How to Bet on Sports Online in New Jersey

New Jersey is one of the best states for online sports betting in America. The Garden State helped kick off the modern betting era and still leads when it comes to safe online betting. 

You can bet on just about every major league and college sports like football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. There are also options for tennis, soccer, and motorsports, all through licensed online platforms.

Ready to start betting in New Jersey? We’ve got you. From the hottest leagues to the easiest way to place your first bet, no spreadsheets, no fluff, just the picks you need to get rolling.

Is Online Sports Betting Legal in New Jersey?

Yes, online sports betting is fully legal in New Jersey.  In fact, New Jersey played a huge role in reforming the modern U.S. betting market. The state challenged the federal ban on sports wagering, which led to the Supreme Court’s decision that granted individual states the authority to regulate sports betting independently.

As long as you’re 21 and in-state when placing a wager, you’re good. Additionally, every online sportsbook in the state is licensed and regulated by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE). This agency oversees fair play, data protection, and responsible gambling standards.

With this system in place, bettors can count on a safe, reliable, and well-regulated online betting experience.

What Sports Can You Bet On in New Jersey?

New Jersey’s online sportsbooks feature one of the most diverse selections in the U.S., covering both mainstream leagues and niche competitions. 

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Here’s a breakdown of what you can bet on:

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Major Professional Leagues

• NFL: This is the biggest betting market in the state, especially during the regular season and Super Bowl. Expect moneylines, spreads, props, and live bets that keep things exciting. [Read more: NFL Betting: The Ultimate Guide for the 2025/2026 Football Season]
  
  

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• NBA (Basketball):  You can bet on points, assists, rebounds, 3-pointers, first-quarter outcomes, halftime totals, and player matchups. Playoffs and big games bring even more excitement. [Read more: Everything You Need to Know About NBA Prop Betting]
  
  

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• MLB (Baseball): With daily games, stats-based bets like strikeouts, home runs, and total runs, baseball offers the opportunity to wager every day.

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• NHL (Hockey): Hockey gives that fast, high-energy betting vibe all season. You can wager on goals, assists, period winners, and total points, with live bets keeping every shift and power play exciting. [Read more: NHL Betting: The Ultimate Guide for the 2025/2026 Hockey Season]

Global & Specialty Sports

• Soccer: International leagues like the English Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and MLS offer betting on match results, total goals, and player props.

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• Tennis: Tennis is ideal for bettors who enjoy following player form and strategy. You can wager on match winners, set scores, or total games across ATP, WTA, and Grand Slam events. 

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• Golf: PGA Tour events and majors let you bet on outright winners, top-10 finishes, or head-to-head matchups. The multi-day format provides several opportunities to adjust strategies.

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• Motorsports: For NASCAR and Formula 1, you can bet on race winners, podium finishes, and fastest laps, adding extra excitement to every lap and qualifying session.

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• Combat Sports:  UFC and boxing markets include fight winners, rounds, and methods of victory. High-profile fights usually boost traffic in betting activity..

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• Esports: Online sportsbooks also feature esports like League of Legends, CS:GO, and Dota 2, with match-winner and tournament bets for major competitions.

College Sports

You can bet on most college sports, but New Jersey-based teams and in-state events are prohibited. Otherwise, college matchups are widely available.

Other Markets

Beyond the usual sports, New Jersey sportsbooks also feature lines on rugby, cricket, darts, and even special events like the Olympics or entertainment-based props.

How to Bet Online in New Jersey

Getting started with online sports betting in New Jersey is simple and secure with licensed sportsbooks. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make your first bet go smoothly:

1. Pick a Licensed Sportsbook
   Start with a platform that’s approved by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE).
   
   
2. Sign Up and Verify Your Account
   Create your account and provide the information the sportsbook asks for. New Jersey requires all bettors to confirm their identity and location.
   
   
3. Deposit Funds
   Add money to your account using a credit or debit card, an e-wallet, or a bank transfer. Choose an option that is most convenient for you so your bankroll is ready to play.
   
   
4. Check Out the Odds and Lines
   Browse the sports and games you want to bet on. You’ll see options like moneylines, spreads, totals, player props, parlays, and live bets. Take your time and pick the bets you understand and feel confident about.
   
   
5. Place Your Bet
   Decide how much you want to wager and submit your pick. Live betting lets you place bets while the game is happening, which can make things even more exciting.
   
   
6. Cash Out Your Winnings
   After the game or event ends, you can withdraw your winnings. Most sportsbooks let you use the same method you used to deposit for withdrawal.

Best Online Sportsbooks in New Jersey

Here’s a look at some of the best sportsbooks licensed to operate in New Jersey. 

• DraftKings Sportsbook – Known for a smooth mobile app and a wide variety of betting options, including NFL, NBA, MLB, and live in-game bets.
  
  
• FanDuel Sportsbook – Offers competitive odds, daily promotions, and an easy-to-use platform for new and experienced bettors alike.
  
  
• BetMGM – Popular for loyalty reward programs and strong coverage of major leagues, plus plenty of prop bet options.
  
  
• Caesars Sportsbook – Provides a polished experience with solid odds, same-game parlays, and support for live betting.
  
  
• PointsBet – Unique for its “PointsBetting” system, which lets you win or lose more depending on how right or wrong your bet is.
  
  

Each of these sportsbooks is fully licensed by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE), meaning you can bet with confidence knowing your money and data are protected.

Smart Betting Tips for New Jersey Players

Betting on sports can be exciting, but a few smart habits can make your experience more fun and potentially more profitable. Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Start Small
If you’re a newbie, don’t wager huge sums. Begin with small bets to learn how odds, spreads, and props work.

2. Stick to Sports You Know
Focusing on leagues or teams you understand gives you a better chance to make informed decisions.

3. Compare Odds
Check multiple platforms to find the best value for your bet.

4. Manage Your Bankroll
Set a budget for how much you’re willing to spend on betting and stick to it. 

5. Take Advantage of Promotions
Many sportsbooks offer bonuses and free bets; you can take advantage of them and explore new betting options.

6. Use Live Betting Wisely
Only place live wagers if you’re paying close attention and understand how the game is unfolding.

7. Keep Records
Track your bets, wins, and losses. This helps you see patterns, learn from mistakes, and improve your betting strategy over time.

FAQs - Online Betting In New Jersey

1. Is it legal to bet on sports online in New Jersey?
Yes. Online sports betting has been legal in New Jersey since 2018 after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the federal ban. 

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2. What’s the minimum age?
You must be at least 21 years old and physically located within New Jersey to place a wager. 

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3. Can I bet on college teams?
No. New Jersey law prohibits betting on college teams or events taking place within the state, even if the teams are from elsewhere. 

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4. Which sportsbooks are licensed?
Top-rated options include DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, and PointsBet. 

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5. How do I make deposits and withdrawals on NJ sportsbooks?
You can use credit/debit cards, PayPal, Play+ cards, or bank transfers. Withdrawals often go through the same method you used for deposits. 

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6. Is it safe to bet online in New Jersey?
Absolutely, as long as you stick to licensed sportsbooks. These platforms must follow strict state regulations that protect your funds, personal data, and betting history.

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7. Can I bet on my phone?
Yes. Most sportsbooks have mobile apps and responsive websites where you can register, deposit, bet, and withdraw. 

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8. What types of bets can I place online
You’ll find moneylines, point spreads, totals (over/under), parlays, teasers, props, and live bets. Some sportsbooks also offer same-game parlays and cash-out features for more flexibility.

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9. What should I do if I think I’m betting too much?
If you feel your gambling is becoming a problem, you can use built-in sportsbook tools like deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion options. You can also seek help through 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 800gambler.

Conclusion

Online betting in New Jersey is fast, secure, and packed with options. Whether you’re placing your first bet or chasing weekend picks, the experience is built for pure convenience and fun.

Check out our full betting toolset to start spotting profitable lines.

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