseason play, sportsbooks love to push “Ovi anytime goal scorer” odds boosts, while Wizards fans see incentives like parlay safety net for combining Wizards spreads with other NBA games.
Baltimore Ravens & Carolina Panthers Betting (NFL)
Virginia has no NFL franchise of its own, so many fans split their loyalties with nearby teams. In Northern Virginia, the Baltimore Ravens have a loyal following, while Southern Virginia leans heavily toward the Carolina Panthers.
This regional divide makes betting especially fun: fans can wager on divisional showdowns while also keeping tabs on rivals. Currently, the Ravens remain Super Bowl contenders thanks to Lamar Jackson, while the Panthers are in a youth-driven rebuild led by quarterback Bryce Young.
Here’s what Virginia bettors like to predict about Ravens & Panthers:
- Ravens: spreads and totals in AFC North battles against the Steelers and Bengals
- Player props on Lamar Jackson rushing yards or Zay Flowers’ receiving totals
- Panthers: moneyline underdog bets in NFC South games, often at long odds
- Futures: Ravens to win the AFC or Super Bowl; Panthers’ over/under win totals
Sportsbooks play into this split Virginia fandom with customized promos. FanDuel has pushed “Super Boosts” on Lamar Jackson anytime touchdowns, while other sportsbooks have dangled parlay boosts for Ravens’ multi-touchdown wins.
For Panthers fans, Caesars has rolled out bet credits when Carolina covers large underdog spreads, which is perfect for those who back the team no matter the matchup.
VA College Sports Betting (NCAA)
College sports are deeply woven into Virginia’s culture, with powerhouse programs like Virginia Tech, UVA, VCU, and James Madison drawing packed crowds every year.
However, when it comes to betting, the most interesting fact is the law itself: in Virginia, you cannot bet on in-state college teams under any circumstances. That means Hokies and Cavaliers fans can’t place legal wagers on their favorite schools.
On top of that, player prop bets are banned for all college athletes nationwide, even if they play out of state.
Most common college bets allowed in VA:
- Point spreads and totals on NCAA football and basketball games outside Virginia
- Futures markets for national championship contenders like Alabama, Michigan, or Duke
- Parlays across March Madness games (excluding Virginia schools)
- Tournament futures on who will make the Final Four
Despite certain limitations, sportsbooks still find creative ways to keep college fans engaged. During March Madness, for example, DraftKings and FanDuel often run bracket-related promos that reward players with bonus bets based on correct picks.
BetMGM has offered “Second Chance” bets on NCAA tournament spreads, while Caesars has run parlay safety net deals for those stacking multiple games.
NASCAR Betting in Virginia
NASCAR has a passionate following in Virginia, with iconic tracks like Richmond Raceway and Martinsville Speedway drawing fans from across the Commonwealth.
The most interesting part about betting on NASCAR here is the variety of wager types and the local knowledge advantage – fans who follow driver form, track history, and pit strategies can turn that insight into profitable bets.
Here’s what NASCAR bettors can enjoy with Virginia sportsbooks:
- Race winner bets on individual drivers
- Top 5 or Top 10 finish placements
- Head-to-head matchups between two drivers
- Outright season championship futures
- Prop bets on laps led or number of cautions in a race
Promotions for NASCAR often tie into marquee races and top drivers. For example, FanDuel run “Bet $10, Get $100” style bonuses during Richmond or Martinsville events, while BetMGM offers odds boosts on favorites like Kyle Larson or Chase Elliott.
Some sportsbooks even offer driver-specific prop boosts, such as “First to Pit” or “Most Laps Led”, giving Virginia fans extra excitement and a chance to engage with local tracks while wagering.
How We Rate & Review Virginia Sportsbooks
Our team of experts rigorously tests and reviews each legal Virginia sportsbook based on key criteria vital for VA bettors. The unbiased recommendations you’ll read on our site focus on giving players the safest, most enjoyable, and rewarding betting experience in the Commonwealth.
We assess both mobile and desktop platforms, ensuring that bettors have full access to the sports and markets they care about.
This is what we look at when rating online sportsbooks in Virginia:
- VA Market Focus & Mobile App: Ease of use and effortless betting on the Commanders, Ravens, Wizards, and Capitals.
- Odds Competitiveness & Market Variety: Especially for sports popular in Virginia.
- Promotions & Bonus Value: Welcome offers and ongoing promos for VA players.
- Payment Methods & Payout Speed in VA: Fast and reliable deposit and withdrawal options.
- Customer Support Quality: Availability and responsiveness for Virginia users.
- Licensing & Security: Virginia Lottery approval and strong data protection.
Virginia Sports Betting Laws – Key Details for VA Bettors
Is sports betting legal in Virginia? Absolutely. Before you place your first bet with VA sportsbooks, it’s good to know certain legal aspects related to sports betting within the state.
First, the minimum legal age for sports betting in Virginia is 21. Second, you must be within the state’s borders when placing a bet, otherwise you’ll get denied by the sportsbook.
Betting Within Virginia State Lines
The rule says you must be physically located in Virginia when placing a bet, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a resident. Whether you live in the state or you’re enjoying online sports betting while passing by on a vacation, you’re good to go as long as you’re within the Old Dominion.
Virginia sportsbooks use geolocation software to verify your location before accepting any wagers. This is why it’s a bad idea to use VPNs or any other tools that might lead to your account getting banned or even fines.
The Virginia Lottery
The legal sportsbooks in the state are overseen by The Virginia Lottery to make sure they stick to laws and provide bettors with service according to the industry standards.
The Virginia Lottery is authorized to:
- License and regulate Virginia betting sites
- Ensure and oversee customers’ data protection
- Investigate and sanction illegal operators
- Provide support and responsible gambling tools
Betting with Licensed VA Sites
The Virginia Lottery licenses guarantee the sportsbooks you bet with are safe, regulated, and meet the highest industry standards.
The best course of action for you would be to stick to licensed sportsbooks only, because that way you’re always protected by the state’s laws.
If you choose to sign up with unlicensed sports betting sites, you’re risking not being able to withdraw your winnings and safety of your personal and financial data. They’re outside the US jurisdiction, meaning the Virginia Lottery can’t protect your rights in case you need them too.
Tax on Winnings in Virginia
The money you win through sports betting is taxable in Virginia. Here’s how your taxes are categorized after winning a bet:
- Federal taxes: You’ll need to report your winnings over $600 via W-2G form you can find at major online sportsbooks.
- Virginia state tax: The state’s graduated income tax rates apply, ranging from 2% to 5.75%, depending on how much you earn.
It’s worth noting losses are deductible from your tax report, but you must keep track of your bets in order to prove your claim before the IRS.
Permitted & Prohibited Bets in Virginia
Professional sports bets are fully allowed in Virginia. However, wagering on in-state college teams like UVA or Virginia Tech is prohibited, as are prop bets on any college athletes. High school sports betting is also illegal.
Responsible Sports Betting in Virginia (Play Responsibly, 21+)
Responsible gambling in Virginia is the set of policies and tools created to encourage players maintain healthy betting habits.
This involves the Virginia Lottery cooperating with local sportsbooks to help provide support to bettors when needed.
Tips for Gambling Responsibly in Virginia
Here are some practical tips bettors in Virginia can use to maintain control over their sports betting activities:
- Set strict deposit and wager limits to avoid overspending.
- Treat betting as entertainment, not a way to make money.
- Never chase losses or try to “win it back.”
- Recognize signs of problem gambling and take breaks when needed.
Utilizing Responsible Gaming Tools on VA Betting Sites
Besides the self-imposed limits bettors can set, here are the responsible gambling tools available at online sportsbooks in Virginia:
- Deposit limits and daily/weekly/monthly caps
- Wager limits on specific games or events
- Time limits and session reminders
- Cool-off periods and self-exclusion options
All of the tools list above are easy to find at major Virginia sportsbooks, typically at their responsible gambling pages. Using them is always free, and sportsbooks are not allowed to deny you access to them at any moment.
Virginia Problem Gambling Resources & Helplines
If you or someone you know is suffering from a gambling-related problem, here are the resources you can contact:
- Virginia Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-888-532-3500
- Virginia Council on Problem Gambling (VCPG) – offers support and guidance
- Virginia Lottery Voluntary Exclusion Program – for self-exclusion from all VA online gambling
If you reach out for help, you’ll be linked to trained professionals who will approach your situation with empathy and discretion. The resources listed are free of charge, and available to you 24/7 all year long.
Virginia Sports Betting FAQs
When did online sports betting launch in Virginia?
Online sports betting has been legal in Virginia since January 21, 2021.
What is the legal age for sports betting in VA?
You must be 21 years or older to place a bet in Virginia.
Can I bet on sports online anywhere in Virginia?
Yes, as long as you are physically located within Virginia state lines.
What are the best VA sports betting apps?
Some of the top sports betting apps in Virginia include FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, BetMGM, and Fanatics.
Do I have to live in Virginia to bet on sports there?
No, residency is not required, but you must be physically present in Virginia to place wagers.
Can I bet on Virginia Tech or UVA?
No, betting on in-state college teams is prohibited in Virginia. Additionally, no prop bets on any college athletes are allowed.
Who regulates sports betting in Virginia?
The Virginia Lottery oversees licensing, regulation, and enforcement for all legal sportsbooks in the state.
Are my sports betting winnings taxed in Virginia?
Yes, gambling winnings are subject to both federal and Virginia state income taxes.