Top 5 DC sports betting apps reviewed
Washington DC sports betting law got a major shake-up in July 2024. Before then, all District-wide sports betting was run by a DC Lottery-partnered platform (GambetDC, then FanDuel).
Today, sports bettors have access to several online sportsbooks from anywhere in the District. BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, Fanatics, and a handful of in-person sportsbooks are all available. Without further ado, let's take a look at each of the five legal Washington DC sports betting apps.
BetMGM DC sports betting app
Up to $1,500 back in Bonus BetsClaim bonusOne new customer offer only. Place your first wager and receive up to $1,500 back in bonus bets if it loses. Bonus bets will be available once your initial wager settles as a loss. Bonus bets expire in 7 days. Add’l terms apply. 21+ and located in WA. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net.
BetMGM is partnered with MLB’s Washington Nationals and offers in-person sports betting at Nationals Park. If you can’t make it down to the stadium, don’t worry; the BetMGM app lives up to the sportsbook’s huge reputation.
The BetMGM Sportsbook app gives you access to 30+ unique sports betting markets. BetMGM’s odds are also some of the best in the world, thanks to their super-low margins. This is really noticeable when it comes to live betting.
BetMGM seamlessly integrates the MGM Rewards program, enabling you to earn loyalty points as you bet. These points can be redeemed for various perks, including bonus bets available through the app, or exciting real-life prizes like complimentary hotel stays at MGM Resorts locations.
Read our wide-ranging BetMGM review to learn more about one of the best sportsbooks nationwide.
| BetMGM app DC | |
| 📱 App Store rating | 4.8/5 |
| 📱 Google Play rating | 4.5/5 |
| 💰 Welcome bonus | $1,500 back in bonus bets |
| 🥇 Top feature | Best parlay builder |
| ⚡ Payout speed | 0-6 days |
| ⬇️ Download size | 114.3 MB |
Caesars DC sports betting app
- Bet $1, Get 10x 100% Profit BoostsClaim bonus
New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. After the $10 minimum deposit, place an initial $1 real money wager. Regardless of the outcome, Caesars Sportsbook will issue you 10 100% profit boosts. The maximum wager for each profit boost token is $25 and must be used on markets with minimum odds of -10,000. Full terms apply. 21+ and present in WA. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gambler.net.
Along with BetMGM, Caesars is one of the premier sportsbooks in the U.S. Caesars Entertainment’s 40+ years of experience in the sports betting industry give it a leg-up that almost no other platform has.
The Caesars app has a solid layout with over 30 sports available for betting. Its features also set it apart from the rest. In addition to a world-class live betting function, Caesars has an early cashout feature, a unique bet builder, and live streaming options.
That last feature might be our favorite. While other sportsbooks allow you to stream lower-division soccer and tennis events worldwide, Caesars Sportsbook lets you live-stream select NFL games right on your phone.
On top of the great gambling features, Caesars also has a top-tier VIP program. When you bet, you can earn Caesars Rewards points, which you can redeem for unique live sports experiences, hotel stays, and other exclusive Caesars Entertainment offers.
If you're looking for more info on one of the elite sports betting apps in America, head over to our Caesars review.
| Caesars Sportsbook app DC | |
| 📱 App Store rating | 4.7/5 |
| 📱 Google Play rating | 4.3/5 |
| 💰 Welcome bonus | Bet $1, get 10x 100% profit boosts |
| 🥇 Top feature | Fantastic rewards program |
| ⚡ Payout speed | 0-3 days |
| ⬇️ Download size | 214.1 MB |
DraftKings DC sports betting app
- Bet $5, Win $150 + 1K Deposit BonusNo code required Claim bonus
If your first bet wins, DraftKings will give you six (6) $25 bonus bets instantly. Incl. 20% deposit match of up to $1,000 for every new user. Must be 21+ years of age or older and physically located in the WA. New customers only. T&Cs apply.
Originally known as a Daily Fantasy Sports titan, DraftKings is now a sports betting juggernaut, too. The DraftKings app lets you bet on over 30 sports with an attractive, simple user interface.
It also has a vast selection of promos like odds boosts and no-sweat bets available for practically every sport. The DC sports betting app lets you keep track of these promos by tailoring the home page based on your past bets.
Promos are just one of the features we like with DraftKings. The app’s early cashout, same-game parlays, and live betting features are among the best in the country. The only downside is that cashout is not available for every bet, and it’s sometimes unclear on the app which bets are eligible for it.
Check out Oddspedia's DraftKings review for more intel on one of the top DC sportsbooks.
| DraftKings app DC | |
| 📱 App Store rating | 4.8/5 |
| 📱 Google Play rating | 4.7/5 |
| 💰 Welcome bonus | Bet $5, win $150 + $1k deposit bonus |
| 🥇 Top feature | Best mobile app |
| ⚡ Payout speed | 0-3 days |
| ⬇️ Download size | 466.3 MB |
FanDuel DC sports betting app
As soon as you download the FanDuel Sportsbook app, you will see why DC sports bettors like it so much.
The FanDuel app is arguably the easiest to use in the country, which makes it an ideal choice for new bettors. Downloading the app, creating your account, and placing your first bet takes just minutes. The simple layout is something everyone can enjoy.
All sports bettors will also benefit from the plethora of DC sportsbook promos, from a simple welcome offer to generous ongoing bonuses. FanDuel offers daily boosted bets, bonus bet offers, and parlay insurance deals. The only thing FanDuel is missing is a loyalty program.
Our extensive FanDuel review breaks down all of the pros and cons of one of the premier sports betting apps DC users can download today.
| FanDuel app DC | |
| 📱 App Store rating | 4.9/5 |
| 📱 Google Play rating | 4.6/5 |
| 💰 Welcome bonus | Bet $5, win $150 + 3 months of NBA League Pass |
| 🥇 Top feature | Unique promotions |
| ⚡ Payout speed | 0-5 days |
| ⬇️ Download size | 142.4 MB |
Fanatics DC sports betting app
- Up to $1,000 in No Sweat BetsNo code required Claim bonus
If your wager is unsuccessful you can claim up to $100 bonus bet daily for 10 consecutive days. Must be 21+ and WA resident. T&Cs apply.
Fanatics Sportsbook DC delivers an engaging betting experience with its user-friendly mobile app, designed for both casual and serious bettors. A standout feature is its integration with Fanatics' extensive merchandise store, allowing users to redeem their virtual currency — known as FanCash — for apparel and other items.
The Washington DC sports betting app provides a wide range of gambling options, including live betting and competitive odds for various sports and events. With responsive customer support available through multiple channels, bettors can expect timely assistance.
Overall, Fanatics Sportsbook combines solid betting features with a reputable brand, positioning itself as a strong contender in the DC sports betting market.
Our complete Fanatics review offers more information on one of the most exciting DC betting apps available.
| Fanatics app DC | |
| 📱 App Store rating | 4.7/5 |
| 📱 Google Play rating | 4.1/5 |
| 💰 Welcome bonus | Up to $1,000 in bonus funds |
| 🥇 Top feature | Apparel-related promos |
| ⚡ Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
| ⬇️ Download size | 265.6 MB |
What makes a good DC sports betting app?
With just five Washington DC betting apps available, you have fewer options than most people in the country. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be deliberate about where you play.
Here are some factors you should think about before downloading these apps:
Security
Before you download any betting app, double-check that it is actually legal and licensed by the Office of Lottery and Gaming. Then, review the terms and conditions to ensure the app uses encryption and other data protection technologies. You should also look at the app permissions to ensure it is not harvesting more information than necessary.
Odds
All betting apps DC players can download have different NFL odds, NBA odds, MLB odds, and NHL odds. Pick a sportsbook with high-value odds for the sports you want to bet on, as doing this can make a big difference to your overall balance in the long run.
Market coverage
Like with odds, the sports available to bet on varies from sportsbook to sportsbook. The best DC sports betting apps have a wide range of markets. If you are fond of a niche sport, double-check that it is available before committing to a download.
For your convenience, we've ranked the best football betting sites, NBA betting sites, MLB betting sites, and more. We also have sports fans covered with the top Super Bowl betting sites and March Madness betting sites.
Banking
Not every payment method is available at every Washington DC sports betting app, and transaction times also vary from operator to operator. Before picking where to play, make sure your favorite payment method is available and that you are okay with the withdrawal speed.
Bonuses
All the best betting apps, DC or otherwise, offer welcome bonuses to incentivize you to sign up. They'll also have tons of existing customer promos available for you to claim once you start betting. You may even find a sportsbook referral bonus to reward you for getting friends in on the action.
Live betting
Gambling on a game while it’s happening is one of the most fun and engaging ways to bet on sports. Sports betting apps in DC should all have plenty of live betting markets and should make it easy to place these kinds of wagers.
How to download DC sports betting apps
Downloading DC sportsbook apps is a safe and simple process. Follow this quick guide to get started:
1. Visit the App Store
Open the Apple App Store on your iOS device or the Google Play Store on your Android device. Here, you’ll find all the legal DC sports betting apps available for download.
2. Select your preferred app
Use the search bar to find the DC sports betting app you want. Some sportsbooks may have separate apps for their online casinos, so ensure you choose the correct one.
3. Install the app
After locating the app, click the “Get” button on the Apple App Store or “Install” on the Google Play Store, then follow the prompts to complete the download.
How to sign up for DC sports betting apps
Downloading the app is just the first stage. Luckily, the rest of the process is straightforward. Follow these steps to get set up:
1. Choose a DC sportsbook app
Browse this page and our recommendations to decide which DC sportsbook you’d like to use. Once you've made your choice, follow the steps above to download the app to your mobile device.
2. Create your account
After downloading and launching the app, click on “Sign Up,” “Join,” or a similar button. Enter your email address and create a strong password. Fill out the registration form with your name, date of birth, the last four digits of your Social Security Number, and any other required personal information.
3. Verify your identity
By law, DC sportsbooks must verify player identities. You may be asked to upload a photo of an official government ID to prove you're of legal betting age and that you are who you say you are.
4. Make your first deposit
Navigate to the cashier section of your new account, select "deposit," and choose your preferred banking option. Input the necessary details to link your payment method, then enter the amount you wish to deposit and submit the transaction. Always ensure your first deposit is a sufficient amount for you to claim any sportsbook welcome bonuses.
5. Start betting
With funds in your account, you’re ready to start betting. Browse the available markets, choose one that interests you, and place your first wager. Be mindful of any promotional terms, as some sports betting bonuses require a minimum bet amount.
Benefits of using Washington DC betting apps vs. desktop
There are many options for betting on sports in Washington DC. You can wager in person at retail sportsbooks across the District. You can also choose to bet online with your personal computer or laptop. And, of course, you can bet on your phone.
Using a desktop betting site is far more limiting than playing via a mobile app. Here are the main advantages of mobile sports betting:
🏪 Convenience: As long as you can connect to the internet, you can bet from the bar, your couch, or even at a sporting event.
💨 Speed: With just a few taps, you can access hundreds of betting markets and place wagers almost instantly. You don't need to be tied to your computer.
🎁 Mobile-only rewards: Many top DC betting apps offer exclusive promotions that are only available to mobile sports bettors.
🛎️ Notifications: If you enable notifications, you won't miss out on promotional offers and updates regarding your wagers.
🔒 Security: Last but certainly not least, sports betting apps in DC offer enhanced security features, including two-factor authentication and biometric login options, such as fingerprint and facial recognition.
How we rate DC sportsbook apps
Our experts are bettors just like you, so we know what you want to see when downloading sports betting apps. Washington DC players can trust us because we also have industry expertise that we use to look beyond the obvious factors.
Here are some things we look at when rating DC sportsbook apps.
Safety
Safety is the top factor we consider when ranking any sportsbook. We only recommend legal sportsbooks licensed by the DC Office of Lottery and Gaming. We also examine betting apps’ safety features, specifically SSL encryption technology and firewalls. These features help protect your data and transactions.
Usability
If a sports betting app, DC or elsewhere, is not convenient and easy to use, it won’t get a high rating from us. The user experience should be top-notch, and the app should run smoothly.
Design
The best Washington DC sports betting apps are easy on the eye and straightforward to use. Navigating from page to page and market to market should be simple and intuitive.
Bonus offers
We evaluate the size and quality of welcome bonuses of all sportsbook apps in DC, as well as how easy they are to claim. This assessment also applies to existing customer promotions and mobile-exclusive bonus offers.
Speed
Some betting apps use a lot of data. Placing your bets could be tedious and slow if you have a poor internet connection. We look for apps that are consistently fast so you can make the most of the latest odds, which is especially handy for in-play betting.
Best DC sports betting apps: Promos and bonuses
All five betting apps legal in DC offer welcome bonuses to incentivize you to sign up. See our full breakdown below to learn which promo is best for you.
| Sportsbook ⭐ | Promo code ✅ | Welcome bonus 💰 |
| BetMGM | ODDSBONUS | $1,500 back in bonus bets |
| Caesars Sportsbook | OPBONUSDYW | Bet $1, get 10x 100% profit boosts |
| DraftKings | No code required | Bet $5, win $150 + $1k deposit bonus |
| FanDuel | No code required | Bet $5, win $150 + 3 months of NBA League Pass |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | No code required | Up to $1,000 in bonus bets |
18+ in DC. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
🔥 BetMGM DC promo: Arguably the best sports betting app Washington DC players can download, BetMGM also has the biggest welcome bonus in the District. If you lose your first bet, the sportsbook will cover your stake in the form of bonus bets, up to a maximum of $1,500. All you need to do to claim this offer is sign up using BetMGM bonus code ODDSBONUS, deposit at least $10 and make a wager.
🔥 Caesars Sportsbook DC promo: Caesars rewards you with 10 100% profit boost tokens off the bat. To claim this promo, sign up using the Caesars Sportsbook promo code OPBONUSDYW. Then, just make a deposit and place a $1+ bet. The tokens will be added to your account. You can use them to try to double your winnings on 10 wagers.
🔥 DraftKings DC promo: When you sign up for DraftKings, you can get $150 in bonus bets just by placing a $5 wager. You don’t need a DraftKings promo code to claim this beginner-friendly offer. All you need to do is register, deposit $5+, and place a $5 wager. If you win, you'll receive six $25 bonus bets for a total of $150.
🔥 FanDuel DC promo: Claiming your FanDuel Sportsbook bonus is super simple. You just need to create your account, deposit $5 or more, and place a $5+ wager. If your bet hits, you will get $150 in bonus bets. For a limited time, you'll also receive a three-month subscription to NBA League Pass for no cost. You don't even need a FanDuel promo code.
🔥Fanatics Sportsbook DC promo: Wherever it is legal, Fanatics is quickly establishing itself as one of the best betting apps. DC is no different, and it's largely due to the excellent welcome bonus that doesn't require a Fanatics Sportsbook promo code. Simply sign up, deposit $10 or more, and place a bet of at least $5 with odds of -200 or longer each day for the first 10 days. Fanatics Sportsbook will match your daily wagers in the form of bonus bets, up to $100 per day. So, if you bet $100 each day for 10 days, you'll earn $1,000 in bonus money.
Latest DC sports betting news and updates
Here's a timeline of legal sports betting in DC, along with the latest significant news updates.
Sept. 23, 2024: The new DC sports betting market has already beat yearlong 2023 marks.
Sept. 12, 2024: Fanatics Sportsbook launches in DC through its partnership with Washington Spirit, becoming the fifth operator to go live in the District.
Sept. 10, 2024: Caesars Sportsbook secures a retail deal in Washington, DC, adding numerous self-service kiosks to enhance the betting experience.
July 23, 2024: DraftKings Sportsbook is officially set to launch in DC, marking its entry as the fourth online sportsbook in the nation's capital.
July 17, 2024: For the first time, DC sports betting features multiple online sportsbooks, with BetMGM and Caesars accepting mobile bets, eliminating the requirement for bettors to be within a two-block radius of a retail sportsbook.
July 5, 2024: DC sports betting reaches a record high during its first full month with FanDuel, achieving a handle of $36 million.
June 14, 2024: The director of the DC Lottery resigns as the state moves forward with an overhaul of its sports betting system.
April 15, 2024: FanDuel officially launches in DC.
April 13, 2024: GambetDC announces plans to close, with FanDuel set to take over as a subcontractor.
Oct. 24, 2022: DC Council Member Elissa Silverman proposes a bill allowing third-party mobile sportsbooks to enter the local market.
July 6, 2022: FanDuel announces the grand opening of its retail sportsbook at Audi Field, the first such sportsbook located at an MLS venue in the U.S.
Jan. 31, 2022: The BetMGM retail sportsbook at Nationals Park opens after months of mobile-only wagering.
June 10, 2021: BetMGM partners with the Washington Nationals and launches geofenced mobile betting at Nationals Park.
May 26, 2021: William Hill becomes the first operator to open a retail sportsbook in a professional sports venue in the U.S. at Capital One Arena, home of the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals.
Dec. 29, 2020: William Hill launches its mobile app in DC, requiring bettors to be within a two-block radius of Capital One Arena to place bets.
Aug. 30, 2019: The Office of Lottery and Gaming finalizes the rules and regulations for sports betting in DC.
May 3, 2019: The Sports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act of 2018 goes into effect without Congressional intervention.
Jan. 23, 2019: Mayor Muriel Bowser signs Bill 22-944, allowing Congress 60 days to veto the district's approval of the bill, as DC is not a state.
DC sports betting resources
Because it is not a state, DC has one of the most unique sports betting landscapes in the U.S. If you want to learn more about this market or are seeking tools to help with problem gambling, consult these resources:
- DC Office of Lottery and Gaming — DC's sole regulator of sports betting, lottery games, casinos, and all other gambling.
- Sports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act of 2018 — The law that legalized DC sports betting.
- National Problem Gambling Helpline — Call 1-800-GAMBLER; text 800GAM
Sports betting apps in other states
- Arizona betting apps
- Colorado betting apps
- DC betting apps
- Illinois betting apps
- Iowa betting apps
- Kentucky betting apps
- Louisiana betting apps
- Maryland betting apps
- Massachusetts betting apps
- Michigan betting apps
- New Jersey betting apps
- New York betting apps
- Ohio betting apps
- Pennsylvania betting apps
- Vermont betting apps
- Virginia betting apps
Best online sportsbooks by state
Interested in learning more about the status of legal sports betting in your region? Check out our state-specific guides:
Best sportsbook promos by state
If you're searching for the best sportsbook promos per locale, we've got you covered with the handy guides below:
DC sports betting apps FAQs
Is sports betting legal in Washington DC?
Yes, sports betting is legal in DC at retail locations and online. The Council of the District of Columbia and Mayor Muriel Bowser passed the Sports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act in Jan. 2019. The Act officially became law 60 days later, and sports betting has been legal in the District ever since.
How old do I have to be to bet on sports in DC?
You must be 18 or older to bet on sports in Washington DC. This is lower than the 21+ age requirement in most of the country. Some DC betting apps, including BetMGM and Caesars, still require their players to be at least 21.
What are the best sportsbook apps in DC?
There are only five legal sports betting apps in DC: BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics. All five of these sportsbooks have some of the best apps in the country. Because these operators are all quality options, all five make our list of the best Washington DC sports betting apps. You really can't go wrong.
Can I claim sportsbook bonuses on a DC sports betting app?
Yes, you can claim all sportsbook welcome bonus offers via DC betting apps. Besides the sign-up promos, operators also have existing customer deals to reward you for your loyalty.
How safe are DC sportsbook apps?
DC sports betting apps are very safe. All five are huge national brands with great reputations and world-class encryption and data protection practices. The DC Office of Lottery and Gaming closely regulates all of them.
How do I download sports betting apps in DC?
To download a sports betting app, DC players just have to go to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store on their phone or tablet. Search for the desired app, then follow the steps to begin the installation.
