How to Bet on Sports Online in Maryland

Maryland might have taken its time, but when online sports betting finally launched in November 2022, the state came out strong. And that momentum hasn’t slowed. Maryland now offers a simple, well-regulated betting experience with several licensed apps and flexible betting options. 

In this guide, you’ll quickly get the essentials: what’s legal, how the apps work, what you can bet on, and the Maryland-specific rules that actually matter when placing your wagers.

Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Maryland?

Yes. Maryland voters approved sports betting in 2020, and the state fully launched online sportsbooks in late 2022. Oversight is handled by the Maryland Lottery & Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA), which monitors licensing, audits, and consumer protection to ensure all betting platforms follow strict standards for fairness and security.

To legally place online bets in Maryland, you must:

• Be 21 or older
  
  
• Be physically located within Maryland when submitting wagers
  
  
• Have one verified account per sportsbook
  
  
• Complete identity verification (name, address, birthdate, plus the last four digits of your SSN or an acceptable ID)
  
  

Maryland’s rules are simple, but they play a major role in eliminating fraudulent accounts and keeping the betting environment safe and transparent.

Top Online Sportsbooks in Maryland

Maryland offers a competitive selection of mobile sportsbooks, with all major national operators available. Because it’s a high-interest market, platforms often roll out regular promos, boosts, and strong live-betting features to attract and retain bettors.

Popular sportsbooks in the state include:

• FanDuel Sportsbook — Strong on live betting, fast payouts, and a clean interface
  
  
• DraftKings Sportsbook — Excellent props, deep markets, and reliable app performance
  
  
• BetMGM — Good for recurring promos, parlay features, and customer support
  
  
• Caesars Sportsbook — Great rewards ecosystem for frequent bettors
  
  
• ESPN BET — Media-driven insights and a modern interface
  
  
• Bet365 — Known for sharp odds and elite live-betting tools
  
  
• Fanatics Sportsbook — Earn FanCash on every bet, redeemable for gear or wagers

Other regulated platforms, such as BetRivers, SuperBook, and PointsBet, operate under Maryland licensing and are safe options.

How to Bet Online in Maryland (Step-by-Step)

Getting started is quick and secure. Once you’ve picked a licensed sportsbook, the process flows smoothly from registration to withdrawal.

1. Choose a licensed Maryland sportsbook

Stick with MLGCA-approved platforms to ensure safe transactions and fair odds.

2. Create and verify your account

You’ll provide basic information plus the last four digits of your SSN. Verification only takes a moment.

3. Enable geolocation

Maryland requires all bets to be placed inside state lines. Your device will confirm your location automatically.

4. Deposit funds

Common methods include bank transfer, debit/credit card, PayPal, Skrill, and Play+ cards.

5. Explore welcome offers

Bonuses are optional — check the terms so you understand wagering requirements before opting in.

6. Place your first bet

Begin with simple markets: moneylines, spreads, totals. Explore props or parlays once you’re comfortable.

7. Withdraw your winnings

Most payout methods take 24–72 hours, depending on the platform and withdrawal type.

What You Can Bet on in Maryland

Maryland’s online sportsbooks offer broad coverage of major U.S. leagues, global events, and niche competitions. You’ll find options for:

Major Leagues

• NFL — Ravens-focused markets are always hot: props, touchdown scorers, alt lines. [Read more: NFL Betting: The Ultimate Guide for the 2025/2026 Football Season]
  
  
• NBA — Player threes, assists, live totals, and quarter markets.  [Read more: Everything You Need to Know About NBA Prop Betting]
  
  
• MLB — Run lines, pitcher props, home run markets
  
  
• NHL — Shot props, period winners, alt totals. [Read more: NHL Betting: The Ultimate Guide for the 2025/2026 Hockey Season]

College Sports

Maryland allows betting on in-state and out-of-state college teams, including Maryland Terrapins matchups. Standard props and markets are available, though prop limitations may apply during certain events.

International & Specialty Sports

You’ll find:

• Soccer (MLS, EPL, Champions League)
  
  
• UFC and boxing
  
  
• Golf (PGA Tour, Majors)
  
  
• Tennis (Grand Slams, ATP/WTA events)
  
  
• Formula 1 and NASCAR
  
  
• Rugby, cricket, and darts
  
  
• Esports
  
  
• Olympics and special events

If it’s a sanctioned sporting event, it’s likely listed on Maryland sportsbooks.

What Makes Maryland’s Betting Market Stand Out

Maryland has a unique betting culture influenced by D.C., Virginia, and the state’s strong sports identity. These factors help define the local market:

1. Strong NFL Influence

Ravens fans drive huge action every week, shaping odds boosts, same-game parlays, and touchdown markets.

2. Competitive Operator Landscape

Because Maryland borders major markets, sportsbooks push frequent bonus cycles to stay competitive.

3. Rapid Adoption of Live Betting

Maryland bettors lean heavily into real-time markets, leading apps to roll out enhanced live features early in this state.

4. Robust Consumer Protections

MLGCA enforces strict standards on advertising transparency, identity verification, and data protection.

5. Balanced Betting Activity

Both casual and experienced bettors contribute to a steady, healthy betting environment, reducing volatility in markets.

Rules & Tax Info for Maryland Bettors

Betting Rules

• 21+ to wager
  
  
• One account per operator
  
  
• Geolocation required
  
  
• No betting on high school sports

Taxes

Maryland treats gambling winnings as taxable income. The state applies a 5.75% tax rate, which stacks on top of federal requirements. Most casual bettors report their winnings at tax time, while frequent bettors benefit from tracking wagers throughout the year to keep reporting accurately and stress-free.

Smart Betting Tips for Maryland Players

Here are practical habits tailored to how Maryland’s market actually behaves:

1. Start with manageable wagers

Local games, especially Ravens matchups, can get emotional. Small early bets help you stay disciplined.

2. Compare odds across multiple Maryland betting apps

Competition is high, so you’ll often find small value differences that add up over time.

3. Track winnings and losses

This helps with Maryland’s tax reporting rules and gives you insight into your betting tendencies.

4. Use promotions strategically

Seasonal boosts, especially NFL and NBA promos, are usually the most valuable.

5. Approach live betting with intention

Maryland’s sportsbooks push real-time markets heavily. Only wager live if you’re watching the game and can interpret momentum.

Maryland Sports Betting FAQ

1. Is online sports betting legal in Maryland?
   Yes. It’s fully legal and regulated by the Maryland Lottery & Gaming Control Agency.

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2. What is the legal betting age?
   You must be 21 or older.

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3. Can I bet on Maryland college teams?
   Yes. Betting on in-state college programs is allowed.

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4. Do I have to live in Maryland?
   No, but you must be physically located in Maryland when placing bets.

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5. Are bonuses available?
   Yes. Licensed operators offer regulated promos with clear terms.

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6. Are winnings taxed?
   Yes. Maryland applies a 5.75% tax rate, plus federal taxes.

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7. Which sportsbooks operate legally?
   FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, Fanatics, Bet365, BetRivers, and others under MLGCA oversight.

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8. What can I bet on?
   Moneylines, spreads, totals, props, futures, parlays, and live bets across major sports and global events.

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9. How fast are withdrawals?
   Most payouts arrive within 1–3 business days.

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10. Are offshore sportsbooks allowed?
    No. They’re unsafe and unregulated. Stick to Maryland-licensed apps.

Conclusion

Maryland delivers a polished and reliable online betting experience backed by strong regulation, competitive odds, and a deep lineup of trusted sportsbooks. Whether you’re betting casually on local teams or exploring broader markets, Maryland gives you a safe, straightforward environment to wager confidently and enjoy the action.

Check out our full betting toolset to start spotting profitable lines

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