Virginia Sports Betting Guide

Posted on May 5, 2025 by author in Gambling

Sports betting has transformed the entertainment landscape in Virginia, offering residents and visitors a thrilling way to engage with their favorite sports. Since its legalization in April 2020, signed into law by Governor Ralph Northam, Virginia has emerged as a significant player in the U.S. sports betting market. The first legal bets were placed in January 2021, with FanDuel leading the charge as the initial online operator (BetVirginia). By 2025, Virginia ranks among the top states for betting handle, with a reported $6.9 billion wagered in 2024 alone, reflecting a 23.9% increase from the previous year.

This guide aims to provide a comprehensive, SEO-optimized resource for both novice and experienced bettors. Whether you’re interested in betting on the NFL, exploring online platforms, or visiting a retail sportsbook, this article covers everything you need to know about sports betting in Virginia. We’ll delve into the legal framework, how to get started, popular sports, top sportsbooks, betting strategies, responsible gambling, and answer common questions—all tailored to ensure an engaging and informative experience.

Legal Status and Regulations

Legalization Timeline

Virginia’s journey to legal sports betting began with the passage of bills in April 2020, which Governor Northam amended and signed into law. The Virginia Lottery was tasked with overseeing the industry, handling licensing and compliance (Virginia Lottery). Online sports betting launched in January 2021, followed by the gradual introduction of retail sportsbooks as casinos opened in cities like Bristol and Danville.

Key Regulations

Age Requirement: Bettors must be at least 21 years old, as stipulated by Virginia Law 58.1-4040. Violating this is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Geolocation: You must be physically located within Virginia to place bets, enforced through geolocation technology on mobile apps (Legal Sports Report).
College Sports Restriction: Betting on Virginia-based college teams, such as the Virginia Cavaliers or Virginia Tech Hokies, is prohibited. However, wagers on out-of-state college teams are allowed.
Tax Rate: Operators pay a 15% tax on adjusted gross revenue (AGR), with 97.5% allocated to the state’s General Fund (Virginia Business).
Licensing: The Virginia Lottery issues permits, with a cap of 12 to 14 online operators, though additional licenses may be granted to professional teams or casinos.

Retail Sportsbooks

Retail sports betting is available at casinos in cities that passed referendums, including Bristol, Danville, Portsmouth, and Norfolk. For example, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol, which opened on November 14, 2024, features a sportsbook (Hard Rock Bristol). Caesars Virginia in Danville opened its permanent facility on December 17, 2024, also offering retail betting.

Ongoing Developments

In 2023, the Virginia General Assembly initiated a study to explore creating a Virginia Gaming Commission to centralize regulation, with findings expected by the end of 2025 (ICLG). This could streamline oversight of sports betting and other gaming activities.

How to Get Started with Sports Betting in Virginia

Step-by-Step Guide

Choose a Licensed Sportsbook: Select from reputable operators like FanDuel, DraftKings, or BetMGM. Ensure the platform is licensed by the Virginia Lottery.
Sign Up: Download the app or visit the website, provide personal details (name, address, SSN), and verify your identity, typically via email or ID upload.
Deposit Funds: Use payment methods like credit/debit cards, PayPal, or bank transfers. Most sportsbooks offer minimum deposits starting at $10.
Claim Bonuses: Many platforms provide welcome bonuses, such as BetMGM’s “Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets” if your first bet loses (Legal Sports Report). Check terms and conditions.
Place Bets: Navigate to your preferred sport, select a market (e.g., moneyline, spread), enter your wager, and confirm.

Tips for Beginners

Start Small: Begin with low-stake bets to familiarize yourself with the platform.
Explore Markets: Try different bet types, such as parlays or over/under, to understand what suits you.
Use Promotions: Leverage sign-up bonuses to maximize your initial bankroll.

Table: Common Bet Types in Virginia

Bet Type	Description
Moneyline	Bet on which team will win outright.
Point Spread	Wager on the margin of victory.
Over/Under	Predict if the total score will be over or under a set number.
Parlay	Combine multiple bets for higher payouts, but all must win.
Prop Bet	Bet on specific events within a game, e.g., a player scoring a touchdown.
Live Betting	Place bets during the game as odds change in real-time.

Popular Sports and Events to Bet On

Professional Sports

Virginia’s proximity to Washington, D.C., makes teams like the Washington Commanders (NFL), Wizards (NBA), Capitals (NHL), and Nationals (MLB) popular among bettors. These teams, while based in D.C., are embraced by Virginia fans (BetVirginia). For example:

NFL: The Commanders’ games, especially with quarterback Jayden Daniels, draw significant betting interest.
NBA: The Wizards, partnered with Caesars Sportsbook, offer numerous betting markets.
NHL: The Capitals, led by Alex Ovechkin, are a staple for hockey fans.
MLB: Nationals Park, accessible to Virginians, hosts BetMGM’s retail betting.

College Sports

While betting on in-state college teams is prohibited, out-of-state college sports are fair game. March Madness and the College Football Playoff are major events, with teams like Duke or North Carolina attracting wagers.

Other Sports and Events

Soccer: MLS teams like D.C. United and international leagues are available.
Golf: Virginia hosts PGA Tour Champions and LPGA Tour events, ideal for betting.
NASCAR: Martinsville and Richmond raceways host four NASCAR races annually (BetVirginia).
Tennis, Boxing, and More: Most sportsbooks offer markets for global sports.

Major Betting Events

Super Bowl: Generates millions in wagers, with $19.6 million bet in Virginia in February 2021.
March Madness: Popular for out-of-state teams, with brackets and prop bets.
World Series, NBA Finals, Stanley Cup: Draw significant betting action.

Top Sportsbooks in Virginia

As of 2025, Virginia hosts 12 to 14 licensed online sportsbooks, with estimates varying by source (Legal Sports Report). Below are six top operators, each offering unique features.

FanDuel Sportsbook

Overview: Launched in January 2021, partnered with the Washington Commanders.
Features: User-friendly interface, same-game parlays, and FanCash loyalty program.
Bonus: Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets, win or lose (Legal Sports Report).
Why Choose?: Ideal for beginners due to its intuitive app and competitive odds.

DraftKings Sportsbook

Overview: Known for its extensive betting markets and live betting options.
Features: Daily odds boosts, cash-out options, and a robust rewards program.
Bonus: Up to $1,000 in bonus bets for new users.
Why Choose?: Perfect for bettors seeking variety and advanced features.

BetMGM Sportsbook

Overview: Part of MGM Resorts International, with a retail presence near Virginia.
Features: Live streaming, in-play betting, and a comprehensive loyalty program.
Bonus: Up to $1,500 in bonus bets if your first bet loses.
Why Choose?: Great for those who value live betting and rewards.

Caesars Sportsbook

Overview: Operates a retail sportsbook at Caesars Virginia in Danville.
Features: Extensive market coverage, Caesars Rewards program, and prop bets.
Bonus: Up to $1,000 in no-sweat bets (WSN).
Why Choose?: Best for bettors who enjoy both online and in-person betting.

Fanatics Sportsbook

Overview: Launched in November 2023, partnered with Colonial Downs racetrack.
Features: FanCash rewards redeemable for merchandise, same-game parlays.
Bonus: Up to $1,000 in no-sweat bets.
Why Choose?: Appeals to fans wanting unique loyalty rewards.

bet365 Sportsbook

Overview: Operated by Digital Gaming Corporation, known for global reach.
Features: Competitive odds, early cash-out, and extensive live betting markets.
Bonus: Varies, often includes bet credits.
Why Choose?: Suited for experienced bettors seeking diverse markets.

Table: Comparison of Top Sportsbooks

Sportsbook	Welcome Bonus	Key Feature	Retail Location
FanDuel	Bet $5, Get $150	User-friendly app	None in VA
DraftKings	Up to $1,000	Extensive markets	None in VA
BetMGM	Up to $1,500	Live streaming	Near VA (Nationals Park)
Caesars	Up to $1,000	Caesars Rewards	Danville
Fanatics	Up to $1,000	FanCash rewards	None in VA
bet365	Varies (bet credits)	Early cash-out	None in VA

Betting Strategies and Tips

For Beginners

Understand Odds: Learn how American odds work (e.g., -110 means bet $110 to win $100).
Set a Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it.
Research Teams: Check stats, injuries, and recent performance before betting.
Start with Simple Bets: Focus on moneyline or over/under bets before trying parlays.

For Advanced Bettors

Shop for Lines: Compare odds across sportsbooks to maximize value.
Use Data Analytics: Leverage stats and trends to inform your bets.
Hedge Bets: Place opposing bets to minimize losses, especially in parlays.
Live Betting: Capitalize on in-game shifts, like momentum changes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Chasing losses by increasing bets.
Betting on unfamiliar sports without research.
Ignoring bonus terms, which may include wagering requirements.

Responsible Gambling

Sports betting should be fun, not a financial burden. The Virginia Lottery and operators provide resources to promote responsible gambling:

Set Limits: Most sportsbooks allow you to set deposit, wager, or time limits.
Voluntary Exclusion Program: Offered by the Virginia Lottery to temporarily or permanently disable accounts (Virginia Lottery).
Support Resources: Contact the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling or call 1-800-GAMBLER for help.
Cool-Off Periods: Temporarily suspend your account if needed.

In November 2024, Virginia collected $302,500 for the Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund, highlighting the state’s commitment to responsible gaming (Virginia Business).

FAQs

Is sports betting legal in Virginia?
Yes, sports betting has been legal since April 2020, with online betting launched in January 2021.

What is the minimum age for sports betting?
You must be 21 or older to bet on sports in Virginia.

Can I bet on college sports?
You can bet on out-of-state college teams but not on Virginia-based teams like the University of Virginia.

Are there retail sportsbooks in Virginia?
Yes, retail sportsbooks are available at casinos like Hard Rock Bristol and Caesars Virginia.

Which sportsbooks are licensed in Virginia?
Licensed operators include FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, Fanatics, bet365, and others, with 12 to 14 active as of 2025.

How do I know if a sportsbook is legitimate?
Check if it’s licensed by the Virginia Lottery. Avoid offshore sites like Bovada, which are not regulated (Legal Sports Report).

What should I do if I have a gambling problem?
Contact 1-800-GAMBLER or use the Virginia Lottery’s Voluntary Exclusion Program for support.

Conclusion

Virginia’s sports betting scene is thriving, offering a dynamic mix of online and retail options for bettors. With a robust regulatory framework, a variety of sportsbooks, and a focus on responsible gambling, the state provides a safe and exciting environment for sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re betting on the Washington Commanders, exploring live betting, or visiting the Hard Rock Bristol sportsbook, this guide equips you with the knowledge to navigate Virginia’s betting landscape confidently. Always bet responsibly and enjoy the thrill of the game!