Betting Strategies

Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Missouri?

If you’re asking “is online sports betting Missouri legal right now?” the answer is yes—but you can’t place a bet just yet. Voters approved legalization in November 2024, but sportsbooks won’t launch until December 1, 2025. That means Missouri is officially part of the sports gambling legal states, but players still need to wait for the apps to go live. With a launch date set and major operators already applying, Missouri is gearing up to join the online sports betting USA map in a big way.

Online Sports Betting Missouri: How It Passed

Missouri legalized betting through Amendment 2, a constitutional ballot measure approved by voters in 2024. The vote was close, passing with just over 50% support.

The measure allows both retail sportsbooks at casinos and online sports betting apps. Licenses are tied to casinos, professional sports teams, and two untethered operators. This flexible model is designed to bring in big names while giving teams and casinos a piece of the action.

Read more: Looking for the ultimate guide to NFL betting this season? We've got you covered right here!

Is Sports Betting Legal Online in Missouri?

Yes. Online sports betting legal status was confirmed with Amendment 2. While it won’t launch until late 2025, bettors can be confident that sports betting legal online access is on the way.

The Missouri Gaming Commission is responsible for regulating the industry. Licensing applications began in May 2025, and pre-registration for players is scheduled to open on November 17, 2025. From that date, players can create accounts and fund them in advance of the full launch.

Online Sports Betting Apps in Missouri

Once live, Missouri will allow up to 14 sportsbook apps. These include:

  • Six apps tied to casinos.

  • Six apps tied to professional sports teams.

  • Two independent apps with untethered licenses.

So far, major brands like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, ESPN BET, Fanatics, and Circa Sports have applied. DraftKings and Circa even secured the untethered licenses, meaning they can operate independently from casinos or teams.

Example: A Chiefs fan in Kansas City could open FanDuel, bet on Patrick Mahomes to throw 3+ touchdowns, parlay it with Travis Kelce anytime touchdown, and add the Chiefs to cover the spread. Starting December 2025, that bet will be fully legal on mobile apps in Missouri.

Online Sports Betting How To: Step by Step

When the market opens, here’s how players can get started:

  1. Pre-register with a licensed sportsbook app starting November 17, 2025.

  2. Download the app on iOS or Android.

  3. Create an account and verify your identity.

  4. Fund your account via debit card, PayPal, or bank transfer.

  5. Browse betting markets—NFL betting, NBA spreads, MLB totals, or NHL props.

  6. Place and confirm your wager.

That’s all it will take once online sports betting legal access goes live in December.

Taxes, Regulation, and Revenue

Missouri’s law sets a 10% tax rate on sports betting revenue. This rate is lower than some neighboring states, making it attractive for operators while still raising state funds.

At least $5 million annually will go toward responsible gambling programs. The rest of the tax revenue is earmarked for education. With billions expected in wagers each year, the state is projecting strong long-term growth.

What You Can Bet On in Missouri

Missouri’s market will cover all major sports. Bettors will have access to:

  • NFL betting on the Chiefs and other pro teams.

  • NBA, MLB, NHL, and MLS action.

  • College sports, though specific restrictions may apply depending on final regulations.

Parlays, props, futures, and live betting will all be part of the betting menu. Compared to other sports gambling legal states, Missouri’s offerings will be competitive and modern.

Missouri Compared to Other Sports Gambling Legal States

Missouri was late to the party, but it’s coming in with a strong model. States like Illinois and Kansas already have live sportsbooks, and many Missouri residents have been crossing state lines to place bets.

With a December 2025 launch, Missouri will finally keep that revenue in-state. The mix of casino, team, and independent licenses is unique, putting Missouri in a good position to balance operator competition with fan choice.

Online Sports Betting Example: Cardinals Game Day

Imagine it’s baseball season, and the St. Louis Cardinals are facing the Cubs. A bettor in St. Louis opens Caesars, takes Cardinals -1.5 on the run line, adds the over on total runs, and parlay it with Paul Goldschmidt to hit a home run.

That kind of three-leg parlay is standard in other states and will be legal in Missouri once apps launch in December 2025.

Challenges Ahead for Missouri

Even though legalization passed, the rollout won’t be instant. Some lawmakers and casino operators are still cautious about how online sports betting apps will impact retail casinos. The year-long setup is designed to give regulators time to finalize rules and operators time to prepare for launch.

There’s also the challenge of public perception. With the amendment passing by such a slim margin, regulators will face pressure to prove that sports betting legal online can be implemented responsibly.

The Future of Online Sports Betting Missouri

The future looks bright. With powerhouse operators lined up and a firm launch date, Missouri is on track to become one of the most competitive new markets in the online sports betting USA landscape.

Pre-registration will kick off in November 2025, and full access begins in December. NFL betting, NBA games, and MLB action will likely dominate early volume. With the Chiefs and Cardinals driving demand, Missouri is set to see strong activity right from launch.

Final Thoughts on Online Sports Betting Missouri

Online sports betting Missouri is legal but not live until December 2025. Thanks to Amendment 2, the state is moving forward with a clear plan: up to 14 sportsbook apps, a 10% tax rate, and strong regulation by the Missouri Gaming Commission.

Once live, bettors will enjoy NFL betting, pro sports, and college action on licensed apps like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM. Missouri may have arrived late, but it’s coming in with a strong, competitive system built for long-term success.

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