North Carolina has not yet legalized online gambling, but sports betting is live from 2024. Here’s a quick guide to all the legal sports betting apps and online casino platforms available in the state as of 2025.
Can you gamble online in North Carolina?
| Online casino | Not legal |
| Sports betting | online from 2024 |
| Horse racing online betting | Legal |
| Poker | Only legal on tribal lands |
THE legalization of sports betting in the state of North Carolina promised much, but as yet it has delivered little, with only two casinos offering retail sports betting, both run by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, based in the south western edge of the state.
While a bill on online sports betting progressed through the senate and was approved in the house commerce committee, it has since become stuck. There are hopes it will see the light of day this year, with proposals to create up to 12 online operators.
Until the current bill under scrutiny becomes law, or an alternative bill supersedes it, gamblers will have to accept the limitations of the present system that has three casinos operating, only two of which offer sportsbooks. There is legal horse race gambling on offer under present state law, with parimutuel and fixed odds betting available at the state’s casinos.
Legal Online Sportsbooks in North Carolina (2025)
North Carolina officially launched online sports betting on March 11, 2024. As of April 2025, there are eight licensed sportsbooks operating in the state:
- DraftKings Sportsbook
- FanDuel Sportsbook
- BetMGM
- Caesars Sportsbook
- bet365
- Fanatics Sportsbook
- ESPN BET
- Underdog Sportsbook
Each of these platforms is fully licensed by the North Carolina State Lottery Commission and offers mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices. They provide a variety of betting options, including professional, college, electronic, and Olympic sports.
Legal Online Casino Apps in North Carolina (2025)
While traditional real-money online casinos are not yet legal in North Carolina, residents can legally participate in sweepstakes and social casinos. These platforms use virtual currencies and offer opportunities to win real prizes. Some of the top options include:
- High 5 Casino
- Jackpota Casino
- McLuck Casino
- WOW Vegas
- Pulsz
- LuckyLand Slots
- Funzpoints
- Chumba Casino
- Fortune Coins
These platforms offer a wide range of games, including slots, table games, and live dealer options.
North Carolina Online Sports Betting: Now Live!
North Carolina has officially launched online sports betting, expanding beyond the retail sports betting available at tribal casinos since 2021. Governor Roy Cooper signed Bill HB 347 into law, allowing up to twelve online sports betting apps to operate in the state. Major apps like BetMGM, Bet365, DraftKings, FanDuel, Fanatics, and ESPN Bet are now live, each bringing unique features and promotions to North Carolina bettors.
Betting in North Carolina
In-person sports betting is legal but is limited to two casinos, with no online sports betting available yet; a bill to legalize sports apps is currently active.
NC Horse Racing Betting
The state has no race tracks but you can place bets at the state’s casinos on US events and races across the world. However, while many states allow advance-deposit wagering providers like BetAmerica and TVG to operate, they are prohibited in North Carolina.
North Carolina Casinos
With no online sports betting, it is perhaps unsurprising that there are no online casinos legally available to state residents. There are, however, land-based casinos offering a variety of table games.
North Carolina Poker and Card Rooms
Online poker is illegal with only Harrah’s Cherokee Casino offering in-person play and regular tournaments, with 20 tables on site.
Lottery in North Carolina
Known as the North Carolina Education Lottery, it has been running since 2005, with tickets sales available in-person from retailers and also online; the minimum age to participate is 18.
North Carolina DFS
While daily fantasy sports is not officially legalized and taxed at state level, events operated by the likes of FanDuel, Yahoo Fantasy and DraftKings are open to entries from North Carolina.
NC Online Gambling FAQs:
What is the legal Gambling age in NC?
Sports betting is legal for those aged 21 and over but limited to in-person at two casinos in Cherokee and Murphy. At present there is no online sports betting legally available in the state, but moves have been made to offer legalized sports betting apps in North Carolina.
Where in NC can I get help with problem gambling?
While gambling can be fun for many, for some it can cause disruption in their home lives and lead to a range of problems. If you have issues with gambling, or a friend or relative is struggling, help is available. For details, see North Carolina – National Council on Problem Gambling (ncpgambling.org).
What are the best sportsbooks in North Carolina?
The best sportsbooks in North Carolina include BetMGM, Bet365, DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, Fanatics, and ESPN Bet. Each offers unique bonuses and betting options.
How do I claim a sportsbook bonus in North Carolina?
To claim a bonus, sign up for an account with the sportsbook and enter the promo code (if required). Make the necessary deposit and place your first bet to qualify for the bonus.
Are there any special offers for new users in North Carolina?
Yes, sportsbooks like BetMGM, Bet365, DraftKings, and FanDuel offer special bonuses for new users, including bonus bets and deposit matches.
What types of bets can I place in North Carolina?
You can place various bets, including point spreads, moneylines, over/unders, parlays, and live bets. Each sportsbook offers a wide range of betting options.
Do sportsbook bonuses expire?
Yes, most sportsbook bonuses have an expiration date. For example, BetMGM bonuses must be used within seven days, while FanDuel bonuses are valid for 14 days. Always check the terms and conditions for specific details.
