District of Columbia Sports Betting Laws 2026

⚠️

Quick Answer

Legal

Sports betting is legal in Washington, DC since May 2019. After the troubled GambetDC lottery-run app was replaced, FanDuel now operates as the primary citywide mobile sportsbook alongside retail sportsbooks at sports venues.

Status

Legal

Restrictions

See statute reference above

Prohibited Locations

Varies by local jurisdiction.

Last Updated

2026-05-24

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📖 Statute Reference

D.C. Law 22-312 (Sports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act of 2018); D.C. Code § 36-621.01 et seq.

Source: District of Columbia state legislature & applicable code sections

🚨 Penalties for Violations

Unlawful sports wagering is a misdemeanor (up to 180 days/$1,000). Operating an illegal sports betting business is a felony.

Penalties vary by local jurisdiction within District of Columbia — consult a local attorney for your specific situation

📄 Exceptions & Special Cases

Minimum age is 18 (lowest in the nation). FanDuel operates citywide mobile app. Retail sportsbooks at Capital One Arena, Nationals Park, Audi Field. Geofenced to DC borders.

🔄 Recent Changes

2024-2025: GambetDC replaced by FanDuel as the primary citywide operator, dramatically improving user experience and revenue. DC's unique 18+ minimum age remains.

Last verified 2026-05-24. Laws may have changed since this date.

🔍 Expanded Analysis: District of Columbia Sports Betting Laws

What this means for residents and visitors: A in-depth review of Sports Betting laws in District of Columbia finds that the substance is classified as 'Legal' under current state and federal statutes. Sports betting is legal in Washington, DC since May 2019. After the troubled GambetDC lottery-run app was replaced, FanDuel now operates as the primary citywide mobile sportsbook alongside retail spor Individuals planning to possess, purchase, or distribute Sports Betting in District of Columbia should be aware that the legal landscape is complex and varies by local jurisdiction. We recommend consulting a qualified local attorney before relying on any legal status summary.

Related restrictions: No specific restrictions documented.

This analysis is based on public legal sources as of 2026-05-24 and is not legal advice

🔗 Official Resources

Source: https://dclottery.org/

Official state government sources were referenced for this page

Check neighboring states

Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sports betting legal in District of Columbia?

Sports betting is legal in District of Columbia. Sports betting is legal in Washington, DC since May 2019. After the troubled GambetDC lottery-run app was replaced, FanD

What are the penalties for illegal sports betting in District of Columbia?

Unlawful sports wagering is a misdemeanor (up to 180 days/$1,000). Operating an illegal sports betting business is a fel

Are there any exceptions to sports betting laws in District of Columbia?

Minimum age is 18 (lowest in the nation). FanDuel operates citywide mobile app. Retail sportsbooks at Capital One Arena,

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