North Carolina Sports Betting

Yes, sports betting is legal in North Carolina, making it the 38th state to do so and the 30th to permit mobile gaming.

North Carolina legalized mobile sports betting in 2019, with legislation officially enacted on June 14, 2023, facilitating the launch of mobile betting apps on March 11, 2024. Currently, prominent legal sports betting sites operating in the state include Fanatics Sportsbook, ESPN BET, DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, BetMGM, bet365, and Underdog Sports.

In-person sports wagering has been legal in NC for quite some time. You can explore the convenience of legal retail betting at Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort and Harrah's Cherokee Valley River with Caesars Sportsbook.

The North Carolina Lottery Commission granted approval for the state's sports betting catalog in November 2023, ushering in a new era of diverse betting opportunities. Encompassing professional sports, college competitions (including local college and universities), and even the Olympics, this expansive catalog ensures a thrilling betting experience for enthusiasts.

Read on to learn more about North Carolina sports betting and some of the best available NC sportsbooks to choose from.

North Carolina Sports Betting Key Takeaways

Here are some common facts to know about sports betting in North Carolina.

Latest North Carolina Sports Betting Updates:

Here are the latest updates regarding North Carolina sports betting:

• 📰 June 16: Bryson DeChambeau wins the 2024 U.S. Open in Pinehurst, North Carolina.
• 📰 June 7: The Lottery Commission announced that betting sites generated more than $1.83 billion in handle since March. The amount paid in winnings has been $1.58 billion.
• 📰 May 23: The Lottery Commission officially accepts and adopts the third set of sports wagering rules, which will roll out on June 22.
• 📰 May 17: The NC Lottery Commission reported that state bettors wagered almost $649 million. From almost $649 million, bettors took home $538.4 million.
• 📰 May 6: Rep. Morey's hopes for a ban on college player props take the next step after House Bill 967 and Senate Bill 788 are introduced.
• 📰 April 25: College prop betting is possibly on its way to being banned after state Representative Marcia Morey looks to outlaw the popular bet type, which has already been banned in a number of states (VT, MD, OH, and LA next).
• 📰 April 16: According to the NC State Lottery Commission, bettors placed a total of $659,308,541 between 3/11-3/31. On the other end, state bettors won $590,750,303 during this span.
• 📰 April 12: Underdog Sports releases Pick'em Champions, it's very own peer-to-peer fantasy game in NC.

Who Can Bet on Sports in North Carolina?

Bettors in North Carolina can now make sports wagers at retail tribal properties and online from the comfort of their homes!

In order to participate in online sports betting, you'll have to meet the requirements below:

• Be at least 21 years old
• Use an approved sportsbook while being physically present in the state
• Verify your account and comply with the sportsbook's terms and conditions

Who Regulates North Carolina Gambling?

The North Carolina State Lottery Commission regulates gambling in the state, and its responsibilities will include the regulation of sports betting. The commission is in charge of collecting license application fees, issuing operator licenses, and overseeing online sportsbook activities.

Details of the NC Sports Betting Bill

When looking at HB 347, the North Carolina sports betting bill, I have compiled important information for state bettors to know.

• 18% tax rate
• Up to 11 online sportsbooks will be permitted to operate
• Every online operator is required to partner with a pro sports team or sports venue
• Betting on all major sports markets is allowed
• Bettors must be 21+ to place wagers

How to Start Betting in North Carolina

You can always familiarize yourself with some basic steps so you are ready to go!

1. 1. Pick a Sportsbook
   I have tons of information on the operators listed on this page, such as Fanatics Sportsbook and bet365, both of which have launched in NC! Choose the NC sportsbook that best fits your needs.
   
   
2. 2. Sign Up
   This is pretty simple stuff: sign up with the NC sports betting site of your choosing by supplying your name, date of birth, address to verify location, and more. 
   
   
3. 3. Select Bonus & Use Promo Code (if applicable)
   This is where the fun starts. Choose a sports betting bonus and use one of our bonus codes to secure the offer (if applicable). You can check out some of Action Network's Best North Carolina Sportsbook Promos or by reading VegasInsider's take on the top North Carolina Betting Promos.
   
   
4. 4. Deposit Real Money
   Most new user offers will require a minimum deposit of some sort, so follow those instructions. 
   
   
5. 5. Bet!
   Check out the available bet types and get started by reading the New York Post's North Carolina Betting Promos recap.

North Carolina Sports Betting Background

Gov. Roy Cooper signed HB 347 in June 2023, officially legalizing online North Carolina sports betting. In late September 2023, state lawmakers updated HB 347, requiring betting operators to partner with a state pro team or sporting venue to earn an official license. This brings the license count down to 11 (it was 12 originally) North Carolina sports betting licenses. Additionally, the tax rate was increased to 18% from the original 14% in HB 347.

In October 2023, preliminary NC sports betting rules were established by a committee. During the meeting, the committee deliberated over a range of proposed rules, encompassing sports wagering definitions, general technical descriptions and various aspects of the state's licensing application process. The proposed rules primarily covered the basics, but the committee also addressed the realm of fantasy sports. Notably, the proposed rules indicate North Carolina's readiness to follow other states in addressing pick'em-style fantasy sports contests that resemble parlay wagers.

The proposed rules prohibit fantasy sports contests that are "based on proposition wagering or contests that involve, result in, or have the effect of mimicking proposition wagering or other forms of sports wagering." This move aligns North Carolina with states like Michigan and New York, which have adjusted rules to restrict fantasy operators from conducting pick'em-style games.

Pre-registration for accounts began on March 1, followed by its official launch on March 11. I know these eight sportsbooks are now available in NC: FanDuel, DraftKings, Fanatics Sportsbook, ESPN BET, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, bet365, and Underdog Sports.

Looking back, 2022's attempt at an online sports betting bill (SB 688) would have allowed as many as 12 operators to offer mobile sports betting in the state and operators would be taxed at 8% gross gaming revenue, which would be one of the lowest rates in the country. Operators such as FanDuel, DraftKings and BetMGM — the nation’s three largest operators by market share — would have likely highlighted the interested applicants. All three also operate sportsbooks in neighboring Virginia and Tennessee.

Retail sports betting is allowed at two in-person sportsbooks, but the possible expansion beyond casinos was met with a diverse array of criticism from lawmakers, who discussed addiction, corruption and constitutionality.

For now, Caesars operates the state’s two lone retail sportsbooks at the Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and the Cherokee Valley River Hotel.

Alternatives to Online Sports Betting in North Carolina

In addition to online sports betting in North Carolina, you can participate in the following alternatives:

Retail Sports Betting

Head to the Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel, or Two Kings Casino to get in on the action in person.

Daily Fantasy Sports

Like many other states, North Carolina currently has no laws that explicitly authorize or prohibit DFS contests.

So, consider getting your fix by trying out a DFS operator like PrizePicks. PrizePicks is a unique over/under platform that prompts users to select their favorite players from NC teams like the Carolina Panthers or the Charlotte Hornets. New users can use our PrizePicks promo code: ACTION!

Horse Betting

While there are currently no active horse racing operators in the state, horse betting is legal in North Carolina.

Lottery

The North Carolina Education Lottery allows bettors to participate in various in-person and online lottery games.

Embarking on sports betting in North Carolina is now easier than ever with the availability of eight licensed sportsbooks. These reputable platforms feature a plethora of betting options, catering to both seasoned bettors and newcomers alike. The top North Carolina sportsbooks that launched are:  bet365, Fanatics, BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, Underdog, and ESPN BET. To begin, users can effortlessly download any of these apps and swiftly create an account, gaining access to a world of sports wagering opportunities.

Here are the best North Carolina sports betting apps that are available for new users.

bet365 Sportsbook

bet365 North Carolina teamed up with the Charlotte Hornets as the international sportsbook continues to increase its presence in the U.S. market.

bet365 Bonus

Get a First Bet Safety Net up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets!

OR

Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets!

bet365 Bonus Code

TAN365

Action Network Score

9.5/10. See our bet365 North Carolina Bonus Code for more sportsbook details and step-by-step instructions on how to sign up. You can also read another opinion on the bet365 North Carolina Bonus Code by reading the New York Post's review!

🤝 NC License Partner	Charlotte Hornets
⭐ Key Features	Live streaming Early payouts Diverse betting markets
💯 Average App Store Ratings	4.75/5
💰 Payout Speed	1-5 days

New players only, 21+ (18+ in KY). Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Available in AZ, NJ, IA, CO, KY, IN, LA, NC, VA, OH only. Place a qualifying bet of up to $1000 to be eligible for a matched refund in Bonus Bets if your qualifying bet loses. A deposit (minimum $10) is required to participate in this offer. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. Registration required.

New customers only, 21+ (18+ in KY). Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Available in AZ, NJ, IA, KY, IN, LA, CO, NC, VA, OH only. Bet $5 and Get $200 in Bonus Bets at bet365. Registration required. A deposit (minimum $10) is required to participate in this offer. Bet Credits wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply.

Fanatics Sportsbook

Fanatics Sportsbook is an official sports betting partner of the Carolina Hurricanes and is one of the most exciting sportsbooks in NC!

Fanatics Bonus

Bet and Get up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets!

Fanatics Promo Code

No promo code required

Action Network Score

9.8/10. See our Fanatics Sportsbook North Carolina Promo Code for more in-depth information on Fanatics in the Tar Heel State. You can also read another opinion on the Fanatics North Carolina Promo Code by reading the New York Post's review!

🤝 NC License Partner	Carolina Hurricanes
⭐️ Key Features	FanCash Rewards program Personalized Discover page Withdrawal tracker
💯 Average App Store Ratings	4.2/5
💰 Payout Speed	1-3 days

Must be 21+. GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO, DC, IL, KS, KY, LA, MD, OH, MI, NC, NJ, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY), (800)-327-5050 or http://gamblinghelplinema.org (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), (888) 789-7777 or http://ccpg.org (CT), or 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), or www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), or morethanagame.nc.gov (NC), or 1800gambler.net (WV). Must apply this Promotion in your bet slip & place and settle $5+ cash wager with odds of - 200 or longer to get a Bonus Bet match (up to $100) each day for 10 straight days. Your 10 days begin the day you sign up. Bonus Bets expire 7 days from issuance. Add'l Terms apply, see Fanatics Sportsbook app.

BetMGM Sportsbook

As an official partner of the Charlotte Motor Speedway, BetMGM is one of the largest sportsbooks available in NC.

BetMGM Promo

Get a 20% Deposit Match up to $1,600 in Sports Bonus!

OR

Get up to $1,500 Back in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn't Win!

BetMGM Bonus Code

ACTION1600

OR

AN1500

Action Network Score

9.8/10. See our BetMGM North Carolina Bonus Code and review for more in-depth information and step-by-step instructions on how to sign up.

🤝 NC License Partner	No licensing partner yet
⭐ Key Features	Same-game parlays Early cash out Sleek user interface
💯 Average App Store Ratings	4.5/5
💰Payout Speed	1-5 days

21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. AZ, CO, DC, IA, IL, IN, LA, KS, KY, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY. Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA). 21+ to wager. Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS, NV), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA). Participant must complete the Wagering Requirements and satisfy the (10x) playthrough requirement. Deposit Match unavailable in OH. US Promotional Offers Not Available in MS, NY, ON, or PR. Visit BetMGM.com for Terms & Conditions.

DraftKings Sportsbook

DraftKings is the official partner of NASCAR. Read on to sign up for its exciting welcome offer in NC!

DraftKings Promo

Bet $5, Get $150 If Your Bet Wins + a $50 Bonus Bet on First Deposit!

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DraftKings Promo Code

No Code Needed

Action Network Score

9.2/10. See our DraftKings Promo Code and review for more in-depth information about DraftKings and step-by-step instructions on how to sign up.

🤝 NC License Partner	NASCAR
⭐ Key Features	Flash Bets Progressive Parlays Draft Pool Contests
💯 Average App Store Ratings	4.8/5
💰 Payout Speed	1-5 days

Caesars Sportsbook

Caesars North Carolina currently offers retail and online sports betting in the state and is partnered with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Caesars Sportsbook Bonus

Bet $1+, Get 10 100% Profit Boost Tokens!

Caesars Sportsbook Promo Code

ACTION22DYW

Action Network Score

9.3/10. See our Caesars Sportsbook North Carolina Promo Code and review for more in-depth information about Caesars and step-by-step instructions on how to sign up.

🤝 NC License Partner	Harrah's Retail Casinos, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
⭐ Key Features	NFL live streaming Generous welcome offer and existing promotions
💯 Average App Store Ratings	4.4/5
💰 Payout Speed	1+ day

ESPN BET

ESPN BET is the official partner of the PGA's Quail Hollow Club and the Wells Fargo Championship.

ESPN BET Bonus

Get a $1,500 First Bet Reset!

ESPN BET Promo Code

TANBONUS

Action Network Score

9.5/10. See our ESPN BET Promo Code and review for more in-depth information about ESPN BET and step-by-step instructions on how to sign up.

ESPN BET Terms & Conditions

New users only, 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Must be physically present in AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NJ, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, or WV in order to wager. Please Gamble Responsibly.

🤝 NC License Partner	Quail Hollow Club
⭐ Key Features	Move the Line scroll feature Specials from ESPN hosts Competitive odds boosts
💯 Average App Store Ratings	4.6/5
💰 Payout Speed	1-3 days

North Carolina DFS Platforms

PrizePicks users in NC can sign up for the exciting deposit match offer below!

PrizePicks North Carolina

Users can play PrizePicks in North Carolina, check out the welcome offer below to sign up for the exciting DFS platform!

PrizePicks Bonus

Place a $5 Lineup, Get $50 Instantly - No Strings Attached!

PrizePicks Promo Code

ACTION

Action Network Score

9.4/10. See our PrizePicks promo code and reivew for more in-depth information about PrizePicks and step-by-step instructions on how to sign up.

Category	Star Rating
Bonuses & Promotions
Mobile App & Website
Registering & Cashiering
Betting Options
PrizePicks vs Other Sportsbooks

   Must be 21+ and present in North Carolina. Full T&C apply. Gambling problem? Call 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov

Sportsbooks Partnered with North Carolina Sports Teams or Venues

In order to obtain a sports betting license in North Carolina, operators need to partner with a professional team, league, or venue.

Check out the list of partnerships below 🤝

Why Sign Up for NC Sports Betting Sites?

Many bettors have looked forward to the launch of NC sports betting sites, since they can now bet on the go or from the comfort of home without having to visit retail locations.

Additionally, online sportsbooks in NC are rewarding users through generous welcome offers. Signing up for more than one site will allow you to get rewards like bonus bets and test out different platforms to find the one that's right for you.

Banking With NC Sports Betting Sites

All of the above operators have plenty of banking options for deposits and withdraws.

Below are the options you can find across all the legal sportsbooks in North Carolina:

Legal Retail Sportsbooks in NC

There are three retail sportsbooks in North Carolina, two of which are owned by Caesars. Check them out below 👇

• Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort - 777 Casino Dr, Cherokee, NC 28719
• Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel - 777 Casino Pkwy, Murphy, NC 28906
• Two Kings Casino - 538 Kings Mountain Blvd, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

North Carolina Sports Betting Revenue

Since North Carolina online sports betting launched in March of 2024 it's difficult to predict how much revenue it will generate in the state long term. However, I do know the following:

• Each operator is taxed at 18% per year on their adjusted gross revenue
• Tax proceeds will go to the Department of Health and Human Services for gambling addiction education and treatment programs, North Carolina Amateur Sports, select state universities to to support collegiate athletic departments, the North Carolina Outdoor Heritage Advisory Council, the North Carolina Major Events, Games, and Attractions Fund, and the North Carolina Youth Outdoor Engagement Commission

North Carolina Sports Betting Tips

If you are looking to learn more before sports betting in North Carolina launches, take a look at our resources below.

Sports Betting for Beginners

New to North Carolina sports betting? Check out our educational resource hub so you'll make informed bets on your favorite local teams like the Carolina Hurricanes or the Carolina Panthers.

Sports Betting Glossary

Learning sports betting-related terms can be overwhelming for new bettors. Check out our sports betting glossary to familiarize yourself with terms you'll come across while placing in-person and online sports bets in the future.

Sports Betting Mistakes to Avoid

While betting on your favorite North Carolina team may be exciting, there's a difference between making impulsive and strategic bets. Here are some sports betting mistakes to avoid when placing your next wagers on a state-favorite like Charlotte FC.

Learn more about North Carolina sports betting by checking out the New York Post's review of mobile wagering in the Tar Heel State!

Since North Carolina sports betting has launched, residents and visitors able to place their bets on one state team from each major sports league. When it comes to championships, NC's pro teams have struggled to win one since 2005-06, when the Carolina Hurricanes won the Stanley Cup. On the other hand, the Tar Heel State features some of the top college sports programs in the country including UNC and Duke men's basketball.

Pro Sports Teams

Bettors in North Carolina have four pro sports teams to choose from. Read on to learn more about all the North Carolina pro sports teams.

NFL Betting North Carolina

NFL betting in North Carolina starts with the Carolina Panthers, as they are the state's only professional football team.

Carolina Panthers

Hopefully the Panthers can turn their struggles around this upcoming NFL season after having one of their worst seasons in over a decade.

Panthers Odds

A recommended resource list to help you make informed bets on football:

• How to Bet on Football Guide
• Expert NFL Picks
• Keep an eye on betting activity and bet/money distribution with our NFL Public Betting data

NBA Betting North Carolina

The Charlotte Hornets are the focal point of NBA betting in North Carolina.

Charlotte Hornets 

The Hornets look to rebuild after receiving the sixth overall selection in the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft. Charles Lee supersedes Steve Clifford as the new head coach for the upcoming season.

Hornets Odds

To learn more about NBA betting:

• How to Bet on Basketball Guide

 NHL Betting North Carolina

Hockey fans in North Carolina can place their wagers on the one state NHL team, the Carolina Hurricanes.

Carolina Hurricanes

The Hurricanes are trying to win the elusive Stanley Cup after making consistent playoff appearances.

Hurricanes Odds

For more on NHL betting resources:

• How to Bet on Hockey Guide

MLS Betting North Carolina

While it has less of a following than the NFL or NHL in the U.S., the MLS will present players with various betting opportunities in North Carolina.

Charlotte FC

As one of the newest teams in MLS, Charlotte FC has a lot of growing to do as the 28th team in the league. They are currently coached by Dean Smith and play their home games in Bank of America Stadium.

Soccer Odds

Here is a recommended resource to help you bet on the MLS:

• How to Bet on Soccer Guide

 MLB Betting in North Carolina

North Carolina doesn't have a professional baseball team, but there will still be a betting market available for baseball fans. Many bettors root for the Atlanta Braves. In the meantime, you can explore our guide on baseball betting.

College Sports Teams

North Carolina is home to some of the top sports programs in the country. Nationally recognized teams like UNC and Duke men's basketball will draw a lot of attention in the North Carolina sports betting market moving forward.

  Duke Blue Devils

The Blue Devils football program officially welcomed Manny Diaz as their new head coach during a press conference at KD and Sarah Lynn Kennedy Field at Pascal Field House. Diaz brings 26 years of coaching experience, including three as a head coach and 15 as a defensive coordinator, with 10 years at the FBS Power 5 level. Most recently, he served as the defensive coordinator at Penn State, where he contributed to a 21-4 (.840) record and consecutive bowl appearances, including a 35-21 Rose Bowl victory over No. 8 Utah in 2022. Home games are played at Wallace Wade Stadium in Durham, NC.

As one of the most successful basketball programs in the country, the Duke Blue Devils have won the NCAA championship five times under Coach K's storied career. In total, Duke has had three losing seasons under Coach K (the final one in 1994-95). Now that Coach K has retired, Jon Scheyer, who served as Coach K's assistant coach since 2013, is at the helm. Blue Devils basketball is played at the Cameron Indoor Stadium in Durham, NC.

North Carolina Tar Heels

Tar Heels football has had some frustrating seasons lately, but they always compete and remain popular among college football fans in the state. Mack Brown coaches the team and is expected to return to the program next season. The Tar Heels play their home games at the Kenan Memorial Stadium in Chapel Hill, NC. 

The Tar Heels basketball team has won six NCAA Tournament championships in their school history. The most recent National Championship for UNC was in 2017. Tar Heels home basketball is played at the Dean E. Smith Center in Chapel Hill, NC.

NC State Wolfpack

The NC State Wolfpack, under Dave Doeren's tutelage, surged to close their season. Doeren's strategic prowess guided the team to a triumphant finale, showcasing their mettle with a string of victories. Their triumphs, notably against rival UNC, reflect the team's growth and solidify Doeren's imprint on their success. NC State plays their home games Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh, NC.

The NC State men's basketball team had a notable year as they reached the Final Four this past season after defeating the Duke Blue Devils. It was their first appearance since 1983. NC State is coached by Kevin Keatts and play their home games at the PNC Arena in Raleigh, NC.