Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Rhode Island?
If you’re asking “is online sports betting Rhode Island legal right now?” the answer is yes. Rhode Island was one of the first sports gambling legal states to launch after PASPA was overturned. Retail sportsbooks opened in 2018, and by 2019, online sports betting legal options were available through the state lottery. However, unlike states with multiple operators, Rhode Island runs a lottery-controlled monopoly. That means there’s only one online sports betting app for players statewide.
Online Sports Betting Rhode Island: The Basics
Rhode Island legalized sports betting in 2018 through its lottery system. Two Bally’s casinos—Twin River Lincoln and Twin River Tiverton—hosted the first retail sportsbooks. By 2019, the state rolled out a mobile betting platform powered by IGT and William Hill, later branded Sportsbook Rhode Island.
Since 2020, bettors can register and wager remotely without visiting a casino. This makes Rhode Island one of the few sports gambling legal states with fully remote sign-up from the start.
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 Rhode Island?
Yes. Sports betting legal online is available, but only through one app. Players must be 18 or older and physically located in Rhode Island. Unlike most other states where the legal age is 21, Rhode Island allows 18-year-olds to participate.
Geolocation software confirms you are inside state borders before placing a wager. This setup is similar to other online sports betting USA states, but with fewer options.
Online Sports Betting Apps in Rhode Island
Currently, the only option for online sports betting Rhode Island is the Sportsbook Rhode Island app, operated by the Rhode Island Lottery. While big names like DraftKings and FanDuel dominate other markets, they are not licensed here due to the monopoly model.
Example: A bettor in Providence wants to wager $20 on an NFL betting parlay. Using the state’s app, they combine the Patriots to cover the spread, a first-half over, and a field goal prop. The app accepts the bet, but unlike other states, there are no competing apps offering boosted odds or alternate promos.
This lack of competition limits bonuses and variety compared to states like New Jersey or Pennsylvania.
Online Sports Betting How To in Rhode Island
Getting started with online sports betting Rhode Island is simple:
- Download the Sportsbook Rhode Island app or sign up on the website.
- Verify your age and identity (18+ required).
- Deposit funds using debit card, ACH, or Play+ prepaid accounts.
- Browse markets such as NFL betting, NBA spreads, or MLB props.
- Place your wager and track results in real time.
The process is quick and legal, but all betting flows through the single lottery-run platform.
What You Can Bet On in Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s betting menu covers most professional sports, including:
- NFL betting, NBA, NHL, MLB, and international leagues.
- Soccer, tennis, golf, MMA, and motorsports.
- Parlays, live betting, futures, and player props.
There are restrictions, though:
- No betting on in-state college teams like Providence or Rhode Island.
- No entertainment or non-sporting events.
College betting is limited to out-of-state teams and tournaments like March Madness.
Rhode Island Compared to Other Sports Gambling Legal States
Rhode Island’s sports betting market looks very different from most online sports betting USA markets.
- New Jersey: Dozens of apps, with fierce competition and constant promos.
- Massachusetts: Multiple apps, retail sportsbooks, and wide betting menus.
- Rhode Island: Only one app, no competition, and limited college betting.
While Rhode Island was an early adopter, its monopoly structure keeps it from matching the flexibility seen in other sports gambling legal states.
Online Sports Betting Example: NFL Sunday in Rhode Island
Picture a bettor in Warwick on NFL Sunday. They open the Sportsbook Rhode Island app, deposit $50, and wager on the Patriots moneyline, plus a same-game parlay featuring over 42 total points and a touchdown from the tight end.
This bet is fully legal and processed through the state lottery. But if that same bettor wanted to compare odds or grab a boosted promo, they wouldn’t find other online sports betting apps to choose from.
This single-operator system makes Rhode Island unique—accessible, but less competitive.
Market Size and Taxes
Despite its small size, Rhode Island generates solid revenue from sports betting. The state takes a 51% share of sportsbook revenue, one of the highest rates in the country. This is possible because the market is state-controlled through the lottery.
Handle is smaller compared to larger states, but per-capita participation remains strong. Most bets come through the mobile app, showing that online sports betting online dominates even in limited markets.
Retail Sportsbooks in Rhode Island
In addition to the mobile app, retail sportsbooks are available at the state’s two casinos:
- Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino
- Bally’s Tiverton Casino Hotel
Both venues offer full-service sportsbook counters and kiosks. Players can place in-person wagers, enjoy live viewing areas, and bet on college teams that are otherwise restricted online.
Responsible Gambling in Rhode Island
The Rhode Island Lottery oversees all betting activity, ensuring fair play and consumer protections. Bettors can set deposit limits, cool-off periods, or self-exclude entirely.
Revenue from the monopoly structure also supports state programs and responsible gambling initiatives.
The Future of Online Sports Betting Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s current monopoly deal with IGT and William Hill runs until at least 2026. Until then, don’t expect major operators like DraftKings or Caesars to enter the market.
There has been discussion about opening the market for competition, but no bills have advanced. For now, Rhode Island players are limited to one app, though the system remains stable and accessible.
Final Thoughts on Online Sports Betting Rhode Island
Online sports betting Rhode Island is legal and accessible statewide. Since 2019, the Sportsbook Rhode Island app has allowed bettors to wager on pro sports, with retail sportsbooks available at two casinos.
Unlike other sports gambling legal states, Rhode Island’s monopoly limits competition and betting variety. Still, NFL betting, NBA games, and other pro markets remain fully legal through the state’s platform.
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